5 Things Not to Miss During Fall in NYC
New York City transforms with every season, but fall gives the city a particular glow. The light gets softer, the air turns crisp, and suddenly everyone has somewhere to be, whether it’s a gallery opening downtown, a long lunch in the West Village, or a walk through Central Park to catch the leaves at their peak.
It’s one of the best times to experience the city, and with Aliz Hotel Times Square as your Midtown home base, you’re perfectly positioned to make the most of it. From iconic seasonal traditions to the kind of neighborhood wandering that rewards curiosity, here are some of the best things to do in NYC in the fall.
See Central Park in a New Light
Fall foliage gives Central Park its annual makeover, and there’s no better way to see it than on foot. Wander The Mall beneath a canopy of American elms, take the scenic route around the Reservoir, or explore the quieter paths of The Ramble.
For a quintessentially New York afternoon, grab a coffee and take your time. The colorful scenery provides the perfect backdrop to snap a few pics — you can’t take a bad one.
Wind up your stroll at the Metropolitan Museum of Art on the eastern edge of Central Park along Fifth Avenue. Spend an entire day, or a few hours, and see the greatest hits. Tour a real ancient Egyptian temple and the Met’s impressive collection of medieval armor, including knights on horseback, before admiring famous works by Monet and van Gogh.
Make a Night of Broadway
Fall is an excellent excuse to get dressed up and see a Broadway show. Catch a new production or treat yourself to a classic favorite. The Theater District is practically on the Aliz Hotel’s doorstep, so you can make a night of it. Tons of restaurants offer pre-theater menus designed to get you to the show on time.
For an insider move, keep an eye out for NYC Broadway Week, which returns in September with 2-for-1 tickets at participating shows. It’s one of the easiest ways to add a little theater to your trip without sinking your whole travel budget.
Get Into the Halloween Spirit
New York does Halloween with serious flair. On October 31, the Village Halloween Parade winds through Greenwich Village with elaborate costumes, puppets, performers, musicians, and plenty of downtown creativity.
It’s one of the best events in NYC this fall, and you don’t have to go all out to enjoy it. Find a spot along the route, take in the spectacle, and let New York do what New York does best: put on a show.
Join in The City’s Big Fall Traditions
Some fall activities in NYC are worth planning your trip around. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is one of them. This year, the beloved tradition celebrates its 100th anniversary, filling the streets with floats, balloons, performances, and plenty of New York energy.
The New York City Marathon is another. Held in early November, it transforms the city into a five-borough celebration as runners make their way from Staten Island to Central Park. Even if you’re not running, it’s an unforgettable way to experience the city alongside locals and visitors from around the world.
Be Dazzled by Times Square
There’s so much to do right outside the doors of Aliz Hotel. From free concerts and events to dancing the night away at the Palladium, you can have the time of your life all within a quick walk of your hotel.
Give yourself time to take in the sights, sounds, and spectacle of Times Square. The billboards and dazzling displays are impressive in the daytime, but at night, things truly come alive. This may be when the phrase “the city that never sleeps” pops into your mind. If you happen to be out late between 41st and 49th Streets, don’t miss the Midnight Moment. From 11:57PM–12AM, the advertising goes away, and all the digital screens display public art. It’s a magical surprise if you’re lucky enough to catch it.
Stay in the Center of It All
After a day of exploring, come back to a hotel that keeps you close to the action. Aliz Hotel Times Square puts Broadway, Times Square, Central Park, and the rest of Manhattan within easy reach.
So pack a good coat, comfortable shoes, and a little room in your schedule for spontaneity. Fall in New York is best experienced with somewhere to go, but no reason to hurry.
Make Aliz Hotel Times Square your home base for a stylish NYC fall getaway.