A Fall Weekend in New York City

Central Park & The New York Botanical Garden

Quintessential “fall in the city” and a true escape from the hustle & bustle. Grab a cup of coffee and stroll through these two parks while admiring all of the greenery and fall foliage.

Brooklyn Bridge

My favorite thing to do in NYC is walk the bridge from Brooklyn into Manhattan. The views are remarkable and you can really appreciate the vast city skyline from that vantage point.

DUMBO

Grab a sandwich and sit at Brooklyn Bridge Park, and afterwards walk around the neighborhood, which has plenty of galleries, studios and book shops. Every Saturday is the Brooklyn Flea, if you’re into vintage thrifting.

West Village

Meander through my favorite neighborhood in Manhattan, stopping along the way for world-class shopping plus a beverage and people watching at one of the many cozy sidewalk cafes.

SMORGASBURG

On any given Saturday, enjoy sampling food from countless vendors at this Williamsburg waterfront staple while admiring the skyline of Manhattan. They also have a beer garden if you want to kick it up a notch.

The Westside Highway

Rent a Citi Bike from one of the many easily accessible docks in Hell’s Kitchen and ride along the tree-lined bike path down to Battery Park, about 5 miles. Along the way you can stop at Chelsea Piers for some fun activities or City Vineyard for a glass of wine, all while admiring the views of the Hudson River, Financial District and Jersey City.

Battery Park

This large park on the southernmost tip of Manhattan offers greenery, gardens, and great views. Grab a bite to eat while admiring the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, or hop on a ferry to head across the harbor to get up close & personal.

THE MoMA

This globally renowned museum collects and showcases incredible modern art spanning the past 150 years. After visiting all of the different exhibits and galleries, you can sit on their gorgeous outdoor terrace to enjoy a drink.

Broadway

You can’t visit New York City without paying a visit to Broadway. The bright city lights are mesmerizing and the entertainment is world class. From long-running classics like Chicago and Lion King, to more recent fan favorites like The Book of Mormon and Hamilton, these shows cater to audiences of all ages.

Bargain Tip: Every fall, “Broadway Week” offers half-price tickets on almost all shows.

Washington Square Park

Known for its iconic archway and fountain, this park is a Greenwich neighborhood staple. A true melting pot, this park attracts local residents, artists, performers, students and tourists. Grab a coffee or snack nearby and find a comfy seat for people watching.

Day Trips

NEW JERSEY

Rent a car or hop on the NJ Transit train to head to Morristown or Basking Ridge. There are plenty of cute hotels, inns and B&Bs in the area for a one-night stay. A must-stop is Wightman's Farms, my favorite place to get fresh apple cider donuts, a cup of coffee and explore the farm and pumpkin patch. A quintessential fall afternoon. You can then spend some time shopping at the many boutiques and home goods stores in the area, before cozying up for dinner at the Jockey Hollow Bar & Kitchen or Roots Steakhouse, both longtime community establishments.

HUDSON VALLEY, NY

Rent a car or head to Grand Central train station and buy a ticket to Cold Spring, NY. After just a 2hr. ride you will be surrounded by the peaceful sights and sounds of nature. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike one of the many available trails. If you’d rather take it easy, check out some amazing antique stores or go apple picking at one of the many local farms. Afterwards, grab a bite to eat and a local beer next to the fireplace at the Cold Spring Depot. Finally, check out the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze, which runs from mid-Sept to mid-Nov each year.

BREAKFAST/BRUNCH

Locals will take “the best bagels in NYC” debate to their grave. Some options for you to try out and form your own opinion.

• Tompkins Square Bagels (they have fantastic gluten-free bagels)

• Murray’s Bagel

• Black Seed Bagels

• Ess-a-bagel

My go-to order: everything bagel toasted with scallion cream cheese. *chef’s kiss*

Grey Dog - A cozy cafe serving a wide variety of classics, with many outposts throughout the city (my favorite is the Chelsea location).

Bea - This hidden Hell's Kitchen gem offers a wonderful weekend brunch with a delicious, small plate, prefix menu (please order the french toast) and the option to add on unlimited boozy beverages if your heart desires. The live jazz band makes it a perfect spot to enjoy great food and drinks with friends or family in a warm, inviting atmosphere.

LUNCH

Similar to the “best bagel” debate, New Yorkers are very opinionated regarding the “best pizza”. Here are some of my personal favorite pizza joints so you can choose for yourself. Prince Street Pizza, L'Industrie, Juliana’s, John’s on Bleecker, Joe’s. Grab a slice (or two) and eat while walking to act like a true New Yorker.

Friedman’s - This place has fast, quality service and fresh, home-cooked meals. A classic grilled cheese and tomato soup combo is a perfect pit stop for a brisk fall day. (Their gluten-free bread is amazing!) With 6 locations across the city, you’re bound to find one nearby when you get hungry.

DINNER

Malaparte - A charming, cash-only establishment in the West Village serving up simple Italian classics.

Buddakan - A grand, ornate and moody restaurant in the Meatpacking District featuring Pan-Asian dishes and specialty cocktails. (Afterwards, head over to the Gansevoort Hotel Rooftop for a cocktail with a view and a vibe that’s worth the price tag.)

Wild - For those with gluten allergies or preferences, this is a must-visit restaurant. Their GF pizzas and pastas are to die for, and those who eat gluten may not even be able to tell the difference. Check out their IG for drool-worthy photos.

DRINKS

The Other Room - A moody, cozy bar for a chilly fall evening. Extensive beer and wine list to help you feel warm and fuzzy.

Wilfie & Nell - One of my all-time NYC favorites. A gem of a space to have good conversation with good company over a craft cocktail, draft beer or glass of wine.