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Aerial view of the reds, oranges, yellows of fall surround a water fall

Can fall in New York get even more colorful? Besides the changing leaves, come experience epic outdoor adventures, family-friendly farms, historic sites, and so much more!

The Canandaigua Lady, a replica of a 19th-century double-decker paddlewheel boat, on the lake at sunset surrounded by fall foliage

Get out on the water and see New York State’s marvelous fall foliage from a different perspective! Witness the beautiful shades of autumn reflected on the water’s surface as you cruise along historic canals, pristine lakes, and tranquil rivers

A metal sculpture comprised of oversized cylindrical rods stands on the grassy field of Storm King Art Center with trees bursting in fall colors in the background
CREDIT: @ABHIROOP.RONY ON INSTAGRAM

Art doesn’t have to be admired exclusively inside a museum (although New York is home to some of the world’s best). Get outside and breathe in the fresh air as you marvel at beautiful sculptures with the natural landscape as their canvas. New York State has a plethora of sculpture parks and gardens that let you experience art and culture amid rolling hills, manicured lawns, gorgeous blooms in the spring and summer, stunning foliage in the fall, and even snow-blanketed paths in winter. 

A group of people stand on a scenic overlook taking in sprawling views of fall foliage from Coney Mountain in Tupper Lake Adirondacks

From the foothills of the Catskill Mountains to the peaks of the Adirondacks, New York is home to one of the most vivid autumns in the world. Whether you see it from a scenic roadway, from up in the air, or from a gorgeous hiking trail, the vibrant fall leaves will fill you with wonder amidst the changing seasons. Here’s your everlasting map to the most scenic fall foliage activities and destinations all over New York State. 

Two people on horseback along a trail to Shelving Rock, offering views of Lake George

Giddy up for adventure in New York State! Whether you're looking to explore scenic trails on horseback, witness the thrill of a live horse race at a historic track, or stay at a dude ranch, New York

Two People Biking Along The Canalway Trail

Finding an outdoor adventure that is accessible for everyone in your crew is easier than you might think in New York State! From sandy shores of inclusion to skiing and adaptive hiking with all-terrain wheelchairs, there’s something for every interest and every ability in every season. Best of all, many of these activities are either free or available at a relatively low cost. Photo credit: Erie Canal National Heritage Corridor

Indian Ladder Farms

The apple is the official fruit of New York State, and there are more than 40 different varieties and approximately 600 producers in the Empire State. As fall foliage season gets underway, plan a scenic drive to your nearest orchard to wander through apple-scented countrysides, pick your own bagful, and enjoy warm cider doughnuts, pressed apple cider, and freshly baked pies! 

Pumpkins in a bin at Indian Ladder Falls

Why is New York in the fall so magical? The leaves change from deep green to dazzling shades of orange, red, and yellow. The warm air turns crisp and cool. The activities offer fall family fun for everyone, with apple picking and scenic drives, colorful hikes, and romantic small-town getaways.

Clouds reflected on the water's surface at Kenneth L. Wilson Campground
Credit: @billypinkerton33 on Instagram

Pack your hiking boots, bathing suits, and sunscreen and get out into the great outdoors for an unforgettable and affordable camping trip in New York State.

Two people zipline side by side along the sunny coast of Jones Beach at WildPlay Jones Beach; Photo Credit: @rmdragon on Instagram
Credit: @rmdragon on Instagram

What’s one of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of New York’s scenery? Having your breath literally taken away while flying through it! That’s why we’ve rounded up some of the best of the aerial adventure parks and zipline adventures across the state.