October and November in New York City offers a unique experience, with the beautiful color of autumn transitioning into the early festivities of the holiday season. As the leaves turn golden, the city comes alive with exciting events, outdoor activities, and cultural celebrations that make these months an ideal time to visit. Whether you’re into arts, sports, or simply strolling through scenic parks, New York has something special.
October and November in New York: Weather and What to Expect
In October, the weather in New York is crisp but comfortable, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 50°F to 65°F (10°C to 18°C). It’s the perfect season for long walks, outdoor events, and enjoying the city without the summer heat. By November, temperatures begin to drop, with highs in the 50s (around 10°C) and lows dipping into the 40s (4°C-10°C), especially towards the end of the month. It’s a good idea to dress in layers, as the weather can fluctuate between sunny afternoons and chilly evenings. The fall foliage during this time paints the city’s parks in beautiful shades of orange, red, and gold, adding to the charm of exploring New York on foot.
October in New York: Highlights
- New York Comic Con (Javits Center)
October starts with a bang at New York Comic Con, held at the Javits Center. One of the largest pop culture conventions in the world, it brings fans of comics, movies, TV shows, and video games together for a weekend of pure entertainment. You can find celebrity panels, participate or enjoy cosplay competitions and find exclusive merchandise. Even if you’re not a ticket holder, you can still enjoy the colorful costumes and the atmosphere throughout the city. - Columbus Day Celebrations
Columbus Day, celebrated in early October, features a massive parade along Fifth Avenue. This celebration of Italian-American heritage is filled with colorful floats, marching bands, and participants dressed in traditional Italian costumes. While the parade is the main event, nearby areas like Union Square, Bryant Park, Columbus Circle, and Grand Central Terminal host smaller celebrations and gatherings, displaying a festive atmosphere and a chance to explore the city’s best places with a touch of cultural flair. - Halloween (October 31st)
New York takes Halloween to another level. The annual Village Halloween Parade is one of the biggest and most iconic in the world, with thousands of people dressed in creative costumes marching through the streets of Greenwich Village. If you’re not in the parade, watching from the sidelines is just as fun. Besides the parade, you’ll find Halloween-themed events all over the city, spooky bar crawls and haunted houses. It’s a city-wide celebration. - New York Coffee Festival
For coffee lovers, October offers a treat in the form of the New York Coffee Festival. Held annually, this event celebrates the city’s coffee culture with tastings, workshops, and live demonstrations by expert baristas. Beyond the typical coffee shop experience, this festival is a chance to learn about the art of brewing, which is very complex and interesting, you can also enjoy unique blends from local and international coffee makers. - Fall Foliage in Parks
While Central Park is the obvious choice for viewing fall foliage, New York has many other parks that offer equally stunning views during October. Prospect Park in Brooklyn is a beautiful alternative, with less tourist traffic and plenty of quiet spots to enjoy the changing leaves. Fort Tryon Park in Upper Manhattan, with its scenic views over the Hudson River, is another hidden gem for those looking to escape the city bustle. For those willing to venture a bit further, Van Cortlandt Park in the Bronx offers expansive greenery and wooded trails, perfect for a peaceful autumn walk.
Walking Tours and the Contrasts Tour
If you feel like exploring the city on foot, October and November in New York are ideal to join walking tours that uncover New York’s many layers. Among other plans, we recommend you a food tour in Greenwich Village, a historical walk in the Financial District, or exploring the trendy neighborhoods of Williamsburg, Brooklyn. One of the most popular guided experiences is the Tour of Contrasts, which takes you through different boroughs like Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx. This tour highlights the immense cultural diversity of New York, giving visitors a deeper understanding of the city’s various communities and their unique histories.
Public Art Installations
New York’s streets and parks also come alive with public art installations during the fall season. October and November often feature temporary exhibits in places like Madison Square Park, the High Line, and Hudson Yards. These art installations are free and open to the public, showcasing the works of both local and international artists. Exploring these outdoor galleries is a wonderful way to engage with the city’s creative spirit while enjoying the cool autumn air.
November in New York Highlights
- New York Marathon
November kicks off with the world-famous New York Marathon. As one of the largest marathons in the world, it attracts runners from across the globe, all eager to complete the 26.2-mile route that weaves through all five boroughs of the city. The marathon is an inspiring event, drawing huge crowds to cheer on the runners. The energy of the city on marathon day is unmatched, with streets lined with supporters, live music, and plenty of food vendors. - Big Apple Film Festival
Film buffs will enjoy november in New York with the Big Apple Film Festival, an event that showcases independent films from emerging filmmakers. Held in mid-November, this festival is a more intimate alternative to the larger film festivals, offering a chance to discover hidden cinematic gems and engage with creators. It’s a great opportunity to experience the local film scene and explore the city’s cultural side. - Rockefeller Center Celebration of Lights
Though the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree isn’t lit until late November, the surrounding area begins to sparkle with lights and decorations early in the month. The Celebration of Lights marks the beginning of the festive season, transforming the plaza into a magical winter wonderland. Ice skating at the Rockefeller Center rink is a quintessential New York experience, and the holiday atmosphere starts to build, with stores along Fifth Avenue dressing their windows in elaborate displays. - Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
One of the most anticipated events in November is the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. This is an iconic parade, filled with massive balloons, elaborate floats, and musical performances, takes place on Thanksgiving morning and draws huge crowds along its route through Manhattan. The parade is a New York tradition that signals the official start of the holiday season. - Ferry Rides and Skyline Views
With fewer tourists and cooler weather, autumn is also a fantastic time to take a ferry ride across the city’s waterways. The Staten Island Ferry, which offers stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline, remains free all year round, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers. For a more scenic experience, you can take a ferry to Governors Island, which remains open to visitors in October and offers panoramic views of the city, as well as art installations and historic sites. - Museum Days and Free Activities
During November, many of New York’s world-class museums, such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), offer special free or “pay what you wish” admission days. These events provide a perfect opportunity to explore the city’s rich art and cultural heritage without breaking the bank. Additionally, institutions like the American Museum of Natural History and the Guggenheim Museum often host special exhibits in the fall, making it a great time for art lovers to visit. - Union Square Holiday Market
By late November, the Union Square Holiday Market opens, offering a festive shopping experience with local artisans and vendors. It’s the perfect place to pick up unique gifts, enjoy holiday treats, or simply soak in the cheerful atmosphere. With its red-and-white-striped stalls, the market feels like a small holiday village in the heart of Manhattan. Similar markets pop up in other parts of the city as well, including the Winter Village at Bryant Park, which also features an ice-skating rink. - The High Line and Hudson Yards
Exploring the High Line during November in New York, is a peaceful escape above the bustling streets of Manhattan. The elevated park, built on a former railway track, is lined with public art installations, seasonal plants, and views of the city skyline. Just a short walk away, Hudson Yards also becomes a focal point during November, with lights, shopping, and interactive art that draw crowds to its futuristic complex.
October and November in New York are truly special months . From the colors of fall to the early signs of the holiday season, the city offers a dynamic mix of outdoor beauty, cultural celebrations, and festive energy, these months provide an unforgettable experience in the Big Apple.
