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As the summer heat begins to fade out and the coolness of fall beckons, it becomes evident to all New Yorkers that the most breathtaking season is upon us. Autumn is not just for pumpkin-flavored drinks and oversized sweaters, but it is the prime time to take in all the beauty that nature displays for our appreciation. It is time to pick your head up from those cellphones and start indulging in all of the beauty New York has to offer. Luckily, there is no research involved, as we’ve created a master list of the must-see NYC parks this autumn!

Heather Garden

Fort Tryon Park

Museum, Park

Fort Tryon Park
© Zoonar GmbH / Alamy Stock Photo
You can call Fort Tryon Parkthe gift that keeps on giving. In 1935m, John D. Rockefeller presented New York City this 66-acre public park, and to this day, it continues to provide all visitors up-front views of the Hudson River, the Palisades, and the lower Hudson Valley. With unique assets like The Heather Garden located on the Western side of the park beside the Hudson River and the Alpine Garden, there is much to appreciate here. That’s not all, though; Fort Tryon Park has its very own Cloisters Museum, an extension of the Met that features all different assortments of Medieval art. It is about time to explore the entangling pathways and treat yourself to an abundance of scenic sights in one of the City’s most historic parks.

Prospect Park

Cinema, Park, Theater, Zoo

When the hectic city lifestyle becomes too much, Prospect Parkembodies a perfect oasis for some soul searching or day in the park with family and friends, conveniently located in Brooklyn. When it comes to finding something to do here, the options are limitless. You can dust off those old roller skates and put them to use at the LeFrank Center at Lakeside or embrace your inner child and go for a spin on the famous Carousel. From picnics to horseback riding to greenmarkets with fresh local produce, this place has it all and is essential to see this fall.

Central Park

Park

The world-renowned Central Park is the first major landscape park in America. Within the compounds of this huge park where much goes on, it is divided into three parts: north end, mid-park, and south end for the visitors’ navigating convenience. Some of the park’s most scenic views include the Reservoir in north end, Balcony Bride in mid-park, and the Mall and Literary Walk in south end. Before jetting off, make sure to complete your day by grabbing a bite at the lakeside restaurant The Boathouse. Take advantage of the colors of autumn at these spots and many more, as the picturesque scene is indescribable.

Niagara Falls State Park

Natural Feature, Park

With a reputation as one of the most beautiful places on this earth, Niagara Falls, the oldest state park and one of the nation’s national historic landmarks, is a must-see this upcoming season. This park has several famous waterfalls that cascade throughout, including the American Falls, The Bridal Veil Falls, and part of the Canadian Falls. Hop aboard the Maid of the Mist, a world-famous boat, for a trip around the waters of the Horseshoe and the American falls. Niagara also has perfect opportunities for active folk, like hiking in the Niagara Gorge. Go on and venture upstate to witness this beauty in person.

Chittenango Falls

Natural Feature, Park

An impeccable 167-foot waterfall is what lures most people to the Chittenango Falls State Park. There are numerous ways to enjoy this attraction, such as from the top or from the encircling nature trails where unique wildlife can be spotted. Conserving the area’s biodiversity is a cause that this park holds dear. To witness the park’s efforts, stop by the Bird Conservation Area, where you can see the amazing creatures. If you take a liking to fishing or any other outdoor activities, then this is place for you to visit in the impending cooler months.

Corona Park

Park, Zoo, Museum

Unisphere, Flushing Meadow Park, Queens, New York, USA.
© Danita Delimont / Alamy Stock Photo
Located in Queens, Corona Park has so much going on that you won’t know where to start. The place where the 1964/1965 New York’s World Fair took place is home to the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center (where the US Open takes place), Citi Field, New York Hall of Science, the Queens Museum of Art, the Queens Theatre in the Park, and the Queens Zoo. Rowing and paddle boating in Meadow Lake is a fan-favorite. Meander down the pathways this fall, and you will be able to spot all these assets as well as the park’s very own Carousel while taking in the serenity this park has to offer.

Seneca Lake State Park

Park

Ranging from playgrounds and spray grounds to barbecue-filled nights, Seneca Lake State Park has all you need for a pleasurable day with friends and family. This park, which holds one of the America’s deepest lakes, is simply a haven. Take in the sights of outstretched blue waters, or jet off to one of the two marinas this park offers; either way, your experience will be one of a kind. This fall, saunter down the pier and enjoy what Earth has on display; you will not leave disappointed.

Letchworth State Fair

Park

Hot air ballooning, white water rafting, and cannoning are just a small portion of the activities that Letchworth State Parkhas to offer. Within the stretch of 14,350 acres, this park has some of the world’s most magnificent waterfalls and diverse activates that New York State has to offer. Fascinating geological history and heritage are what makes this park so popular. Spend a weekend camping or at one of the inns within the park, and relish in one of nature’s finest spots.

Watckins Glen State Park

Park

This award-winning park is a can’t-miss this fall! Watkins Glen State Park, known for their streams and waterfalls, happens to be the most renowned of New York’s Finger Lakes State Parks. As one of the most popular campgrounds, there is an Olympic-sized pool and plenty of activities, including hiking on the Gorge and Indian Trail and fishing in Seneca Lake. Enjoy a walk in the park accompanied by the coolness of the new season while taking in breathtaking views of the environment.

Crotona Park

Park

As one of the Bronx’s most appreciated establishments, Crotona Parkhas everything you need for a day of outdoorsy fun. A plethora of fun undertakings occur here, such as swimming in the pool and an interactive how-to-ride-a-bike class. For those who enjoy indulging in more sporty activities, there are baseball fields among the basketball and tennis courts. Relish in what this park has to offer this autumn, because before we know it, the colorful leaves upon the trees will soon be taken over by snowfall and ice! Crotona Park, 611 Crotona Park North, Bronx, NY, USA By Alexis DeFillippo

About the author

Originally from the Jersey Shore, Alexis now lives and attends school in New York at St. John's University as a Public Relations major. When she isn't lost in a book, Alexis spends her time baking things found on Pinterest and attending concerts. From Dance Moms to The Bachelor, Alexis is up to date on all reality shows and is ready with an opinion on them at anytime!

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