Simple Ways to Enjoy the Season Together
FALL IS ONE OF THE BEST TIMES TO PLAN A FAMILY OUTING. THE SUMMER HEAT HAS FADED, THE LEAVES ARE CHANGING COLORS, AND COOLER TEMPERATURES MAKE SPENDING TIME OUTDOORS MORE ENJOYABLE. FROM SCENIC DRIVES AND NATURE WALKS TO BICYCLE RIDES AND HISTORIC SITES, THERE ARE PLENTY OF WAYS TO SPEND A DAY TOGETHER WITHOUT TRAVELING FAR FROM HOME.
You do not need an elaborate itinerary or an expensive attraction to enjoy the season. New York City and the surrounding areas offer plenty of options for families of all ages, whether you have an entire day or just a few hours.
One of the simplest fall activities is a walk through a nature preserve or wooded park. Bear Mountain State Park offers beautiful scenery, wooded trails, and views of the Hudson River. Families can enjoy a walk around Hessian Lake or choose a longer hike. Closer to home, Prospect Park in Brooklyn and the Greenbelt on Staten Island provide opportunities to explore nature without a lengthy drive. Younger children can collect fallen leaves, look for wildlife, or turn the walk into a nature scavenger hunt.
A scenic drive is another enjoyable way to experience autumn, particularly when the leaves reach their peak colors. The Palisades Interstate Parkway offers wooded scenery and access to overlooks along the Hudson River. Farther north, the Hudson Valley has winding roads, small towns, and beautiful river views. Plan a few stops where everyone can stretch their legs and take pictures. Keep the schedule flexible so the day feels relaxing rather than rushed.
Fruit and vegetable picking is another enjoyable fall activity for the whole family. Farms throughout Long Island and New Jersey offer opportunities to pick seasonal produce directly from fields and orchards. Depending on the farm and time of year, families may find apples, pears, tomatoes, peppers, and other vegetables. Children can learn how produce grows while enjoying time outdoors. Some farms also offer hayrides and farm animals. Check what is in season before visiting, since picking schedules depend on the weather and harvest.
For active families, fall is an excellent time for a bicycle ride. Cooler temperatures make cycling more comfortable, and many recreational trails provide routes away from traffic. The Hudson Valley Rail Trail and other sections of the Empire State Trail offer scenic riding opportunities. Families with younger children can choose shorter distances, while teenagers may enjoy a longer ride. Bring helmets and water, and select a trail appropriate for everyone’s abilities.
Visiting a working farm can be especially enjoyable for younger children. The Queens County Farm Museum offers an opportunity to see goats, sheep, chickens, and other farm animals without leaving the city. Children can learn about farm life and animal care while exploring the grounds. Farms farther outside the city may offer additional activities and educational programs. Check visiting hours before leaving.
Families interested in history might enjoy exploring a historic village, preserved estate, or outdoor museum. Sleepy Hollow and nearby Tarrytown offer historic sites and Hudson River scenery. Visiting a preserved home or walking through an older neighborhood can help children understand how people lived in earlier generations. Some locations also offer guided tours and demonstrations of traditional crafts.
For something more adventurous, consider a treetop ropes course or outdoor adventure park. These attractions feature climbing obstacles, suspended bridges, and zip lines designed for different ages and skill levels. Many offer beginner courses, while more challenging routes appeal to teenagers and adults. Check height and age requirements before booking, and confirm that the attraction remains open during the fall.
A botanical garden or arboretum offers a quieter alternative. The Brooklyn Botanic Garden features walking paths and trees that change color throughout autumn. The New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx is another option. These landscaped grounds often provide easier walking conditions than rugged trails, making them suitable for grandparents and younger children.
For a different view of the season, consider the Walkway Over the Hudson in Poughkeepsie. This elevated pedestrian bridge stretches across the Hudson River, offering sweeping views of the surrounding hills and autumn foliage. The paved path is suitable for walking and cycling. Families can cross the bridge or walk partway before turning around. Bring an extra layer, since the exposed walkway can become windy.
A family picnic is another simple way to enjoy the season. Choose a park with open fields, picnic tables, or waterfront views. Pack lunch or bring a portable barbecue where grilling is permitted. Prospect Park has designated barbecue areas, while some state parks provide picnic facilities and grills. Bring a football, frisbee, or outdoor games. Inviting another family can make the afternoon even more enjoyable, especially for children.
Before heading out, check operating hours, admission fees, parking arrangements, and weather conditions. Dress in layers and bring comfortable walking shoes. Remember that daylight hours grow shorter as fall progresses, so an early start allows more time to enjoy the outing. The best family day trips do not require a packed schedule. A walk through colorful woods, a bicycle ride along a quiet trail, or an afternoon exploring somewhere new can provide a welcome change of pace. With so many destinations within reach of New York City, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy fall together before the colder months arrive.
