10 Unforgettable Fall Getaways From New York City

New York is one of the best states in the country to experience the Fall season in all its glory, with its vast forests and wildlands, and numerous natural wonders that explode with color as the days grow shorter. There are countless destinations in the Empire State to see such colors, and the residents of the Big Apple are lucky enough to be within a short drive from many of them.

From small towns with longstanding seasonal festivals to state and national parks that are perfect for some outdoor adventures, join us as we highlight 10 of the best Fall destinations that are near New York City.

Rockefeller State Park Preserve

Rockefeller State Park Preserve, just around 34 miles north of New York City, is an amazing Fall escape that is not very far away. With its expansive woodlands, meadows, and scenic trails, the brilliant fall colors will certainly be displayed here only this year.

Covering over 1,700 acres, the preserve is ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and photography, especially in autumn when the foliage transforms into eye-popping shades of red, orange, and gold. Its unique 45 miles of carriage roads lead visitors past its many lakes, wetlands, and collection of historic stone bridges. Providing an intimate look into the natural beauty that once captivated the Rockefeller family who had an estate here.

The park also borders the Hudson Valley, where vistas along its pathways are a must-see. Also with its proximity to Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow, the area offers additional historic and cultural attractions, as well as nearby amenities like restaurants and hotels for a well-rounded getaway.

Pelham Bay Park

Pelham Bay Park is actually the largest park in New York City and is conveniently located right in the Bronx, just a short drive from Manhattan. Spanning over 2,700 acres, the park features surprisingly diverse landscapes, from woodlands and salt marshes to meadows and the Atlantic shoreline along Long Island Sound.

In autumn, the park’s forested trails become full of fall colors, making it a great spot for hiking in one of the busiest cities in the world. You can check out the Thomas Pell Wildlife Sanctuary or visit Orchard Beach, which has some of the best and quietest coastal views in the off-season.

The Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum, an 18th-century estate within the park, is also worth a look and provides some historical context to this natural area.

Duke Farms

Duke Farms, located in Hillsborough, New Jersey is about an hour away from New York City. It is a unique and educational destination year-round and features some interesting Fall-related events and activities. Covering over 1,000 acres, this former estate of tobacco magnate James Buchanan Duke contains miles of walking and biking trails through various meadows, woodlands, and lakes. During the Fall, this pristine landscape transforms into a hotspot for sightseeing and photography.

The farm is known for its commitment to sustainability, with preserved habitats that attract a variety of wildlife. Make sure to explore its Orchid Range, a vast conservatory filled with exotic plants, or rent a bike to be able to explore the entire area in comfort.

Duke Farms also hosts seasonal programs and workshops focused on environmental education. This year, the Autumn Dendrology Workshop will teach you a thing or two about the variety of trees that grow on the property.

Harriman State Park

Harriman State Park, located about 40 miles north of New York City, is a prime fall destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. As New York's second-largest state park, it spans a massive 47,500 acres and boasts more than 200 miles of hiking trails, even including sections of the Appalachian Trail.

In autumn, the park’s dense forests explode with colors, creating an even more ideal setting for hiking, camping, or canoeing on its numerous lakes and reservoirs, of which there are 31. Popular spots like Lake Sebago and Pine Meadow Lake provide priceless views of the woodlands and hills from the water.

The park’s rugged terrain includes overlooks that will give you sweeping views of the Hudson Highlands, perfect for capturing fall’s beauty in this southern part of Upstate New York. Whether you're looking for a challenging hike or a quiet spot to enjoy nature, Harriman State Park is one of the best places to drive to from the city at almost any time of the year.

Cold Spring

Cold Spring is a town on the Hudson River and has just about anything one could wish for in a cozy Fall getaway. This historic community is surrounded by numerous hiking trails, including those in nearby Hudson Highlands State Park, many of which will reward you with views of the river and surrounding mountains, particularly from Breakneck Ridge.

In town, visitors can explore a plethora of locally owned shops, cafes, and the charming waterfront. Be sure to check out the Cold Spring Depot, a former 19th-century train station that now operates as a popular restaurant. Cold Spring is also a short distance from Boscobel House and Gardens, where autumn tours offer insights into the area's early history. All this makes Cold Springs among the best small towns in New York to visit this year.

Dater Mountain Nature Park

Dater Mountain Nature Park, located in Rockland County, is a lesser-known park that is still only about 30 miles from NYC. Covering 350 acres, the park offers a variety of hiking paths that lead through its serene woodlands, ridges, and rocky outcrops. In autumn, the forest provides visiting hikers with splendid views of the surrounding Ramapo Mountains that are highlighted by the changing colors of the foliage.

The trails here are less crowded than some nearby parks, making it a perfect spot for a quiet and reflective escape from big city life. Wildlife enthusiasts also come to appreciate the park’s diverse bird species and small mammals, while photographers will enjoy the stunning fall colors and vast vistas.

This park also connects to nearby Harriman State Park, allowing for extended hikes through the region’s wild terrain.

Montauk

Montauk sits at the eastern tip of Long Island and is best known for its beaches, high-end amenities, and laid-back vibe. In the Fall, this coastal vacation town becomes less crowded, making it an ideal time to see its charming locales and natural beauty.

The annual Montauk Fall Festival, held in October, is another perfect reason to go this year, with its family-friendly activities, food tents, and live music, it perfectly complements a trip to this iconic Long Island town. Running for 43 years, this festival also features a famous clam chowder contest, a farmer's market, and a beer and wine section for the adults.

Outside of the festival, make a point of visiting Montauk Point State Park, where many of its scenic trails lead to the historic Montauk Lighthouse, a great spot that overlooks the nearby ocean and coastal forests.

Catskill Mountains

The Catskill Mountains are a classic getaway at just about any time, particularly later in the year when the vast woodlands covering the region exemplify the Fall season in New York. Spanning over 700,000 acres, the Catskills are known for their dense forests, waterfalls, and mountain peaks that become ablaze with color during autumn.

Popular hiking trails like the Escarpment Trail and Overlook Mountain offer panoramic views of the foliage, while waterfalls such as Kaaterskill Falls draw more sightseers from around the state. The area is also home to charming small towns like Phoenicia and Woodstock, where visitors can explore art galleries, shops, and farm-to-table restaurants serving up dishes made from the local harvests.

Beyond hiking, the Catskills offer opportunities for fishing and camping, even as the daily temperatures begin to take a downturn, and scenic drives along the area’s winding mountain roads.

Croton-on-Hudson

Croton-on-Hudson, located about an hour north of New York City, is a village along the Hudson River that has many things to see and do during the Fall. One of its most popular attractions during the season is The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze, held at Van Cortlandt Manor. This extraordinary event features over 7,000 hand-carved, illuminated pumpkins arranged in intricate displays. The themed displays, synchronized lighting, and music that can be found at this event make it a must-see for families this Halloween.

Near Croton-on-Hudson, you can find outdoor adventure at Croton Point Park, where woodlands, meadows, campgrounds, and a nature center, can be found overlooking the mighty Hudson River. To the north of town is Croton Gorge Park, a very popular locale known for its view of the Croton Dam and spillway, made all the better with the colorful Fall foliage surrounding it this season.

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, located along the border of New Jersey and Pennsylvania, is a stunning fall destination that is only around 90 minutes from New York City. Covering over 70,000 acres, the area features a big mix of forests, rivers, waterfalls, and cliffs. The park’s many hiking trails, including a section of the famed Appalachian Trail, offer incredible views of the Delaware River and its surrounding valleys, making it a favorite spot for leaf-peeping in autumn. Dingmans Creek Trail is another popular choice that leads its travelers to Dingmans Falls.

Popular activities in the area include kayaking on the Delaware River, fishing, and picnicking by its many waterfalls like Raymondskill Falls, the tallest in Pennsylvania. you should also start your visit off at the park visitor center, where you can get the inside scoop on the best trails in the area to view the trees as they continue to change color.

Experience the Fall Near New York City Today

As the vibrant colors of fall sweep across this northeastern landscape, these destinations near New York City offer the perfect mix of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and seasonal festivities. Whether you’re hiking through parks like Harriman State Park or Delaware Water Gap, exploring charming villages like Cold Spring, or enjoying the excitement of Montauk’s Fall Festival or The Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze in Croton-on-Hudson, each spot mentioned above is sure to give you a memorable autumn experience.