Sep 26, 2023 • Carina Sun
As the leaves begin to turn from greens to shades of brown, red, and yellow, it's time once again to embrace the magic of fall in and around New York City and rewatch Gilmore Girls for the tenth time. If you are looking for ways to get away from the city and enjoy the fall season, we've gathered a list of favorite fall getaways from trusted New York City locals. From hidden gem parks to immersive cultural experiences, here are four NYC fall getaways to make the most of this season.
Location: Bronx, NY
How to get there: Take the 1 or 2 train from Times Square Station to West Farms Square East Tremont Avenue, and walk 5 minutes to the Bronx Zoo.
While the Bronx Zoo is a year-round attraction featuring a butterfly garden, red pandas, and a plethora of other cute animals, it transforms into a spook-tacular wonderland during the fall season. "Boo at the Zoo" combines wildlife education with Halloween fun for the whole family. Enjoy activities like pumpkin carving, a haunted forest, and even a costume parade. Don't forget to visit the bats and creepy crawlies in their special exhibits for a Halloween-themed twist on your typical zoo visit.
Location: New Windsor, NY
How to get there: Take Metro-North Railroad's Port Jervis Line from Penn Station to Salisbury Mills-Cornwall Station. From the station, you can call a quick Uber or taxi to Storm King Art Center, which is about a 10-minute drive away.
Escape the city's hustle and bustle with a day trip to the Storm King Art Center, a sprawling outdoor sculpture park set against the backdrop of the Hudson Valley. During the fall, the changing leaves provide a stunning canvas for the awe-inspiring artworks. Take a leisurely stroll through the expansive grounds and appreciate the harmonious blend of art and nature. Don't miss the opportunity to interact with some of the installations, which are designed to be touched and experienced. This is truly an art installation that is at its best during the fall season.
Location: Staten Island, NY
How to get there: Take the Staten Island Ferry from the Whitehall Terminal in Manhattan to the St. George Terminal in Staten Island. (The ferry ride is free). From the St. George Terminal, you can take a local bus (S74) to Historic Richmond Town.
If you are more of a thrill-seeker, head over to Staten Island's Historic Richmond Town for their Haunted Hayride. This immersive experience takes you on a journey through the town's eerie past, complete with ghostly apparitions and jump-scares. The long historic backdrop adds an extra layer of authenticity to the frightful festivities. The town itself also gets into the Halloween spirit, with shops opening up for apple-bobbing and trick-or-treating. This is an experience you won't want to miss.
Location: Fishkill, NY
How to get there: Take Metro-North Railroad's Hudson Line from Grand Central Terminal to Beacon Station. From Beacon Station, you can take a taxi or Uber to Fishkill Farms, which is approximately a 15-minute drive away.
Like the Storm King Art Center, Fishkill Farms is located in the picturesque Hudson Valley. This family-owned farm offers a range of activities perfect for the season. Pick your own apples from the orchards, take a scenic hayride, and explore the farm's charming market. Don't forget to sample their freshly pressed apple cider and indulge in delicious baked goods (especially the apple cider donuts).
This fall, step off the beaten path and explore these unique and unforgettable activities in and around NYC. From classic apple-picking day trips to art-filled outdoor spaces, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Embrace the season's magic and create memories that will last a lifetime. Don't forget to capture the beauty of autumn in the city – it's a truly special time of year!
Let us know in the comments what your favorite getaway from NYC is during the fall season, and if you go to any of the places we listed!
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