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! Whether you’re sipping locally made wines or fall-themed craft beers, picking your own apples, hiking to scenic summits, or looking for new ways to celebrate Halloween, this season will surpass your expectations. Get ready to breathe in that crisp air—fall in New York is a time to create vivid memories. Sign up for the weekly Fall Foliage Report to time your fall fun with peak foliage. Photo Credit: @uprootedphotos on Instagram.

1. Embark on a Fall Foliage Cruise Up the Hudson River 

Colorful crimson, gold, and orange leaves on trees along the magnificent blue waters of the Hudson River
Credit: @seastreak on Instagram

Take in breathtaking seasonal views, vibrant foliage, and crisp autumn air as you cruise along New York’s historic Hudson River. Embark on a scenic voyage with an Oktoberfest twist with Circle Line’s 4-hour journey toward Hook Mountain or 8-hour adventure with a stop at Bear Mountain. The luxurious Seastreak catamaran cruises to Cold Spring for fine dining and boutique shopping, Milton for a farm or winery visit, and Bear Mountain for an afternoon of exploring nature. From brunch and lunch cruises to relaxing scenic sails, you’ll be treated to dramatic foliage scenes when you cruise with Classic Harbor Line aboard their schooner or elegant 1920s-style yacht. Discover even more fall foliage cruises to book in New York State including the Lake George Steamboat Company, Chautauqua Belle, and Niagara Falls’ famous Maid of the Mist.

2. Take in Fall’s Beauty Hiking in New York State Parks

Orange, red, and yellow leaves decorate a mountainside
Credit: @af_adventurous on Instagram

With more than 180 state parks and 2,000+ miles of trails, New York is one of the best fall hiking destinations in the country. John Boyd Thacher State Park in Voorheesville is a spectacular destination for fall foliage, offering sweeping views of the Hudson-Mohawk Valleys and distant Adirondack and Green mountains. The park showcases six miles of dramatic limestone cliffs, roaring and cascading waterfalls, 25 miles of hiking and biking trails, an expansive visitor center, and thrilling treetop obstacle course. Known as the "Grand Canyon of the East,” Letchworth State Park is home to waterfalls, plunging gorges, and one-mile Autism Nature Trail, offering eight distinct sensory experiences. From Taughannock to Chittenango, hike to picture-perfect waterfalls with spectacular vistas to make your autumn travels even more magical. Discover more with our guides to 10 New York Hikes You Need to Take This Fall and New York State Parks to Visit for Stunning Foliage.

3. Find the Apple of Your Eye

Photo of a man sitting on a bench next to a red vintage car in front of the Fly Creek Cider Mill

McIntosh, Empire, Fuji, Red Delicious, Macoun—the list of New York-grown apples goes on and on. Don a sweater and sip on crisp artisan ciders and sparkling wines at Finger Lakes Cider House paired with views of the changing leaves and shimmering Cayuga Lake. There's acres of fun at Long Island’s Harbes Family Farm with delightful attractions from pumpkin and apple picking to an amazing corn maze, hayrides, and more! Pick your own apples or purchase them in the Apple Barn at Beak & Skiff in LaFayette. While you’re there, taste-test the orchard’s 1911 ciders, spirits, and wines. Find apples in the Capital Region at Indian Ladder Farms in Altamont, where you can also get homemade pies, cider, produce, and more. For freshly made cider donuts, head to Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard in Cooperstown, Cider Belly Doughnuts in Albany, and Mayer Brothers Cider Mill and Bakery in West Seneca.

4. Say Cheers to Harvest Season in Finger Lakes Wine Country

A person holds a glass of wine filled with rose with Keuka Lake in the background at the Living Roots Winery and Tasting Room
Credit: Emma Frisbie

Wine lovers rejoice! Harvest season is here, which means it’s time to raise a glass to New York State wine in the picturesque Finger Lakes Wine County. With sweeping lake views and world-renowned wine, the Finger Lakes is consistently voted one of the best wine regions in the country, home to over 140 wineries and four distinct wine trails. Explore America’s first-organized and longest-running wine trail while you take in Cayuga Lake’s scenery, stopping at Buttonwood Grove Winery, Thirsty Owl Wine Company, and, Hosmer Winery. Admire glistening views of Keuka Lake at Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery and Living Roots Wine & Co., and find more to explore along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail and Canandaigua Lake Wine Trail. Check out this Ultimate Guide to New York State's Wine Regions to find even more places to sip and explore.

5 . Take a Scenic Fall Foliage Train Ride

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by I LOVE NEW YORK (@iloveny)

All aboard! Experience New York’s gorgeous fall foliage on the rails. Spot bald eagle, heron, and deer as your ride the Delaware & Ulster Railroad along the East Branch of the Delaware River enjoying colorful views of the Catskill Mountains. Catch mountain views as you pass through forests and over rivers and streams aboard the Adirondack Railroad. Cider, doughnuts, and epic fall foliage is on the menu as you board the Arcade & Attica Railroad in Greater Niagara for a steam engine ride through the rolling hills of Western New York. Catch the Pumpkin Express to choose your own pumpkin that you can take home and decorate. The Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley Railway heads out on a fall excursion along the tranquil Susquehanna River and through farm fields and forests. Amtrak, Metro-North, and the Long Island Rail Road also provide ample opportunities to explore fall foliage by rail.

6. Treat Yourself to Adventure on a Fall Getaway

Mohonk Mountain House looms over Mohonk Lake as the leaves change colors on the surrounding hills
Credit: @dannywild11 on Instagram

Imagine yourself breathing in crisp mountain air and soaking in fabulous fall foliage views while sitting in a rocker on the porch of a lakeside Victorian castle with a cup of freshly brewed tea in your hand. That's exactly the type of experience you can have at the Hudson Valley's storied Mohonk Mountain House (pictured)—an award-winning National Historic Landmark resort tucked in the beautiful Shawangunk Mountains. No matter how you prefer to take in the sights, the all-inclusive resort features a catalog of activities including hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, golf, and tennis. You can even explore the grounds with a horse-drawn carriage ride. To discover more weekend retreats, check out our guide to cozy fall getaways in New York State.

7. Find Your Way Through a Corn Maze

Rhinebeck Corn Maze
Credit: @rbkbagel on Instagram

Looking for a family-fun farm adventure? Get lost in a life-size puzzle as you tackle the three-acre corn maze at Springside Farm in Fabius and then test your skills further in the tree and jungle mazes. In Ballston Spa, try the Amazing Maize Corn Maze at Ellms Family Farm, which takes about 90 minutes to complete. Bringing younger kids? Have them follow along the Kiddie Maze, where there is no getting lost! Near Rochester, make your way through the five-acre logic cornfield at Long Acre Farms by day or under the starlit sky with Friday moonlight maze nights. Fort Ticonderoga makes history fun with its heroic corn maze located on the shores of Lake Champlain, with this year’s design honoring the nation’s 250th anniversary.

8. Go on a Haunted Adventure

A person dressed as the headless horse rides a black horse during a parade through Sleepy Hollow
Credit: @sleepyhollowspellbound on Instagram

Looking for a spine-chilling activity for Halloween season? New York State has you covered! Follow Ichabod Crane’s flight from the Headless Horseman on a hair-raising hayride through the Hudson Valley’s Sleepy Hollow and tour Sleepy Hollow Cemetery to learn the history behind the well-known burial ground, Washington Irving, and The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. Make your way through five creepy haunted houses at Frightworld in Buffalo. Bring your family to Fright Fest at Great Escape & Hurricane Harbor in Queensbury. Family-friendly activities such as trick-or-treating, a costume contest, and a scream contest will be held during the day at Kids Boo Fest. If you’re looking for more fright, walk through the park after 5 pm to explore a blacklight maze and halls filled with zombies. For even more eerie fun ranging from ghost hunts to guided tours, explore the attractions on the Haunted History Trail of New York State or spend the night in a haunted hotel or inn.

9. Explore the Home of Baseball

A gallery inside the Baseball Hall of Fame
Credit: @visitcny on Instagram

While the minor and major leagues end their seasons in September and October respectively, baseball is always in season in Cooperstown no matter what the calendar says. Discover the history and cultural impact of America's pastime at the National Baseball Hall of Fame (pictured) through exhibits that honor the legacies of Babe Ruth and Hank Aaron, pay homage to female players, and document the rise of the game in Caribbean nations. Cooperstown is also home to Doubleday Field, widely recognized as the birthplace of baseball, and the sport is at the heart of many restaurants, including Doubleday Cafe and the cozy Cooperstown Diner, where many Hall of Famers have sat down for a meal. With lakeside dining, a luxurious spa, and award-winning golf course, the Otesaga Resort makes for the perfect homebase for your stay. Seal the deal with special offers including a fall harvest discount or double play package that includes tickets to the Hall of Fame and souvenir baseball bat. Head to Fenimore Farm & Country Village for a dose of fall fun at Harvest Fest, Things That Go Bump in the Night, and trick or treating at the farm.

10. Get into the Spirit of the Season

A woman in a striped sweater and cowboy hat walks under a jack o'lantern archway at Blaze: Long Island
Credit: @sahquart on Instagram

See thousands of hand-carved jack o’lanterns light up the night at the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze (pictured) in the Hudson Valley and get groovy at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, paying homage to Woodstock legends during Peace, Love, and Pumpkins. Add more fall-themed fun to your itinerary as you navigate a corn maze and hop on the zombie paintball train at The Great Pumpkin Farm Fall Festival in Greater Niagara (September 19-October 31); a tractor-pulled train ride and singing chickens await at Pumpkinville in Chautauqua-Allegheny (September 12-October 31); and see who takes home the title of “Biggest Pumpkin of the Year” at The Saratoga Giant Pumpkinfest (September 26). See pumpkins get catapulted into the St. Lawrence River at Clayton’s Punkin’ Chunkin’ (October 17) and celebrate fall’s bounty at the Lewiston Harvest & Hops Festival (September 26-27) and Peek’n Peak Fall Fest (October 10-11 & 17-18).

11. See a Show

Night time exterior of the bright illuminated sign spelling out "Shea's Buffalo" at Shea's Buffalo

Whether you’re into theater, music, or dance, treat yourself to a stirring performance as the arts come alive for a new season this fall. The Met Opera ushers in its new season on September 22, featuring a new production of Verdi’s Macbeth and beloved favorites like Mozart’s The Magic Flute. The NYC Ballet and New York Philharmonic also return in September with a series of world premieres and exciting performances. Billy Crystal’s autobiographical solo show and Tom Hiddleston in Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing are among the new additions coming to Broadway and you can catch other Broadway favorites like Dear Evan Hansen at the John W. Engeman Theater in Northport and Hell’s Kitchen at Shea’s in Buffalo. From September 8 to September 20, enjoy 2-for-1 deals on shows during Broadway Week in NYC.

11. Spend the Day With New York’s Most Adorable Animals

African Penguin at Seneca Park Zoo - Photo by Joe Territo

Zoos from Rochester to Buffalo to NYC all offer visitors the opportunity to see different species of animals while highlighting the importance of conservation. Take a step into Africa or discover creatures from the river’s edge at Seneca Park Zoo (pictured). See epic fall foliage and exotic animals on a monorail tour into the heart of the Asian wilderness at the Bronx Zoo or go boo at the zoo in Buffalo for Halloween. Get up close and personal with an unforgettable rhino or giraffe encounter at Central New York’s Animal Adventure Park or embark on a drive-thru safari experience at its sister facility, The Preserve. Looking for a more active experience? Spend the night and take advantage of 500+ acres of horseback riding at the all-inclusive Rocking Horse Ranch Resort.

12. Celebrate Cultural Months

Betsy Casanas mural in Buffalo; Photo Credit: @albrightknox on Instagram
Credit: @albrightknox on Instagram

The fall is a great time to experience culture in New York State. Mark Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15-October 15) exploring vibrant neighborhoods from Washington Heights to Buffalo’s Avenida San Juan (pictured), tasting authentic cuisine from Puerto Rico, Cuba, and Mexico, and catching amazing theatrical and dance productions by Latino performers. See the site of the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in Greenwich Village and visit other historical landmarks to learn about New York’s unparalleled role in advancing LGBTQ rights during LGBTQ History Month (October 1-31). Central New York’s Iroquois Museum and NYC’s National Museum of the American Indian are among the many places you can learn about the traditions and contributions of Native Americans during Native American Heritage Month (November 1-30).

14. Satisfy Your Taste Buds at Food Festivals

Raw oysters on ice with lemon wedges and tiny jars of Tabasco sauce
Credit: @yorkcny on Instagram

Fall brings with it a cornucopia of food festivals across New York State. Celebrate everyone’s favorite fuzzy stone fruit at the Niagara County Peach Festival where you can sample peach shortcake and witness the crowning of the “Peach Queen” (September 10-13). For a unique experience you’ll never forget, visit the Hudson Valley Garlic Festival September 26-27 in Saugerties. Naples Grape Festival (September 26-27) and Warwick’s Applefest (October 4) will keep you full of fresh fruity treats. From October 17-18, have a shucking good time at Long Island’s famed Oyster Festival (pictured) where you can sample stewed, fried, and raw oysters while enjoying live music, pirate shows, and more.

15. Take a Fall Road Trip

The Delaware River parallels the Upper Delaware Scenic Byway amid fall foliage

Check the fall foliage report and hit the open road for a colorful adventure through New York State. The changing leaves create a scenic backdrop for a fall drive through the Catskill Mountains along the picturesque Upper Delaware Scenic Byway while the High Peaks Scenic Byway takes you through the Adirondacks' highest peaks and along its pristine waters. Cruise along the Great Lakes Seaway Trail, one of the first roads in America to be designated as a National Scenic Byway, and follow the shores of Lake Erie, the Niagara River, Lake Ontario, and the St. Lawrence River on this 518-mile scenic driving route connecting Niagara Falls to the Thousand Islands-Seaway. Find an itinerary that suits your interests with our guide to  Road Trips for a Scenic Fall Getaway.

16. Travel the Path Through History in Honor of America 250

War of 1812 Photo Courtesy of Wayne Peters - Old Fort Niagara
Photo Courtesy of Wayne Peters/Old Fort Niagara

With 13 themes covering everything from the Revolutionary War to New York’s leading role as a beacon for civil rights, New York State has plenty for history buffs to discover. Explore the oldest continuously occupied military site in North America at Old Fort Niagara (pictured), witness Olana—the greatest masterpiece of Frederic Edwin Church, or visit the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum to see the “I Love Lucy” set in living color and learn about how Jamestown, NY native Lucille Ball went on to become the first woman to own a major television studio. October marks New York State History Month and Path Through History Weekend (October 10-12) is an especially good time to visit the many historic and cultural destinations across the state. As America marks its 250th year, discover New York State’s pivotal role in the nation’s founding by exploring Revolutionary War sites, attending reenactments, and embarking on an America 250-themed road trip.

17. Take a fall cycling or paddling adventure along the Erie Canal

Sam Patch traveling along the Erie Call on a gorgeous fall day

Credit: @beautifulmoments514 on Instagram

Discover history, culture, and fun on the Erie Canal during the most wonderful time of year. Experience the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor by hopping on a boat tour like Sam Patch or Erie Canal Cruises to see leaves come to life with fall colors, going for a golden hour paddle, cycling through the crisp fall air, and exploring charming canal towns like Lockport, Fairport and Pittsford.

18. Experience Art in the Outdoors

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

Experience art and culture amid rolling hills, manicured lawns, and the incredible colors of fall as you explore New York State’s stunning sculpture parks and gardens. The Hudson Valley is home to the 500-acre Storm King Art Center on the banks of the Hudson River and Art Omi, located in Ghent, featuring paintings, drawings, as well as sculptures and architectural pieces both in a gallery and across more than 100 bucolic acres. In the fall, Griffis Sculpture Park, one of America’s oldest and largest sculpture parks,  emits an eerie glow during Night Lights, a special event that bathes the sprawling 450-acre art wonderland in colorful theatrical lighting.  Discover more art in nature with our guide to New York’s sculpture parks and gardens.

19. Explore Magnificent Castles

Aerial view of Boldt Castle on Heart Island on a sunny dayCredit: @410films on Instagram

Feel like you’re in a fairytale at one of New York State’s majestic castles. The Thousand Islands’ Singer Castle is an impressive structure with detailed architecture and furnishings—on your visit, try to find one of the castle’s many secret passageways (open through October 18)! The 120-room Boldt Castle (pictured) on nearby Heart Island offers tours through October 12. Venture to the Hudson Valley’s Bannerman Castle to learn about the significant history of the Scottish-style castle on a guided or self-guided tour offered through October. Long Island’s Gold Coast is home to OHEKA Castle, a French Chateau-style mansion built 100 years ago. Take a tour of the estate and gardens, or perhaps spend a night or two in one of the castle’s lavish guest rooms.

20. Reel in a Good Time

A man fly fishes in fall in the Catskills

Bask in nature and make unforgettable memories with a fishing trip in New York State. From deep sea adventures off Long Island’s famous shorelines to top notch bass fishing in the St. Lawrence River you’ll find ample opportunity to cast a line. Catch fly fishing at its best in the Catskills where you’ll find the Beaverkill River, a legendary trout stream that’s stocked annually with over 18,000 brown trout, and the Catskill Fly Fishing Center & Museum.

21. Sample Seasonal New York State Beer

Brewery Ommegang, Fall
Credit: ThisIsCooperstown.com

Try unique seasonal beers or stick to year-round favorites like Rare Vos or Witte at Brewery Ommegang (pictured) in Cooperstown. The Adirondacks’ Lake Placid Pub and Brewery always has house beers on tap, and pub food options to choose from. For a seasonal beer, try the Pumpkin Ubu Ale or Autumn Rye. Brooklyn Brewery, located on the north side of the borough, offers Brooklyn Oktoberfest and Post Road Pumpkin Ale during the autumn season. As the temperature begins to fall in the Capital region, Druthers Brewing Company brings out their Oktoberfest beer, a traditional German-style lager. In the Chautauqua-Allegheny region, taste offerings from numerous New York-based breweries at the Holiday Valley Beer and Wine Festival (November 7).

22. Cheer on Runners or Participate in Seasonal Races

The Great Pumpkin Challenge
Credit: Saratoga Bridges

Fall is a perfect time for running—cool temperatures, crisp air, and a beautiful backdrop of changing leaves. On October 4, 2026, the Guthrie Wineglass Marathon will take runners on a picturesque course through the Finger Lakes from Bath to Corning. Walk, run or ride a 5K or 10K in September at the Great Pumpkin Challenge (pictured) in Saratoga Springs. See spectacular foliage as you run through the village of Rhinebeck at the Fall Foliage ½ Marathon & 5K on September 26. Cheer on more than 50,000 runners from around the world at the New York City Marathon on November 1 as they test their stamina on the 26.2-mile course through the five boroughs. Find more races and things to do while in town with our Runner’s Guide to New York State Marathons.

23. Binge on Cinema at a Film Festival

The Woodstock Playhouse, home to the Woodstock Film Festival, with fall-colored trees in the background

‘Tis the season for film festivals. Watch incredible films and celebrate talented filmmakers at the New York Film Festival (September 25–October 12, 2026). Attend the Woodstock Film Festival (October 14-18, 2026) to see independent film premieres, listen to panel experts and connect with other film lovers. Also check out the Hamptons International Film Festival on Long Island (October 2-12, 2026) and the Lake Placid Film Festival in the Adirondacks (November 5-6, 2026).

24. Cheer on Your Favorite New York Sports Teams

Fans fill the stands of Highmark Stadium as the Buffalo Bills take the field
Credit: @yukarisledz on Instagram

Don your team’s colors, grab some nachos, and get ready to watch your team win! With three major sports seasons overlapping, you’ll have no problem finding a game to attend this fall! Football Sundays (and Saturdays for college games) are some of the best things about the weather changing. Catch the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium or go orange for Syracuse University at the JMA Wireless Dome. Finish out the baseball season at a New York Yankees or New York Mets game in New York City. Can’t wait to be sitting against the glass? Watch the puck drop at a New York Rangers, New York Islanders, or Buffalo Sabres professional hockey game, as the preseason gets underway in late September.

25. Experience NYC’s Iconic Fall Events

Groot from the Avengers at New York Comic Con
Credit: New York Comic Con/ReedPOP

New York City is host to some of the most world-famous events in the fall. Sample classic Italian dishes and catch the annual cannoli-eating competition on the streets of Little Italy at the Feast of San Gennaro (September 17-27, 2026). Superheroes, villains, and other costumed characters will descend on Manhattan for New York Comic Con (pictured) on October 8-11, 2026  and the iconic Village Halloween Parade will march its way through Greenwich Village on October 31. Before the turkey is trimmed on November 26, 2026, giant balloons, Broadway stars, marching bands, the Rockettes, and Santa will spread joy through the streets at the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, ushering in the winter holiday season in epic fashion.

26. Savor Fall Food Experiences in New York State  

Trout at Peekamoose

Treat yourself during the most flavorful time of year and experience harvest season in New York State with fresh and local straight-from-the-source feasts. Taste New York’s bounty at farm-to-table dining destinations like Borland Inn and Restaurant where weekend brunch means French toast stuffed with New York apples and The Arnold House Tavern in Livingston Manor grills up trout from the Beaverkill River for dinner. Peekamoose Restaurant & Tap Room is the founding establishment of farm-to-table restaurants in the Catskills and has paved the way for many.  You can try a Harvest Dinner (September 25) at Fox Run Vineyards showcasing the abundance of the Finger Lakes with a menu of autumn ingredients. Find more Fall Foods You Don’t Want to Miss in New York State like fresh-baked pies, cider slushies, and apple pie nachos, plus check out 10 Fall Trips for Food Lovers to satisfy all your cravings.

Don't forget to post photos of your New York adventures on Instagram and X with #iSpyNY and tag us on Facebook!