It's on 4 of my lists. Each entry below is what I wrote about it there, with my verdict on that list, the fullest first.
- Costfree
- Subway2, 3 to Wall St, 7 min
- Address89 South St, New York, NY 10038
- From my guide, updated September 2026.
If you only do one thing on this list, make it this one.
For an Instagram-worthy October experience in NYC, visit Pier 17’s free art exhibit, the Pumpkin Arch. Since 2020, the pier has showcased an arch constructed from over 500 pumpkins, becoming a beautiful photo opportunity attracting visitors from all corners of the city. Set against the backdrop of the Brooklyn Bridge, this orange masterpiece is a sight to behold.
The pumpkin arch typically shows up around mid-October, perfectly timed for Halloween, making it one of the top attractions to experience in NYC during October. 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 (and trust me, there will be a line).
This one of those New York moments that makes you fall in love with the city all over again.
For a cute Halloween photo of children in NYC, head to Pier 17’s free art installation featuring over 500 pumpkins in the shape of an arch. This vibrant display, set against the stunning backdrop of the Brooklyn Bridge, is located at South Street Seaport.
While there are no strict time limits for pictures, consider the length of the line and aim for efficiency. I’ll leave you with a Pro tip, experiencing the arch at night (when the lights come on) is one of the most memorable things to do for Halloween in NYC with kids.
The kind of place you’ll tell friends about, and then wish you hadn’t.
For an Instagram-worthy Halloween experience in NYC, head to Pier 17’s free art installation featuring over 500 pumpkins forming a captivating arch. This vibrant display, set against the stunning backdrop of the Brooklyn Bridge, attracts people from across the city for its picturesque charm.
Located at South Street Seaport, the pumpkin arch is worth visiting for memorable Halloween photos. While there are no strict time limits for pictures, consider the flow of the line and aim for efficiency. I’ll leave you with a Pro tip, experience the magic at night when the arch is illuminated in lights.
For an picture-perfect fall activity in NYC, Pier 17 has you covered. Since 2020, the pier has played host to an arch made from 500+ pumpkins overlooking the Brooklyn Bridge. Typically installed the last week of September, the arch is ready to please through mid-November.
She still talks about it.
While there are no official 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 (and trust me, there will be a line). Or, to shake things up a bit, visit the pumpkin arch at night when the dazzling string lights add a whimsical feel to the experience.