If you’re looking to witness some of the most stunning fall colors, fall in New York should top your list!
While New York City is often the first place that comes to mind, the state offers so much more beyond its iconic skyline. New York is home to some of the most scenic state parks where fall foliage puts on a show, with colors that paint the landscape. You’ll also find world-famous spots like Niagara Falls and the Adirondack Mountains—two of the state’s most beautiful destinations—whose fall beauty is enhanced by the season’s warm hues.
Whether you prefer the simplicity of hiking through vibrant trails or diving into local fall festivals, there’s something for every kind of traveler to enjoy.
15 Best Places to See Fall Foliage in New York State
1. Niagara Falls
Fall offers one of the best opportunities to witness the breathtaking beauty of Niagara Falls. With cooler temperatures, fewer tourists, and lower hotel rates, it’s an ideal time to visit. For peak fall foliage, early to mid-October is when the reds, oranges, and yellows reach their peak vibrancy. Niagara Falls is a must-see year-round, but the fall season adds a special touch to the experience.
There are several great spots in Niagara Falls to admire the combination of the stunning falls and fall foliage. Goat Island, located on the American side, offers incredible views of both the waterfall and the surrounding wooded areas. The island is home to a range of walking trails, allowing you to experience the natural beauty up close. If you’re looking for an adventure, don’t miss the Cave of Winds, where you can get an up-close view of the falls from below—truly a memorable way to experience the autumn season in New York.
2. Watkins Glen State Park
Watkins Glen State Park, the most well-known of the Finger Lakes State Parks, is a captivating destination for experiencing fall in New York. A simple two-mile hike leads you to 19 waterfalls and several impressive gorges, offering incredible views throughout the year.
While the park is beautiful year-round, the golden and fiery hues of autumn add an extra layer of enchantment to the already stunning landscape. If you’re planning a New York road trip, Watkins Glen State Park is a must-see, and you can check out our road trip itinerary here for more details.
To catch the fall foliage at its peak, plan your visit for early to mid-October.
3. Thousand Islands
Thousand Islands truly shines during the fall! Known for its stunning castle, it also offers an abundance of activities for those looking to embrace the autumn season. Whether you’re after outdoor adventure or just soaking in the sights, Thousand Islands has it all.
One of the best ways to experience the fall foliage is by taking a boat cruise. There are two great options: Clayton Island Tours and Uncle Sam Boat Tours. Both offer incredible views, including the Rock Island Lighthouse, minus the usual tourist crowds. The reflection of the fall colors in the St. Lawrence River creates a spectacular mirrored effect, perfect for photography.
Thousand Islands is an ideal destination for a family fall getaway. Clayton, in particular, is bustling with fall events. From the lively Jazz on the Water music festival to the 1860s Fall Fair Weekend—complete with livestock, fine art, agricultural exhibits, and traditional games—there’s no shortage of autumn fun here.
4. The Mall in Central Park
If you’re visiting New York City for the fall foliage, rest assured, there are plenty of places within the city to enjoy the season. For a well-rounded itinerary, check out our guide here!
The Mall in Central Park is likely familiar to anyone who’s watched a movie set in New York. This iconic pathway stretches from 66th to 72nd Street and leads up to the Bethesda Terrace. It’s a popular spot for street performers, roller skaters, and skateboarders, offering an urban retreat right in the center of the city.
The Mall is also home to one of the largest collections of American Elm trees in the country. In fall, the entire area is transformed into a brilliant sea of orange leaves. It’s a stunning sight and an unexpected gem to experience fall in the heart of New York City. That’s why this spot is a must-visit for any weekend trip to NYC!
5. Letchworth State Park
Letchworth State Park, often called the “Grand Canyon of the East,” offers one of the most diverse and breathtaking locations for fall foliage in New York. With a wide range of trees, stunning waterfalls, and deep canyons, the park provides endless opportunities for photography, especially when the fall colors are in full swing.
This park earned its title as the No. 1 State Park in the U.S. in 2015, and for good reason. Its peak foliage season is in October, so it’s wise to book your accommodations early to make the most of your visit.
The park’s main attractions include the Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls, which are best viewed from a scenic 7-mile hiking trail that follows the canyon’s edge. To experience Letchworth’s fall beauty at its peak, plan to visit during the third or fourth week of October for the most vibrant foliage displays.
6. Hawks Nest
Hawks Nest, located just outside Port Jervis on New York State Route 97, gets its name from the birds of prey that nest in the area. Known for its breathtaking views, the location has been featured in several movies and commercials, especially car ads, thanks to its winding roads and stunning scenery.
While the views are spectacular year-round, it’s during the fall that Hawks Nest truly shines. The trees along the road transform into a blanket of oranges, reds, and yellows, creating the perfect backdrop for a fall drive or a photo op. Whether you’re driving, hiking, or just taking in the landscape, this spot offers a classic fall experience.
For those looking to capture iconic New York fall photos, Hawks Nest is the perfect place to visit. The picturesque drive through colorful foliage makes it one of the best spots to embrace the season.
7. Whiteface Mountain
Whiteface Mountain, the fifth highest peak in New York State, might surprise many as a fall destination, as it’s primarily recognized for its winter skiing activities. However, the mountain offers plenty of attractions during the fall season that make it worth the visit.
In September, when the weather is still mild, you can take part in the exhilarating race up the Whiteface Mountain Memorial Highway to the summit. Even if you’re not into racing, the event is a fun spectacle to witness. Once you reach the top, you’re treated to sweeping views that stretch all the way to Mount Washington in New Hampshire on clear days. The surrounding landscape is covered in a stunning array of fall colors, making it a spectacular sight that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re hiking, driving, or simply soaking in the view, Whiteface Mountain offers an unforgettable fall experience.
8. Belvedere Castle in Central Park
Yes, there’s a castle in Central Park! Experiencing fall in New York at a castle feels like stepping into a fairytale, with stunning views and autumn colors to match.
Belvedere Castle, named for the Italian word “beautiful view,” certainly lives up to its name. The castle features two balconies offering sweeping views of the Great Lawn and Turtle Pond, providing a perfect spot to take in the fall foliage. Surrounded by brilliant reds and yellows, it feels like a hidden gem right in the middle of New York City, offering a peaceful escape from the urban rush.
Located within walking distance of other park landmarks, the castle is an easy addition to your fall itinerary. It also houses the Henry Luce Nature Observatory, where visitors can learn more about the park’s wildlife. Whether you’re admiring the view or exploring the castle’s rich history, it’s a wonderful spot to enjoy the beauty of fall in New York.
9. Minnewaska State Park
One of the best ways to experience fall in New York is by hiking, and Minnewaska State Park offers a wealth of trails to explore. With 33 hikes spread across over 50 miles of footpaths, this park is an ideal spot for outdoor lovers. Along the way, you’ll encounter waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, hardwood forests, and cliff ledges offering breathtaking views. The park’s clear streams cutting through the valley only add to its natural beauty, making it a top destination to enjoy the colors of fall.
The peak of fall in Minnewaska typically occurs in early to mid-October. The contrast between the white cliffs and the brilliant reds of the trees creates a stunning scene, perfect for photography or simply soaking in the scenery. Plus, if you’re staying in New York City, the park is only about an hour and a half away, making it a convenient escape for a day trip or weekend adventure. Whether you’re hiking or just relaxing by the lakes, Minnewaska offers an unforgettable fall experience.
10. Kaaterskill Clove
Kaaterskill Clove, a deep valley in New York’s Catskill Mountains, is a place of remarkable beauty. Often referred to as ‘the mountains of Thomas Cole,’ this area has inspired famous American writers such as Washington Irving and Mark Twain, who regarded it as one of the most beautiful places in the world.
The dramatic waterfalls and towering ridgelines create an ideal setting for experiencing fall in New York. This spot is particularly renowned for its romantic ambiance. Kaaterskill Falls, standing 260 feet high, is a must-see, and you can view it after a short 1.5-mile hike from the Molly Smith Parking Area along Route 23A. Whether you’re hiking or just taking in the scenery, Kaaterskill Clove offers one of the most striking landscapes for autumn visitors.
11. Lake George, Adirondack Mountains
The Adirondack Mountains stand out as one of the top destinations for experiencing fall in New York. With one of the longest and most captivating fall seasons in the country, it’s a place where the autumn landscape truly shines.
While there are countless stunning spots to enjoy fall in the Adirondacks, Lake George stands out for its variety of experiences. From gondola rides at Gore Mountain to zip-lining, boat rides, and even white-water rafting, the area offers diverse ways to see the foliage from different angles. However, the ultimate experience for us is a hot air balloon ride. There’s no better way to take in the sweeping views of the fall foliage from above.
In addition to breathtaking views, Lake George offers many classic fall activities, including apple picking, visiting pumpkin patches, and enjoying a range of Halloween events. Whether you’re seeking adventure or just looking to embrace the season, Lake George is a perfect fall getaway.
12. Bear Mountain Bridge
Officially called the Purple Heart Veteran Memorial Bridge, Bear Mountain Bridge has been a favorite spot for tourists and locals alike for many years. Stretching across the Hudson River, the surrounding trees transform into brilliant shades of orange and red during the fall, making it one of the most famous locations to witness autumn in New York.
The bridge spans 2,225 feet, and visitors can walk across it to fully take in the view. The colorful foliage reflecting off the river below creates a beautiful, vibrant scene that adds to the charm of the area.
Nearby Bear Mountain State Park offers hiking trails and picnic areas, making this area perfect for a day trip. Whether you’re walking across the bridge or exploring the park, Bear Mountain Bridge provides a fantastic way to experience fall’s beauty in New York.
13. Prospect Park in Brooklyn
Prospect Park is one of the most well-known parks in the world, and for good reason. This 585-acre oasis offers some of the most stunning fall foliage in New York, all while being surrounded by the constant buzz of city life. It’s an unexpected retreat, offering peace and beauty right in the heart of Brooklyn.
There are plenty of walking paths in Prospect Park to experience the fall transformation, including the Peninsula to Lookout Hill, and the Lullwater and Nethermead areas. These trails offer incredible views as the leaves shift into rich autumn colors. We also recommend visiting Long Meadow, where the trees gradually change their colors while dotting the expansive grass, providing a serene atmosphere perfect for a fall stroll. Whether you’re looking for a quiet escape or a scenic walk, Prospect Park provides the best of both worlds in the midst of New York City.
14. Lake Pleasant
Lake Pleasant is a popular destination in Hamilton County, offering a peaceful yet active setting for enjoying fall in New York. Surrounded by forest preserve lands, the area is ideal for a variety of outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and water-based recreation. Whether you’re looking to explore the trails or relax by the water, Lake Pleasant provides the perfect fall backdrop.
The expansive skies here make for stunning sunsets and sunrises, creating a serene atmosphere. If you’re after a quiet retreat, this is an ideal spot. In addition to the natural beauty, there are plenty of local restaurants serving fresh, locally-sourced food, allowing you to enjoy both the scenery and delicious meals. Watching the sun dip below the horizon over the lake is a memory we can’t imagine being topped by anything else.
15. Catskills
The Catskills offer the perfect escape from the fast pace of city life. If you enjoy the outdoors and want to experience fall in New York at its best, this region is a must-see. The Catskills’ natural beauty is truly awe-inspiring during the autumn months.
For hikers, the ski resorts on Hunter Mountain and Belleayre Mountain offer some of the best scenic views in the area. If hiking isn’t your style, you can still enjoy the stunning fall foliage from the comfort of your car. The winding roads through farmland and forests make for a picturesque drive, with popular routes like the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway and Route 28-47-42-28A offering excellent opportunities to see the colors of the season unfold across the landscape. Whether you’re hiking or cruising, the Catskills deliver an unforgettable fall experience.
