Secretly I think October is the best month to visit New York City. The weather is still enjoyable, the season isn’t fully into fall just yet and the crowds are still manageable. Plus with the holidays just around the corner, stores and businesses can’t help but decorate with pumpkins and hay bales giving us a taste of what’s to come.
Between Oktoberfest, farmers markets selling apple cider goodies, and Halloween there are plenty of things to be doing in NYC during October. In this guide, we’ll cover all the can’t-miss events and reasons why you should visit New York City in October. Without further ado, let’s get to it!
Things to Do in New York City in October
Table of Contents: Things to Do NYC in October
Table of Contents: October in NYC
- Things to Do in New York City in October
- Celebrate Oktoberfest
- Snap a Picture at the Pumpkin Arch on Pier 17
- Pick Up a Pumpkin Keg from Loreley Beer Garden
- Kayak For Free While You Still Can on the Hudson
- Fall-O-Ween at the New York Botanical Garden
- Enjoy Boo at the Zoo
- Check Out the Halloween Decorations at Chelsea Market
- Get Fall Treats From the Local Farmers Market
- Stargazing on the High Line
- Enjoy a Spook-tacular Bite at Oscar Wilde
- Stop by the Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade
- Wander Neighborhoods to Find the Best Halloween Decorations
- Check Out the Fall Foliage in Central Park
- Go Ice Skating in Central Park
- Go on a Halloween Bar Crawl
- March to the Arch at Dumboween
- Take Part in the Greenwich Village Halloween Parade
- October Festivals in New York City
- Best Things to Do in New York City in October (Post Summary)
- Map of New York City October Activities
Celebrate Oktoberfest
Can’t make it to Oktoberfest in Germany? No worries! One of the best things to do in NYC in October is visiting Watermark Bar on Pier 15 to experience the boozy fall event. The bar goes all out with lederhosen-clad staff, delicious food, and plenty of beer.
From early September through the end of October, Oktoberfest welcomes New Yorkers and locals seven days a week. Oktoberfest is free to enter – register online and pay for what you order. Not a fan of drinking? No problem. This family-friendly celebration offers non-alcoholic options, food, and stunning waterfront views.
Snap a Picture at the Pumpkin Arch on Pier 17
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 delightful 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).
Pick Up a Pumpkin Keg from Loreley Beer Garden
In October, finding delicious pumpkin beer in NYC is a breeze, but Loreley Beer Garden takes it up a notch with a Pumpkin Keg! Starting in late September you can gather your pals and dive into a 60 oz Pumpkin Keg, complete with a beer tap—pouring 4-5 glasses of pumpkin beer magic.
Not a fan of pumpkin beer? No problem! Swap it out for any beer on tap at Loreley’s, no extra charge. It’s a fall concoction that adds a festive twist to your beer experience at one of the most treasured Halloween bars in New York City.
Kayak For Free While You Still Can on the Hudson
Kayaking on the Hudson River offers an excellent way to spend a day in early October in New York City, no matter your skill level. With various locations providing both free and professional instruction, everyone can partake in this outdoor adventure.
The best part? This October activity in NYC is completely free! It’s wholesome, enjoyable, and suitable for the entire family. Children can kayak with a guardian, and there’s even Kayak Polo for those seeking a bit of friendly competition.
The only catch is that since it’s a summer event, kayaking is available only during the first weekend in October. After that, it’s closed for the season, reopening in May. Check out the calendar here.
Fall-O-Ween at the New York Botanical Garden
Make sure to catch Fall-O-Ween at the New York Botanical Garden (NYBG), a top family-friendly activity in NYC this October. NYBG welcomes autumn with an array of pumpkins, gourds, and seasonal fun. Plus, there’s a Halloween parade to add to the festive atmosphere.
The weekend is jam-packed with fall activities suitable for kids, including adorable costume parades down Garden Way. Check NYBG’s calendar to plan your visit and ensure Fall-O-Ween is part of your October events checklist in New York City this year!
Enjoy Boo at the Zoo
Located less than 20 minutes from the New York Botanical Garden is the Bronx Zoo, offering another great family-friendly activity for October in NYC. Every autumn, the Bronx Zoo hosts an exciting event called Boo at the Zoo. Kids can trick-or-treat along candy trails, learn about animals’ favorite snacks, and enjoy educational activities.
Boo at the Zoo offers a variety of activities including arts and crafts, magic shows, pumpkin carving demonstrations, and a costume parade, making it one of the top October attractions for kids in NYC. Tickets must be purchased in advance with flex pricing, so book early to secure a lower rate. Your little ones will be grinning from ear to ear!
Further reading: Bronx Zoo is on our list of 18 Breathtaking Spots for Fall Foliage in New York City, check out why.
Check Out the Halloween Decorations at 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. Therefore checking out Chelsea Market during your visit to New York City in October is a no-brainer.
You can stop by for souvenirs or just grab a bite to eat. During fall, corn stalks, hay bales, pumpkins, and lights make the market a charming and easy stroll. Something to note, there are motion-activated witches and skeletons and are known to spook more than one guest.
Get Fall Treats From the Local Farmers Market
Is there anything better than fresh apple cider and donuts during the fall in NYC? I think not! Home to 48 farmers markets, there’s no shortage of fresh fall treats in the Big Apple. My personal favorite market for apple cider goodies is Union Square Farmers Market. In my years of living here, I’ve ate my fair share in calories and now encourage you to do the same.
Regardless of which vendor you buy from, walking around with a hot apple cider as you peruse the market is easily one of the best things to do in NYC in October. Fall treats in New York City are too good to miss, so don’t forget to visit a market.
Further Reading: Need some suggestions on how to kick off the fall season? Here are festive autumn activities to do in NYC.
Stargazing on the High Line
Would you believe me if I told you that New York City offers free stargazing opportunities? That’s all thanks to the helpful members of the Amateur Astronomers Association. As one of the best free things to do in NYC in October, trust me when I tell you — you don’t want to miss out on this.
Telescopes are provided and spaced throughout the High Line, a former elevated cargo line turned beloved New York City park. You don’t have to be Neil deGrasse Tyson to enjoy the beauty of our universe, thanks to this incredible New York City fall activity.
Bonus: If you need another reason as to why visiting the High Line is one of the best things to do in New York City in October let me help you. The fall foliage is second to none at this unique park, the paths will lead you through breathtaking autumnal colors you won’t soon forget.
Enjoy a Spook-tacular Bite at Oscar Wilde
Making reservations at Oscar Wilde during October in NYC is non-negotiable. The restaurant decorates for the autumn in an unmatched way. Every inch of the place gets decorated (including the ceiling), minimalism has no place here. During the Halloween season, the restaurant gets a spooky makeover, and folks dining in costumes is par for the course.
Truth be told, the food is decent but won’t rock your socks. This is the kind of place you visit for a fun experience, not just a hearty dinner. Having said that the drinks are incredible! There’s a plethora of fun and innovative cocktails to choose from that will make your October trip to New York City memorable and exciting.
Stop by the Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade
Yup, Tompkins Square throws an annual Halloween parade in NYC for dogs every October and it’s just as adorable as it sounds! Returning for its 34th year in 2024, pups are encouraged to participate and there is no entry fee or registration needed. All you need to do is dress Fido up and arrive early.
Since moving to NYC I learned New Yorkers don’t mess around when it comes to their dogs, so why would Halloween be any different? Especially when there are awards at stake! Clear your schedule because you’re not going to want to miss this. The creativity and dedication leave me speechless year after year.
Wander Neighborhoods to Find the Best Halloween Decorations
I currently have an on-going debate with my husband on which New York City neighborhood is home to the best Halloween decorations. I’m partial to the (oh so charming) Greenwich Village, while my husband argues the Upper West Side is where it’s at.
Spider webs, skeletons, and pumpkins adorn brownstones, turning city strolls into a unique experience. Wandering through neighborhoods for Halloween decor is a top October activity in NYC – fun for kids and adults alike. No matter the neighborhood, you’re in for a treat!
We did the hard work so you don’t have to! Check out 10 Spooky Spots for Halloween Decorations in New York City.
Check Out the Fall Foliage in Central Park
Visiting Central Park in the fall is a must in New York City! With over 840 acres, the park’s fiery autumn hues are a surreal experience. Biking is an efficient way to explore iconic spots like the mall, adorned with yellow leaves, or the vibrant Harlem Meer in the north. Cycling through the park’s 18,000 trees creates an inspiring and mesmerizing colorful canopy, making it one of the best things to do in NYC this October.
Need help knowing where to find the best foliage in Central Park? Check out 12 Epic Spots to See Fall Color in Central Park
Go Ice Skating in Central Park
Website: Wollman Rink
Date: End of October
Address: 830 5th Ave, New York, NY
Ice skating at Wollman Rink is arguably one of the most iconic things to do in NYC during the fall. Located in the southern part of Central Park, the rink is open from late October through early April.
If you find yourself in NYC towards the end of October, this is a must-do. Ice skating in the park is the ultimate New York autumn experience. But a word to the wise: Wollman Rink gets crowded quickly, especially during weekends. Try to visit during the weekday and arrive early if your schedule allows.
Local’s tips: Wollman Rink is CASH-ONLY, but there’s an ATM onsite.
Go on a Halloween Bar Crawl
Looking for one of the best boozy Halloween events in New York City this October? Get ready to Trick or Drink. Barcrawlerz is hosting this year’s annual Trick or Drink bar crawl, where for 3 days you can dress up and head to participating bars for drink specials surrounded by other ghouls and goblins.
The process is simple, simply buy your tickets and show up to the registration site on your confirmation email to get your wristband and map of the participating bars along with the specials they’re running. Then head to your first spot for no cover charge and drinks!
March to the Arch at Dumboween
Dumboween’s yearly March to the Arch on October 31st is a beloved NYC Halloween tradition for families each October. The parade, led by the Funkrust Brass Band, winds from Washington Street to the Dumbo Archway, showcasing families decked out in costumes.
Following the parade, enjoy free activities like arts & crafts, a photo booth, and a costume contest with prizes. Not to mention, kids can indulge in trick-or-treating thanks to the 50+ participating businesses. There’s plenty of Halloween themed photo-ops leading up to the parade, so don’t forget your camera!
Take Part in the Greenwich Village Halloween Parade
This year is the 51st annual Halloween Parade NYC hosted in Greenwich Village. The tradition started with a solo mask-maker and puppeteer who walked his neighborhood streets for the local kids’ entertainment.
By the third year the NYC Halloween parade developed into a non-profit organization full of volunteers who dedicate themselves to keeping the New York City fall tradition alive. Growing to more than 50,000 costumed participants a year I’d say the parade is very much alive and well.
As far as October activities in New York City go, the Halloween parade in Greenwich Village tops the list. If you’re in the city on October 31st this is where you want to be.
The parade can be viewed on both sides of 6th Avenue between King St. and 15th St. There are also a handful of ways to participate. The Halloween parade is always looking for volunteers and if you want a more flashy role consider actually being in the parade.
Local’s Tip: if you aren’t comfortable being around so many spooky figures consider watching the Halloween Parade at home. The TV Channel NY1 covers the parade from 8 to 9:30 PM.
October Festivals in New York City
New York City Food and Wine Festival
The New York City Food and Wine Festival is an annual event that features tastings, cooking demos, and celebrity chef appearances. The event showcases the city’s culinary scene, with proceeds supporting No Kid Hungry and Food Bank For New York City. Tickets for this popular NYC October event go on sale in the summer so keep an eye out for them to go live. Whether you’re a foodie or just love great food and wine, it’s a must-visit!
Carl Schurz Park’s Annual Harvest Festival
Carl Schurz Park hosts an annual harvest fest packed with exciting fall activities for families every October in NYC. There’s a pumpkin patch at the Mayor’s Lawn (East End Avenue and East 88th Street) where folks can pick and decorate their own pumpkins. Families can enjoy arts and crafts, temporary tattoos, and a stroll through the Spooky Trail.
New York Film Festival
The New York Film Festival (NYFF) has been an esteemed annual event since 1963. Organized by the Film Society of Lincoln Center, it features a wide range of films from all over the world, from big studio productions to independent gems.
NYFF is famous for its carefully curated selection, showcasing high-quality cinema, including premieres of acclaimed works and potential award contenders. It’s a hub for established filmmakers and rising stars, drawing film buffs, industry insiders, and media attention.
Alongside screenings, the festival offers panel discussions and special events, making it one of the best things to do in NYC this October for anyone passionate about film.
New York Comic Con
New York Comic Con (NYCC) is a huge pop culture convention held at the Javits Center that started back in 2006. It’s a gathering for fans of comics, movies, TV shows, anime, and video games. At NYCC, you’ll find celebrity panels, autograph sessions, exclusive merchandise, cosplay contests, and previews of upcoming releases.
NYCC is where fans can mingle with their beloved creators, artists, and fellow enthusiasts. Drawing tens of thousands annually, it’s a premier event for pop culture aficionados. Attending NYCC ranks high on the list of must-do activities in NYC each October.
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