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Here are the Top Ten Best Things to do in NYC in Fall

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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at FIT chapter.

#10 Central Park

Central Park is known for its beautiful scenery and peaceful atmosphere. With over 20 playgrounds, the Central Park Zoo, and dozens of food vendors, it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the crisp fall weather. You can have a picnic with your friends, go for a morning run, or read in the park to escape the bustling ambiance of the city.

#9 Pumpkin Nights at the Bronx Zoo

The Bronx Zoo’s Fall Festival showcases over 5,000 animal-themed jack-o’-lanterns for Pumpkin Night. It also features pumpkin carving demonstrations, games, and fall treats like apple cider donuts and pumpkin muffins. Pumpkin Nights began September 28th on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 6 to 10 p.m. and will continue on these days up until October 29th. What better way to celebrate the spooky season than carving pumpkins and indulging in fall treats?!

#8 Central Perk

Thanks to the FRIENDS Experience, you can cozy up on the squishy orange couch with a cup of delicious coffee, just like Rachel, Monica, Phoebe, Joey, Ross, and Chandler from “Friends”. Not only is a hot cup of coffee and relaxing couch to sit on, perfect for fall, but true fans can see behind-the-scenes footage from Friends as well as real props from the show.

#7 The Village Halloween Parade

This beloved Halloween tradition in Greenwich debuted in 1974 and is a must for those who take Halloween to the next level. Ranging from ghouls to homemade giant puppets, witness the most wildly creative Halloween costumes you’ll ever see!

#6 Lafayette Fall Specialties

Lafayette is known for being one of the most delicious bakeries in NYC. However, their true prime time is the Fall when they introduce their fall specials, including the Pumpkin Chai Latte Supreme and their flaky croissant made with sleepy hollow custard and autumn spice. These seasonal goodies are definitely worth the hype, and the perfect cure for your sweet tooth, especially if you’re a pumpkin lover.

#5 Green-Wood Cemetery Tours

This 478-acre cemetery in Brooklyn originated in 1838 and offers stunning views of the skyline as well as hosts fall events, including movie nights, concerts, and art installations. Sign up for a guided tour to learn more about its history and enjoy all is has to offer.

#4 Lyndhurst After Dark

Each Fall, the Lyndhurst Mansion opens for evening visits where people can see the dazzling mansion lit by candlelight. Decorated in the spirit of the season, there are special items and collections that display the Mansion’s past. Later in the night, performers showcase the dark history and ominous traditions of the Mansion. Those who love haunted houses and horror will absolutely love the Lyndhurst After Dark experience.

#3 Queen’s Night Market

Every Saturday from 5 p.m. to midnight, over 100 vendors sell art, clothing, and delicious food. In addition, there are cultural performances scheduled each week, making the market both incredibly festive and diverse, and a great place to try new global cuisines with friends.

#2 New York Film Festival

The New York Film Festival takes place each fall at the Lincoln Center and is one of the most prominent film festivals in the United States where works from both, new artists and filmmakers are displayed. Not only does the festival allow aspiring filmmakers a place to share their work, but it also helps to broaden our horizons about film and learn more about the art of cinematography.

#1 Pumpkin Blaze

The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze is NYC’s most captivating and electrifying fall event. It features over 7,000 hand-carved illuminated pumpkins synchronized to create life-size dinosaurs, a 24-foot spider web, and dozens of more artistic pieces.

Hi! I'm Ella and I'm an AMC major at FIT. Some of my favorite things to do include writing, film, makeup, traveling, and going to concerts.