10 SPOOKY Spots for Halloween Decorations in New York City

I’m probably not the first to tell you that New Yorkers never do anything half way. Case in point: the epic Halloween decorations in New York City.

Last fall I went on whirlwind mission to find the best Halloween decorations in NYC and found myself immensely impressed. I had no idea New Yorkers took the Halloween spirit so seriously but can’t thank them enough for it.

One of the best things to do during the cooler fall days is to grab a hot chocolate and wander aimlessly in search of the best Halloween decorations in NYC.

I want to make that task easier on you (and don’t want my lengthy effort from last year to go to waste). So allow me to share the absolute best neighborhoods and spots to see Halloween decorations in New York City, based on firsthand experience. I hope you enjoy!

Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (The best neighborhoods for first timers +2 to avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s our favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.

Things to know when searching for the best Halloween decorations in New York City

Be respectful of peoples homes. You should never forget that people live in the homes you’re visiting. When checking out the best Halloween decorations in New York City snap your pictures and be courteous.

Dress warm. New York City can be deceptively cold. In October, the average high temperature is 63° and wind chill can make it feel even colder. You know yourself best, if you run cold make sure to dress accordingly.

Wear comfortable walking shoes. Whether you take the subway or catch a ride, when looking for the best Halloween decorations in New York City you’ll eventually have to get out and walk. Make sure to wear shoes that will keep your feet dry and comfortable.

Best Halloween Decorations in New York City

#10. Dyker Heights, Brooklyn

Dyker Heights is a Brooklyn neighborhood that’s nationally-known for it’s extravagant Christmas lights. What many folks don’t realize though is that the holiday festivities start well before December.

During the month of October the neighborhood transforms into Dyker Frights. Locals deck out their homes with some of the best Halloween decorations in New York City, sparing no expense in trying to one-up their neighbors.

Some homes completely cover their lawns, bringing ghouls and goblins all the way to the sidewalk. Others have the spiders crawling up onto the roof. All this to say, Dyker Heights is home to some of the best Halloween decorations in New York City.

Dyker Freights — Image Courtesy Tom Hilton & The Brooklyn Reporter

#9. Burns St, Forest Hills, Queens

Burns Street in Forest Hills, Queens is lined with homes that take decorating for Halloween as seriously as I take getting ready for my mother-in-law to visit for the weekend. We forget nothing.

Home to some of the best Halloween decorations in New York City, locals have made this one of the most sought-after trick-or-treating destinations in the Big Apple.

So many dressed-up kids visit on Halloween that police officers are often forced to close down the street to cars in order to squeeze in all the eager trick-or-treaters. To people unaware of the date it can feel like stumbling into Comic-Con.

The best halloween decorations can be found between Union Turnpike and Ascan Avenue.

#8. Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn

Carroll Gardens is a neighborhood seemingly out of a movie. The neighborhood is enchanting, with it’s beautiful brownstones and autumn-colored trees.

In October the locals break out some of the most epic Halloween decorations in New York City, so I’ve made it tradition to make an annual trip to the neighborhood.

If you’re looking to start off strong I suggest bee-lining to Scotto Funeral Home at 106 Court Place. They put up some of the best decorations in New York City, and on Halloween give out candy to trick-or-treaters.

And if you work up an appetite with all your exploring stop by the neighboring Baby Luc’s for a slice of pizza. Then you’ll really be living like a local!

#7. Industry City Brooklyn

Industry City is one of my go-to spots when I want to see the best Halloween Decorations in New York City.

Comprised of 16 buildings across 35 acres, Industry City sits on the Brooklyn waterfront in Sunset Park. The large industrial warehouses were constructed in the 1890’s, being used for manufacturing and distributing.

Today it’s a market chock-full of events, eateries and shops. In between the buildings you’ll find colorful courtyards decorated with pumpkins and some of the best Halloween decorations in New York City.

There’s places for your kiddos to run around and plenty of good food to be had, so make an afternoon out of it. And if the weather goes south, the Japan Village food hall has ramen that never fails to hit the spot.

#6. Upper West Side

It would make sense that a family-friendly neighborhood like the Upper West Side (UWS) would have some of the best Halloween decorations in New York City.

I currently live in the UWS and enjoy taking evening strolls past the well-decorated brownstones, especially those on 69th Street.

Honestly, West 69th Street might just have the best Halloween Decorations in NYC. The neighborhood association takes Halloween seriously and the elaborate decor is next level.

Further Reading: BEST Halloween Decorations in the Upper West Side (+ way too many photos)

Best halloween Decorations New York City

#5. Chelsea Market

The Chelsea Market is a famous food hall mixed with unique shops, restaurants, spice markets, and cafes. The market has 35 vendors waiting to impress you with tasty treats and fare.

Not to mention, the decorating team at Chelsea Market cuts no corners when it comes to decorating.

Think of Chelsea Market as the house on the block that goes all out with the best Halloween Decorations in New York City. Hay bales and spider webs are just the beginning!

Plus, since it’s an indoor market this is one of the handful of spots you can check out the best Halloween decorations in New York City, regardless of the weather.

#4. Pier 17 (South Street Seaport)

If you’re looking for one of the most instagrammable decorations in New York City, look no more.

Since 2020 Pier 17 has put together a free art instillation made up of over 500 pumpkins in the shape of an arch for no reason other than to bring folks joy.

Drawing people from all over the city, not only does this perfectly orange pumpkin arch make for great photos, the Brooklyn Bridge as the backdrop is stunning.

Typically making an appearance in early-October, the beautiful pumpkin arch is located on Pier 17 at South Street Seaport.

While technically there are no rules for how long you can take pictures, be courteous of those around you. Try to take your pictures quickly to maintain the flow of the line.

#3. Greenwich Village

Greenwich Village is arguably the most charming neighborhood in NYC, which makes it a please to explore every day of the year. But the fall is when it shines brightest because the neighbors deck out their homes with some of the best Halloween decorations in New York City.

Charming brownstones lined with spider webs, skeletons and vibrant pumpkins turn every day strolls through the city into a memorable experience.

Grab your favorite warm drink, bundle up and explore some of the best Halloween decorations in New York City. If you’re looking for cafe suggestions to get you started check out 12 Gorgeous Greenwich Village Coffee Shops You Can’t Afford to Miss!

You might enjoy reading: Strolling the West Village in the Fall

#2. Harlem

I’m going to let you in on a little local secret, Harlem has some of the best Halloween decorations in New York City. This underrated Manhattan neighborhood doesn’t get the love it deserves, but the Halloween spirit is alive and well.

Without fail locals adorn their homes with all things ghouls and goblins. Stoops become graveyards and the occult finds its way to the main-stage.

And let me remind you to be careful with the electronic decorations. Last year while exploring Harlem’s Halloween decorations a scarecrow moved as I walked passed it, startling me so much I dropped my pumpkin spice latte (don’t judge me).

The fact it scared me that much proves Harlem is home to some of the best Halloween decorations in New York City!

Harlem Halloween NY Post — Image Courtesy New York Post

#1. Upper East Side

In terms of the best Halloween decorations in New York City, the Upper East Side takes the cake. Blocks of homes are decked out with impressive decorations that leave onlookers entertained.

From one block to the next there’s surprises galore. Cobwebs, pumpkins and witches don’t even begin to scratch the surface. Plus, the neighborhood feels cozy, so the time seems to fly by.

I can’t imagine how much work goes into setting up the elaborate spooky displays. What’s more, where do these folks store these incredible NYC Halloween decorations during the other months of the year?

All this to say, if you’re looking for the best Halloween decorations in New York City, the Upper East Side never disappoints.

Further Reading: Best Halloween Decorations Upper East Side