Fall in NYC: A Visitor's Guide to Fall Events and Sightseeing

Any time of the year is a great time to tour New York City, but if you get to the Big Apple in the autumn, you are in for a treat. Fall in NYC is filled with a crispness in the air and a ton of things to do. Sightseeing in the fall in New York City also tends to feature smaller crowds, so if you're looking for a time when the city's not quite so busy, this is a good season to visit.

Fall Things to Do in NYC Indoors

Fall weather in NYC may throw you a curve ball from time to time, making it unpleasant to be outside. Just because it's chilly or wet outdoors doesn't mean you can't have some active fun, though: There are plenty of indoor things to do in NYC in the fall that will keep you active and moving. Chelsea Piers in Manhattan is the perfect spot to get some fun exercise. You can bowl, practice batting in batting cages, golf, ice skate, and rock-climb. You can also participate in open sports like basketball, hockey, and soccer. Try your hand at vintage bowling at The Gutter in Brooklyn, or perfect your climbing technique at Brooklyn Boulders.

Outdoor Things to Do in NYC in the Fall

When the weather is nice during your Big Apple vacation, plan to spend as much time as possible outdoors to enjoy the city. Fall in NYC out in the crisp sunshine is simply the best. Plus, with so many things to do in NYC in the fall, you'll have no trouble filling your itinerary. For something a bit different from the typical city experience, head to City Island in the Bronx to spend the day. Wander the waterfront, explore the shops, and grab a meal or two at some of the seafood restaurants on this charming island, which feels like it wouldn't be out of place on Cape Cod. A nice, sunny day would be a great opportunity to explore Central Park, too. Meander the paths, spend time playing at the playgrounds, visit the zoo, rent bicycles, and enjoy a picnic lunch or dinner. If you're there in October, the fall colors should be in full swing.

What to Do During Fall Break in NYC

If you're in New York City over the Thanksgiving weekend and during the typical fall break from school, you're in luck. The top thing to do this weekend is definitely lining up along the New York City streets to watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. If you get there early, you can stake out your spot to get the best view. If you can, try to make it to the balloon inflation that happens on Thanksgiving Eve, too. The kids will love watching the lifeless piles of fabric transform into the massive giants that will soon float down the streets of NYC.

Fall Festivals in New York City

NYC's calendar always has plenty of options for fun fall events. NYC is the place to be for festivals and celebrations during the autumn months! Kid Fest happens in September at Madison Square Park. This annual event features many different types of performances on four different stages. If you've got a bookworm or two, you won't want to miss the Brooklyn Book Festival, also in September. This free event happens at the Brooklyn Borough Hall. Or check out the New York Botanical Garden's Spooky Pumpkin Garden from mid-September through the end of October. You'll love the guided activities offered!

Fun Things to Do in NYC for Families With Children

Put a few museums on your list of things to do with the kids in tow: Not only will everyone be learning, but they'll be entertained at the same time. The Children's Museum of Manhattan on the Upper West Side has five floors of hands-on exhibits designed to spark the imagination and get kids involved. The Children's Museum of the Arts is another great choice, featuring exhibits that rotate regularly as well as drop-in classes and activities.

Fall in NYC With Babies and Toddlers

The littlest ones don't need to just be along for the ride. New York City has plenty of attractions that babies and toddlers will love, too. For instance, make sure to put Riverbank State Park on your list. This expansive facility is like no other, so explore to your heart's content. You'll find a wading pool, many different courts and fields for sports, an amphitheater, and a carousel to thrill the small fries.

Great Activities for Couples in NYC

When you visit with your special someone, it's easy to find many romantic fall things to do in NYC to keep you busy. If you're in the city during the Halloween season and enjoy the darker, creepier, side of the holiday, take a Boroughs of the Dead walking tour of New York City that focuses on strange and dark happenings throughout the city. The two of you could also time your visit for the weekend of Open House New York, which happens in October every year. This is your chance to really explore the Big Apple, seeing many places that are often off-limits.

No matter what time of year you visit or what's on your itinerary, at TopView Sightseeing, we're here to help you see and do it all. Our hop-on hop-off tours are perfect for exploring the city, letting you get from place to place without a hassle, learn more about what you're seeing, and take an up-close look at famous landmarks and attractions. Book your bus tour or package online today to lock in the best price!