Best Fall Getaways From NYC

Updated on July 8th, 2023

As the magic of an NYC summer comes to a close, the promise of fall is right around the corner. Summer was fantastic — but we’re ready to swap hot, muggy days for crisp air, cozy sweaters and comfort food. A fall weekend getaway from NYC is a perfect choice.

If you’re an autumn soul looking for creative and fun New York adventures, here are some of the best fall trips from NYC!

Best Fall Day Trips From NYC

Looking for fall weekend trips from NYC and want to escape driving? Here are some of the best fall activities near NYC and they are the best fall weekend getaways from NYC.

Head to an orchard for the perfect fall date

Some of our favorite fall days include tree-lined winding roads, quiet nature scenes and a slower pace. Getting out of the city can take you right to this scene!

Our Apple Picking Day Trip from NYC in the Hudson Valley is the perfect fall date if you’re looking for a classic fall-themed afternoon. We stroll through a gorgeous orchard only 1.5 hours out of the city during peak apple season. Each guest can bring home 10lbs of apples, so prepare a pie-baking date for after! Did we mention that round-trip transportation from Manhattan is always included?

Visit Long Island Wineries

In our humble opinion, there is no better time to visit wineries than in the fall. The wine tastes better in the crisp air, the bustling summer crowds have run their course, and the vines can take on those gorgeous vibrant red, orange, and yellow hues. Our Long Island Winery Tour from NYC is the most convenient way to take on this decadent NYC fall activity. With transportation to and from the city and a great guide to take you to three beautiful wineries, it just may be your favorite event of the fall season.

Upstate New York Fall Getaways

Here we’ve picked just a few of the many wonderful fall getaways in Upstate New York. Each destination offers its own unique charm and a chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of the season. They are perfect for fall weekend getaways upstate NY.

Lake Placid

Nestled in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains, Lake Placid offers stunning fall foliage views, outdoor activities like hiking and biking, and a charming small-town ambiance.

The region is home to stunning lakes, including Mirror Lake and Lake Placid itself. Take a leisurely walk or bike ride around the shores, rent a kayak or paddleboard, or simply relax on a lakeside bench and soak in the serene beauty of the surrounding mountains and shimmering waters.

Distance: 5-hour drive from Manhattan

Finger Lakes

Explore the picturesque Finger Lakes region, known for its scenic vineyards, charming towns, and stunning fall colors. Visit wineries, go on a scenic lake cruise, or hike the beautiful trails.

The Finger Lakes region showcases some of the most vibrant and awe-inspiring fall foliage in New York. As the leaves change colors, the hills and valleys surrounding the lakes become a breathtaking palette of reds, oranges, and golds. Scenic drives, hikes, and boat tours offer incredible opportunities to immerse yourself in the stunning fall landscapes.

Distance: 5-hour drive from Manhattan

Hudson Valley

Experience the beauty of the Hudson Valley as the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold. Explore historic sites, visit charming towns like Rhinebeck and Cold Spring, and enjoy farm-to-table dining.

The Hudson River weaves its way through the valley, creating a backdrop of charming river towns that offer a delightful mix of history, art, and culture. Towns like Beacon, Cold Spring, and Rhinebeck boast picturesque main streets lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Explore their unique offerings, indulge in local cuisine, and experience the warm hospitality of these inviting communities.

Distance: 2-hour drive from Manhattan

Cooperstown

This charming town is home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, but it also offers beautiful fall landscapes, breweries, and a vibrant arts scene.

Distance: 4-hour drive from Manhattan

Catskill Mountains

Discover the natural beauty of the Catskills, with its rolling hills, hiking trails, and scenic vistas. Enjoy fall foliage drives, visit charming villages, and explore the region’s rich arts and music culture.

The Catskills offer an abundance of hiking trails and outdoor activities that allow you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the season. Explore trails that lead to scenic viewpoints, such as Kaaterskill Falls, Overlook Mountain, or Slide Mountain. Breathe in the crisp mountain air, witness the changing leaves up close, and experience the peacefulness of the wilderness.

Distance: 2.5-hour drive from Manhattan

Thousand Islands

Explore the beauty of the Thousand Islands region, with its picturesque islands, scenic boat tours, and charming waterfront towns. Enjoy fall festivals, outdoor activities, and fresh local seafood.

Distance: 6-hour drive from Manhattan

Ithaca

Home to Cornell University and Ithaca College, Ithaca is also known for its natural beauty. Explore gorges and waterfalls in the area, visit local wineries, and take in the vibrant arts and culture scene.

Distance: 4.5-hours drive from Manhattan

Adirondack Mountains

Experience the serenity of the Adirondack Mountains during the fall season. Enjoy hiking, fishing, canoeing, or simply taking in the breathtaking fall colors that blanket the region.

Distance: 4.5-hours drive from Manhattan

Best Fall Activities In NYC

Fall Treats at an Open Air Farmers Market

Nothing says fall quite like cinnamon-apple or pumpkin-spiced… anything. Good thing the fall NYC Farmers Markets deliver! You can fill up on all the apple cider donuts, pumpkin peanut butter, hot chocolate cheesecake, hand-ground cinnamon, and much much more.

Stroll through Central Park

No more melting mascara and sweating out of your shirt — walking through Central Park is officially back to being pleasant once fall hits! And even if you’ve been a million times, the first stroll through Central Park in the fall just hits different. You can even make it extra special with a gondola ride, Conservatory Garden exploration or picnic on the Great Lawn. And, of course, there’s no better place to people-watch for the latest funky fall styles.

New York Botanical Gardens

Looking for romantic fall date ideas for the green thumb in your life? Head to the New York Botanical Gardens for some autumnal fun. There are over 50 acres of historic old-growth forest to explore, and we think there’s no better place in the city to walk on trails covered in vibrant fall leaves. The botanical gardens also have tons of fall events to enjoy, from farmer’s markets to pumpkin patches to garden tasting and oh-so-much more.

Find a Pumpkin Patch

Is it even fall without visiting a pumpkin patch? You don’t have to travel too far to walk among pumpkins and pick the perfect gourd to carve! New York Botanical Gardens even takes it to the next level with the Pumpkin Parade Weekend — full of expert pumpkin carvings, a parade, giant pumpkins on display, and interviews with growers.

Watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade

You may not want to take on the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade every year. But if you’re living in NYC, you should experience it in person at least once! Public viewing areas officially start at 72nd Street and are only open to the public on the west side. So, we recommend getting there early for a good view. If you’re feeling really extra (and up for a challenge,) there is invite-only grandstand viewing along Central Park West. Talk about bragging rights if you make it to the grandstand!

Experience a Classic NYC Fall Event

Looking for events, shows and festivals that aren’t just for tourists? Here are some of our favorites!

The Armory Art Show – See installations by artists from over 33 countries.

Feast of San Gennaro – Eat authentic Italian food on the streets of Little Italy at this mouthwatering festival.

New York Comedy Festival – Laugh with the greats and up-and-comers as they perform their best bits.

Free Museum Day – September 17 is free museum day, so head to an NYC museum for a free fall activity full of culture.

Vintage Halloween Parade – Head to a retro Halloween parade event that embodies the classic spooky vibes that every Halloween fan loves. Creative costumes are welcome and celebrated!

Kayak and Wine Day Trip from NYC – Enjoy a relaxing paddle down the Delaware River followed by a wine tasting in New York at our favorite local vineyard. Perfect for adventurers of all kinds!

With all of the unique fall activities New York has to offer, you are sure to fill up your social calendar. If you need help with recommendations, trip plans or escaping the city, reach out to our team! We’ll save you a seat on one of our many New York day trips.