25 Free Things to Do in New York City This Fall
Autumn in New York City is a total vibe. Whether it’s walking around West Village with a pumpkin spice latte in my hand or taking a bike ride in Central Park – I absolutely love this time of year in the city!
The best part is that you don’t really have to spend much money to enjoy the autumn season in NYC. In this post, I’ve rounded up a list of 25 free fall activities in NYC so you can enjoy the season without spending a dime!
I’ve tried to include a bit of everything from scenic spots for leaf peeping, festivals, events, the best neighborhoods to explore, Halloween parades, and more!
While you’re planning your trip to NYC this fall, just be mindful that fall colors here typically peak around late October to early November. This is different from most places in upstate NY and New England, which tend to peak earlier in early-to-mid October.
If you’re still in the summer mood, check out my list of 50 free things to do in NYC during the summer, so you can soak up the last of the sunshine before the weather starts to get chilly!
I also have a FREE printable 3-day NYC itinerary to help you see the best of the Big Apple in just a few days!
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Leaf Peeping & Fall Foliage in NYC
Fall foliage in Central Park
1. Stroll through Central Park
Central Park is a popular place for seeing fall foliage in NYC. It’s also a nice place to take a bike ride, have a picnic, or just take a walk. There are so many gorgeous places to see the fall colors within Central Park – with Bow Bridge being one of the most popular. But really, any spot is picture-perfect and beautiful here! Here’s a list of the best scenic spots for fall photos in Central Park.
🌳 Want to see the best of Central Park without walking all day? Take a guided Pedicab tour to see and learn about the top spots in Central Park! →
PS: Central Park is huge and I would highly recommend this guided tour for anyone who can’t walk too much or wants to see the top spots in a short period of time.
2. Visit The Conservatory Garden
The Conservatory Garden in Central Park (picture taken March 2025)
The Conservatory Garden in the upper part of Central Park deserves its own mention because of how beautiful it is! I went there for the first time in March and just fell in love with how quiet and serene it was. It made me feel like I was in a European romantic garden!
While the Conservatory is quite lush and green during the spring, you’ll find chrysanthemums and red-orange trees here in the fall. It’s truly a beautiful garden that is the best escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. I love coming here to read a book or journal while sitting one of the benches in the garden.
🌳 Want to see the best of Central Park & the Conservatory Garden in a short period of time? This guided Pedicab tour covers the highlights of Central Park including the Conservatory Garden!
PS: Central Park is huge and I would highly recommend this guided tour for anyone who can’t walk too much or wants to see the best spots in a short period of time.
3. Explore Riverside Park
Located on the west side of Manhattan, Riverside Park is a nice, peaceful spot for leaf peeping without all the crowds. As the name suggests, it’s located right to the Hudson River. It’s a great place to take a walk or even just to sit, relax, and sip some apple cider on one of the benches overlooking the river.
4. Check out Battery Park
Located on Manhattan’s southern tip, Battery Park is a relaxing spot to sit and watch boats & ferries pass by. You’ll also find a backdrop of stunning fall colors and close up views of the World Trade Center while you’re here!
5. Relax at Fort Tryon
Take a ride on the A train to Fort Tryon Park in upper Manhattan for a more secluded fall foliage experience. The park overlooks the Hudson River and has really nice views especially in October. It’s also home to The Cloisters museum, which does require a paid ticket but is a must-visit on any NYC bucket list!
6. Escape to Prospect Park
If you’re looking for a large park that’s quieter than Central Park, I highly recommend checking out Prospect Park in Brooklyn. I sometimes call it the Central Park of Brooklyn, but without all the tourists!
I love strolling around the lake here and admiring all the fall foliage. It’s a great spot for reading a book or having a little autumn picnic. It’s also home to Smorgasburg and a farmer’s market which are both free to attend!
🌳 Take a small group walking tour of Prospect Park starting at just $25 per person! →
7. Visit Roosevelt Island
Roosevelt Island
Hop on the Roosevelt Island aerial tram or the F train, and make your way over to Roosevelt Island this fall. It’s the little island in between Manhattan & Queens that’s mostly residential but also has stunning views of the Manhattan skyline.
Both sides of the island have a promenade which is lovely place to walk. I come here every spring to check out the cherry blossoms, but it’s also worth checking out the fall foliage here. You’ll also get unbeatable views of the Manhattan Skyline for your photos! Although getting to Roosevelt Island will cost a subway fare, the views are absolutely free.
8. Explore Gantry Plaza State Park
Gantry Plaza State Park
Gantry Plaza State Park in Queens is a not-so-hidden gem in NYC that is my favorite park in the city. It’s a beautiful riverfront park that faces the Manhattan skyline and has lots to do. You’ll find walking paths, benches to sit and admire the views, shops, restaurants, cafes, and even a little beach volleyball court!
The trees along the waterfront turn yellow, orange, and red in the fall and it’s a great place to take fall foliage photos against the Manhattan skyscrapers. Sunset here is especially gorgeous – especially as you’re sailing across the East River on the NYC ferry!
You can get here by taking the NYC ferry or the 7 train – both will cost money, but I promise you it’s worth the fare.
Fall Events & Seasonal Festivals
9. The Village Halloween Parade
If you’re going to be in NYC during Halloween, be sure to check out the Village Halloween Parade which takes place on October 31 in Greenwich Village. You’ll find thousands of people dressed in cool (and very elaborate!) costumes, music, dancers, street performances, and more. The energy is just electric!
It’s completely free to watch and attend, but you’ll have to get get VIP tickets for the best seating. If you’re going without a VIP ticket, make sure to arrive early so you can get a good spot that’s close to all the action!
🏠 Interested in learning more about Greenwich village? Take a 2-hour guided walking tour starting at just $39 per person! →
🍕 Wanna try all the delicious food in the Village? Don’t miss this 2.5 hour guided walking + food tasting tour to try out all the yummy treats here! →
10. Oktoberfest
Even if you’re not a beer fan, Oktoberfest can still be a fun experience in NYC! You can find free outdoor Oktoberfest events at Stone Street, Brooklyn, Pier 15, and Central Park, and more.
You’ll hear lively polka bands, see people dressed in traditional German clothing, and buy all the pretzels & bratwurst your heart desires. Even if you’re not indulging in the food and drinks, the entertainment and cultural performances are free to enjoy.
11. Watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade balloon inflation
If you’re looking for a really unique NYC experience around Thanksgiving time, check out the balloon inflation event that takes place on the night before the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade!
The night before the parade, a few streets around Central Park and the American Museum of Natural History are closed off to allow for the large balloons to be inflated. The balloon inflation is free for the public to watch and it’s a great way to get a behind-the-scenes look. I went in 2022 and it was actually a really cool experience I still remember! Check out this post for more information.
Arrive in the late afternoon or early evening for the best views, and bring your camera — it’s one of the most unique things to do in the fall in NYC, and it won’t cost you a thing!
12. Open House New York
If you’re an architecture or history buff, this one’s for you! Each October, Open House New York (OHNY) offers a rare opportunity to explore hundreds of historic buildings, architectural landmarks, and hidden spaces — all for free!
There’s over 200 places included in this list from historic mansions to rooftop gardens to everything in between. Check out their website for more information.
Many of these sites are normally closed to the public, so it’s a really cool opportunity that comes around just once a year. Some locations require advance reservations, but plenty are open for walk-ins.
13. San Gennaro Festival
This is one of my favorite street festivals in NYC! Not only because I’m a lover of all things Italian food, but also because the festival brings such a fun and lively atmosphere! It’s held each September in Little Italy and features parades, live music, Italian folk performances, festive decorations, and of course lots of yummy Italian food!
The event is known for its massive food selection (that you of course have to pay for), but there’s also many activities and performances you can enjoy for completely free. The admission to the festival is also free.
🍕 Wanna eat your way through Little Italy & Chinatown? Take a guided food tour to sample the best of both neighborhoods! → (rated 5 stars out of 2,000+ reviews!)
14. NYC Marathon
The first Sunday in November marks the iconic New York City Marathon. Even if you’re not running, cheering from the sidelines can be a fun experience!
The route winds through all five boroughs, so there’s multiple spots to soak in the energy (Fourth Ave in Brooklyn and First Ave in Manhattan are especially lively!). It’s also a great way to meet locals in the neighborhood and soak up some community vibes.
15. Diwali Celebrations
In October or November (depending on the lunar calendar), New York City lights up in celebration of Diwali, which is the Hindu Festival of Lights. You can find free cultural performances, light displays, and dance performances in various neighborhoods. In the past, festivals have occurred in Times Square, the Seaport, Jackson Heights, and Flushing.
You can also buy Indian dishes and treats from the food vendors or just relax and soak in the vibes without spending a dime.
16. Tompkins Square Park Halloween Dog Parade
When I first moved to NY in 2019, this was one of the first fall events I remember attending. Locals dress up their pups in Halloween costumes and some of the costumes are incredibly creative and intricate! It’s one of my favorite fall traditions in NYC, and is perfect for all dog lovers! The parade is free to attend and participate in.
17. Check out the Brooklyn Book Festival
Calling all book lovers! This free week-long literary festival is usually held in late September or early October and includes author panels, readings, and children’s storytelling sessions. Browse through the collections of books for sale and rare finds, as you stroll along Cadman Plaza sipping on some apple cider. It’s the perfect way to enjoy fresh autumn air and sweater weather!
18. Explore the Queens Night Market
The Queens Night Market is a favorite NYC summer event that extends into September and October. You’ll find live music, outdoor food stalls, and artisan vendors selling food and goods from around the world.
Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s free to attend and a fun way to spend an evening outdoors in the fall and summer. The trees surrounding Flushing Meadows–Corona Park will also start turning into vibrant fall colors in October, which just adds to the fall vibes!
🏠 Want to try the best treats in Flushing – NYC’s biggest Chinatown? Grab tickets for a fun guided food tour to try out the best Asian food! →
19. Attend the New York Film Festival
The iconic New York Film Festival typically runs from late September to mid-October in Lincoln Center and is a must-attend even for all film lovers!
While most screenings at the New York Film Festival are ticketed, you can still find a lineup of free talks, panels, and special events to enjoy. These gatherings often feature acclaimed directors, screenwriters, and actors discussing their craft, upcoming projects, and the state of cinema today.
Unique Festive Fall Activities in NYC
20. Stroll through The West Village
The West Village is one of the most charming neighborhoods in New York City, and it’s even more magical in the fall! Many of the residents dress up their brownstones in cozy autumn decor and the cobblestone streets and ivy just add to the charm. It’s one of my favorite photo spots during the fall!
🏠 Interested in learning more about Greenwich village? Take a 2-hour guided walking tour starting at just $39 per person! →
🍕 Or do you wanna try all the delicious food in the Village? Don’t miss this 2.5 hour guided walking + food tasting tour to test out all the yummy treats this neighborhood has to offer! →
21. Visit the Union Square Greenmarket
Fall finds at the Union Square Greenmarket
The Union Square Greenmarket is one of the largest (if not the largest) farmer’s market in NYC. In the fall, you’ll find local farms and vendors selling seasonal fall produce, mums, pumpkin & apple flavored treats, and so much more. Even if you’re not buying anything, it’s fun to stroll through the market to get you in the fall mood!
22. Pumpkin Arch at The Seaport
The pumpkin arch at The Seaport
Every October, the Seaport District puts up their massive pumpkin arch that glows up at night. The best part is that it frames the Brooklyn Bridge in the background, so it’s the perfect spot to take your NYC fall Insta pics!
It’s beautiful in the day and night, and it’s completely free to see and snap photos. Once you’re done taking your photos, make sure to stroll along Pier 17 or take a ferry ride down the East River.
23. Pumpkin Flotilla in Central Park
Central Park hosts an annual Pumpkin Flotilla at the end of October, where carved jack-o’-lanterns are set afloat on the Harlem Meer. The pumpkins light up and it’s a really cool experience watching them float down the Meer. You can even submit your own carved pumpkin to float down the water!
The event also includes storytelling, crafts, costume parades, and more — all free to enjoy. Check out this post for more details!
24. Get a free pumpkin at Pumpkin Point
For one weekend in October, Governors Island transforms part of its park into Pumpkin Point, a festive pumpkin patch that’s free to the public. You can even pick out a small pumpkin for free (with suggested donation) to take home!
Even if you don’t pick out a pumpkin, you can still enjoy a nice fall day outdoors amongst hundreds of pumpkins, take photos, and soak in some fall foliage.
As a bonus, the Governor’s Island ferry is also free on certain days, so plan accordingly for a budget-friendly excrusion!
25. Soak in carnival fun at Coney Island
If you’re looking for family fun this fall, check out Halloween Harvest at Luna Park in Coney Island, which runs for several weeks during September and October.
Although the food, rides, and activities are going to cost money, it’s still fun to wander around the park to check out the fun fall and Halloween decorations and festivities. It’s also a great excuse to check out Coney Island! Check out more information about the festival here.
🗽 Don’t forget to check out my other New York City guides!
- 50 Free Things to Do in New York City During the Summer
- How to Spend 3 Days in New York City: A Printable 3-Day NYC Itinerary
- 30 Best Cheap Eats in NYC You Can Get Under $10
💸 Check out some of my other “Free Things to Do” guides!
☀️ Looking for more summer travel inspiration? Check out these posts!
