As the weather turns and the nights draw in, it’s far from doom and gloom in New York City. This is one town that knows how to move with the seasons and autumn (or fall, as the Americans call it) is no different.
In such a fast-paced city no two visits can ever be the same and New York breaks are characterised by new discoveries and one-off happenings. This autumn there’s plenty to entertain you, from theatre openings to festivals, and if you time your visit right you’ll also find yourself with tickets to one of the greatest shows on earth – the vibrant shades of the changing trees, usually referred to as the fall colours.
Visit Central Park for the best example of this natural spectacle. Wrap up warm and stroll or cycle along the avenues of beautiful mature trees or go romantic on a horse-drawn carriage ride – either way you’ll feel miles from the hustle and bustle as you explore this unique city-locked natural playground.
Autumn is harvest time and New York certainly knows how to celebrate – by enjoying great food. Time your visit right and you can join in at one of the city’s food-related festivals. Sample a wide range of dishes from local restaurants and numerous microbrews and wines from across the state at Harvest in the Square at Union Square on September 21, discover more pickle-related goods than you could ever have imagined at International Pickle Day on the Lower East Side on October 17 or give your taste buds a sugar rush at the Chocolate Show at the Metropolitan Pavilion from November 11–14.
Not only is there loads going on in the city during autumn, but as peak season wanes, you should also find that many New York hotels are now offering lower rates, so why not push the boat out and stay somewhere extra special? The Waldorf Astoria New York has hosted everyone from politicians to princesses and is within easy walking distance of the shops of Madison and Fifth Avenues. Indulge in a spa treatment such as an aromatherapy massage before tucking into a gourmet meal at Peacock Alley and bedding down in one of the hotel’s luxurious one-bedroom suites – the ultimate in New York living.
If your budget won’t stretch quite that far try the Hotel Beacon New York. Located on the desirable Upper West Side and offering a range of rooms and suites, this hotel is within easy walking distance of Central Park, making it perfect for those wanting to really soak up the fall colours. It’s also close to numerous affordable restaurants which offer far better value for money than those in Midtown so your dollars will stretch that little bit further.
There’s never a bad time to visit New York but you won’t find a better one than this autumn so pack your bags and say goodbye to summer in style.
