6 of the Best Places To See Fall Foliage Near New York City
Broadway isn’t the only spot to catch a spectacular scene in New York City. Nature puts on quite a show each fall in New York, too, and local and visiting leaf peepers alike can marvel at the fall foliage each autumn in New York destinations including the Hudson Valley and the Catskills.
As for when to go, peak fall foliage in New York typically occurs in late September and throughout October, with certain areas of the region reaching maximum vibrancy at slightly different times. (You can check out New York's peak fall foliage report to track just when the fall season begins.) In the meantime, here's our guide to some of the best spots for fall foliage in NYC and beyond.
1. Hudson Valley
For state parks and river fun, head to the Hudson Valley.
Easily accessible by public transit from New York City, the idyllic Hudson River Valley offers a convenient day-trip destination bursting with autumn colors. The Hudson Valley typically starts to experience the change in hues around mid-September and usually reaches peak conditions by early October, so plan accordingly.
When you're there, take a stroll along the Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park for a unique perspective of the Hudson River. This elevated pedestrian bridge (it claims to be the longest in the world) connects Poughkeepsie and Highland, both areas covered in colorful foliage.
Another way to enjoy the waterway is via a sightseeing cruise along the Hudson, taking in scenic views of the Palisades and Bear Mountain set among brilliant red, yellow, and orange hues. Or, enjoy a bird's-eye view of the changing leaves and river valley on a private helicopter tour from Manhattan.
2. The Catskills
For charming mountain towns and fall produce, the Catskills is the place to be.
Situated just west of the Hudson Valley, the Catskills, a mountainous region home to a collection of small towns, historic resorts, state parks, and nature preserves, is set ablaze with a kaleidoscope of colorful scenery in the fall. It’s also where you’ll find Hunter Mountain, which boasts North America’s highest, fastest, and longest zipline canopy tour, allowing you to soar above the vibrant treetops.
Or, head to and from the summit aboard the scenic Skyride lift and catch views of the Northern Catskill Mountains, the Berkshires in Massachusetts, and Vermont's Green Mountains.
3. Finger Lakes
For lakeside activities and delicious wine, consider the Finger Lakes.
The Finger Lakes region consists of 11 glacial-carved lakes that spread like fingers across the region (hence the name). Thanks to its abundant vineyards, the region attracts fall foliage fans as well as wine enthusiasts.
Tastings aren’t limited to the local chardonnay or riesling. You can also sample craft beer, distilled spirits, juices, and ciders. Then, to see the changing leaves, take a scenic drive (make sure you have a designated driver!) along Route 14S, which winds through the Seneca Lake Wine Trail and Watkins Glen State Park.
Or, hop on the Comet Express chairlift and head to the summit of Bristol Mountain to see the splendor below. On your way home, don’t forget to pick an apple or pumpkin at a local orchard.
4. Niagara Falls
For iconic cascades spanning two countries, you can't beat Niagara Falls.
Located about 400 miles (644 kilometers) from NYC, the Niagara Falls area boasts leaves sporting golden yellow, rusty red, and burnt orange shades come autumn. On the US side, head to Goat Island, a small, heavily wooded island situated between the two US waterfalls and the Canadian Horseshoe Falls. Here, you can view the autumnal tones while taking in the rumbling falls. Alternatively, head to the Skylon Tower for a panoramic view from its observation deck 775 feet (236 meters) above the Niagara River.
Insider tip: Thanks to its microclimate and the warm water flowing from Lake Erie, the leaves at Niagara Falls State Park reach peak color 2–3 weeks later than the surrounding areas, closer to late October.
5. The Adirondacks
For an autumnal nature escape, the Adirondacks are essential.
Head past the Hudson Valley, through the New York State capital Albany, and up the Northway to reach the great vacation destination of the Adirondack Mountains. This vast region, about a 4-hour drive from NYC, covers 6 million acres, much of which is forested—and that's all the better for enjoying peak fall foliage in New York.
Park yourself at a lakeside resort at one of the Adirondacks' many bodies of water, or consider making the nearby town of Saratoga Springs your home base. From there, you can even take a scenic fall foliage train ride through the Adirondacks. Other local hot spots include Lake Placid, Lake George, Saranac Lake, and Old Forge. Up here, given the region's northern location and higher elevation, the leaves start turning early—sometimes as early as September.
6. Central Park
For fall leaves in New York City, stick to the classic spots.
If you’re citybound and spending the fall in NYC, don’t worry—you'll be able to enjoy foliage viewing here, too. You’ll find some of the best fall colors in the Big Apple conveniently located in Central Park. Wander through the nearly 800 acres (320 hectares) of this accessible green space to catch the changing seasons without leaving the city.
Stop by Sheep Meadow or the Central Park Reservoir to take in panoramic views of the fall foliage. Or, book a biking or walking tour to best enjoy this expansive, emblematic park. Or, head to a rooftop along the edges of the park for a spectacular view over the whole lot.
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