upstate ny fall trips

New England Wanderlust

Fall , New York  ·  August 10, 2022

27 Awesome Things To Do In Upstate New York In The Fall (2024)

Upstate New York in the fall is absolutely spectacular, and with such a wide variety of landscapes to explore – everything from the peaks in the Adirondacks and Catskills, to quaint towns, to amazing farm stands and apple orchards – there are so many thing to do.

I grew up in Upstate New York, and have lived in different regions, and have had lots of fun exploring in the Adirondacks and Catskills. For this post, I’ve narrowed down the absolute best things to do in Upstate New York in the fall season to help you celebrate everything autumn, and take advantage of the gorgeous fall foliage.

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When Is The Best Time To See Fall Foliage In Upstate New York?

Generally speaking, the best time to see fall foliage in Upstate New York is between the last week of September through mid-October. However, this can vary greatly depending on what region you’re in. Remember, New York State is rather big, and terrain and average temperatures can vary quite a bit.

If you’re looking to experience peak fall foliage in places like the Adirondacks or the Catskills (basically, higher elevation locations), I would say the first week of October hits the sweet spot, and is generally safe to plan a visit around that time for peak foliage.

In the central and western New York regions (Buffalo, Finger Lakes, Syracuse, Albany), as well as the Hudson Valley, mid-October is typically peak foliage (although it can trend later in October in the Hudson Valley).

In the down state region, including Westchester, New York City and Long Island, peak foliage is usually mid to late October, sometimes coinciding with Halloween.

As with anything nature-related, this can change from year to year depending on weather patterns. It’s good to stay flexible, or if you have to book your trip in advance, know it’s possible you could miss peak foliage time. But just remember, even if you miss peak foliage, you’ll still see lots of fall color everywhere if you come within the general timeframes, so you definitely don’t have to stress too much about it.

Where Is The Best Fall Foliage In New York?

Fall foliage can be seen all over New York State, even in NYC, but there are definitely some areas where the leaves are especially striking. Below is a list of some places with the best fall foliage in New York.

• Adirondacks
• Finger Lakes
• Hudson Valley
• New York City (while this list is focused on Upstate New York in the fall season, I wanted to mention NYC because there’s something very special about Central Park at peak foliage).

You may also like: My post on the best things to do in New England in the fall!

Best Things To Do In Upstate New York In The Fall (2022)

Everyone’s definition of Upstate New York varies, and there is no official defined area for this region. One thing to keep in mind as you go through this list is that I consider everything north of Westchester & Rockland counties to be Upstate New York – so basically, start in Hudson Valley, and work your way up to the rest of the state. But this is a big region spanning hours of driving time, so for each suggestion, I’ve also listed additional things that are close by to allow you to maximize your time in each destination.

1. Explore Watkins Glen State Park

Located in the Finger Lakes region, Watkins Glen State Park is a great destination year-round, I think it’s one of the best things to do in Upstate New York in the fall season because it’ll be covered in fallen leaves. This park has 19 waterfalls to see and miles of scenic walking and hiking trails. You could easily spend a whole day here to admire the foliage views, and have an adventurous day exploring all the waterfalls.

Location Tip : This park is in an excellent location, and close to two other parks on this list, as well as Ithaca (also featured later in this post!). You can easily base yourself in this region, and visit Watkins Glen, Letchworth and Taughannock waterfalls/state parks, and Ithaca.

2. Hike The Indian Head & Rainbow Falls Trail

In the Adirondacks, one of my favorite fall hikes, and one of the best things to do in Upstate New York in the fall is the Indian Head and Rainbow Falls Trail. This trail is really popular in summer and fall, but I think fall is the best time to do it. Clocking in at around 10 miles, this moderately challenging trail makes for an awesome fall foliage day hike.

The first part of the trail is an easy few miles along a scenic carriage path walk through the woods with tons of fall color, and then you’ll start a moderately challenging hike for about 3 miles up to Indian Head lookout. Once you get to the top of Indian Head, you’ll be rewarded with incredible lake views surrounded by colorful fall foliage. You’ll definitely want to budget some time to sit and enjoy the view (and maybe even pack a lunch to enjoy here!).

The rest of the trail is also very enjoyable and scenic, and another great stop is Rainbow Falls, which I recommend doing if time allows.

This is an out and back trail, so you’ll end up right back where you started.

Parking Tip : This trail is very popular, and on weekends, the small parking area fills up quickly. I once arrived for this trail on a Saturday in October at 6am, and the lot was full. There is roadside parking in the area, and you should be able to find a spot as long as you arrive early on weekends. Weekdays will be less crowded.

Location Tip: The Indian Head & Rainbow Falls hike is only about 30-40 minutes from Lake Placid, making it easy to combine these two into one trip. Rent a cozy little cabin (which is later on this list!), and hike all day in the mountains, and enjoy the quaint little downtown in Lake Placid the rest of your time.

3. Head To Letchworth State Park

Another amazing option when planning out what to do in Upstate New York in the fall is to visit Letchworth State Park. This park is often referred to as the Grand Canyon of the East because of its deep gorges and impressive waterfalls. I also think the best time to visit this park is in the fall season, surrounded by foliage.

There are over 60 miles of hiking trails and scenic walks at this park, as well as 3 waterfalls to see. I highly suggest packing a nice lunch to enjoy in the park and making a fall day out of it.

Location Tip : This park is located about 1 hour and 20 minutes from Watkins Glen, and is also close to Ithaca and Taughannock Falls State Park, which is next on this list! You could also easily work in some Finger Lakes wine tasting.

4. Visit Taughannock Falls State Park

Lastly for the Finger Lakes region, Taughannock Falls State Park is another one you should definitely consider when planning your perfect day in Upstate New York in the fall. The main attraction at this park is the 217-foot tall waterfall, which is really exciting to see. The entire park is a bit smaller than the others mentioned in this post at only about 750 acres, but the walk to the waterfall is very easy and peaceful, and will be dripping in fall foliage. It’s definitely worth adding to your itinerary if you’re in the area.

Expert Tip : A great place to hang out before or after your walk to Taughannock waterfall is the park right across the street from the trail parking lot. It’s right on Cayuga Lake, and it’s really lovely and scenic, and worth a few moments of your time.

Location Tip: This park is about 1 hour and 45 minutes from Letchworth State Park, and about 30 minutes from Watkins Glen. It’s also close to Ithaca, making it easy to see all these sites in one trip, and also explore the Finger Lakes wine trail.

5. Drive The Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway

A great scenic drive to consider in Upstate New York in the fall is the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway. The entire drive is just over 50 miles, and it takes you right through the middle of the Catskills region, providing incredible fall foliage views along the way. During the drive, you’ll also pass through four quaint little towns that are worth stopping in: Olive, Shandaken, Middletown and Andes.

The two starting points of the byway are the eastern and western entrances. If you’re coming from south of the Catskills, you’ll want to start the drive at the eastern entrance and you’ll want to get off Exit 19 from the thruway, and drive about 12 miles west (look for signs). If you’re coming from north of the Catskills, you’ll start at the western entrance, and you’ll want to get off Exit 14W on Interstate 88, and drive about 33 miles east (again, look for signs).

There’s also a great audio tour you can download before your drive, which will share history of the area, as well as tips on where to eat and great hikes to take.

Click here to download your audio tour of the Catskills Mountain Scenic Byway!

6. Taste Locally-Made Hard Cider At Wayside Cider

In the Catskills at the western entrance of the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway, you’ll find Wayside Cider , which is another awesome place to visit in Upstate New York in the fall. This is where you can taste some of the best locally-made cider in the area. While visiting Wayside, you’ll be able to kick back and relax at one of their two renovated barns, where the taproom can be found. They also serve great food with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients and farm-to-table dining.

Location Tip : As mentioned, you can find Wayside Cider along the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway, and it’s also located in the adorable town of Andes, making this an especially great place to stop during your drive. In Andes, you can also swing by Weaver Hollow Brewery to sample the local beer at their taproom.

7. Stay In A Cozy Cabin In The Adirondacks

One of the most fun things to do in Upstate New York in the fall is to rent a cozy cabin and just unplug for a while (and, you know, enjoy the incredible foliage scenery all around you). There are so many amazing little cabins to rent all over the region, and all will be accessible to awesome hiking trails and great restaurants. Below are some suggestions for you, and I usually recommend looking in areas that are about 30 minutes or less from Lake Placid, so you can easily enjoy the cute little downtown there.

This cabin is centrally-located to all the best things to do in the Lake Placid area of the Adirondacks, including Whiteface Mountain, Au Sable Chasm and downtown Lake Placid. You’ll also only be 5-minutes from a great swimming hole and covered bridge. But at the cabin, you’ll have a quiet and secluded getaway in the woods with a fire pit for evening camp fires and s’mores.

Click here to book your stay at this centrally-located cabin!

This romantic and riverfront cabin is perfect for a couple, and it’s also pet-friendly if you’re hoping to take your pup with you on your Upstate fall getaway. The cabin offers spectacular views of the mountain vistas, and is right on the river. You’ll also have a small deck with Adirondack chairs to admire the foliage views, and a fire pit for evening camp fires and s’mores.

Click here to book your stay at this romantic, riverfront cabin!

For a larger group looking for the perfect getaway in the mountains with incredible views , this cabin is perfect. It sleeps up to 12, and has a 50-foot wrap-around deck with panoramic mountain views. You’ll even by able to access some of the area’s hiking trails by foot from this cabin, and the location is ideal in the Keene Valley area.

Click here to book this panorama mountain view cabin!

8. Find The Perfect Pumpkin At Pumpkinville

Located in the western part of the state you’ll find Pumpkinville , which is a really fun place to go in Upstate New York in the fall. You’ll easily be able to spend a few hours here not only searching for the best pumpkins, but also eating, shopping and just having a great time. At Pumpkinville, you’ll be able to grab some food from their grill, and also snack on fall favorites like cider donuts, fresh apple cider, caramel apples and baked goods.

You’ll also find shops with all kinds of goodies to take home including crafts, fall decor, homemade jams, maple syrup and tons more. Kids will also enjoy the farm animals and play areas, and adults will be excited to spend some time in the beer garden. It’s really a one-stop shop for everything fall, so it’s worth the journey out here.

Location Tip: Pumpkinville is very close to Ellicottville, and about an hour from Southern Tier (which is the next suggestion on this list). You could easily make a day trip to this region and do all three attractions for a wonderful fall day.

9. Taste The Most Amazing Fall Beer At Southern Tier Brewing

So I’m a little bias because my husband grew up right by Southern Tier Brewing Company , and it’s one of our all-time favorite breweries, but I can honestly say that their Warlock beer is hands down my favorite beer ever, even though it’s a limited release each fall season. If you’re in the area, it’s worth venturing over to their really fun taproom to grab a fresh Warlock imperial stout. While they’re most known for their pumpkin beer, Pumpking, I actually think Warlock is better (although, it’s a close call since both are honestly amazing).

The good news is, these beers are widely distributed all over the country, so you don’t have to visit the taproom to try them. But if you’re in the area, it’s especially fun to swing by and try a fresh batch at an outdoor table on a crisp, fall day.

10. Get Lost In A Corn Maze

There are some great corn mazes to visit in Upstate New York in the fall, and options vary from family-friendly to haunted. Below is a list of the best corn mazes to visit in Upstate New York.

Long Acre Farms Moonlight Maze (Rochester) – For something that’s a little more spooky than a daylight corn maze, but not anything super scary, an awesome option is the Moonlight Maze at Long Acre Farms. In addition to the corn maze, you’ll be able to spend a few hours here enjoying the kid’s playground area, grabbing delicious foods like wood-fired pizzas and cider donuts, going on wagon rides and sampling some of their wine! Of course, you can also tackle the maze during the day.

Location Tip: This corn maze and farm can be combined with a trip to the Finger Lakes region, as it’s only about 45 minutes from Letchworth State Park.

Stoughton Farms (Newark Valley) – An awesome corn maze can be found at Stoughton Farms, and in addition to the maze, you’ll also find hay rides and all kinds of activities for kids, as well as apples, pumpkins, seasonal produce and baked goods.

Location Tip: This corn maze and farm can easily be worked into a Finger Lakes fall trip, as it’s only about 30 minutes from Ithaca and an hour from Watkins Glen State Park.

Kesicke Farm (Rhinebeck) – In addition to their corn maze, you’ll find a fall festival celebration here on weekends from late September through October, which includes kid’s play areas, wagon and hay rides, a petting zoo and, of course, cider donuts.

Location Tip: This farm and corn maze is in Rhinebeck, which is a really lovely little town to visit in the Hudson Valley. This would be an easy day trip from NYC as well, and you could easily do the farm and corn maze, and spend some time in downtown Rhinebeck for a lovely fall day trip.

Tucker Farms (Gabriels) – The Great Adirondack Corn Maze can be found at Tucker Farms, and they also do flashlight maze nights after sunset. After going through the maze, you can sit by a bonfire and roast marshmallows for s’mores. The farm also does pumpkin patch tours, and allows visitors to pick pumpkins right from their farm.

Bonus Option: Scroll down to the best apple picking part of this post for another bonus option in the Adirondacks!

Best Things To Do In Upstate New York In The Fall Close to NYC

If you’re in New York City and looking to plan a fall getaway upstate (or maybe even a day trip), everything on this list is less than 2 hours from NYC. You will need a car to explore most of these options, but I guarantee you, it will be more than worth it.

11. See The Great Jack-O-Lantern Blaze In Croton-On-Hudson (Near Sleepy Hollow!)

One of the most exciting things to do in Upstate New York in the fall is to experience the Great Jack-O-Lantern Blaze in Croton-on-Hudson, which most people combine with a trip to Sleepy Hollow since they’re only about 20 minutes from one another. At the Jack-O-Lantern Blaze, over 7,000 pumpkins are hand-carved by local artisans and illuminated along a walkway for a mystical, Halloween-inspired stroll.

The little town of Croton-on-Hudson is also very charming, and a great place to stop before or after the experience to grab a bite to eat.

Location Tip : This makes for a very easy day trip from NYC, as the event is only about an hour away. You can easily combine it with spending time in Sleepy Hollow and Tarrytown, or turn it into a fun overnight getaway from the city.

12. Stay A Night (Or Two!) At Mohonk Mountain House

One of the best splurges to make in Upstate New York in the fall is a stay at Mohonk Mountain House in New Paltz, NY. Of course, it’s a great destination year-round, but the fall is especially magical. Mohonk is a Victorian castle that’s surrounded by a stunning lake and over 4,000 miles of forest. Mohonk is an all-inclusive property where meals are included in your stay (some services, drinks and experiences are extra), and it’s the perfect getaway to rest and recharge your batteries.

On-site at Mohonk, you’ll have access to miles of stunning hiking trails, on-site restaurants, a spa, an ice cream shop, outdoor cocktail bars and so much more.

For those looking to visit just for the day, you can also get a guest day pass, with different options for hiking the trails, dining or visiting the spa. And with it being only 2 hours from New York City, it’s a very easy fall escape to make.

Click here to read my post on a Mohonk Mountain House Day Pass!

13. Hike At Minnewaska State Park

Minnewaska State Park is located in the Hudson Valley in Kerhonkson, and provides over 80 miles of scenic walking and hiking trails, as well as waterfalls, cliffs and sky lakes. During the fall, all of these natural elements are surrounded by gorgeous foliage, making this one of the best things to do in Upstate New York in the fall.

One of my favorite fall hikes at this park is Gertrude’s Nose Trail, which is just under 7 miles long, and makes for a great half-day hike (usually about 4 hours or so at a leisurely pace). There are so many places to admire fall foliage on this trail, and also lots of awesome photo opportunities out on the cliffs. You’ll even be rewarded with beautiful lake views, so this trail has a little bit of everything.

Location Tip: Minnewaska State Park is only 15 minutes from New Paltz, making it easy to combine these two destinations.

14. Visit The Angry Orchard Cidery

Located in Walden in the Hudson Valley, you can find the Angry Orchard cidery, which is actually really nice to visit year-round, but fall is specially fun during apple harvest season. While Angry Orchard ciders can be found all over the U.S., here at their Walden location, you’ll find beautiful tasting rooms and barns, a gorgeous outdoor patio with fire pits and really good food. Of course, you’ll be able to do tastings of their ciders, take guided tours of their facility, and also tour the orchards.

Location Tip: Angry Orchard is only about 25 minutes from New Paltz, so you can easily combine this with a day of cider tasting at the taproom, followed by hiking and exploration in New Paltz (or vice versa).

15. Hike The Storm King Mountain Trail

A great fall hike in the Hudson Valley is the Storm King Mountain Trail in Cornwall-on-Hudson. This trail is about 2.4 miles long, and offers incredible pay off with amazing fall foliage views and lots of lookout points for photos. The big pay off at the end is an incredible view of the Hudson River and mountain vistas.

This hike does require some rock scrambling, and I would definitely recommend some sturdy hiking boots to prevent injury.

Location Tip: Croton-on-Hudson has a cute little downtown that’s worth visiting after your hike to grab a bite to eat and relax. Another nice stop to make in town is Thompson’s Cider Mill to sample some great, locally-made hard cider. Lastly, you can also squeeze in a trip over to Croton Gorge to see the impressive New Croton Dam. All of these make for an awesome fall day trip from NYC.

16. Hop On A Haunted Headless Horseman Hayride

For a night of spooks and screams, you’ll want to head over to the Headless Horseman Haunted Hayride in Ulster, which has been named one of the best haunted hayrides in the country by outlets like USA Today , and has also been featured on the Travel Channel .

On the grounds, you’ll not only find this amazing haunted hayride, you’ll also be able to walk through several haunted houses and a haunted corn maze. This is the ultimate haunted house and hayride destination in Upstate New York in the fall! Just remember, these haunted tours are really, really scary, and not for the faint of heart.

17. Bike The Wallkill Valley Rail Trail (And Stop At The Secret Cafe In The Woods!)

The Wallkill Valley Rail Trail in Ulster County is such a fun way to see foliage in Upstate New York in the fall. The 22-mile bike path is very easy and flat, so it’s definitely a more relaxing bike experience, and takes you through the towns of Gardiner, New Paltz, Rosendale and Ulster. One thing to keep in mind is that the path isn’t entirely paved, but it still makes for an easy ride.

But the best part of the bike path? The secret cafe along the route! Well, it’s probably not super secret now, but it’s also not as well-known as many things on this list. The Rail Trail Cafe in New Paltz is right in the woods along the bike path, and can be found at Stone Mountain Farm. The cafe caters mostly to bikers that stop along the path, and they serve up amazing drinks, and farm-to-table foods like wood-fired pizzas, salads, sandwiches and more.

*If you’re hoping to get some wood-fired pizza, be sure to call in advance, as they only offer pizzas during events. The Rail Trail Cafe is only open Thursday-Sunday.

Right by the cafe, you can also rent a bike to head out onto the rail trail. Click here to go to the Happy Trails Bike Rental page for more info!

Location Tip : You can easily combine the rail trail and cafe with a trip to the Hudson Valley region, as the trail goes through a few towns in the area. If you’re staying at Mohonk Mountain House for a weekend, this is a great little side excursion.

Best Apple Picking In Upstate New York

Upstate New York apples are known as some of the best in the country, and you’ll be able to find orchard is most rural areas of the state. There are so many more in the state than what I’ve listed below, but here are some of my absolute favorites.

18. Indian Ladder Farms

Indian Ladder Farms is the best and most popular place for apple picking in the Capital Region of Upstate New York in the fall. Not only do they have awesome fields of apple orchards and scenic nature trails you can explore, they also have an on-site cidery, cafe and bakery that serves freshly-made cider donuts, as well as lots of other sweet treats.

Indian Ladder can get very busy on the weekends in the fall, so plan accordingly. I suggest getting there early to pick apples, and then secure a table at their restaurant/cafe to enjoy a nice lunch and to sample their cider.

Location Tip: To make a day of visiting Indian Ladder Farms, you could spend the first part of your day here, and then make the 30-minute drive to Esperance, NY to experience the Night Terrors Haunted Farm , which has been named one of the best haunted houses in the area.

19. Beak & Skiff

Beak & Skiff in Marietta is one of my personal favorite apple orchards to visit in Upstate New York in the fall, partially because I grew up near here, and it holds a special place in my heart. It’s also come a long way since my childhood days, and has expanded its apple orchards to now include a cidery, distillery, cider mill, general store, cafe and bakery. You’ll easily be able to spend several hours here!

The seasonal cider flavors here at Beak & Skiff are really good, and I enjoy their Cider Donut cider in the fall. It’s a little sweet, but for some reason, it works in my opinion. I also highly suggest stopping by their distillery for a spirits tasting.

Location Tip: Beak & Skiff is a short 15-minute drive to Skaneateles, which is an awesome little lakefront destination that would be great to combine with a trip to Beak & Skiff. It’s also only a 15-minute drive from Crazy Daisies , which is a cafe and flower market that offers awesome food, mimosa flights and will have plenty of fall flowers to decorate your porch.

Click here to read my guide on all the best things to do in Skaneateles!

20. Twin Star Orchards

Twin Star Orchards in New Paltz is an awesome place to visit in Upstate New York in the fall season. Not only do they offer a beautiful orchard for apple picking, but they also serve up amazing hard ciders, wood-fired artisan pizzas, burgers and cider donuts. This is a great place to come hungry and enjoy the beautiful scenery on a lovely fall day.

Location Tip: Since this orchard is located in New Paltz, you could easily combine it with a Mohonk Mountain House trip/guest day pass, and/or the Wallkill Rail Trail.

21. Rulfs Orchard

Rulf’s Orchards in the Adirondacks is an awesome place to go apple picking in Upstate New York in the fall. And not only do they have wonderful orchards to pick from, they also have a corn maze, a petting zoo, tractor rides, a bakery with cider donuts and other great treats, a cafe for yummy food and snacks, an ice cream shop and a farm store. It’s the kind of place you can have a perfect fall day in the Adirondacks.

Location Tip: This orchard is located about 50 minutes from Lake Placid, making it easy to combine these two destinations for a fall getaway in the mountains.

Best Upstate NY Fall Festivals

There’s no shortage of festivals in Upstate New York in the fall season, and there are plenty more than what’s listed below. Chances are, most destinations and towns will have some sort of fall celebration, whether you seek one out on a local apple orchard and farm, or are visiting a town that’s popular with tourists. But below is a list of some of the best in Upstate.

22. Ellicottville Fall Festival (Western NY)

The Ellicottville Fall Festival typically takes place on Columbus Day weekend each year, and is packed with all kinds of fall fun including foliage chair lift rides to the top of the mountain, a mountaintop cook out, music, arts and crafts vendors and tons of food options.

This would be great to combine with Pumpkinville (earlier on this list) and Southern Tier Brewing for a perfect fall day in Western New York.

23. Warwick AppleFest (Hudson Valley)

The Warwick AppleFest is a great option for those coming Upstate from NYC because it’s only an hour from the city. And even better, admission to the festival is completely free, making this an awesome festival for families to attend. AppleFest has been named the best fall festival by Hudson Valley Magazine , and you could easily spend the entire day here because of all the activities offered.

At AppleFest, you’ll find over 200 craft vendors, tons of food vendors, live music, a carnival for the kids, an apple pie contest (where you can buy slices from the participants!) and a farmer’s market. Visitors will also be able to stroll through Warwick’s charming downtown.

24. Sharon Springs Harvest Festival (Capital Region)

The Sharon Springs Harvest Festival usually takes place in mid-September each year, and the town was made famous by the Beekman Boys, and their shop, Beekman 1802. In town, you’ll also find the Beekman 1802 flagship boutique, which is absolutely stunning and worth popping into.

During the harvest festival, you’ll find artisanal food and craft vendors, live music and demonstrations. Area farms also open their doors to visitors for special sunflower, apple, pumpkin and lavender U-Pick events.

Location Tip : Sharon Springs is just under an hour from Indian Ladder Farms, and many apple varieties will be at their peak picking time during the Harvest Festival.

25. WalktoberFest Makers & Farmers Market (Hudson Valley)

WalktoberFest Makers & Farmers Market is especially fun because it takes place on the Walkway Over the Hudson & Hudson Valley Rail Trail, so the scenery is going to be lovely. The event usually takes place the first weekend in October, and over 120 local restaurants, distilleries, wineries, breweries and artists will line the walkways offering tastings and samples, as well as feature their artwork. There’s also a designated children’s area to make it a family outing.

Tickets for the event include full access to the alcohol tastings (for those over 21 years of age), and underage tickets are also available. This is a great way to support local food and drink establishments in the area, and taste the seasonal flavors of the Hudson Valley.

26. Fishkill Farms Harvest Festival (Hudson Valley)

The Fishkill Farms Harvest Festival takes place every weekend from mid-September through October, and this is a great festival to attend if you want to pack all your favorite fall activities into one festival.

During the festival weekend, you’ll be able to pick your own apples and pumpkins, listen to live music, grab some delicious food from their grill, visit their donut window for freshly-made cider donuts, stroll through their corn maze, and even sample some local hard cider. There’s something for everyone in the family at this one.

27. Lake George Oktoberfest & Fall Festival (Adirondacks)

The Lake George Oktoberfest & Fall Festival usually takes place on Columbus Day weekend each year, and you’ll be able to find a true German-inspired Oktoberfest and Bavarian street fair celebration, complete with Bratwursts, a beer garden, German polka music, carnival rides and tons more. And since this event is in Lake George, you’ll also be able to stroll through the adorable alpine-inspired downtown to visit the local shops and eateries. And of course, don’t forget to take in the gorgeous Mirror Lake views.

Best Places To Stay In Upstate New York In The Fall

There are so many great places to stay in this region, but these destination are particularly lovely in autumn. Here are my favorite places to stay in Upstate New York in the fall.

New Paltz has been mentioned quite a few times throughout this post, and that’s because for a small little college town, it packs a lot in, and offers so many things to do in Upstate New York not just in the fall, but year-round. New Paltz is located in the Hudson Valley region, and is home to SUNY New Paltz, and has a lovely little downtown with independent shops, great restaurants, and, as mentioned, amazing hiking opportunities (which is honestly the best part).

In addition to also being home to Mohonk Mountain House, it’s close to Minnewaska State Park, as well as the neighboring town of Gardiner, which has some lovely lodges and inns to stay in.

Best Places To Stay Near New Paltz In The Fall

The Minnewaska Lodge is located just 10 minutes from New Paltz’s downtown, and is a great option if your primary focus is spending lots of time outdoors, and taking advantage of all the amazing hiking nearby. This hotel is just under 6 miles from Minnewaska State Park, and many rooms offer incredible views of the Shawangunk Mountains, which will be especially gorgeous in the fall season.

Click here to book your stay at Minnewaska Lodge in Gardiner!

Wildflower Farm is perfect for those looking for a bit more of an upscale stay with some relaxing in the room, combined with some excursions to the local attractions. This hotel is modern and beautifully decorated, and all the rooms have an outdoor space, which will be perfect for admiring fall foliage. There’s also a restaurant and bar right at the hotel, making this a perfect fall stay for lots of recharging.

Click here to book your stay at Wildflower Farm in Gardiner!

The Hampton Inn right in New Paltz is a great option for those on a budget, or are just looking for a clean and basic place to sleep after exploring all the attractions nearby. Rooms here are updated and comfortable, and offer the basic amenities.

Click here to book your stay at the Hampton Inn in New Paltz!

The Catskills

The Catskills are an absolutely amazing destination to visit in Upstate New York in the fall season. The foliage views will be incredible, and as mentioned earlier in this post, you’ll be able to drive the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway. There are lots of quaint little towns in the region that are perfect for cozy evening dinners and grabbing a hard cider or seasonal beer, and the restaurants in this area are awesome. And, of course, there are lots of scenic walks and hiking trails.

Best Places To Stay In The Catskills In The Fall

This modern A-frame chalet is especially great because of its location. Not only is it a total Instagram-worthy place, the location is accessible to the best things to do in the Catskills, and also a lot of places in the Hudson Valley. The chalet has a beautiful covered deck where you can sit and admire the foliage views, a wrap-around deck and a fire pit for camp fires and evening s’mores.

Click here to book this modern A-frame chalet in The Catskills!

The Shandaken Inn is located very close to the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway, and is a gorgeous and cozy inn that’s perfect for a fall getaway. You’ll easily be able to access a lot of the attractions in the region from here, and downtown Shandaken has some really cute little shops and eateries. The actual inn is beautifully decorated, and sits on 12 acres, so you’re sure to have a peaceful getaway. A full breakfast is also included with each stay, and the inn also has an on-site restaurant and bar.

Click here to book your stay at The Shandaken Inn in The Catskills!

Sleepy Hollow & Tarrytown

Sleepy Hollow is one of the best places to visit in Upstate New York in the fall, especially during the month of October with all the Halloween celebrations and ties to The Legend of Sleepy Hollow tale. And the nearby town of Tarrytown is where you stay when you’re looking to visit Sleepy Hollow, as there are no hotels right in Sleepy Hollow.

Both towns are packed with history, offer fun tours to take in the fall season, have wonderful restaurants and lots of fall foliage. This is a place to visit where peak foliage season will be later in October.

Lake Placid

Lake Placid is a fun little town in the Adirondacks that sits on Mirror Lake, and offers spectacular fall foliage views, lots of great restaurants and some nice breweries, and is also accessible to a lot of fall hikes in the region. The downtown area and its shops are also super charming and most everywhere downtown, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views of Mirror Lake and mountains in the background.

Location Tip: Lake Placid is close to a few attractions mentioned earlier in this post, including the Indian Head and Rainbow Falls Trail, Rulf’s Orchard and the Great Adirondack Corn Maze, so you’ll have plenty of fall-themed things to do on a trip to Lake Placid.

Best Places To Stay In Lake Placid In The Fall

The Mirror Lake Inn & Resort is perfect for those looking to be able to walk everywhere in town, and want a bit of pampering during their fall getaway, as this resort is right in Lake Placid’s downtown, and also has a really nice spa. You’ll also find two restaurants located at the hotel, and room options that include lake views, balconies and fireplaces.

Click here to book your stay at the Mirror Lake Inn & Resort!

The Whiteface Lodge is an excellent option if you’re looking for lots of amenities, and a bit more of an upscale (but still very Adirondack) kind of getaway. This hotel is less than a 5-minute drive to downtown Lake Placid, but will feel worlds away. You’ll also find amenities like 3 restaurants, a spa, outdoor hot tubs, a year-round indoor/outdoor heated pool (perfect for swims on crisp fall days!), s’mores campfire nights, a family game room and even a movie theater.

Click here to book your stay at The Whiteface Lodge!

Click here to read my post on the best things to do in Lake Placid in the fall!

Cold Spring

Cold Spring is an adorable and charming town in the Hudson Valley region, and is typically about an hour from NYC (depending on traffic), making this a wonderful option for those looking for an easy getaway from the city. It’s also only about 40 minutes from Sleepy Hollow & Tarrytown, which means you can easily combine these two destinations for a perfect getaway in Upstate New York in the fall.

Cold Spring has a beautiful downtown area, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and is home to great restaurants and shops. There are also some scenic walks and hikes that are accessible to town, including Hudson Highland State Park and the popular Bull Hill trail for incredible foliage views.

Best Places To Stay In Cold Springs In The Fall

The West Point Foundry B&B is just a 5-minute walk to downtown Cold Spring, and is a beautifully renovated National Historic Landmark House where guests can enjoy 9 private acres of land and views of the Hudson River. Rooms are updated but still reflect historic charm, and guests can also enjoy amazing breakfasts included in the room rate, as well as fire pits with Adirondack chairs, a pool table from the 1860s, a complimentary beer or wine upon arrival and and heated pool and hot tub.

Click here to book your stay with the West Point Foundry B&B!

Nestled in the Finger Lakes region, Ithaca is an incredible college town that offers so much access to the region’s natural beauty, but also has a fun and exciting downtown area with great shops and restaurants. From Ithaca, you’ll easily be able to explore the area’s waterfalls and state parks (Letchworth, Taughannock and Watkins Glen), visit the local wineries and take in all the lovely lakeside foliage views. There are also lots of local wineries to explore along the Finger Lakes wine trail.

Best Places To Stay In Ithaca In The Fall

The Inn At Taughannock Falls is a wonderful place to stay in Upstate New York in the fall if you’re looking to tackle all the amazing things to do in the Finger Lakes region. This hotel has direct access to Taughannock Falls through a trail on the hotel grounds, and is only about 15 minutes from downtown Ithaca. A continental breakfast is included with each stay, and you’ll also find fire pits and a bar at the hotel for cozy fall evenings.

Click here to book your stay at the Inn at Taughannock Falls!

The Argos Inn is great for those who want to be right in downtown Ithaca, as this hotel is walkable to the Commons, shops and restaurants. This historic hotel was actually once the Mayor’s mansion, and has since been beautifully updated to accommodate guests. While the building is located downtown, it still feels cozy and secluded, and you’ll find an on-site bar, as well as an outdoor patio and sun porch for relaxing fall afternoons here.

Click here to book your stay at the Argos Inn!

Ellicottville

Ellicottville is a great little town to base yourself if you’re looking to explore the Western New York region. Mostly known as a ski destination in the winter months, fall is also a lovely time to visit because of the Ellicottvile Fall Festival, and nearby fall attractions like Pumpkinville. There’s a very charming and fun downtown area with cute shops and eateries, country stores, wineries, as well as a great outdoor patio at Ellicottville Brewing Company (perfect to hang out at with a seasonal beer on a crisp fall day!).

Best Places To Stay In Ellicottville In The Fall

There aren’t a lot of hotels in Ellicottville because the area has a strong focus on vacation rentals for skiers, but one great option is the Wingate By Wyndham , which is a standard hotel, but very clean and comfortable, and perfect for exploring all the fall activities in the area. The location is also ideal, and walkable to downtown.

Click here to book your stay at the Wingate By Windham in Ellicottville!

That’s A Wrap On The Best Things To Do In Upstate New York In The Fall

There you have it, all the very best things to do in Upstate New York in the fall season from someone who’s lived here most of her life! Upstate New York is a very underrated place to visit, especially this time of the year, and whether you’re looking to explore quaint towns in the Hudson Valley, or you’re hoping to tackle some incredibly scenic hikes in the Adirondacks, there’s so much to do keep you busy for all of foliage season.

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15 Best Places to Visit in Upstate New York in Fall

Looking for the best places to visit in Upstate New York in the fall? We got you. From the gorgeous mountainous regions of the Adirondacks to the Catskills and our beautiful waterfall-filled areas like Niagara and the Finger Lakes region, we have picked the best things to do in Upstate New York in the fall plus tips for what to see and do at each place.

If you’re looking to do some fall foliage leaf peeping, keep in mind that the Adirondacks tend to experience fall foliage first followed by the Catskills and the further south you are, the later the season is for when fall foliage is at its peak. New York City tends to be the last, but since this is focusing on Upstate if you want to catch the gorgeous changing of the leaves we recommend checking I Love New York’s Fall Foliage Report they put out each year so you can plan accordingly.

Even if you are at the tail end of the ‘peak’ fall foliage window you’ll still catch the beautiful shades of fall on the trees! So don’t sweat it if you’re a few days off! Without a doubt, this is a gorgeous state full of many natural attractions including the fall foliage, so without further ado, here are the most gorgeous places to visit in Upstate New York in the fall season!

Disclaimer: This post contains commissionable links.

Things to do in Fall in Upstate New York 

• Lake Placid

Located in the Adirondack Mountains , the resort town of Lake Placid is known for hosting both the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics! One of our favorite things to do here was visiting the Olympic Center Museum. You can take guided tours or walk through exhibits covering both winter Olympic games.

And if you’re in for a thrill, there’s the Cliffside Coaster on Mt. Van Hovenberg. This is the longest mountain roller coaster in North America, and it’s located at one of the Olympic sites.

If you’re heading to Upstate New York in the fall take the opportunity to enjoy the fall foliage around Lake Placid by going for a hike. For an easy hike, try the Heaven Hill Orchard Loop for great fall peeping.

Or for stunning mountaintop views from Mt. Van Hovenberg, though it’s a little more intermediate of a climb. And while fall foliage in the Adirondacks usually peaks by the first week of October, you can monitor its progress with  the foliage report .

Another great fall activity in Lake Placid is walking the accessible High Falls Gorge. It’s a 30-minute hike a short drive away from Lake Placid in Wilmington. We love it because it’s more of a nature walk with 3 different waterfalls! Or you can take a boat onto Mirror Lake for a different view. The lake is a popular place for locals and visitors alike all year-round, and we recommend using Captain Marney’s Boat Rentals. 

Consider staying at  Mirror Lake Inn where you can book a room with a balcony overlooking the mountains and Mirror Lake and end your nights by a crackling fireplace. This AAA Four-Diamond hotel and member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World located in Lake Placid, and a great base for exploring the Adirondacks.  Book here.

• Lake George

There’s nothing quite like fall in Upstate New York. Use the town of Lake George as a launch base for all kinds of fall things. We went in October, and we found that some things had already closed at the end of the summer. But fall is a great time to go if you’re looking for a little quiet and fewer crowds. Plus, you’ll find fall events going on, and amazing fall foliage as well!

Through the fall, you can take a boat tour on one of  Lake George’s historic steamboats . Enjoy uninterrupted 360-degree scenery of the old-growth forests around the lake, as well as animals busy getting ready for the winter. Or there are a handful of rental companies where you can rent your own boat. You can take out everything from pontoons and deck boats to canoes and kayaks.

Through mid-October, there’s also Lake George’s  West Mountain . Before the ski season begins, you can book tickets for all kinds of activities like scenic chairlift rides, mountaintop yoga, fall foliage hikes, and more. Or Prospect Mountain conveniently has a trailhead that starts in Lake George that’s 3-miles out and back.

It’s also super popular to camp at Lake George and there are dozens of amazing campsites all around the village as well as around the lake. Just  reserve your spot in advance  because they fill up fast.

Consider staying at the luxurious accommodation option,   The Sagamore is hands down one of the most romantic getaways in Upstate New York . Located right on the lake on Green Island, this premier destination and property was named by Architectural Digest as being one of the most beautiful hotels in the Adirondacks as well as being an official AAA Four Diamond recipient.

This hotel dates back to the 1880s and is designated as a National Register of Historic Places. Stay in one of their condos, standard rooms, luxury suites, or a private lodge overlooking the gorgeous Lake George.

• Letchworth State Park

Letchworth State Park in western New York is a must-see this time of year. The Finger Lakes region is all about the waterfalls, and Letchworth is a big part of that. The roughly 18-mile-long park is home to around 50 big and small falls, many along the Genesee River.

If you just want to go for a scenic drive, there are several overlooks along the river where you can stop for epic scenic views. The most popular one is Inspiration Point which has an unbelievable viewpoint of one of the large falls.

Or come by the first week of October to see the explosion of reds, oranges, and yellows of fall against the rocky gorges. There are 66 miles worth of trails with trailheads just off the main roadway. But that’s just the beginning of what there is to do at the “Grand Canyon of the East!” There are cabins and campgrounds for camping, and pavilions for picnicking if you’re just spending the day.

Consider staying at Allegiance Bed and Breakfast in Mount Morris just outside of Letchworth State Park for a beautiful bed and breakfast experience in this historic 1838 mansion. All of the rooms have their own individual character and design and it will fee like your home away from home and is especially cozy in fall in upstate New York!

Ithaca’s slogan is “Ithaca is GORGES” because of its gorgeous gorges and waterfalls! You’ll find over 150 waterfalls here in just a 10-mile radius. A lot of them are easy to get to in the many state parks all around Ithaca. 

You can go on a hunt for them all throughout the area, but some of the best Ithaca waterfalls can be found without leaving the city. We loved hiking the Cascadilla Gorge Trail on the grounds of Cornell University. The trailhead at Treman Triangle Park. It’s super easy to get to, and it’s less than a mile long and passes 8 cascading waterfalls. Or in downtown Ithaca, there’s the showstopping Ithaca Falls that’s 150-foot tall!

On a nice cool day, take some time to walk the super cool downtown area where you can find quite a few cool things to do in Ithaca. There were so many streets and shops we loved here. Make sure to take in the historic architecture of this old town and stop in some of the fun and quirky shops. And you have to check out Ithaca Commons, a pedestrians-only street in the heart of the city.

When you’re looking for things to do in Upstate New York in the fall, Ithaca won’t leave you hanging! Nearby there are farms with fall festivals. Stop by the local wineries and vineyards or do a wine trail all around Cayuga Lake. There are also some great breweries, like Ithaca Beer Co. or South Hill Cider, and we already mentioned the multiple state parks just a few minutes from downtown. 

The Firelight Camps glamping experience at the La Tourelle Resort is one of the best glamping options in the state of New York  and an excellent option during fall in upstate New York. The tents are breathtaking and offer views of the forest while also being cozy and comfortable, we seriously love glamping. Or if you prefer a traditional but upscale hotel, check out La Tourelle’s beautiful rooms with sweeping views of the region.

• Watkins Glen

One of our absolute favorite Finger Lakes small towns is Watkins Glen. It’s located at the southern end of Seneca Lake and has so much charm. A fall visit is a must! Take a drive along the Seneca Lake Scenic Byway and visit fruit and dairy farm stores or go on a wine tasting, one of the many amazing things to at Seneca Lake .

If you’re looking for the best waterfalls in New York , you’ll find many of them here. Walk along the scenic Gorge Trail in Watkins Glen State Park where you’ll pass several cascading waterfalls along one of the most beautiful walking trails we’ve ever been on with stone bridges and moss covered rocks. Before turning around, make sure you make it all the way to Rainbow Falls which feels like a scene out of a fantasy film!

Or drive 5-minutes away to Montour Falls and along the way also see She-Qua-Ga Falls, Aunt Sarah Falls, and Eagle Cliff Falls! All of these can be seen from your car (with the exception of Eagle Cliff Falls, it requires a short walk). And on Route 414 you can see another cool roadside waterfall called Hector Falls.

For the best fall foliage in Watkins Glen, take a scenic boat ride on Seneca Lake with Captain Bill’s Cruises or drive to Finger Lakes National Forest. You can go hiking, driving on dirt roads, or camping.

Be sure to stay at the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel , which is the perfect place to stay to not only explore wine country and around Seneca Lake, but it’s also right on the water. The rooms are beautiful and upscale, plus you can request a room with a balcony overlooking Seneca Lake. There are firepits down by the lake and you can easily take a walk along the beautiful waterfront and pier.

• Sleepy Hollow & Tarrytown

If you’re looking for fall day trips from NYC, head to Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow . They’re only about a 30-minute drive from Manhattan, and they’re especially fun to visit in the fall and around Halloween!

Yes, this is the Sleepy Hollow that inspired Washington Irving’s famous short story, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow . In fact, Irving had an estate in Tarrytown and you can visit it today. There are so many things to do that center around the folklore of the Headless Horseman that feel especially spooky on a cool fall day.

But the towns truly come alive in the fall with festive events. The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze is one of the most beautiful events and places to visit in the Hudson Valley . It’s held at Van Cortlandt Manor and features over 7,000 blazing hand-carved pumpkins illuminating the night. And there are different fun activities around the pumpkin theme, like a Pumpkin Carousel. (this is about a 30-minute drive north).

You can go on cemetery tours in Sleepy Hollow or visit local historic mansions that may or may not be haunted. There’s also  Lyndhurst After Dark  where you can learn about the dark spiritual past of Tarrytown’s Lyndhurst Mansion and the Victorian era.  

And with all the grand homes up here, you can stay in one too! Built as a private summer estate in the early 1800s, Tarrytown House Estate has had many lives as it passed through the hands of some big movers and shakers in the United States! There’s even one of the best restaurants in the Hudson Valley located on site in one of the historic buildings known as Goosefeather, a Cantonese restaurant bringing the flavors of Hong Kong to New York with an exceptional weekend brunch.

The entire estate is absolutely gorgeous with a mix of traditional and contemporary design. Choose from over 200 top-notch rooms and suites, some with views of the Hudson River and the fall foliage from your balcony.

Speaking of weekends, be sure to use our guide to how to have a perfect weekend getaway to Sleepy Hollow at Halloween time! And it’s worth spending a long weekend as there are so many charming towns in the Hudson Valley nearby to check out.

• Niagara Falls

We think that Niagara Falls is one of the best places to visit in upstate New York in fall! While most people focus on the Canadian side, the New York side is an outdoor lover’s dream, especially in this season.

Fall is a shoulder season for the area, so you might have the park all to yourself. Before winter rolls in, take the chance to still go on the Maid of the Mist Boat Tour. Or walk out onto the Observation Tower for ultimate leaf peeping with amazing waterfall views. Niagara Falls also has great hiking trails in the park or on Goat Island. 

In the town of Niagara Falls, visit one of the many local wineries or attend a fall festival at a local farm and go apple picking. And there’s always holiday shopping at the Niagara Falls Fashion Outlets.

For an unbelievable stay with views of Niagara Falls, consider staying at one of the rooms with falls views at Hilton Niagara Falls , which is actually on the Canadian side of the falls. 

• Tannersville

If you’re looking for a place with tons of personality, you’ll love Tannersville. It’s one of the more quirky towns in the Catskills full of colorful 19th-century buildings and antique stores. And it’s close to different natural areas.

Go on a gorgeous fall hike at nearby Kaaterskill Wild Forest to Kaaterskill Falls the highest cascading waterfall in the state and you can walk behind the falls. You can enjoy an easy leaf-peeping hike that passes other waterfalls, amazing rock formations, and stunning leaves turning for the season.

Also, close to Tannersville is the town of Hunter. A lot of people think Tannersville and Hunter are the same towns because they’re so close together. Hunter is home to  Hunter Mountain  and the ski resort found there. Before the first snow, there are all kinds of trails, ziplines, and other outdoor adventures to be found there.

And while you’re here, it’s worth taking a scenic drive through the area and checking out some of the unique things to do in the Catskills along the way!

There are so many great places to stay in the Catskills , but one of the best spots near this area is Scribner’s Catskill Lodge . Be sure to take advantage of their perfect outdoor sauna with mountain views at this gorgeous, luxury lodge. Choose between stylish cabin rooms, bungalows, and suites at this sophisticated lodge retreat.

The town of Kingston sits on the western bank of the Hudson River in the Hudson Valley. It’s also another place to add to the list of fall day trips from NYC since it’s only 90 miles north of Manhattan.

It’s an adorable small town with roots going back past the American Revolution for Independence. You can walk through town and down to the century-old  Roundout Lighthouse  on the Hudson River. It’s a nice way to enjoy a sleepy fall day and enjoy the autumn colors all along the water.

For more vintage fun, visit the  Trolley Museum of New York  and take a ride in an old-fashioned trolley through town! Or head to the  Catskill Mountain Railroad  for their fall foliage train that runs a handful of days in October.

Be sure to stay at Hutton Brickyards Retreat and Spa for the ultimate stay during your trip in the fall in Upstate New York. Located right on the Hudson River, this resort has gorgeous rooms, a spa on site, and has put thought into every detail making this an ultimate retreat.

Back in the Finger Lakes is Naples, an absolutely charming town with so much fun to be had nearby! There are amazing eateries and shops. And fun fact: Naples is the grape pie capital of the world. You can find it everywhere, from pie shops to farmers’ market stands, and you should definitely try it!

When it comes to Upstate New York in the fall, Naples shines. Nearby is Grimes Glen Park . It’s open year-round, but the waterfall hike is breathtaking in the fall with all the fall foliage against the rock of the glen. Take a hike along Grimes Creek with different stunning waterfalls. Just beware that the hike is pretty strenuous with slick spots and you’ll want to wear waterproof shoes. But the experience is worth it if you’re up for a challenge for one of the best hidden gems when it comes to waterfalls in the Finger Lakes .

Naples is also near Canandaigua Lake, one of the Finger Lakes. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to take a scenic drive here. There are parks along the lake where you can take in the beautiful scenery with shades of bronze and gold covering the hills around the lake.

If you’re hungry, there are restaurants along the road and wineries and breweries. And at the southern end is Tannery Creek with its many waterfalls that you can explore.

Stay nearby at   1840 Inn on Main a gorgeous bed and breakfast in Canandaigua. This is a perfect pick if you’re looking for an authentic bed and breakfast in a turn-of-the-century Victorian house.  You’re just steps away from restaurants and shops in downtown Canandaigua from your quaint and comfy room. There are 6 different themed rooms to choose from that all include continental breakfast.

• Ausable Chasm

Head north to see  Ausable Chasm  near Lake Champlain on the New York-Vermont border. It’s a sandstone canyon that cradles the winding Ausable River for about 2 miles. It’s been compared to the Grand Canyon, and it’s a special sight to behold.

The Chasm has been a functioning park for over 150 years. There are so many self-guided and guided things you can do here! We suggest starting at the Visitors Center. Check out maps and find out about tours. You try a variety of easy, intermediate, and difficult hiking trails, most of which run close to the chasm. The adventure trail is unbelievable with ropes and suspension bridges and only for the bravest outdoorsman!

One of the biggest reasons visitors come to Ausable Chasm is the waterfalls. You can enjoy chasm waterfalls all along the river, but the biggest draw is Rainbow Falls at the southern end. You can also book white water rapid floats and guided river walks through early October. Or there’s rappelling, rock climbing, and more. If you want to go camping, there are tent sites or you can rent a cabin in the park.

One of the best ways to experience the Adirondacks is to enjoy a cabin rental. Nearby in Jay, New York there are some great cabin rentals just a short drive away from the beautiful Jay Covered Bridge. We recommend this secluded, rustic 3-bedroom cabin or the Wildwood in the Pines luxury cabin stay . 

• Cooperstown

One of the best places to experience fall in Upstate New York is Cooperstown on Otsego Lake in the Catskills. This town is known for the National Baseball Hall of Fame. This is a really cool museum with interactive exhibits and even baseball games. But there’s also so much history in Cooperstown with historic homes, the Farmers’ Museum, and the Fenimore Art Museum.

You can enjoy this iconic American town with manicured parks, beautiful buildings, and fun fall events. Around town, there are several wineries and breweries, one of my favorites being  Brewery Ommengang  which creates Belgium-style beer and cider. Together they make up what’s called the Cooperstown Beverage Trail!

And there are a few ways to go leaf peeping around Otsego Lake. You can just walk from downtown and enjoy the fall foliage from Lakefront Park or Counsel Rock Park. Or you can take the Glimmerglass Queen Tour Boat from Lakefront Park for a look at the foliage from the water!

And stay in a charming bed and breakfast at the Inn at Cooperstown just steps away from Otsego Lake where you can take a scenic stroll enjoying all the fall foliage and steps away from all the attractions downtown.

Be sure to see all the incredible things to do in Cooperstown to plan your visit!

• Minnewaska State Park & New Paltz

For historic towns and beautiful fall foliage consider checking out New Paltz, New York . New Paltz is over 300 years old and was settled in by French Huguenots. The city feels historic with its collection of buildings from different eras.

Take a walk downtown for cool shops, art galleries and museums, and restaurants. It’s all very walkable and it’s fun to see the old buildings! There’s also the historic Huguenot Street featuring 7 preserved stone houses as a kind of living museum.

The town follows the Wallkill River and you can enjoy a fall hike along the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail. It’s a beautiful hike if you’re in upstate New York in the Fall. It’s mostly made up of old railroad tracks and will be part of the Empire State Trail Initiative that runs all the way to Canada when the initiative is complete. 

If you need somewhere to stay nearby, consider the gorgeous Mohonk Mountain House that sits on a ridge overlooking the Mohonk Preserve and is one of the best historic lodges in the state. Together with the Minnewaska State Park, they make up over 10,000 acres of natural land with lots of fall hiking opportunities!

• Alexandria Bay

Located in the very northern Thousand Island Region of New York along the Canada-United States Border is the village of Alexandria Bay. Because of its position so far north, we suggest visiting earlier in the fall, no later than mid-October. This way you’ll be able to get the most out of your autumnal adventures!

The best way to enjoy the beauty of Alexandria Bay in the fall is to take a boat tour of the islands. In the 19th and 20th centuries, the area was a booming resort community with extravagant structures built all over. Today, you can see several of these fascinating resorts and second homes built right up to the edge of many of the tiny bay islands! You’ll see luxurious stone castles surrounded by fall colors, all reflecting off the water, Boldt Castle should not be missed!

Before you head out, check the village’s  fall events lineup . You’ll find autumn walks, fall festivals, and ghost tours. There are also a lot of wine festivals and Oktoberfest events at local wineries and breweries all around the area. They’re definitely worth a visit!

If you’re looking for fall hiking near Alexandria, the challenge will be simply picking which one to choose! There are thousands of acres of land preserves all around. One of the best is on Wellesley Island in Alexandria Bay. There’s the Wellesley Island State Park and the  Minna Anthony Common Nature Center . Both offer historic sites, as well as great trails. You’ll love the scenic views of the bay while you hike in the woods, and there’s a good chance you’ll see swans, ducks, geese, and other water birds.

Stay at The Ledges Resort and Marina for a waterfront location right on the Saint Lawrence River overlooking Boldt Castle!

• Chautauqua Lake

Chautauqua Lake is a perfect fall getaway because of its location less than 15-minutes from Lake Erie west of the Finger Lakes region, while a die-hard New Yorker would say this isn’t ‘upstate New York’ as it’s in Western New York, we are including it!

There are small towns to explore all along the lake. They’re full of charming 19th-century buildings and pretty parks. There’s the city of Jamestown at the southern end of the island, but we love spending most of our time on the northern end of the island!

One of the most popular things to do on the lake is going on boat rides. Most people love to ride the  Chautauqua Belle , a historic steamboat that offers narrated tours about the history of the area. Their fall tours are excellent with beautiful colors! There are also several boat rental companies on the southern half of the lake if you want to go kayaking or book a charter to go fishing.

Something unique to the area is the  Chautauqua Trails to Rails . This is about 28 miles worth of old train tracks that have been turned into great hiking trails on the north side of the lake. The trails are also a popular place for bird watchers and cyclists and make for great leaf-peeping hikes.

And while you’re on the lake in the fall, don’t miss out on the chance to go on the Chautauqua Wine Trail. The trail boasts 23  wineries all along the coast of Lake Erie, and many of them have special festivals and fall events this time of year.

You’ll want to stay at a scenic spot overlooking Chautauqua Lake. We recommend the Maple Springs Lakeside Inn , a stately B&B on a sprawling property with a private dock near Long Point State Park.

• Seneca Falls

If you love history and are heading to upstate New York in fall, make sure to visit Seneca Falls. This beautiful old town is located near Cayuga Lake in the Finger Lakes and has a few claims to fame!

Seneca Falls is most famous for being the birthplace of Women’s Rights. Enjoy a gorgeous fall day and visit the Women’s Rights National Historical Park. They actually offer different tours or you can walk the grounds. See the Wesleyan Chapel where the First Women’s Rights Convention was held in 1848. Many people recognize this as the beginning of the suffragette movement. The Visitors Center has educational exhibits, and you can find out about visiting historic homes of key people in the Women’s Rights Movement.

For movie lovers, you should know that Seneca Falls was the inspiration for Bedford Falls in Frank Capra’s It’s a Wonderful Life ! In fact, it’s the location of the It’s a Wonderful Life Bridge (on Bridge Street). And a few blocks east, there’s also the  It’s a Wonderful Life Museum.  In the fall they’re only open on Sundays from 10 AM to 3 PM. 

The town is also famous for its location on the Seneca River. As part of the Erie Canal project, you’ll find a lot of different tours of the river. In town, you can choose from tours with paddle boats, kayaks, and canoes. Or if you’re willing to drive out a few hours, you can take a scenic Erie Canal cruise with  Erie Canal Cruise  company in Herkimer, New York.

For something truly unique, stay at the Belhurst Castle and Winery nearby on Seneca Lake. The 19th-century stone castle is not only a gorgeous stay but you can also go wine tasting here, explore Geneva and the wineries in the area, plus you’re just a short drive to Seneca Falls.

You don’t want to miss out on Rochester, New York in the fall! Besides being an absolutely beautiful city on the banks of Lake Ontario, this city is packed with culture, amazing places to eat, and the gorgeous Genesee River. A must-do if you’re in Rochester in September is  Fringe Festival . It’s an extravagant event inspired by the festival in Edinburgh. There are all kinds of great events over 12 days.

We loved seeing the majestic High Falls in the heart of Rochester. It’s breathtaking in the fall, surrounded by old industrial brick buildings and trees in varying phases of fall foliage. High Falls is actually in the middle of Rochester’s historic district, and you can take a  self-guided walking tour  of the area. Learn about Rochester’s past as an industrial city around flour production and see what’s left of buildings from the past.

And Highland Park is a great place to visit all year round, but you’ll love it covered in fall foliage! You can walk paths around the Highland Park Reservoir, visit a 19th-century Warner Castle, or see all the beautiful botanical gardens. Make sure to check out the historic art nouveau-style glass greenhouse in the middle of the conservatory. 

In Rochester, you’ll want to stay at the Courtyard by Marriot in Rochester Downtown . Located on East Avenue, you’re just a short walk to many of the main Rochester attractions , bars, and restaurants as well as a short walk to the George Eastman Museum.

You can experience stunning fall foliage in Upstate New York throughout the region, including the Adirondack Mountains, Catskill Mountains, Finger Lakes, Hudson Valley, and the Thousand Islands-Seaway area. Each offers its unique autumn beauty.

Fall foliage in Upstate New York typically peaks in late September to mid-October, varying by location and weather conditions. It’s a beautiful time to visit for vibrant autumn colors.

The Adirondack Mountains in Upstate New York are renowned for their breathtaking fall foliage, with Lake Placid and the High Peaks region offering some of the most stunning and picturesque autumn landscapes in the state.

Best Things to do in Upstate New York in Fall (Post Summary):

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Megan loves cats, pizza, and finding cool themed bars and hotels in New York and on her travels!

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36 Must-See Spots for Fall Foliage in Upstate New York 

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If there’s one thing northerners often take for granted, it’s the colorful autumn season. While New Yorkers are accustomed to seeing their dense forests and majestic mountains change to rich, vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, others have never seen anything like it. 

That’s why hundreds of thousands flock every September and October to places like Upstate New York and New England in the United States. It’s like witnessing nature’s most stunning work of art. 

One of the best places in the northeastern U.S. to view fall foliage is in Upstate NY. Not only is this region chock-full of picturesque small towns , but it’s also brimming with stunning state parks , pristine lakes, and stately mountains. The fall season in New York state is often underrated, but as a frequent visitor, I can confidently say Upstate New York is the perfect place for a unique getaway aglow with magical colors. 

If you’re trying to figure out where the fall colors are in Upstate New York, you’re not the only one. I’ve compiled this list of  must-see spots for fall foliage in Upstate New York from first-hand experience to take the guesswork out of it.

From the serene Finger Lakes and the Hudson Valley to the majestic hills and forests of the Catskills and Adirondacks, there’s no shortage of scenic outdoor adventures with world-class autumn foliage views.

Table of Contents: Jump to

When is the Best Time to See Fall Colors in NY?

First, to see brilliant fall colors in Upstate New York, you must hit the foliage season at peak time. It can be challenging to predict, which is why I love the I LOVE NY.com Fall Foliage report . From September to the end of the foliage season, you will get a weekly report compiled by the dozen leaf-peeping volunteers visually showing you where the colors have started to change and where they will be in the following weeks.

Generally, colors will start to change in the Adirondacks first because of their higher elevation and then slowly creep down into the Finger Lakes, Catskills, and Hudson Valley regions of New York. However, some higher elevations within those areas will also change first.

As a general rule of thumb, early to mid-October is the best time to see fall foliage in Upstate New York, and a fall foliage road trip is the perfect way to experience the excitement.

The Best Spots for Fall Foliage in Upstate New York

I’ve divided this list into four sections, The Catskills, The Hudson Valley, The Adirondacks, and The Finger Lakes. These are the four most predominant areas in Upstate New York to witness the changing leaves. For the most spectacular views, plan your trip during peak foliage. Peak fall foliage season is a popular time of year to visit, but there are more than enough lodging options around these regions if you plan a last-minute trip which is sometimes the best way to make sure you will be able to visit during peak foliage.

With that said, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Upstate New York in the fall where so many unique experiences await. Even if you miss peak foliage (sometimes it only lasts for a few days), there will still be plenty to see and do.

Let’s jump into the best places to see fall foliage in New York!

Adirondacks, NY

Don’t sleep on the Adirondacks, friends! This stunning six-million-acre state park is the largest in the Continental United States, and with it comes the expansive natural beauty of New York State’s highest mountain peaks, winding scenic byways  perfect for a fall road trip , and lakes nestled within forests.

Home so some of the brightest red maples, it’s also one of the best regions for leaf peeping during fall in Upstate New York. If you’re wondering,  How long does fall foliage last in the Adirondacks?  You’ll be happy to know: the Adirondacks have one of the longest  fall foliage seasons  in the United States. 

It starts at the beginning of September and lasts through the end of October. But the best time to visit for peak vibrant autumn colors is late September through early October. 

Here are the top must-see fall foliage spots in the Adirondacks.

Fire Tower Lookout Hikes

Want spectacular fall foliage vantage points with a bit of added history and mystique? You’ll love a fire tower hike . There are 25 fire towers throughout the Adirondacks that you can hike to, many of which sit at mountain summits. Belfry Mountain and Cathedral Mountain are the easiest fire tower lookout hikes, while a half-day is likely needed to hike up Gore Mountain and the Snowy Mountain trail. 

Adirondack Scenic Byways

Want to see a colorful world sail by through your windshield? The Adirondacks are traversed by scenic highways and byways that reveal the most breathtaking fall foliage vistas. 

There are dozens of scenic Adirondack drives, but some of the best are Adirondack Trail, Veterans Memorial Highway Drive, High Peaks Byway, and Whiteface Memorial Parkway Drive.

Whiteface Mountain 

Whiteface Mountain and its surroundings is not only a luxurious ski resort region but it’s also a jaw-dropping place to see peak foliage. You can get to the summit of Whiteface Mountain by driving, hiking, or taking a gondola sky ride to marvel at endless miles of brilliant colors. Peak leaf-peeping here happens in the last two weeks of September (although it can vary from year to year).

Tupper Lake

Tupper Lake is a great place to be in the fall. Surrounding red, yellow, and orange forests, look even more beautiful from your canoe on the water. Wander the forested boardwalk at the Wild Center, or hike one of the Tupper Lake Triad mountains. If you love a laid-back lake vibe, think about spending a weekend near Tupper Lake, where there are many other lakes and nearby mountain trails to help soak in the fall aroma.

Lake Placid

There is something beautiful about vivid autumn leaves juxtaposing against a pristine lake. That’s where Lake Placid comes in. This area is an idyllic spot to view fall foliage with miles of hiking trails and scenic viewpoints from backdoor patios to the state’s highest points.

Stroll through downtown Lake Placid, take a walk around Mirror Lake, or head to the top of the Olympic High Jump Complex for sweeping foliage views of the lake below. Lake Placid offers nature trails for hiking, biking, and outdoor activities, perfect for soaking up a perfect fall day.

Saranac Lake

Lake Placid’s neighbor is just as worthy of a visit if you enjoy unique downtowns, scenic hiking trails, and quaint town streets. The lake offers fun all year long through fishing, boating, and kayaking. In addition, you’ll love the colorful Victorian homes sprinkled along the shoreline that almost outshines the fall foliage they are surrounded in.

Adirondack Mountain Reserve

Prefer to experience the colorful autumn leaves from within? The Adirondack Mountain Reserve is heaven for hikers, with top-notch hiking trails weaving through the vibrant forest. A few not to miss include the Indian Head / Fishhawk Cliffs, a climb up Cascade Mountain, the Mt. Jo and Heart Lake area, and the Roaring Brook Falls trails.

Old Forge is a charming hamlet that sits along the water and is one of the best basecamps for all things Adirondack. For leaf-peeping fun, ride the chair lift to McCauley Mountain, or ride on the Adirondack Railroad through the forest, or glide across one of its many lakes in a kayak. Old Forge also has a great main street with cozy cafes and unique shops full of the area’s best handmade souvenirs.

Keene Valley

The Keene Valley in the High Peaks area of the Adirondacks has all the beautiful fall colors of the Lake Placid area without the swarms of autumn crowds. You can trek up to the Hurricane Mountain fire tower, summit Mount Jo, or take a magical drive along the High Peaks Scenic Byway.

If you don’t mind a moderate to hard hike, the 13-mile loop trail to Indian Head and Rainbow falls is my favorite hike in the region for the best views overlooking the valley and Ausable River below (in fall or not). You will need hiking and parking reservations through hikeAMR.org , and a full day-but it’s truly worth it!

Lake George

In the southern Adirondack region, discover Lake George, a genuinely stunning community in the fall (known as a fantastic winter destination). Its downtown attracts many tourists butt has quieter streets, smaller residential lakes, and plenty of scenic fall foliage drives like Prospect Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway. The second to the third week of October is your best chance to see peak foliage in this area of the Adirondacks.

Saratoga Spa State Park

Another area surrounded by Adirondack Mountain bliss is the town of Saratoga Springs. The town is famously known as a thoroughbred racehorse center with one of the oldest race tracks in the country, but a visit to the state park is a perfect place to enjoy the crisp autumn air and some unique experiences.

Saratoga Springs is dubbed “the Queen of Spas” because of its mineral-rich natural springs that were once believed to hold significant healing properties. The park offers hiking, swimming, golfing, and an educational center.

Ausable Chasm

Ausable Chasm is an adventure center within a scenic gorge in the northeast Adirondack park, complete with water rafting, tubing, rock climbing, hiking, and rappelling.

There is a fee to enter the facility, but you can walk along some of the boardwalks for views of the gorge, multiple waterfalls, and the stunning foliage surrounding them (for free).

Finger Lakes, NY

The Finger Lakes region is a visually stunning upstate New York getaway. It encompasses over 9,000 square miles of pristine lakes, green gorges with  rushing waterfalls , charming farm towns, and a rich indigenous history. 

So many high-altitude vistas make the lakes surrounded by red, gold, and orange leaves look like a painting. There are plenty of state parks, waterfall trails, and cozy villages in this area of Upstate New York. Peak leaf peeping at the Finger Lakes occurs in the first couple weeks of October.

Here are the top must-see fall foliage spots in the Finger Lakes.

Green Lakes State Park

Green Lakes State Park is an unmissable foliage spot in Upstate New York during fall. The unique aquamarine tones of Round and Green Lakes are breathtaking when paired with the burnt reds and yellows of autumn. Take advantage of the park’s ten different hiking trails for the ultimate leaf-peeping experience.

Buttermilk Falls State Park

Buttermilk Falls State Park in Ithaca is bursting with magical natural beauty that comes to life in autumn. Wander along the hiking trails in the upper park to get grand gorge and waterfall views, or head for the lower park’s meadow trail for rich amber and gold. 

Taughannock Falls

For a one-of-a-kind photo op, head for Taughannock Falls State Park. Its roaring waterfall on a cliff cascades into a lush basin. There are multiple ways to view this waterfall, one from the Visitor’s Center overlook and another via the short gorge trail hike to the base of the falls. This waterfall is beautifully framed in fall by reds, oranges, and yellows, making for the perfect fall image.

Finger Lakes National Forest & Towns

This 16,000-acre forest is saturated with scenic hikes, gorges, waterfalls, overlooks, and charming small towns. It is the only National Forest in New York State and is filled with picture-perfect scenery, making for an  excellent road trip experience . Spend some time hiking or biking the 30 miles of forested paths, embark on the Gorge Trail, or head into Ithaca or Canandaigua for idyllic lakefront strolls and a bite to eat. 

Bristol Mountain

This beautiful resort mountain is an excellent spot for an extended getaway. You’ll be able to take an enjoyable 15 min Fall Sky Ride to the summit of bristol mountain to take in the rainbow-colored hills and valley below. An adventure center nearby offers climbing and ziplining through the season’s best views. You’ll also be next door to Canandaigua Lake, enhancing the backdrop’s natural beauty. 

Scenic Finger Lakes Routes

One of the best ways to witness the best views of the Finger Lakes is with a scenic drive . All five major Finger Lakes, including Seneca Lake, Keuka Lake, Cayuga Lake, and Skaneateles Lake, offer scenic drives along their respected lake shore. Some unforgettable routes that take you along the lakes and through rolling farmlands and colorful forests include Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway, Route 14S following Seneca Lake, Route 54A along Keuka Lake, and the County Road 12 Scenic Overlook. 

Carolabarb Park 

The quaint village of Naples and neighboring Carolabarb Park sits on County Route 12 within the Finger Lakes region. This park has incredible fall foliage overlooks in a serene atmosphere. Head to the parking area and witness sweeping views of Canandaigua Lake and the rolling orange and yellow hills of Great Hill Nature Preserve. If you are in the mood for a homemade pie, head to Monica’s Pies, less than 5 mins away.

Letchworth State Park

Known as the Grand Canyon of the east, this state park’s gorge trail winds along the Genesee River, showing off three spectacular waterfalls with drops of over 100 feet. Letchworth is easily enjoyed at any time of the year, but it truly transforms into a leaf-peeping paradise when the foliage starts to pop in late September. 

Watkins Glen State Park

Another gorge trail sure to put a smile on your face is the 3-mile trek along Glen Creek to Rainbow Falls in Watkins Glen State Park. The gorge trail is a highlight on any trip to Watkins Glen, the town at the base of Seneca Lake. Other fun things to do in the area include apple picking, wine tasting, or heading to a local farm where pumpkin patches await.

The Catskill Mountains, NY

The scenic Catskill Mountains are a lush, valleyed region that you won’t want to miss during the fall in Upstate New York. This 700,000-acre mountain belt and forest preserve are super easy to get to, sandwiched between Albany and NYC. 

Its stunning gorges, forested hiking trails, rushing rivers, and rock climbing spots are the perfect setting to witness multicolored forests.

Here are the top must-see fall foliage spots in the Catskills.

Upper Delaware Scenic Byway

There’s nothing quite like a scenic mountain-lined road in autumn. So take a cruise along the 70-mile Upper Delaware Scenic Byway on NY Route 97. This winding road follows the picturesque Upper Delaware Recreational River, set ablaze every fall with vibrant colors. 

Catskill Mountain Railroad

For a unique experience, perfect for the whole family, climb aboard the Catskill Mountain Railroad . Get spectacular views along the former Ulster & Delaware Railroad corridor on their scenic railroad. Some journeys have you leave with your pumpkin plucked straight from the local farm’s pumpkin patches.

Vernooy Kill Falls

The gorgeous Catskills waterfall of Vernooy Kill Falls can be seen in the town of Kerhonkson. The hike to view this waterfall – illuminated by fall colors – is a 3.6-mile round trip. See if you can find the old mill ruins along the way.

Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway

A scenic drive is one of my favorite ways to bathe in the beauty of the best fall foliage. Like Upper Delaware, the 52-mile-long Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway winds through the most beautiful sections of the rolling Catskill Mountains, aglow with colorful foliage. You’ll also appreciate passing through quaint Catskills towns serving up the charm.

Hunter Mountain

Hunter Mountain has excellent fall foliage hikes in its own right, but there are two special features you’ll want to take advantage of. Try the  zipline canopy tour  to enjoy a fast ride through the colorful trees. Or, for something more slow and steady for pictures, ride the Scenic Skyride to the mountain summit.

The Five States Lookout 

This breathtaking observation deck in the northern Catskills of New York is perfectly situated for 360-degree views of the colorful natural scenery. If the weather’s right, you might see NH’s White Mountains, VT’s Green Mountains, the Catskill Mountains, and MA’s Berkshires.

Hudson Valley, NY

The Hudson Valley region in Upstate New York, just north of New York City, is one of the most popular places in the northeast for leaf peeping. And for a good reason! 

With a plethora of leafy state parks, the mighty tree-lined Hudson River, and unique farm towns with charisma, the Valley is a memorable getaway. If you want to enjoy leaf-peeping in Upstate New York during the fall, target the middle of October for the best views.

Here are the top must-see fall foliage spots in Hudson Valley.

Minnewaska State Park

Minnewaska State Park is brimming with incredible fall foliage spots. Take a hike to Awosting Falls, or enjoy views from the forested trails around the lake. This park is truly eye candy from all angles and worth every single one of the ten dollars it costs to park.

Mohonk Mountain House & Preserve

Mohonk Mountain House in New Paltz is a spectacular resort nestled within the serene Mohonk Preserve. This luxurious property is a fantastic place to visit for Hudson Valley fall foliage views, with thousands of acres of forests and private trails. Wander within the colorful forest, then head for the apple orchards.

Bear Mountain State Park

Are you looking for some family fun? Then, bear Mountain State Park is the place for you. It has plenty of space to run and play, with many activities suited for all ages and interests.

Have a picnic lunch, go fishing or boating in Hessian Lake, enjoy nature trails for hiking and biking, and of course, admire the lovely foliage views of the valley. They even have a merry-go-round, zoo, and ice skating rink open to visitors starting in late October. You could easily spend an entire fall day here to make the $10 vehicle fee worthwhile.

Poets’ Walk Hike

The Poets’ Walk is a scenic park and 2.5-mile hike in the heart of the Hudson Valley, and it’s one of the most popular places to view some incredible fall foliage. This relatively flat trek takes you through rolling hills and meadows painted with reds, golds, and oranges. Don’t miss the mythical tree-branch gazebo. 

Croton Gorge Park

Looking for that one-of-a-kind viewpoint for the perfect leaf-peeping photo? Craton Gorge Park has views you won’t forget. The bridge, surrounded by colorful trees, looks spectacular from the base of the Croton Dam. Or head up to the bridge for a different perspective, accessed by a pedestrian foot bath. 

Hannacroix Creek Preserve Waterfall Hike

Conveniently located just south of Albany, the Hannacroix Creek Preserve   is chock-full of accessible autumn hikes that are great for families. The beauty of Hannacroix Creek autumn hikes lies within its scenic vistas and featured waterfall. All hiking trails are well-marked, with minimal elevation.

Wallkill Rail Trail

For a gentle, winding, intimate fall foliage experience, you won’t want to miss the Wallkill Rail Trail in New Paltz. This 23-mile path follows along the beautiful Wallkill River and takes you across scenic bridges over river ridges. So jog it, bike it, or walk it – it’s up to you! 

Sleepy Hollow

Love a small town with chilling history? Washington Irving’s headless horseman comes alive with a visit to the town that inspired the story, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. This small town was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2009 and is extra special in October when the foliage begins to burst with color.

Leaf peep in the cemetery where the former Sleepy Hollow resident (and author), Washington Irving, is buried or along the historic carriage roads in Rockefeller Park Preserve. Also, enjoy a tour of historical sites, including the 110-year-old Rockefeller estate, Kyuit, or Philipsburg Manor, a 1700’s milling and trading center.

Boscobel House & Gardens

The breathtaking, historic Boscobel estate consists of a Georgian mansion, acres of orchards and wooded trails, and beautifully curated gardens. This is what fall in New York is all about – enjoying a serene place to connect and immerse with the natural world as it lights up with magnificent colors.

I hope this post helps you have the best fall experience in New York, and if you are going by road trip-even better! I have a few road trip guides for New York in the fall to the Adirondacks or the Finger Lakes Region to help you plan your trip. No matter where you explore first I promise you will be blown away by the natural beauty of Upstate New York, especially at peak time in the fall.

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Meet Sam, a fearless wanderer and avid solo traveler who has made the world her home. Through cross country road trips, car camping in her SUV and solo adventures to far corners of the globe, she has become an expert in crafting itineraries that balance adventure and self-discovery. Through her insightful tales and practical tips, Sam inspires others to embrace the unknown, break free from conventional boundaries, and embrace the beauty of solo exploration.

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The Best Places To Visit In Upstate New York In Fall!

Apple orchards and pumpkin patches galore, festivals, mountainsides ablaze with color — there is no place quite like Upstate New York in fall.

New York State is an incredible destination year-round, but it especially comes to life as summer fades into winter.

If you find yourself lucky enough to visit this time of year, you’re in for a real treat.

Below are some of the best Upstate New York destinations to visit in fall.

Table of Contents

The Best Places To Visit In Upstate New York In Fall

Sleepy hollow.

Located in the Hudson Valley, this town is famous for The Legend of Sleepy Hollow by Washington Irving.

Irving’s 1820 tale of a headless horseman who terrorizes the village of Sleepy Hollow is one of America’s favorite ghost stories and it’s based off a real-life town in Hudson Valley.

A trip to this halloween-loving town is a no brainer come fall in New York.

Things To Do In Sleepy Hollow During Fall

• Tour the old church and Sleepy Hollow Cemetery. 
• Take a walking tour to learn of the town’s past and Irving’s impact.
• Go for a haunted hayride.
• Tour Irving’s home.  

Lake Placid

One of the best getaways in Upstate is definitely Lake Placid.

Come autumn the changing leaves and crisp air make this the perfect place to enjoy a quiet weekend before winter hits.

Whether you enjoy hiking, kayaking, shopping or spa days you’re sure to something you enjoy in Lake Placid, New York.

Things To Do In Lake Placid During Fall

• Hiking the Adirondacks. 
• Outdoor activities on Mirror Lake.
• Browse the shops downtown.
• Tour the Olympic sites. 

Tip: While you’re in the area be sure to check out the picture-perfect town of Saranac Lake.

Great Jack-O-Lantern Blaze 

Explore an 18th century estate with more than 7,000 different Jack-o-lanterns, all hand-carved by local artists. 

Complete with stories-high spiderwebs and life-size dinosaurs, this Halloween extravaganza is one of the Hudson Valley’s most unique and entertaining events.  

The event runs on select nights from mid-September through mid-November.

You don’t want to miss this one, it’s something you have to see to believe.

Letchworth State Park

Letchworth State Park is one of the best spots for leaf peeping in Upstate. 

Dubbed the Grand Canyon of the East, Letchworth State Park follows the Genesee River for about 17 miles as it flows north through a deep gorge.

The wide and very scenic gorge is home to three spectacular waterfalls — Lower, Middle, and Upper Falls. 

Come autumn the falls are framed by colorful foliage of old-growth oak, maple, and beech trees showing off their vibrant hues. 

Things To Do In Letchworth State Park During Fall

• Go for a hot air balloon ride.
• Hike the gorge.
• Enjoy lunch at Glen Iris Inn. 

Catskill Mountains

Another excellent spot to leaf peep in Upstate is the Catskill Mountains.

With so much to do in this region, in just a short drive from NYC, you’ll have no problem finding a fall-favorite activity here.

You could easily spend your entire trip just exploring the area’s small towns, endless scenic drives, and sweeping, high peak views.

No matter what you decide to do, the Catskills are sure to put you in the mood for fall.

Things To Do In The Catskill Mountains During Fall

• Hike Kaaterskill Falls.
• Join Rail Explorers on a Catskill Mountain railroad ride. 
• Take in the views from Overlook Mountain.
• Grab a drink at Wayside Cider & Taproom.  

Catch A Football Game In Buffalo 

Nothing signals fall quite like the start of football season. 

While the Jets and Giants may be much closer to New York City, don’t rule out Buffalo. 

Buffalo is home to the Bills, one of the longest tenured NFL football franchises, and arguably the most famous fanbase in the sport.

No one tailgates on the level of Bills Mafia, where you’ll find shirtless fans throwing themselves through folding tables to the delight of alcohol-fueled onlookers. 

Don’t worry, you don’t have to participate in the WWE-style celebrations, but you have to admit, it’d be quite the sight to see. 

Fall is the best time to check out a game in Buffalo since the weather is still lovely this time of year.

Bear Mountain State Park 

Bear Mountain State Park has some of the best views of the Hudson River and surrounding valley, which put on a spectacular display during peak fall foliage.  

This is the perfect place to go for a hike or scenic drive as the autumn leaves are changing. 

Plus, the park opens a charming outdoor rink late-fall through winter.

Things To Do In Bear Mountain State Park

• Go for a hike along the river. 
• Ice skate in the outdoor rink (opens late-October).
• Take in the views from Perkins Memorial Tower.

Tip: You may also like Minnewaska State Park Preserve or John Boyd Thacher State Park.

Pumpkinville

With a name like Pumpkinville how could I leave this off a list of Best of Upstate New York in Fall ? 

Located near the small town of Ellicottville, this charming fall village has everything autumn-related you could possibly dream up. 

They’ve got an on-site cider mill, pumpkin carving contests, corn mazes, farm animals, hay rides, fall pastries, and even BBQ. 

This is one of the most fun ways to get your pumpkin on in Upstate.

Upstate Pumpkin Patches

There are tons of great farms and pumpkin patches to visit in Upstate New York in the fall.

Some of the most popular pumpkin patches in Upstate include: 

• Old McDonald’s Farm
• Tim’s Pumpkin Patch 
• Ellms Family Farm 
• The Great Pumpkin Farm
• Elwood Pumpkin Farm 
• F & W Schmitt’s Farm 

Niagara Falls 

Niagara Falls is comprised of three  massive  waterfalls at the southern end of Niagara Gorge, creating the border between Canada and the United States. 

The three falls — American, Bridal Veil, and Canadian Horseshoe — combined have the highest flow rate of any waterfall in North America

That’s on top of a vertical drop of 160 feet… phew!

You won’t believe the spectacular views here.

During the early fall the air is warm and all attractions are still open, but with significantly smaller crowds.

A fall visit will be a completely different experience than in summer.

Wine Tasting In The Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes region is well worth a visit any time of year, but autumn is extra special if you’re a lover of wine.

Grape harvest begins in late-summer, carrying well into fall most years.

If you’ve always wanted a first-hand look at how your wine is made, be sure to visit the Finger Lakes in fall.

Finger Lakes is a massive region with over 100 vineyards.

Its vineyards help New York claim their spot as one of the top wine producing states in the United States. 

Follow the Seneca Lake Wine Trail for some of the area’s best, and don’t forget to check out the local breweries and distilleries as well.

Tip: This region is also famous for all things farm related — ahem apple orchards and pumpkin patches —  and of course lake activities.

Cooperstown 

Explore the National Baseball Hall of Fame as baseball season wraps up and we transition into the colder months. 

Cooperstown sits at the southern tip of Otsego Lake and offers all the charm you’d expect from an Upstate lake town. 

Their downtown area has a beautiful shopping and dining area along the main stretch of town adjacent to the Baseball Hall of Fame.

Whether or not you’re a die-hard baseball fan, the Baseball Hall of Fame comes highly recommended. 

They do an excellent job preserving the game’s history, teaching about its origins, and honoring baseball greats both famous and rarely heard of.

The story-telling here far outweighs the other Hall of Fames I’ve visited, it’ll surely be an experience you and the family will cherish.

Lake George

The Adirondack Mountains are an excellent place to explore during fall and one of the best spots to visit is Lake George.

The 32 mile lake is surrounded by mountain tops and colorful foliage that’ll leave you breathless.

Whether you want to spend a day out on the water or relax in town there’s no shortage of exciting things to do here.

Things To Do In Lake George During Fall

• Get out on the water with Lake George Steamboat Company.
• Take in the views from Prospect Mountain. 
• Go for a scenic drive around the lake. 

Tip: You may also like Lake Champlain.

Watkins Glen State Park

One of the most incredibles state parks in the United States, let alone Upstate, is Watkins Glen.

The gorge is made up of shale, limestone, and sandstone all of which erode at different rates.

The result is dramatic waterfalls, potholes, cascades, plunge pools, and more.

The gorge extends 2 miles while the stream descends 400 feet, generating 19 waterfalls along its course.

The trail includes 800 steps and a number of man-made bridges which blend effortlessly into the surrounding landscape. 

Check out this park in early-October for the best chance of seeing the gorge while the leaves change colors.

Saratoga Springs

Saratoga Springs is a top Upstate destination no matter the time of year.

While the town is famous for summer horse races there’s still tons to do here come autumn.

Check out the Saratoga Balloon Festival or Saratoga Giant PumpkinFest… just a few of their much-loved special events this time of year.

Things To Do In Saratoga Springs During Fall

• Have a spa day at historic Roosevelt Baths & Spa.
• Join a fall festival.
• Go for a spring tasting tour.
• Visit Saratoga National Historic Park.
• Go for a wine tour. 

Apple Picking In Hudson Valley 

Apple picking is one of the most quintessential fall activities.

With so much of Upstate covered in farmland it’s easy to find an orchard not just with apple picking but also live music, fresh cider, pumpkin patches, and cider doughnuts (of course!). 

A few of the many popular orchards in the Hudson Valley region are:

• Cedar Heights Orchard
• Barton Orchards
• Dr. Davies Farm
• DuBois Farms
• Philip Orchards
• Rose Hill Farm

Corning Museum Of Glass

Need a break from the outdoor fall activities? 

The Corning Museum of Glass is one of the most underrated activities you’ll find in Upstate New York.  

Established in the 1950’s, this museum dedicates itself to the art, history, and science of glass and their collection is simply breathtaking. 

For those interested, they also have glassmaking exhibitions and you can even try it out for yourself, which I’d highly recommend.  

In fall they display the world’s largest glass pumpkin and have a make-your-own glass pumpkin course .

Taughannock Falls & Ithaca 

Ithaca, home to both Cornell University and Ithaca College, is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful towns throughout Upstate New York. 

Tucked on the south edge of Cayuga Lake in between some of the state’s most beautiful rolling hills, gorges, lakes, and waterfalls, this college town offers fantastic food, wine, and local orchards. 

While you’re here you must see Taughannock Falls, the 215 foot free-falling waterfall is the second largest in the state and can be easily viewed from an overlook or quick 3/4 mile hike.

Oktoberfest

German or not, beer-lover or not, there’s something for everyone at Oktoberfest.

What’s not to love about quirky games like keg bowling and stein hoisting among live music, lagers, and dessert contests?

Oktoberfest In Upstate New York

There are tons of beer-themed celebrations across Upstate in fall, some of the best festivals are:

• Bear Mountain Oktoberfest
• Lake George Village Oktoberfest
• Trout Town Oktoberfest
• Hamburg Oktoberfest
• Germania of Poughkeepsie Oktoberfest
• Old Falls Street Oktoberfest

Green Lakes State Park

Another gorgeous state park no matter the time of year is Green Lakes State Park.

As you might imagine, Green Lakes State Park is known for two  very  green lakes. 

The reasoning behind the lake’s vibrant hue requires a thorough explanation, but to simplify, the bright, aquamarine color is achieved through a combination of depth, high calcium carbonate concentrations, and photosynthetic bacteria.

Additionally, both lakes are meromictic lakes meaning the layers of water do not mix.

There’s only a handful of these lakes in North America and about 50 of them known across the globe. 

This park really shines when the foliage turns to shades of yellow and red which pop against the bright green lakes.

What Is The Best Time To See Fall Colors In New York?

For the most part, Upstate sees fall colors from mid-September into late-October.

The higher elevations and colder regions will change first, with later fall colors as you get closer to New York City.

For updates keep an eye out for fall foliage reports .

As you can see there are so many incredible things to do in Upstate New York in fall.

I hope this list inspires you to get out and explore all that Upstate has to offer.

Any questions or additional ideas? Please leave a comment below.

If you’d like to follow along with my travels in real time, check out  @seen.by.amy  on Instagram or  @seenbyamy  on TikTok!

Looking for more ideas? Check out my additional Upstate and New York guides below or head on over to Discover Upstate New York .

More Ideas For Upstate New York:

• State Parks In Upstate New York: Top Picks
• Winter Getaways In Upstate New York

More Information For Your New York Adventures:

• Hamptons In The Fall: Top Things To Do
• Montauk: Epic Things To Do
• Sag Harbor, New York: The Top Things To Do
• East Hampton, NY: Exciting Things To Do
• Southampton, New York: The Best Things To Do
• How To Get To The Hamptons
• Hamptons Vacation: What To Know Before Booking
• Greenport, New York: The Best Things To Do
• Long Island’s Waterdrinker Family Farm: Everything To Know

More Information For Your East Coast Travels:

• Stowe, Vermont: Top Things To Do During Fall
• New Hampshire White Mountains: Best Spots For Fall Foliage
• New Hampshire White Mountains: Things To Do
• Boston: The Ultimate Weekend Guide
• Rehoboth Beach, Delaware: What To Do
• Nantucket: Everything To Know About A Day Trip
• Cape Cod 4 Day Vacation Itinerary
• Newport, Rhode Island Weekend Guide
• 9 Day Southern New England Road Trip

Hey! I’m Amy, author of this article and owner of this website. I've lived in Denver, Chicago, New York, Utah, and Arizona. I’ve visited almost all 50 states, and traveled in nearly a dozen countries. I enjoy writing about places I've lived and the many incredible destinations I've visited worldwide. My hope is that my love for travel will inspire others to see more of this beautiful planet.

Disclaimer: This post may contain commissionable links, these are at no extra cost to you, thank you for your support.

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A Complete Guide to Fall in Upstate New York

Fall in upstate New York is a truly magical experience. In September and October, the state is filled with golden yellow and vibrant red leaves. Since the days are still long and the weather is fantastic with warm temperatures, it is our absolute favorite season for outdoor adventures. 

As locals from the Hudson Valley, we have collected our favorite fall in upstate New York activities for you to choose from. It is up to you how active you want to be while experiencing the best season of the year. You can simply drive the scenic roads and stop at some of the quaint, small towns for a wine or beer tasting, or you can dive in deeper and hike on the various hiking trails in and outside of the popular State Parks. 

Fall in upstate New York is also a fabulous season for various events like apple and pumpkin picking and not to forget all the spooky activities. One thing is for sure, you will be busy experiencing the best of fall Upstate New York with all it has to offer.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, we get a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps us create free content for you to enjoy. Learn more about our disclaimer here . Thanks for your support!

Where is Upstate New York?

Before you can start planning your trip to upstate New York in the fall, you need to know what is considered upstate. This question will have a variety of answers depending on who you ask. 

If you ask a native New Yorker from New York City, they will tell you everything above the city is considered upstate. Since New York City is based at the lowest portion of the state, of course geologically everything is upstate from there.

But being a native New Yorker from the Hudson Valley, this is not what I (and most of the other New Yorkers) would consider upstate New York. 

Upstate is anywhere north of Poughkeepsie which is where the Metro-North Railroad line ends. For all of you non-New Yorkers, you can find Poughkeepsie in the middle of the Mid-Hudson Valley region.

In this post, we mainly included locations that we consider upstate New York. Nevertheless, we just had to add some spots which are actually outside of the upstate New York area but north of New York City because they are simply too impressive not to mention.

Best Time to Visit Upstate New York in Fall

Shocking to most, New York is actually a big state which has a variety of landscapes and weather patterns that impact the fall foliage differently. 

Typically the best time to visit upstate New York to see the fall foliage is around the late part of September to mid-October depending on where you are going. Foliage times can change from year to year due to the different weather conditions. 

As a rule of thumb, the fall foliage New York begins earlier in the higher elevation regions of New York like the Adirondacks and Catskills, usually around very late September to early October. As you go to western New York, central New York, and the southern region of New York like the Hudson Valley, peak fall foliage usually happens closer to mid-October. 

Every year when we start planning and preparing for fall in upstate New York adventures, we frequently watch the New York Fall Foliage Report to see how the foliage is progressing in the different regions. This helps us see when we need to be where for optimal fall foliage viewing. 

Don’t stress about your timing too much though. We assure you that if you are visiting around the early October timeframe, you will see some pretty eye-catching fall colors splattered around New York State.

Where are the Best Fall Foliage New York Spots?

Honestly, fall foliage can be seen throughout New York state. But of course, there are some more exceptional spots than others, which are usually more crowded. Here is a list of the upstate New York fall foliage hotspots:

• Adirondacks 
• The Catskills
• Finger Lakes
• Hudson Valley

50+ Things to Do & Places to Visit in Upstate N Y in Fall

We organized our favorite fall in upstate New York activities in different categories. Beginning with the best New York State Parks to visit in the fall, we give you stunning places to go to in the Adirondacks, great orchards for apple and pumpkin picking, spooky Halloween activities, the most impressive corn mazes in New York State, top spots to go beer and wine tasting, stunning hiking trails, entertaining fall festivities, and scenic railroads.

Visit New York State Parks 

The state of New York has 180 parks which provide countless activities to explore the state’s natural landscape. A visit to one of New York’s State Parks is the perfect way to escape the grind of everyday life. Head to a park to enjoy the fall upstate New York. 

Bear Mountain State Park

Bear Mountain State Park is a popular spot to visit during the fall in upstate New York. The park sits on the banks of the Hudson River surrounded by rugged mountains. 

One of our park’s favorites is the view from the Perkins Memorial Tower which provides breathtaking vistas of the Hudson River valley. If you are looking for some exercise, you can hike 3 miles on the Appalachian trail to reach the tower, or you simply drive up.

In the park, you can also enjoy spacious picnic spots, lake views, hiking trails, biking, and boating. 

Location: Rockland & Orange Counties Region: Hudson Valley

Harriman State Park

Make sure you don’t get lost in Harriman State Park since it is the second-largest state park in New York. The park provides 200 hiking trails, 31 lakes and reservoirs, 2 beaches, camping areas, and tons of scenic roads and vistas. 

You can choose to circle around the park on the scenic roads to peep at fall foliage or set up a picnic near a lake and gaze out over the water with mountainous views in the background. There is not a bad spot in the park to witness the colorful landscape of fall in upstate New York. 

Watkins Glen State Park

Situated in New York’s Finger Lakes region, Watkins Glen State Park is a top destination for visitors all year round. However, the park shines a little bit more during the fall in upstate New York because it is surrounded by dazzling colors of burnt oranges, deep reds, and bright yellows. 

We would highly recommend spending the most time walking the gorge trail. This magical 1.5-mile trek will leave you absolutely speechless as you admire 19 waterfalls surrounded by stunning cliffs and lush forests.

A moderate man-made trail with roughly 800 stone steps provides hikers access to one of the most beautiful areas in New York State. Once in the gorge, the trail is relatively flat with many uneven wet surface areas, so make sure to take your time.

We promise you won’t be bored on this trail as there is something exciting to see around every corner. From passing by waterfalls to going underneath them.

Location: Watkins Glen, NY Region: Finger Lakes / Southern Tier

Minnewaska State Park

Minnewaska is one of our go-to State Parks for every season.  This park happens to sit along the Shawangunk Mountain ridge at 2,000 feet above sea level and is filled with rough and rocky terrain. 

The best way to explore the gorgeous landscape with dramatic ledges, glistening waterfalls , and dense hardwood forests is by hiking on the several Minnewaska State Park trails .

Visitors can also enjoy other fun activities from biking and horseback riding on the carriageway trails, climbing up epic cliffs, swimming in three sparkling lakes, picnicking with beautiful views of New York’s Hudson Valley, and more. 

Location: Ulster County Region: The Catskills

Letchworth State Park

Letchworth State Park has been deemed the Grand Canyon of the East. It is easily one of the most scenic areas in New York and the eastern United States. The extensive beauty of the park is undoubtedly home to some of the best hikes, views, and waterfalls in upstate New York.

Letchworth lengthy Gorge Trail is a popular park favorite. The trail follows along the rim of the gorge offering dramatic views of the Genesee River and 3 major waterfalls.

On the hike, you will pass the Lower Falls, Middle Falls, Upper Falls, and Inspiration Point, a fantastic overlook that features the perfect view of the Middle Falls and Upper Falls. On your way, you will also find plenty of picnic areas perfect for taking a scenic break during fall in upstate New York.

You have the option of starting the trail from either end or you can choose to only hike sections of the trail. There is easy access due to the various parking lots throughout the park.

Location: Castile, NY Region: Finger Lakes / Southern Tier

Niagara Falls State Park

A trip to New York would not be complete without visiting the famous Niagara Falls. Even though Niagara Falls State Park is a prominent tourist attraction all year long, there is something a little special about seeing this place during the fall. 

To enjoy the most and best features of the area, we highly recommend taking a hike on the 9-mile Niagara Rim Gorge Trail. It will lead you through 3 State Parks with many astonishing features along the way.

You start in the Devil’s Hole State Park, where a wide flat trail follows the Niagara Gorge through the forest. At about 1 mile into the trail, you will have a chance to even descend down into the gorge on the Devil’s Hole trail. Throughout the hike, you get numerous unique views of the Niagara River below.

As you continue along the trail you will enter Whirlpool State Park where you can witness the whirlpool rapids of the river. Continue the trail, and you will eventually end up in Niagara Falls State Park to view the American Falls, one of the 3 waterfalls belonging to Niagara Falls.

Location: Niagara Falls, NY Region: Western New York 

Taughannock Falls State Park

Another Finger Lake region hotspot is Taughannock Falls State Park. Although the park is a popular year-round favorite for many reasons, the fall in upstate New York provides a magical backdrop of colors surrounding the park’s best feature Taughannock Falls. 

There are two ways to see Taughannock Falls which offer totally different viewing experiences. Falls Overlook is an Instagram worthy viewpoint that showcases an incredible birds-eye view of the falls. 

To get up close to Taughannock Falls, you have to park in the lot at Route 89. From there, take the 1-mile gorge trail to the base of Taughannock Falls. It is an extremely easy flat walk through the woods. Take a moment and look up and around at the massive 400-foot cliffs that are surrounding you. Once you reach the 215-foot waterfall, it is so powerful that you can feel the overspray as you walk across the tiny bridge before reaching the viewing platform at the base.

Location: Trumansburg, NY Region: Finger Lakes / Southern Tier

Explore the Adirondack Region

The Adirondacks is an outdoor paradise. It is filled with glistening waterfalls, breathtaking hikes, magnificent fall foliage, and a beautiful mountain range. A visit to the Adirondacks is perfect during the fall in upstate New York. 

See the Fall Foliage Reflection in Mirror Lake

Lake Placid is normally known for being a top tourist destination for all things winter. However, we visited Lake Placid in every season and can assure you that you shouldn’t underestimate this charming little Adirondack town during the fall in upstate New York. The heart of the town sits along Mirror Lake which ironically provides a gorgeous mirror reflection of the surrounding fall foliage. 

Being located in the Adirondacks, it goes without saying, there are tons of outdoor activities to enjoy. You can easily spend the day connecting with nature and return to Lake Placid in the evening to enjoy shopping along the main street, dine in the numerous restaurants, or have a drink at a brewery. 

Location: Lake Placid

Explore the Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks – Ausable Chasm

Ausable Chasm is one of the oldest natural attractions in America and it totally blew us away when we visited it for the first time. Also known as the Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks, you can expect extensive views of the sandstone gorge all around you.

There are a variety of activities to do, from rock climbing to rafting, and of course, hiking, which makes this place a must-see destination in fall in upstate New York.

With just a few shorter trails, you can easily experience all of the park in a couple of hours. We would suggest starting your loop on the Rim Walk Trail and continuing on the Inner Sanctum Trail. This route will get you a broad view of the Ausable Chasm. It is an easy walk where you can explore both, the lush forest above and the natural geology of the sandstone gorge up close.

Note: You have to pay an admission fee to enter the gorge and its hiking trails. The price depends on which activity you want to experience. Hiking the trails is the cheapest option and will cost you $19.95 (13+).

Hike the Indian Head & Rainbow Falls Trail

You have probably seen the infamous social media picture of the iconic Indian Head trail during the fall all over the internet. Indian Head (+Rainbow Falls) is one of the absolute best hiking trails to do in the fall in upstate New York. It got so popular that you need a permit to hike this trail during the busy fall in Upstate New York season.

Once you reach Indian Head Point you will be overlooking Lower Ausable Lake surrounded by bursting colors of oranges, reds, yellows, and greens from a rocky overhang. 

Read more about how to hike Indian Head and Rainbow Falls during the fall in upstate New York by reading our detailed guide which covers everything you need to know about the trail, the permit, how to get there, and more. 

Chase Waterfalls in High Falls Gorge

High Falls Gorge is a privately owned nature park in the Adirondacks, just minutes from Whiteface Mountain. Along the park’s easily accessible and walkable pathway, you can view 4 waterfalls cascading over rocks into a deep gorge carved out billions of years ago.

A visit to the High Falls Gorge is much more than seeing some beautiful waterfalls in New York. The nature park is also home to some of the oldest rocks in the world, some of New York’s largest natural potholes, seasonal wildflowers, and icy formations.

Fall in upstate New York is a great time to visit because the gorge is surrounded by alluring fall colors. 

Note: To see these natural wonders you have to pay admission. In the summer season (May-October) it will cost you $15.95 (13+).

Location: Wilmington, NY

Trek the Roaring Brook Falls Trail

We didn’t expect too much from this waterfall in NY when we first visited but it turned out to be one of our favorite spots to see in fall in upstate New York. Since it is still a hidden gem, we didn’t even have to share the impressive vistas with other people.

Roaring Brook Falls approximately drops 300+ feet. It can be seen along Route 73 from a pull-out or from two short easy trails. The trek to the base is a 0.6 miles flat trail starting at the parking lot. The second option leads you to the top of the falls which is a 1.0-mile hike up a small ascent.

We opted to do both of the trails to experience Roaring Brook Falls from the top and bottom and we would highly suggest doing the same. If you are going to do just one trail, you have to hike to the top. You don’t get to see too much of the waterfall itself, since you are literally standing on rocks on top of it, but the views looking out over the Adirondacks are incredible, especially during the fall foliage. 

Location: Keene, NY

Take the Gondola Ride up Whiteface Mountain

Experience the colors of fall in upstate New York on a 15-minute gondola ride up Whiteface Mountain. In those 15 minutes, you will be awe-struck by the beauty of the Adirondack Mountain range as they are beautifully colored in shades of oranges, reds, and yellows. 

The gondola ride takes visitors from the base of Whiteface Mountain to the peak of Little Whiteface. Once at the peak, you can walk around the peak and catch a view of the actual Lake Placid, the Village of Lake Placid, and various other Adirondack peaks.

Top Tip: You can also opt to drive up Whiteface Mountain along the Veterans Memorial Highway which is slightly cheaper than taking the gondola. We totally enjoyed driving up this scenic highway. Since the traffic was horrendous, we had even more time to enjoy the surrounding vistas.

Apple & Pumpkin Picking at Orchards

Would it really be fall in upstate New York, if you didn’t go apple or pumpkin picking? Visiting orchards is a quintessential fall in upstate New York activity. There are numerous orchards to choose from scattered throughout the state. 

Soons Orchard

Soons Orchard is one of our personal favorites for fall in upstate New York located in the mid-Hudson Valley Region. Here you can pick your own apples and pumpkins on the weekend, shop in the store for fresh fruits, vegetables, and the best cider donuts around, as well as hang out and have a drink at the cider mill. 

Location: New Hampton, NY Region: Hudson Valley

Stone Ridge Orchard

Stone Ridge Orchard knows all about apples after 200 years of perfecting the growing process, from just a few trees perched on top of a hill to fields of trees. The orchard is tucked away in the Roundout River valley between the Shawangunk and the Catskill Mountains. 

Now, Stone Ridge has expanded their fruit growing to include cherries, peaches, nectarines, plums, strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, pumpkins, and more. 

Unfortunately, only a few select fruits are available to pick on your own. But all the other fruits are available for purchase in the store. 

Location: Stone Ridge, NY Region: The Catskills

Rulfs Orchard

Rulfs Orchard is a family-run farm that started out small and grew over the years with more diversified crops. Here, you can find all the good stuff, from apples to tomatoes, corn, a cider mill, and even a bakery. This orchard is a popular fall in upstate New York destination. 

Besides picking your favorite fruits and pumpkins, you can also journey through a corn maze, shop in the general store, and pet animals at their petting zoo. 

Location: Peru, NY Region: Adirondacks

Indian Ladder Farms

Indian Ladder Farms is the most popular orchard in the Capital Region in upstate New York in fall. It is a family-owned farm that is committed to growing the best apples in the area. At the farms, you can roam through the apple fields and pick your own, have a glass of cider at their cidery, and eat up tasty cider donuts at their cafe and bakery. 

If you do plan on visiting during the fall in upstate New York, plan accordingly because the crowds are big!

Location: Altamont, NY Region: Capital Region  

Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard

The Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard is a more unique orchard to visit in upstate New York in the fall. It is located just minutes from the cute town of Cooperstown on the banks of Fly Creek. 

This orchard has a unique way to produce cider. They use a water-powered cider mill to press the fruits which creates their fresh sweet cider. Besides the tasty cider, you can also indulge in a variety of specialty foods, wines, and hard ciders. 

Location: Fly Creek, NY Region: Mohawk Valley

Get Spooked on Halloween Themed Activities

What better way to participate in fall in upstate New York than going to a Halloween-themed activity? Here are some fun scary and not-so-scary activities to do in the fall in upstate New York.  

Admire Tons of Carved Pumpkins at the Great Jack-O-Lantern Blaze 

This Halloween-themed activity is one of the most popular attractions during the fall in upstate New York. You can expect tickets to be sold out and crowds to be heavy every year no matter what day you go. 

The walk-through experience is lit up with thousands of hand-carved pumpkins set up in elaborate displays. The larger than life displays have synchronized lighting and music which play specifically for each installation. 

Note: You can find a couple of other similar walk-through experiences in upstate New York in the fall but this one is hands down our favorite. The density of displays is breathtaking, you will find beautifully decorated pumpkins wherever you look. See for yourself why this is a one-of-a-kind experience in fall in upstate New York. 

Location: Croton on the Hudson, NY Region: Hudson Valley

Enjoy Family Fall Activities at Pumpkinville

Going pumpkin picking is something you have to do in upstate New York in the fall. That’s why a trip to Pumpkinville is a must. It is open from early September to the end of October. 

You can browse through thousands of pumpkins on the 5-acre patch to find the best one to decorate your home or carve your jack-o-lantern. But there is more than just pumpkins. Also enjoy the variety of family fun activities for both the kids and adults, tasty treats, and food.

Location: Great Valley, NY Region: Western, NY

Tour the Creepy Sleepy Hollow Cemetery

Sleepy Hollow Cemetery is located in the town of Sleepy Hollow and is known for being the final resting place for a bunch of famous figures.

The cemetery offers a variety of tours from a classic daytime tour to evening tours and murder and mayhem tours. Taking a walking tour of the cemetery by lantern creates the perfect setting to unlock the secrets buried beneath the stones. It is a great mix between being a little spooky and historical truth. 

Top Tip: On two weekends in October the town of Sleepy Hollow offers a haunted hayride through the woods, passing the Sleepy Hollow cemetery. We are both chickens when it comes to haunted houses but this hayride with its several life scenes had the perfect amount of scare factor for us. 

Location: Sleepy Hollow, NY Region: Hudson Valley

Survive the Headless Horseman Hayrides and Haunted Houses

The Headless Horseman is a popular spooky attraction located a few miles from Kingston. This outdoor haunted attraction includes a hayride, corn maze, and multiple haunted houses. 

There is no doubt you will get scared more than once. If you are into being spooked, scared, and startled, a trip to Headless Horseman is the destination for you in the fall in upstate New York. 

Location: Kingston, NY Region: The Catskills

Walk Through a Glowing Pumpkin Art Installation at Peace, Love, and Pumpkins

See the birthplace of the original Woodstock Festival in a different light during the fall in upstate New York. Bethel Woods Center for the Arts outdoor Halloween walk-through features hand-carved pumpkins and glowing pumpkin art installations. Halfway through your walk, you can enjoy snacks, drinks, a cozy fire, and live music. 

If you want to feel your adrenaline rushing through your body, visit during their Friday Fright Nights.

Top Tip: For only $5 you can visit the Museum at Bethel Woods which gives you plenty of information about the famous Woodstock Festival. It is an amazing deal since regular admission without visiting the events at Bethel Woods is $19. 

Location: Bethel, NY Region: The Catskills

Take a Spooky Ghost Tour

What better way to get into the spirit of fall in upstate New York than taking a ghost tour? With so many ghost tours offered around New York State, we would suggest googling your location and ghost tours in the area to find the best one for you. 

Free Tours on Foot offers some great ghost tours in NYC. For those who are not familiar with their concept, it is a pay-what-you-wish tour. The tours are not only good for your wallet, but they are also led by very knowledgeable, fun people.

Top Tip: If you are looking to really jump out of your socks, you can check out the Haunted History Trail of New York State to find all the best haunted places.

Get Lost in a Corn Maze

Test out your navigation skills as you try to find your way through a corn maze. Fall in upstate New York means corn mazes are in full swing and ready for visitors. See if you can make your way out!

Kelder’s Farm Maze

Kelder’s Farm is a great spot for all things family fun in fall in upstate New York. One of the farm’s highlights is the corn maze. Each year the farm maps out a different design which you have to navigate through. 

After you have successfully made it through the maze, there are tons of farm attractions and activities for all ages. 

Location: Kerhonkson, NY Region: The Catskills

Great Adirondack Corn Maze

Appreciate what could be the largest piece of art in the Adirondacks at Tucker Farms at the Great Adirondack Corn Maze. The maze is open from August to the end of October from Thursdays to Sundays. Each year the maze is created in a different design with a specific theme. 

There are 8 mailboxes hidden throughout the maze with small pieces of paper for a little extra help. If you happen to see all mailboxes and collect all 8 papers, you can piece them together on your game board to have a complete map of the maze to make your way out.

Location: Gabriels, NY Region: Adirondacks 

Fort Ticonderoga’s Heroic Maze

History buffs especially will love Fort Ticonderoga’s Heroic Maze. While making your way through the maze, don’t forget to look out for historical clues along the way which connect to the story of the fort. 

Even though this is one of the more challenging mazes, it is still fun for everyone. 

Location: Ticonderoga, NY Region: Adirondacks

Attend a Fall Festival

Fall festivals are a great way to appreciate the fall in upstate New York. You can choose from food, drink, music, cultural, and of course Halloween-themed festivals all throughout New York state. 

Warwick Applefest

Warwick’s Applefest is a favored event by locals and visitors alike during the fall in upstate New York. It has been named a must-attend family-friendly festival of the year event by multiple travel tourism organizations, media outlets, and newspapers. 

Admission to the festival is free, but do expect it to be packed. The event features tons of vendors, music, entertainment, farm markets, and more. 

Location: Warwick, NY Region: Hudson Valley

Saratoga Giant Pumpkinfest

Have you ever seen a giant pumpkin? If not, head to Saratoga’s Giant Pumpkinfest to see pumpkin growers compete for the biggest and heaviest pumpkin. It is a free family event. 

Top Tip: If you visit on Wednesdays or Saturdays check out the nearby Saratoga Farmer Market. Besides finding dozens of food vendors they also host special events.

Location: Saratoga, NY Region: Capital Region

Apple Harvest Festival

Apple Harvest Festival in downtown Ithaca celebrates all things apples during the fall in upstate New York. The festival runs for an entire weekend with a plethora of farm stands with fresh apples, produce, baked goods, cider, and more. It is a great place to spend a warm sunny day in the fall in upstate New York. 

Location: Ithaca, NY Region: Finger Lakes / Southern Tier

Bear Mountain Oktoberfest 

Since this post is partly written by a German, we simply had to include an Oktoberfest in our top things to do in fall in upstate New York post. Pig out and drink up at one of the most popular Oktoberfest during the fall in upstate New York at Bear Mountain State Park. 

The event usually takes place for 4 weekends in October. There is live music, tons of food and drinks, and activities for all ages, even the kids. 

Believe it or not, due to Covid we didn’t get the chance to visit the festival so far but can’t wait to finally have some German beer and listen to good ol’ German music.

The Great Pumpkin Farm Fall Festival

Visit the Great Pumpkin Farm for their yearly fall festival which runs from mid-September to late October. This festival is filled with tons of unique activities which makes it one of our favorite fall festivals in New York State to attend.

Enjoy the usual favorites like corn mazes, a petting zoo, and hayrides but also the spooky boo barn for kids, amusement rides, the zombie paintball train, and pumpkin cannons. It is a great place to spend a beautiful day during fall in upstate New York. 

Location: Clarence, NY Region: Western New York

Lake George Oktoberfest & Fall Festival

Head to upstate New York during Columbus Day weekend to enjoy an interpretation of a German Oktoberfest at the Lake George Oktoberfest and Fall Festival. We visited a couple of years ago and can tell you it did not disappoint. Unlike many other Oktoberfests, this one is completely free of charge which is a very nice bonus.

To kick off the start of fall in upstate New York the heart of Lake George becomes transformed into a Bavarian-style festival. The festival runs the entire weekend starting on Friday evening. Enjoy typical polka music, dancing, local artisan vendors, rides, and classic German foods and drinks. 

Location: Lake George, NY Region: Capital Region

Taste the Craft Beer, Cider, and Wine

Taste yourself through the fall in upstate New York in the various breweries, cideries, wineries, and distilleries. The fall months in New York are filled with warm weather, so pack your picnic blanket, head over to one of these spots and relax on their lawn. 

Angry Orchard

You have probably had at least one Angry Orchard cider before, but have you visited the original Angry Orchard location in Walden, New York? This is for sure a very special experience since it showcases in different ways how the cider is made.

At the cidery, you can enjoy their tasting room, tour the orchard, take a guided tour of the facility, lounge out on the lawn, or hang out around a fire pit with a cider in hand. It is even better to visit during the fall in upstate New York because it is apple harvesting season. 

Location: Walden, NY Region: Hudson Valley

Hudson Valley Beer Trail 

Touring the Hudson Valley Beer Trail is your pathway to some of New York’s finest beers. The trail provides a great opportunity for beer lovers to learn more about the American craft beer scene. 

You can opt for visiting some of the participating breweries on your own or take a guided beer tour of 3 breweries. This is a great way to get together with friends and family and enjoy fall in upstate New York without worrying about who has to drive home.

Region: Hudson Valley

Cooperstown Beverage Trail

Interested in tasting more than one kind of booze? Then you will enjoy the Cooperstown Beverage Trail . It is made up of 8 beverage locations featuring breweries, wineries, and cider mills. The trail runs about 37 miles in length and highlights the area’s best drinks and cuisines. You can start anywhere on the trail. Once you have collected all the stamps from the 8 locations, you will receive a free trail gift. 

Here are the locations along the trail:

• Cooperstown Brewing Co.
• Brewery Ommegang
• Montezuma Winery
• Pail Shop Vineyards
• Fly Creek Cider Mill
• Rustic Ridge Winery
• High Burl Brewery
• Honeypot Farms Meadery

Location: Cooperstown, NY Region: Mohawk Valley

New York Cider Week 

New York Cider Week dedicates a week during the fall in upstate New York to everything about cider. Throughout this week, you can take part in tours, tastings, dinners, visit cider locations, meet cider makers, and more. 

Visit the New York Cider Week website for detailed information about what is happening during Cider Week in the different parts of upstate New York.

Adirondack Craft Beverage Trail 

Sign up for the Adirondack Craft Beverage Trail Passport and hit all 16 craft beverage spots in Essex, Warren, Washington, and Saratoga counties. 

Drink local, have a little fun, and even win some prizes when you hit all the locations. 

Here are the included venues for the passport:

• Adirondack Pub & Brewery
• Adirondack Winery
• Battle Hill Brewing Company
• Bolton Landing Brewing Company
• Common Roots Brewing Company
• Cooper’s Cave Ale Company
• Lake George Distilling Company
• Ledge Rock Hill Winery
• Mean Max Brew Works
• Northway Brewing Co.
• Paradox Brewery
• Queensbury Adirondack Winery Headquarters
• Slickfin Brewing Company
• Springbrook Hollow Farm Distillery

Region: Adirondacks

New York Wine Trail

Love wine? Then take a trip around upstate New York in Fall and sip on a variety of delicious wines throughout the state on one of the many wine trails. New York State is actually one of the top five wine producing regions in the USA. The Finger Lakes region is especially famous for its tasty booze. Other main producing areas include Lake Erie, the East End of Long Island, and the Hudson Valley.

Here are the most popular wine trails to visit in fall in upstate New York:

• Canandaigua Lake Wine Trail
• Keuka Lake Wine Trail
• Cayuga Lake Wine Trail
• Seneca Lake Wine Trail
• Dutchess Wine Trail
• Shawangunk Wine Trail
• Upper Hudson Wine Trail
• Lake Erie Wine Country
• Niagara Wine Trail
• Adirondack Coast Wine Trail
• Lake Ontario Wine Trail
• Thousand Islands – Seaway Wine Trail

Top Tip: As Hudson Valley Locals, we purchased the Hudson Valley Wine Tasting passport which gives you one free wine tasting at the participating wineries from January to the end of August. It is a great way to find new favorite wines from less visited, family-owned wineries. This is not a recommendation for the fall in upstate New York but when you happen to be around during the spring and summer seasons, it is a great deal you shouldn’t miss. 

WNY Beer Trail

Join in the fun with the WNY Beer Trail Pass which celebrates the craft beer scene around the Buffalo and Rochester area of NY. For only $30 you get a discount at 53 breweries, beer bars, cideries, meaderies, and a distillery. Every location offers different deals, from 2 half-price drinks to discounted flights, drinks to go, and merchandise.

It is a great way to support local drinkeries, have fun, and enjoy the fall in upstate New York. 

Region: Western New York

Hike Scenic Trails to See Fall Foliage 

Hiking on the various astonishing trails in New York is by far our favorite activity during the fall in upstate New York. We are definitely not alone in this opinion. Visitors from all over come to New York and the surrounding New England area to admire the beautiful fall foliage colors. Make sure to get to the trailheads early since it can get tricky to get a parking spot in the later morning.

These are our recommendations of  trails to take throughout New York which provide unforgettable fall views. 

Giant Ledge & Panther Mountain Trail 

This is definitely a trail you will not want to miss out on during fall in upstate New York. Be ready for a leg-burning climb as you make your way up. At the top, you won’t even remember that your legs are tired because you will be awestruck by the amazing views of the Giant Ledges and the vast colors of the Catskill Mountains. This trail is known to be muddy so be prepared with proper footwear. 

Top Tip: If you are not up for a long, intense trail, just hike until Giant Ledge and turn around. You will still be able to enjoy the breathtaking views but can save some energy for the next hiking adventure in upstate New York. 

Location: Shandaken, Ulster County Region: Catskills

Anthony’s Nose Trail

Anthony’s Nose hike is one of the most well-known hikes in the Hudson Valley and a very popular day trip from New York City . It is part of the Hudson Highlands State Park, one of the many beautiful New York State Parks scattered throughout New York .

On this short hike, you will make your way up to the famous rock formation where the trail got named after. Anthony’s Nose Peak is almost directly above the east end of the Bear Mountain Bridge, so expect beautiful views of the Hudson River, spectacular waves of mountain ranges, and the iconic Bear Mountain Bridge.

Note: Parking is very limited on this trail. When we arrived around 10:00 AM to hike Anthony’s Nose in the fall, we couldn’t find any spots anymore and had to turn around. The next time we planned on visiting, we made sure to arrive earlier and that time we got lucky.

Location: Hudson Highlands State Park Region: Hudson Valley

Overlook Mountain

Head up to the Catskill Mountain region to enjoy a wonderful hike up Overlook Mountain. Hiking this trail is a nice addition to a trip to one of the top charming Hudson Valley towns of Saugerties and Woodstock.

However, this trail is not just a walk in the woods. The Overlook Mountain trail consists of steep inclines which gain quite a bit of elevation in the 4.6 miles to the summit. At just about 2.0 miles into the hike, you will reach the ruins of the Overlook Mountain House. From there, it will take about another 0.5 miles to reach the Fire Tower at the Summit.

At this point, you may be a little exhausted, so take a break before climbing up the Fire Tower. If you happen to be hiking on a clear day, you may even be able to see distinct Hudson Valley landmarks.

Location: Woodstock, NY Region: The Catskills

Verkeerderkill Falls 

Verkeerderkill Falls is one of the most impressive waterfalls in the Sam’s Point Area in Minnewaska State Park Preserve. Seeing the waterfall dropping down 187 feet is a spectacle in itself but getting there is a huge part of the adventure too.

On the 6-mile hike to Verkeerderkill Falls , you will pass the most famous viewpoint in Sam’s Point Area (Sam’s Point Overlook), walk along the beautiful ridges of the Shawangunk Mountains, and enjoy wildlife (especially birds), rare species of high altitude pitch pine barrens, and other common flora and fauna plants.

Location: Minnewaska State Park Region: The Catskills

Gertrude’s Nose Trail

Gertrude’s Nose is one of the most popular hikes in Minnewaska State Park . This moderate trail offers dramatic views of the rugged Shawangunk Mountains while leading you through dense hardwood forests, and over massive boulders. You even get to pass a crystalline lake which you might want to take a dip in when hiking this trail in the hotter months.

If you plan on doing this hike during fall in upstate New York, make sure you are prepared by reading our comprehensive guide of the trail.

Breakneck Ridge Trail

Hiking Breakneck Ridge is not just one of the local’s favorites, people come from far away for this breathtaking day hike in the Hudson Valley. On top of that, Breakneck Ridge is easily accessible by train for people without cars coming from NYC or the surrounding area. 

The trail is not to be underestimated with its steep rocky ascend, gaining a lot of elevation in its first mile. But the sweeping views of the Hudson River and dozens of impressive landmarks make it well worth it. Oh and did we mention it is a perfect spot to stop and peep the New York fall foliage, making it an ideal fall in upstate New York destination? 

One thing we highly recommend if you plan on doing this trail, especially during the most popular time of the year, do your research ahead of time by reading our inclusive guide on the trail. 

Location: Near Cold Spring, NY Region: Hudson Valley 

Vroman’s Nose Trail

Vroman’s Nose is the most popular hiking trail in the Hudson Valley within Schoharie County because of its uniquely shaped “nose-looking” feature. The trail begins with a steady, not-so-bad incline before reaching a trail junction where hikers have the option to go 1 of 2 ways. You can choose to hike up the short and steep trail or take the longer path with less incline.

As you approach Vroman’s Nose, the views of Schoharie Valley begin to make their appearance. Continuing along the edge of the trail, you will come across a section better known as “the Dance Floor.” It is a large flat rock surface perfect for pausing and taking in the view.

Location: Fulton, NY Region: Mohawk Valley 

Storm King Mountain Trail

The Storm King Mountain hike offers an opposing view from the popular Breakneck Ridge Trail from across the river. Similar to its counterpart, the hike up Storm King Mountain showcases excellent outlooks of the Hudson River and other prominent Hudson Valley features.

To enjoy these views, it will require an extended steep uphill climb before it flattens out to a more mellow hike through a forested area. The top offers open views and is a perfect place to have a picnic lunch to rest and take it all in during the fall in upstate New York.

Location: Cornwall-on-Hudson, New York Region: Hudson Valley

Walkway over the Hudson

Walkway Over the Hudson is not your ordinary hiking experience in the Hudson Valley. This easy 3.2-mile walk takes you on a pedestrian bridge over the Hudson River. It is a favorite attraction for locals and tourists alike.

As you walk over the bridge, you immediately take in the stunning panoramic views of the Hudson River which makes it hard not to stop every few steps to snap a photo. This is a great choice for hiking in the Hudson Valley if you are seeking an easy and calming stroll and a great place to peep the fall foliage. 

Location: between Poughkeepsie & Highland, NY Region: Hudson Valley

Indian Ladder Trail

This trail easily offers the most special features in the shortest distance. On a just 0.5 mile trail (1.0 miles roundtrip) you will pass several waterfalls, and a cave, while you are able to enjoy some of the most stunning overlooks in the area which showcase the gorgeous fall colors during fall in upstate New York.

After starting the Indian Ladder Trail , you will almost immediately reach the Indian Ladder, a metal staircase leading you down the cliff. Follow the trail and it will bring you along high cliffs where you may have to duck under a few lower cliff hangings to reach Minelot Falls. As you pass behind the waterfall you will continue following the cliff and wandering through the woods. Just a little later, you will see another waterfall and a cave. 

Location: John Boyd Thacher State Park Region: Albany County

Read more about hiking trails in New York, in our detailed posts:

• What You Should be Packing for a Hike: The Essentials + Extras
• 100+ Best Gifts for Hikers to Buy
• 33 Most Beautiful Trails for Hiking in Hudson Valley
• 34 Top Rated Best Hikes Upstate New York
• The Ultimate Guide to 11 Best Cold Spring Hiking Trails
• 57 Spectacular Waterfalls in NY You Have to See
• The Most Picturesque Finger Lakes Waterfalls You Have to See

Drive the Most Scenic Roads 

Prefer nice views without getting exhausted? Then hit the roads to see the fall in upstate New York. New York has some great scenic drives which showcase the famous fall colors. These are our top drives in New York which are worth the ride. 

Catskill Mountain Scenic Byway

This 52 mile long road will have you traveling through the heart of the Catskill Region. One of the best times to drive this route is during the stunning fall foliage. The picturesque color-filled mountains will be sure to captivate you along the way.

Don’t let that stop you from taking a few pit stops in some of the cute little towns, like Mt. Tremper and Phoenicia.

Region: The Catskills

Mohawk Towpath Scenic Byway

The Mohawk Towpath Scenic Byway is made up of a sequence of state, local, and county highways that follow the historic route of the Erie Canal. The road runs from Schenectady to Waterford/Cohoes. 

It is not only a beautiful drive to see the fall in upstate New York, but it also has a historical significance. The Mohawk River, Erie Canal, the waterway west, and communities played an important role in the westward expansion and the Industrial Revolution in America.

Region: Capital Region

Upper Delaware Scenic Byway

This byway leads you on a 70-mile scenic drive that runs parallel to the magnificent Delaware River. Hands down one of the best sections along the drive is, the “Hawk’s Nest.” It is a popular place for motorists to pull off the road and take in the spectacular views overlooking the river. Visit during the golden hour to take magnificent pictures of the famous curvy road.

Did you know? This section of the road has been featured in numerous national television commercials. 

If you have some more time, rent a raft or a kayak for a couple of hours and float down the Delaware River.

In total, Route 20 is 3,365 miles long and travels through 12 states. It starts in Boston, Massachusetts, and ends in Newport, Oregon where it connects to U.S. 101. Not only is it America’s longest road, but it is New York’s longest highway at 372 miles from the border of Massachusetts to the border with Pennsylvania. 

Get your chance to travel on what was once originally Native American trails while admiring the breathtaking colors of the fall in upstate New York. 

Region: Goes through the Adirondacks, Central New York, Finger Lakes, & Western New York

Ride a Scenic Railroad

Want a more unique way to experience fall in upstate New York? Jump on a scenic train ride. Riding the rails highlights the raw and enchanting beauty of fall in New York state. 

Rail Explorers

If simply sitting in a trail car enjoying the fall in upstate New York sounds too boring for you, get a little more active and pedal your way along the rails in a rail bike. 

Rail Explorers are offered in multiple locations in the United States and out of the 5 locations, 2 locations are right here in New York. You can choose to ride through the Catskills or Cooperstown . The specialized rail explorer bikes are equipped with electric pedal assist motors. 

We had a blast when riding the rail bikes in October. Even though you experience this attraction with a guided tour, all the rail bikes were spread out, so that you could still find some solitude. This is truly one of the more unique ways to experience the fall in upstate New York. 

Location: Phoenicia, NY & Cooperstown, NY Region: The Catskills & Mohawk Valley

Adirondack Scenic Railroad

Enjoy the hidden beauty of the Adirondack Region full of mountainous views covered in the beautiful foliage of fall in upstate New York. 

On this train ride, you can witness parts of the Adirondacks that can not be seen in any other way than on the Adirondack Scenic Railroad . The line covers the former tracks of the New York Central Railroad between Utica and Tupper Lake. If you are looking for a fun family event in the fall you should book tickets for the Family Halloween Train or the pumpkin train.

Catskill Mountain Railroad

The Catskill Mountain Railroad based in Kingston leases the former New York Central Railroad Catskill Mountain branch from Kingston to Highmount. This ride brings you through the stunning Catskill Region and is more than just a fall in upstate New York attraction. 

Two popular rides offered at the Catskill Mountain Railroad are the Catskill Fall Foliage Adventure and Pumpkin Express which runs in September and October and The Polar Express which you can book for November and December. 

Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley Railroad

Enjoy a scenic trail ride through the Susquehanna River Valley on the Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley Railroad. The train departs from the restored station in Milford just south of Cooperstown. 

Visitors take vintage rail cars through the spectacular wilderness of the Susquehanna River Valley, forests, wetlands, and farms. You will even cross the river over two steel truss bridges. So hop on and experience the magnificent colors of fall in upstate New York. 

Location: Milford, NY Region: Mohawk Valley 

Best Places to Stay in the Fall in Upstate New York

Now that you know where all the fall activities in upstate New York are located, it is time to book your accommodation. Here are our top suggestions of towns for a good night’s rest in the different regions in New York: 

How Do You Enjoy Fall in Upstate New York? What is Your Favorite Fall Activity?

Let us know in the comments below!

Our Other Resources for New York

• How to Hike the Mysterious Cornish Estate Trail
• Bannerman Castle: How to Visit the Abandoned Castle on the Hudson
• 25 Best Apple Picking in Hudson Valley Spots to Visit

You Might Also Like

• Essentials: 100+ Tested Road Trip Pack List Essentials You Will Not Want to Forget
• Packing: What You Should be Packing for a Hike: The Essentials + Extras
• Quotes: 90+ Road Trip Quotes to Excite You to Hit the Road
• Lake Placid: 20 Exciting Things to Enjoy Winter in Lake Placid
• NYC Bucket List: 100+ NYC Bucket List Items: Best Things to Do
• NYC Itinerary: 4-Day New York Itinerary 

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Take a Scenic Drive in Upstate New York on These 6 Fall Foliage Tours

Upstate New York is known for its gorgeous fall foliage come September and October every year. You can take a scenic drive to enjoy the peak foliage almost anywhere, but the Finger Lakes region in particular is an excellent area to explore the autumn sights.

There are 11 long lakes that comprise the New York Finger Lakes. Carved out by glaciers two million years ago, these lakes are some of the longest glacial lakes in the country. This fall, step up your fall foliage viewing a notch by taking in the scenic sights on a drive by these historic lakes - the reflection of the dazzling colors in the water will take your breath away.

Below, we've highlighted six of our favorite fall foliage drives in the Finger Lakes region.

Route 38 South: Owasco Lake

From Auburn, head south on Route 38S/Lake Ave. The 16-mile drive will take you along beautiful Owasco Lake, the smallest of New York's six major Finger Lakes. This route is also nestled between two parks: Auburn's Emerson Park and Moravia's Fillmore Glen State Park. Take a moment before and after your journey to enjoy a colorful autumn stroll.

Driving Time: 26 minutes one way plus stops

Route 89 North: Cayuga Lake

From Ithaca, head north on Route 89 for 37.8 miles. The drive follows Cayuga Lake to the right, leading you through the middle of Cayuga Lake State Park in Seneca Falls. Stretch your legs with a relaxing walk along the beach, take the little ones to one of the park's playgrounds, or just have fun exploring under the vibrant canopy of leaves.

Driving Time:  52 minutes one way plus stops

Route 14 South: Seneca Lake

Starting in Geneva, drive south on Route 14 for 35 miles. You'll be following Seneca Lake on your left. On the way to Watkins Glen, make sure to stop at one of the many wineries and vineyards. From Route 14, turn right on Old Corning Road and consider spending some time at Watkins Glen State Park. Discover its incredible waterfalls (the park boasts 12 of them!) and take the gorge trail around Glen Creek.

Driving Time:  30 minutes one way plus stops

Route 54A North: Keuka Lake

From Hammondsport on Keuka Lake's southern tip, head north on Pulteney Street/54A. To drive along the shore, you may follow this route all the way to Keuka's northern tip in Branchport. Plenty of vineyards and breweries are located along the way, however, including Bully Hill Vineyards (from Pulteney Street, take a left onto Greyton H. Taylor Memorial Drive, driving 1.5 miles), Keuka Lake Vineyards (from Pulteney Street, continue onto South Pulteney Road/Country Road 76 for 1.8 miles), and Keuka Brewing Company (from Pulteney Street, continue onto South Pulteney Road/Country Road 76 for 6.4 miles, then turn left onto Briglin Road).

To return to 54A from 76, follow the route north to take a slight right onto Judson Road. From there, merge onto Prattsburg Pulteney Road/Country Road 74. Follow this road for another 1.3 miles before turning right onto Boyd Road (staying on 74). You'll be taking a left onto 54A N/West Lake Road in .6 miles. From there, it's only a short drive to beautiful Keuka Lake State Park! For a leisurely walk or picnic by the lake, follow 54A for 5 miles into Branchport, then take a right to stay on the route. Drive along the northern end of Keuka Lake for 1.3 miles before turning right onto Pepper Road. Vehicle entry fees vary by season. To learn more, call Keuka Lake State Park at (315) 536-3666.

Route 86 West: Corning to Loon Lake

Though not one of the Finger Lakes, Loon Lake in Wayland is a tranquil spot for fishing and camping, and the journey there makes for a gorgeous fall foliage tour! From Corning, the home of the Museum of Glass, take I-86 W/NY-17 W. Follow the winding Cohocton River through colorful hills, forests, and farmland for 33.4 miles before taking exit 2 toward NY-415/Cohocton/Naples. In 3.4 miles, turn left onto NY-962D, then continue straight onto Cohocton Loon Lake Road for 2.8 miles. Take a right onto East Lake Road for an autumn drive along this lovely little lake.

Driving Time:  40 minutes one way plus stops

Route 21 South: Canandaigua Lake

Driving south on Route 21 from the northern end of Canandaigua Lake, head toward Onanda Park. In .6 miles, turn left onto West Lake Road, following it for 2.1 miles. Enjoy the stunning lake view before returning to Route 21, heading south toward the picturesque village of Naples. If you're up for a hike, turn right onto Vine Street to visit Grimes Glen Park. The 1-mile walk to two of Grimes Glen's waterfalls makes the perfect ending to any leaf peeping tour.

Driving Time:  35 minutes one way plus stops

With its fantastic wineries and breweries and beautiful lakeside parks, a drive through the Finger Lakes region is all the more magnificent in the autumn. Can't wait for leaf peeping season? Be sure to plan your trip today!

Looking for more Upstate driving tours?  Visit the Catskills »

« Back to the Driving Tours Guide

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Fall Foliage Trips in Upstate New York

Posted By: LesliPeterson

I went to college near the Adirondacks, and fall foliage trips in upstate New York really were spectacular. While I haven’t been to Vermont in autumn, New York fall foliage never left me feeling like I was missing anything!

Mid-September through late October are the peak fall foliage seasons in upstate New York , depending on the elevation.

Leaf peepers in upstate New York are somewhat akin to birders; they track peak fall foliage seasons and compare popular scenic routes for optimal views of the changing colors of the leaves.

The Adirondacks region has 12 scenic byways that are ideal for fall foliage travel. Road trips along these upstate New York scenic byways can involve stops at B&Bs, fall festivals, and towns with adorable New England style antique shops and museums.

Scenic Byways in the Adirondacks:

There are several annual fall festivals that complement fall foliage tours in upstate New York. These serve as tourist attractions, as well as bringing locals out to enjoy the fun annual activities their region offers. These are some of the annual autumn festivals that happen during foliage season in the Adirondacks.

Their vivid, bold colors look especially striking against the clear, bright blue sky of the season. The Adirondack Balloon Festival also involves live music, activities for kids, and fireworks.

Adirondack Harvest Festival – In October, the Adirondack Museum in Blue Mountain Lake celebrates the season with cider pressing, wagon rides, pumpkin painting, music and more. The museum’s other programs and special events are interesting for history buffs as well.

Flaming Leaves Festival – Lake Placid is already a popular travel destination, and this fall attraction adds to its allure.

The Flaming Leaves Festival in October offers live music, beer and bbq , family-friendly activities like crafts for children, and – especially nice during this peak fall foliage season – an elevator to the top of the 120-meter ski jump. Views of Lake Placid’s fall foliage from here should satisfy the pickiest leaf peeper.

American crafts at their best are on display (and for sale!) here: locally made furniture, quilts, jewelry, soaps, syrup and other American craft items indicative of the northeast are here, along with cider, apples, and homemade pies. And, almost needless to say, pumpkins galore.

Whiteface Oktoberfest – Less upstate New York Americana, more Bavarian, but fun indeed.

In October, Wilmington’s Bavarian and Alps Oktoberfest has plenty of food and beer, dancing and other lively festivities, and enough lederhosen to make a Belgian blush.

A gondola ride up Little Whiteface Mountain allows for fall foliage fans to get in some leaf peeping along with all those sausages and beer.

Leaf peepers who want to experience more than just the changing colors of the leaves in upstate new York will have a great fall foliage tour on any of the Adirondack’s scenic byways, with detours to enjoy an October fall festival along the way.

It’s a great way to celebrate the season. And if you’d rather stay in the city, here are places to see the fall color in New York City.

Looking for more?  Here are some great weekend getaways in New England we know you’ll love!

Need something to keep the kids entertained?  Check out these 45+ Road Trip Games That Will Make Time Fl y!

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12 Comments on "Fall Foliage Trips in Upstate New York"

I like to see the leaves change colors in the fall, but I do not like the winter that comes right after it.

Thanks for the pretty glimpses of the Northeast’s spectacular fall color show. I”ve been living/traveling in the tropics since 1998, so have not seen a fall leave-changing in over a decade! I grew up in Pa, where the fall season is equally splendid. But to be honest, the very very best fall seasons I’ve seen were in Kyoto, japan, where I lived for 6 years. Wow! I’d vote for the US Northeast and Japan as the 2 most gorgeous fall seasons. Thanks for the reminiscing! cheers, Lash

I do love crisp fall foliage, which is a season hallmark in the Midwest. I like fall festivals as well, this is an informative list.

I love fall photos. I’ve always wanted to travel north into Michigan during fall, I’ve heard they have beautiful scenes there as well.

We got some cool autumn air this past week in Chicago, so I am sure it will lead to some early fall foliage opportunities. This post is a great resource for those in the New England area.

THis is my absolute favorite time of the year. And living in Central America, I have to say it’s one of the only things I really miss!

Don’t forget the Hilton Apple Fest in my hometown of Hilton, New York.

Hi Vacation Gals! Thanks for submitting this post to the BT Blog Carnival. I’ll be sure to include it. (And please be sure to spread the word when the carnival goes live on Sept. 27th.)

I must say I had NO IDEA there were so many festivals in New England! I guess I just missed the changing autumn colors when I visited the East Coast last year. Oh well, there’s next time 🙂

I love that huge list of festivals you include. Would love to check a few of them out. I bet the photo ops and the scenic drives would be wonderful…

Thanks for participating in the Traveler’s Show & Tell blog carnival over at Mental Mosaic. I hope to see you there again. 🙂

We were just driving through New York and the Northeast this August wishing it were just one month later – the trees are so just perfect for Fall Colors! At least we’re in Chicago now to enjoy the Midwest version of the beauty (and getting out before it turns winter! 🙂 )

Howdy again VacationGals,

I wanted to say thanks again for submitting to the BT Blog Carnival, and that the 8th BT Blog Carnival which was published today. (And, of course, this article was hand-picked to be included.)

If you could retweet , stumble, or like this edition of the blog carnival, I would really appreciate it. 🙂

Thanks again!

Fall photos are always wonderful, I just love how the colors contrast with the eye ..

Comments are closed.

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20 Best Places to Visit in Upstate New York

From waterfalls to wineries, there's plenty to see in the Empire State beyond the Big Apple.

Wendy O'Dea has worked as a travel journalist and content strategist for two decades. Her work has appeared in USA Today, Travel + Leisure, 10best.com, Robb Report , and many other outlets. 

New York might be best known for the city that never sleeps, but there's a whole state beyond the Big Apple to explore. Upstate New York boasts majestic mountains, an abundance of lakes, and charming small towns. There's also a plethora of festivals, history museums, eclectic art offerings, and trendy wineries to visit, not to mention iconic sites like the National Baseball Hall of Fame and, of course, the awe-inspiring Niagara Falls.

For those who haven't yet visited, or want to see more of it, here are 20 of the best places to visit in upstate New York.

Conesus Lake

Conesus Lake is the westernmost of the 11 Finger Lakes, drawing crowds every year for its "Ring of Fire" tradition on July 3, when thousands of flares are lit along its periphery as fireworks explode overhead. Nearby, the tiny hamlet of Lakeville is home to the Little Lake Brewing brewery, one of the stops along the Livingston Libation Loop, which maps out wineries, cideries, and craft microbreweries around the county. While in the region, don't miss the colorful street murals and art scattered among nine villages along the 90-mile self-guided Inspirations Trail.

Cooperstown

The National Baseball Hall of Fame is just one of the notable attractions worth visiting in this quaint village. The Fenimore Art Museum , built on land once owned by novelist James Fenimore Cooper (the town is named for the author's father, William), features an impressive collection of American works. The Glimmerglass Festival , held each summer, lures opera lovers from far and wide. Visitors to nearby Howe Caverns (about 38 miles east), can go caving or spelunking at New York state's second-most-visited natural attraction.

Letchworth State Park

Known as the "Grand Canyon of the East," Letchworth State Park features an impressive gorge carved out over centuries by the Genesee River. You'll find dozens of camera-ready waterfalls where the river dramatically crashes down along shale, limestone, and sandstone cliffs that rise 550 feet at their highest point. An Autism Nature Trail , the first in the country designed for people on the autism spectrum, includes eight marked sensory stations spread across a one-mile loop.

Niagara Falls

In addition to the iconic Niagara Falls, the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center is worth a stop to learn more about the important role the village of Niagara Falls played in the Underground Railroad because of its accessibility and proximity to the border. The center is set in an 1863 Customs House near the old International Suspension Bridge, where heroes like Harriet Tubman led people to freedom across the border in Canada. The museum's permanent exhibit, " One More River to Cross ," received the 2019 Award of Excellence from the American Association for State and Local History.

Located at the southwestern end of Chautauqua Lake, Jamestown is best known as the hometown of comedienne Lucille Ball. Visitors with an appreciation for the art should pop by the National Comedy Center museum. For something more intellectual, the renowned Chautauqua Institution is just under a half-hour's drive up the lake, and each summer features speakers, performers, and programs focused on the "exploration of the best in human values and the enrichment of life."

Ellicottville

About an hour south of Buffalo by car, this quaint village in the foothills of the Allegheny Mountains exudes charm, as witnessed by the well-preserved and restored homes and buildings dating back to the 19th century. It's also where western New York sports enthusiasts and skiers go to mountain bike, hike, or slalom down the 60 slopes and trails at neighboring Holiday Valley Resort .

Seneca Falls

Situated at the north end of Cayuga Lake, this historic spot is believed to be the inspiration for the town of Bedford Falls in Frank Capra's "It's a Wonderful Life." (There's even a museum dedicated to the film .) Most notably, though, is the important role it played in the women's rights movement — it hosted the first Women's Rights Convention in 1848. The town's Convention Days each July attract crowds, and the Women's Rights National Historical Park is worth visiting, too. You can also toast to the suffragettes while wine tasting along one of the many nearby Finger Lakes wine trails.

Skaneateles

This affluent town whose name means "long lake" in Iroquoian is another central New York destination known for its wine tasting and fall foliage. It's also a favorite among avid cyclists who come to pedal the 32-mile trail around the lake. Each year, starting Thanksgiving weekend, the town hosts its Dickens Christmas celebration with live entertainment, horse and wagon rides, and a cast of Dickensian characters.

Lake George

Few lakes around New York state are known for scuba diving, so visitors are often surprised to discover that certified divers can explore 18th-century shipwrecks at the bottom of Lake George, including the oldest intact warship in North America. Vacationers flock to this town in the Adirondack region each summer — the crowds can get thick, but there's also plenty of winter fun to be had, including snowshoeing and a family-focused carnival every February.

Saranac Lake

The Adirondack Mountains have beckoned city dwellers for centuries, including tycoons like the Guggenheims and Vanderbilts, who owned rustic yet luxurious compounds known as the Great Camps. The Point , once a Rockefeller Great Camp, still welcomes guests with all-inclusive stays that hearken back to that time, complete with black-tie dinners. The resort is near the village of Saranac Lake, nestled between the mountains and lakes and filled with inviting boutiques, galleries, and restaurants.

Not only is Ithaca a top-notch college town but it's also a natural wonderland with breathtaking gorges, parks, and Taughannock Falls, which is three times the height of Niagara Falls. There's an abundance of activities around the city, too, including a botanical garden, boat tours, wine trails, and a self-guided Discovery Trail that highlights local history, astronomy, and earth science. Rumor has it that it was also the birthplace of the ice cream sundae .

Watkins Glen and Montour Falls

In upstate New York, many destinations are defined by their proximity to one of the state's lakes — and so it is with Watkins Glen, on the southern end of Seneca Lake. Best known for its legendary auto-racing history, the Watkins Glen International track has played host to countless races, from the Grand Prix to NASCAR to Formula One. It's also a good jumping-off point to hit the Seneca Lake Wine Trail , which stretches along the length of the lake and is the largest wine trail in the Finger Lakes.

Saratoga Springs

Saratoga Springs is a popular vacation destination for good reason. There's something classically old-school about spending a day at the famous Saratoga Race Course or at Saratoga Spa State Park , a National Historic Landmark. The art scene is solid, too, with impressive productions at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center , the Spa Little Theater , and other venues.

Thousand Islands

The U.S.-Canadian border snakes along the St. Lawrence River, zigzagging through the spectacular Thousand Islands where the river meets Lake Ontario. The archipelago consists of about 1,800 islands, from small and craggy to large and lush. Visitors converge here each summer and fall to soak up views of picture-perfect lighthouses and dramatic mansions, including the never-inhabited Boldt Castle. On the nearby mainland, check out towns like Clayton and Cape Vincent. Or stop by Sackets Harbor, which has been designated a New York State Heritage Area.

An affluent upstate New York community, idyllic Pittsford is set on the banks of the Erie Canal. Come summer, visitors and locals hit historic downtown for its antiques stores and boutiques. Dine at Schoen Place overlooking the canal, then line up for homemade ice cream at Pittsford Farms Dairy & Bakery after a day of perusing the shops. Other attractions include neighboring Mendon Ponds Park and The Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, about 15 minutes away by car.

Ausable Chasm

In the eastern Adirondacks, not far from Lake Champlain and the Vermont border, Ausable Chasm is a two-mile-long sandstone gorge carved out 500 million years ago. It's another ideal destination for chasing waterfalls (particularly the cascading Rainbow Falls) and exploring the Adirondacks on its many hiking and adventure trails. It's also a stone's throw from the North Star Underground Railroad Museum , which tells the stories of slaves seeking freedom at the Canadian border, located about an hour north by car.

Dia Beacon , a celebrated collection of contemporary art, brought a lot of attention — and visitors — to this city on the banks of the Hudson River. And with that attention came more appreciation for the many other galleries, shops, cafés, breweries, and antiques stores that have taken up residence on its magnetic Main Street. Trek to the top of Mount Beacon or book a boat tour to Pollepel Island (known locally as Bannerman Island), which Indigenous communities believed was haunted by hostile spirits.

About a three-hour drive from New York City, this mountain town welcomes adventurers with its multitude of endorphin-producing activities, including skiing or snowboarding peaks like Windham Mountain . There's a charming Main Street in this "gem of the Catskills," with inviting boutiques, bistros, and galleries. The Wylder Windham hotel features a pickleball court, heated pool, and wine tastings every weekend.

Don't write off Buffalo just because of its infamous winter weather. The city continues to evolve as a tourism destination, with the restoration of Frank Lloyd Wright's Martin House , a historic carousel on the Buffalo Waterfront, and a big expansion of the Buffalo AKG Art Museum (previously known as the Albright-Knox Art Gallery).

Sylvan Beach

Since we're highlighting towns around New York's Finger Lakes, Oneida Lake and the village of Sylvan Beach deserve a shoutout, too. It's a great option for a classic upstate summer vacation, where visitors can spend the day at the town's old-timey amusement park, kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding, or simply relaxing lakeside with a bottle of local vino. Another way to while away the day is on the water: Rent a cottage at the Cove at Sylvan Beach , where each one includes a private pontoon boat.

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The Most Scenic Fall Foliage Road Trip In New York

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New York City is spectacular, but sometimes you just need to get away from it all. The drive from New York City to Niagara Falls in autumn will wash away your stress, calm your head, and center your spirit.

When you think of leaf peeping, you likely think of hiking and camping, which is certainly a great way to immerse yourself in nature. However, you can also frolic in the foliage on a luxurious adventure — particularly in the Adirondacks — enjoying first-class resorts, great wine, fabulous food, and the unbelievable display put on by the local deciduous trees.

Prime leaf-peeping season in Upstate New York runs from the last week in September through the third week in October. It is a busy time of year, and you’ll need to make reservations far in advance to ensure your trip is all that you hope it will be.

Here’s where to stop on a fall foliage road trip through New York.

New York City is one of the most impressive places in the United States. It is a fun place to spend a few days, but the fall foliage is essentially confined to Central Park. Why not take a traditional carriage ride through the park and enjoy the colorful trees? You can order your carriage ahead of time through Get Your Guide or come to terms with one of the many scattered around the park.

Whether you plan to spend a few hours or a few days in the Big Apple, you’ll want to head to this page for advice on what to see and do.

To truly enjoy New York State’s gorgeous fall foliage, you’ll need to get out of the city. Your first stop is just under 3 hours north of New York City: Albany , New York’s capital city. Another city, albeit a cozy one. The ride to Albany will whet your appetite for the glorious vistas that await.

John Boyd Thacher State Park is home to the Helderberg Escarpment, a must-stop on your foliage journey. The panoramic view from the top includes the Hudson-Mohawk Valleys and the Adirondack and Green Mountains. You can drive across the park, but the best way to view the foliage is to hike the easy half-mile Indian Ladder Trail .

Saratoga Springs

Saratoga is synonymous with horses — its racing, polo, and equestrian shows draw crowds from around the globe. Unfortunately, the races end in early September and do not run during the fall.

The Saratoga Casino provides a nice break from the outdoors with a neon color wheel for your gaming enjoyment. Whether you like to hit the slots, electronic table games, or Keno, the casino has something for every gamer.

While you are visiting the casino, you might as well stay the night. The Saratoga Casino Hotel offers everything you need in one place: a great location, entertainment, fine dining, and an elegant Adirondack vibe. It is a popular destination and books up quickly, so be sure to plan ahead.

For traditional American fine dining, try Morton’s The Steakhouse , which offers perfectly cooked steak paired with a bold red wine to finish off your day of sightseeing.

Plan a picnic lunch in Congress Park , a beautiful natural refuge. Then take a stroll through the historic park and immerse yourself in Saratoga’s culture.

Tucked away in the Adirondacks is the village of Lake Placid , which hosted the 1980 Winter Olympics. Known for its exceptional winter sports, the Lake Placid area is also famous for its spectacular leaf peeping.

The Northway Loop is a 2-hour scenic drive through the area with stops at Split Rock Falls on the Bouquet River and Roaring Brook Falls on Roaring Brook. If you are interested in rock climbing, Giant Mountain offers a challenging 6-mile out-and-back loop. You can watch the brave hikers scale the rock face from Roaring Brook Falls for a safer, vicarious climb.

The Whiteface Lodge will bring you back to the time when the Adirondacks were the summer playground of New York’s wealthy. Every summer, families would retreat to Upstate New York for rest and relaxation. The classic rustic decor, the mountain views, and the superb service will leave you feeling rejuvenated. Dine with mountain views framing the warm, cozy dining room; sip a fine wine by a roaring fire; and retire to your comfy accommodations during a pampered stay.

Saranac Lake

Experience Saranac Lake from the water by heading to the Saranac Lake Marina and renting a pontoon boat. Stop at the Lakeview Deli for a takeaway picnic lunch — they offer classic, yummy fare to add to your cooler. Round out your plans with your favorite beverage and head out for a crisp autumn day on the lake.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love the adventure options in Saranac Lake. We have rounded up a few of our favorites in 11 Incredible Outdoor Adventures In Stunning Saranac Lake, New York .

Chittenango Falls State Park

Chittenango Falls State Park is home to a 167-foot waterfall. Viewing the falls surrounded by the vibrant sugar maples is picture perfect. The viewing platform is at the top of the falls near the parking lot. The Chittenango Falls Trail is an easy half-mile walk down to the gorge, where you will be rewarded with a gorgeous, classic view of the falls.

Syracuse is more than a college town — it is a part of Erie Canal history.

The Labrador Hollow Unique Area is a glacial kettle lake surrounded by hills and has a 2,000-foot-long accessible boardwalk that winds through the bog-like hollow. The sensation of being immersed in the colorful trees and hemmed in by distant mountains gives a real feeling of being one with nature.

Avid adventurers can rent a houseboat and travel down the Erie Canal. Erie Canal Adventures will outfit you with a houseboat, offer instructions for navigating the canal and locks, help you plan the perfect itinerary, and send you on your way. What better way to discover New York’s autumnal beauty than spending a relaxing few days floating down the Erie Canal?

The Seneca Lake Wine Tasting & Tour in Rochester will transport you through the winding Finger Lakes region . Spend half a day enjoying local wines and lunch at one of the wineries. The best way to enjoy wine touring is to leave the driving to a professional.

The Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge offers two easy hiking trails, one through the woodlands and one bypassing the marshy area. Both are just over a mile long and are well-trafficked trails full of crispy, colorful fallen leaves.

Niagara Scenic Parkway

The Niagara Scenic Parkway is a 15-mile stretch of highway skirting the Niagara River that is dotted with lookouts for your enjoyment. Alternatively, you can take the free hop-on, hop-off Discover Niagara Shuttle. The colorful autumnal backdrop of the roaring Niagara River will have you wanting to discover more of this beautiful area.

The most classic way to experience Niagara Falls is on the Maid of the Mist cruise. Don the iconic blue slicker and prepare to get wet!

Niagara Falls State Park offers a 3-mile scenic trolley tour around the park. It is ideal for foliage viewing, since the driver knows all the best spots. The tour is narrated, and you can hop on and hop off to capture those picture-perfect moments.

Book a private Niagara Falls helicopter tour for a unique view of the Horseshoe Falls. This Niagara Falls adventure includes a flight over the falls, a Hornblower Cruise, a behind-the-falls walk, and lunch at Skylon Tower , renowned for its unparalleled views of the falls and rotating dining room.

Pro Tip: Upstate New York’s fall foliage is a spectacular show of crimson, orange, yellow, and green. This treasured trip requires advanced reservations for accommodations, dining, and tours.

Sandi loves writing about culture, cuisine, adult beverages, cruising, golf, skiing, road trips, hiking, New England, and photography. Traveling solo, with hubby Chris, or the entire Barrett clan there is always a story waiting to be told.

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Letchworth State Park, Castile

Fall in New York

You can feel it in the air—the profound seasonal change—when the wind chills and the landscape is painted with red and orange foliage. Check out the  I LOVE NY Fall Foliage Report  to find fall's changing colors everywhere you go and embark on a scenic drive , cruise , or train ride to experience autumn's vibrant colors first hand.

Threaded with scenic vistas and  nature hikes , taking a road trip or a spontaneous  weekend getaway  reveals a natural, stirring beauty that inspires every traveler. Get in the fall spirit with a visit to one of New York's great  craft cideries  or breweries , pick pumpkins and apples or wind your way through a corn maze at a farm , soak in the colorful leafy scenery with a stroll through Central Park , and get ready to experience  Halloween thrills  (including all the fun in Sleepy Hollow  from haunted hayrides to cemetery tours). The autumn air is filled with adventure!

FALL FOLIAGE TRIP IDEAS

Discover the colors of fall in new york state. .

The first Fall Foliage Report for 2024 is here! Read it now and sign up to get weekly updates. more

24 Things to Do this Fall in New York State

Experience epic outdoor adventures, family-friendly farms, historic sites, and so much more! more

Fall Foliage: When and Where to Go

Discover beautiful foliage all across New York throughout the colorful fall season. more

11 Fall Getaways to Book Early

Leaf-peeping season is right around the corner. Make your plans today! more

Cozy Fall Getaways

Enjoy an intimate autumn escape in New York State before the snow flies. more

11 Affordable Fall Getaways

Fall fun doesn’t have to break the bank! Plan your affordable trip to NY. more

New York’s Best Fall Photo Spots

Get your cameras (and Instagram captions) ready to fully embrace fall in New York State! more

Best Places for Fall Foliage

Find the best places to see fall foliage and autumn colors in New York. more

Colorful Autumn Drives to Weekend Escapes

If you're into road trips, here are some ways to maximize your fall foliage viewing. more

Your Fall Weekends Planned

Don't spend another weekend wondering what to do. Find your perfect getaway today! more

Fall Festival Guide

 Grab your crew and get into the spirit of the season with these 20 fall festivals.   more

Fall Foliage With a Craft Drink

The colors of fall are even better with a tasty craft beverage in hand. more

FALL IN LOVE WITH NEW YORK

There's nothing like autumn in the empire state. click the buttons below to explore activities and attractions perfect for fall fun., halloween fun, fall hiking, apple picking, museums and galleries, zoos and animals, pumpkin picking, share your new york fall photos on  instagram  and  twitter  using:, #nylovesfall, show some love for new york state.

Come get social with your favorite state!

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The best fall getaways from NYC for leaf peeping

Our list of fall getaways has everything from Instagrammable fall foliage and wine tours to cozy lodging and glamping.

After a hot summer in the city, New Yorkers are craving gorgeous fall foliage , cool air, and greater heights—the best fall getaway possible. Luckily, NYC is within a few short hours of these picturesque locales.

Fall offers a different flavor of beauty. Unlike the best ski getaways , these autumn journeys are about taking in the beauty of the trees and the smell of campfires. So, pack your bags and get acquainted with nature while wandering along amazing hiking trails before seeking shelter inside a cozy cabin.

Looking for something more boozy? Taste different spirits at nearby wineries or visit a cidery that also offers apple picking . The season would not be complete without spending a weekend in one of the many rural hamlets that are a quick drive, train, or bus ride away.

We picked these particular locations because they’re easier to get to from NYC and offer more than just leaf-peeping: our editors have traveled to these spots during the fall and come back refreshed and inspired by their beauty and way of life.

Read on for all the best things to do Upstate and elsewhere and where to stay during our favorite time of year.

RECOMMENDED: The ultimate list of things to do in NYC this fall ,  The best Airbnb cabins near NYC ,   The best helicopter tours in NYC ,   The best treehouse Airbnbs near NYC ,  The best Airbnbs for a ski getaway from NYC

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best fall getaways from NYC

1.  woodstock, ny.

Though the name conjures a crowd splashed in tie-dye and the faint scent of marijuana, Woodstock isn’t actually where the 1969 festival was held. (That was in Bethel, about two hours away.) Even so, the town is a mix of retired hippies—a street there is named after the late great Band member Levon Helm—artists and city dwellers who feel the need to flee the metropolis on weekends.  What to do: A hiking trail on Overlook Mountain leads to the Instagram-worthy remnants of an unfinished luxury hotel and views of Echo Lake. The General Store of Catskill (356 Main St, Catskill; 518-653-9188, catskillmtncountrystore.com ) is another draw, located on the town’s historic Main Street and offering an array of locally-made bath, body and wellness products. Besides all the camping? If you’ve grown tired of that smoky campfire smell and yearn for a real table and chairs, pop into Oriole 9 (17 Tinker St; 845-OR9-5763, oriole9.com ) in town. This local favorite is a café-cum-art-gallery that serves fantastic all-day breakfast and lunch. (Go for the curried coconut tofu hash.)

Where to stay: Stay at Woodstock Way , a comfortable and contemporary retreat near the center of town right next to the Tannery Brook Waterfall. Or, trade in four walls and a ceiling for something a little more portable. Tentrr.com  is a campsite service available in Woodstock and elsewhere upstate. The idea is simple: Book a tent and arrive to a set-up campsite stocked with food and drink. It’s basically Airbnb for campers, touting fully-equipped campsites on private properties all across the Catskills. And don’t worry: Tentrr provides queen-size cots, because you’re too pretty to actually sleep on the ground.

2.  Berkshires, MA

Known for its literary and musical culture (Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House was the setting for Little Women ; Edith Wharton had a home there), the Berkshires are where the Boston city slickers go for a taste of the good and quiet life. 

What to do: If peace and tranquillity start to get a little tiresome, head over to Ramblewild (110 Brodie Mountain Rd, Lanesborough, MA; 844-472-6253; ramblewild.com ) , an adventure park and ropes course with a backdrop of more than 1,400 acres of forest. The park is divided by a ravine, and the two halves are connected by a 200-foot suspension bridge hanging over the water. Make your way to the 15-foot-high central platform, which is the nucleus for eight aerial obstacle courses. Each challenges your fear of heights with high wires, zip lines, balancing logs, rope ladders, suspended bridges and more. 

Where to stay:   Want to stay in a magical cottage that looks like it came straight out of a fairytale or  The Lord of the Rings ? Of course, you do. Book your stay at the Grand Silo Tower Suite located in Tyringham, MA in the Berkshires. Aside from the dreamy decor, gorgeous views and an outdoor fire pit, there’s also a ping-pong table. Game on!

3.  Beacon, NY

This quaint city in Dutchess County boasts exceptionally good eating, drinking and art scenes for its size.

What to do: Walk five minutes from the train station to  Dia:Beacon , a modern art museum housed in a former Nabisco box factory. It houses the Dia Foundation’s permanent collection of works from the ‘60s on, including minimalist sculptures by Anne Truitt and Dan Flavin’s work with fluorescent lights. If you’d rather spend the day sampling some booze,  Dennings Point Distillery  on Main Street also offers tours and tastings of their bourbon, whiskey, gin and vodka every Friday and Saturday. Before you board the train back to the city, spend a few quiet minutes watching the sunset over the Hudson at Long Dock Park. On your way out, h ead to Storm King Art Center , a bucket-list site that has striking contemporary sculptures amid 500 acres of resplendent green, yellow and brown foliage. 

Where to stay: The Roundhouse , a 23-room hotel right on Fishkill Creek, is an old industrial mill building that has been preserved and reworked to include original windows, wood beams, original bricks, and other reclaimed materials found on the site. It boasts modern American cuisine with views overlooking the creek and waterfall and airy bedrooms, including two penthouse suites with a round bathtub overlooking the water.

4.  New Paltz, NY

If you’ve ever walked the six-mile perimeter of Central Park and felt wistful leaving the North Woods—which were designed to resemble a forest in the Adirondacks—then it might be worth heading to New Paltz, NY to tackle some serious hiking. A nature-filled weekend starts by booking a roundtrip ticket to Mohonk Mountain House via the Catskill Carriage, which is r edefining the charter bus experience. During your trip, you are provided with every amenity you could possibly need. Wifi, outlets, snacks, candy and even homemade cookies? MTA, take notes. 

What to do:  The best reason by far to visit Mohonk is to get outside and explore its extensive hiking trails, which are set in 2,200 acres of forests.   One of the most popular hikes is a relatively easy trek up to Sky Top Tower, a stone structure that was built about 85 years ago in honor of one of the resort’s founders, and which offers fantastic views of the surrounding area. All of the hiking trails are well marked and maps are provided, offering hikers everything from a beginner path to some serious rock scrambles located along a network of paths situated on lakeside cliffs.

Where to stay:  Situated at the top of the Shawangunk Ridge, Mohonk Mountain House  ( 1000 Mountain Rest Rd; 845-765-3286, mohonk.com )  overlooks the half-mile-long Lake Mohonk and is a National Historic Landmark that has been owned by the same family for almost 140 years. While staying at this 265-room Victorian castle with a full-service spa isn’t exactly roughing it, photos of long-gone relatives, fireplaces and the lack of TVs in each room add some rustic charm.

5.  Hudson, NY

This picture-perfect Hudson Valley town has all the charm of a rustic hamlet with the vibrant street life of a bustling downtown. You’re just a few miles from the Catskills, Berkshires and other popular vacation destinations, but you can have a full trip without leaving the quaint riverfront city at all.

What to do: Visit the one-of-a-kind Olana State Historic Site just outside the city and grab a meal at the LGBTQ-friendly Lil’ Deb’s Oasis . Where to stay: There are a number of new hotels downtown Hudson that are worth looking into. Try The Wick , a boutique hotel with 55 guest rooms, or if you’re looking for a bit more of a nature experience, try the brand-new modern oasis Piaule Catskill . The Hudson Milliner Guesthouse is also a unique option with personality-filled guest rooms.

6.  Ithaca, NY

Ithaca, on the southern tip of Cayuga Lake, is a college town through and through, but it's also got that rustic, upstate vibe and gorgeous fall foliage you're looking for with quaint Victorian homes to gaze at. It's a great getaway for those who want to go leaf-peeping and pumpkin picking but also want to check out the local town nightlife and its plethora of restaurants. The best part? It's near to some of New York's most incredible gorges and waterfalls. They don't say "Ithaca is gorges" for nothin'! What to do:  Grab breakfast at any one of its popular joints, from Ithaca Bakery to DeWitt Cafe , and head out for a day in the leaves at Robert S. Treman State Park nearby, which is home to Lucifer Falls and a Lord of the Rings -eque gorge you can hike into. And don't skip Taughannock Falls, which is 215 feet tall, and empties into its own gorge. When you're done communing with nature, make sure to go antique hunting at Found In Ithaca and Mimi's Attic , and hit up the Ithaca Farmers Market for homemade pies and apple cider doughnuts, hard cider from local cideries, fresh flowers and much more. And definitely have dinner at Mercato . Where to stay: The William Henry Miller Inn  is located right in the heart of downtown Ithaca and within walking distance of as many as 50 restaurants. It's also an incredibly beautiful, historic building from 1878.

7.  Salem, MA

This Massachusetts town’s dark past draws urban witches and history buffs from all over the Northeast. With so many museums, attractions and tours devoted to the infamous Salem Witch Trials, there’s plenty of creepy history to explore in the otherwise charming village. Even better, it’s surprisingly easy to get to: Just take the short flight into Boston and rent a car for the hourlong drive east to Salem.

What to do: Dive right into the town’s paranormal history at the Salem Witch Museum , where exhibits on paganism, modern witchcraft and the phenomenon of witch hunts will give you a quick primer on the occult. 

Where to stay: Though Boston is just an hour away, stay the night in Salem to amp up the spooky vibes. The historic Hawthorne Hotel  ( 18 Washington Square W, Salem; 978-744-4080 ) is fairly young by New England standards—it only opened for business in 1925—but has still had its fair share of reported hauntings. Rooms 325 and 612 are particularly notorious, with guests reporting ghostly apparitions, faucets turning on and off, glowing orbs and all kind of other things that go bump in the night.

8.  Lake Placid, NY

Set in the Tri-Lakes region, Lake Placid was founded in the early 19th century as an iron ore mining town. By 1932, it hosted the Winter Olympics and did it again in 1980. In 1972 and 2023, it was home to the Winter World University Games as well as the 2000 Goodwill Games. When visiting, we found a beautiful downtown with a proud history seen in its massive Olympic Center; bustling businesses from souvenir shops to bakeries and breweries; and opportunities to have your own exciting sports moment.

What to do:  Beyond mountain biking and hiking, you can head to the lake for a vast array of watersports. The town of Lake Placid has a rich collection of art and shopping. Dine at   Marcy , which specializes in “regionally-inspired” cuisine and cocktails and shop local along Main Street, including at  Adirondack Decorative Arts & Crafts ,   Critters   and   Little Blue House , to commemorate and remember your time in Lake Placid.

Where to stay:  The seven-acre, 131-unit Mirror Lake Inn ( mirrorlakeinn.com ) looks over the lake and the cozy fireside accommodations (along with two restaurants and a spa) will keep you in your robe late into the day.   Eastwind Lake Placid . This boutique hotel, which opened in August of 2022, has a roaring fireplace inside its separate lobby, which doubles as a bar, living room and stage for local artists who perform live weekly.

9.  North Fork, LI

South Fork is so last season. Instead, skip it for Long Island’s North Fork this fall, where the bucolic coast is just warming up. Without traffic you can make it to this venerable stretch of farms and vineyards in a hour and a half. Bring your taste for Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio. What to do: Winery tour options abound here, so take your pick! Sample Merlot at One Woman Wines and Vineyards (5195 Old North Rd, Southold; 631-765-1200, onewomanwines.com ) , try Coffee Pot Cellars’ sauvignon blanc (31855 Main Rd, Cutchogue; 631-765-8929, coffeepotcellars.com ) , or sip on something bubbly at Sparkling Pointe (39750 Middle Rd, Southold; 631-765-0200, sparklingpointe.com ) . No judgment if you decide to hit up all three. Where to stay: North Fork is perfect for a day trip, but if you want to extend your stay, tap Arbor View House B&B (8900 Main Rd, East Marion; 631-477-8440, arborviewhouse.com ) , known for it’s plush garden and gourmet breakfast, as your relaxing home away from home.

10.  Newport, RI

If you’re heading to Providence for a long weekend, consider a night in the scenic coastal town of Newport, which is a short 1-hour ferry ride away. It’s all about classic, New England culture here, complete with historic places like White Horse Tavern (America’s oldest restaurant) and a bevy of briny bivalves.  What to do:  Newport is home to some of the most impressive, ridiculously elegant mansions in the nation. The Preservation Society of Newport County, Rhode Island’s largest cultural organization, has 11 historic properties and landscapes on its register ( newportmansions.org ). Take a trip back in time from the colonial era to the Gilded Age by walking in the footsteps of some of America’s most historic elite. If you only have time for one, make it the Breakers, the grande dame of Newport’s elite homes, boasting 70 rooms, a man cave mostly made of gold and stories galore. (Cole Porter used to pen hits in one of its luxe bathrooms upstairs.) One way to see the mansions is to take the famous 3.5-mile cliff walk for some truly breathtaking views. Don’t miss a fried clam roll or clam cakes from Flo’s Clam Shack and consider Midtown Oyster Bar for fresh oysters and vibrant seafood dishes.

Where to stay:   Hotel Viking , a luxurious historic hotel on top of the hill with gorgeous views overlooking the harbor. It offers first-come, first-serve bike rentals, so that you can zoom around town free of charge. Looking to treat yourself? Cap off your weekend with a visit to its Spa Fjord or simply head upstairs to the rooftop bar for incredible views.

11.  Philadelphia, PA

This Northeastern metropolis is just a short train ride away from NYC. Its cobblestone streets and quaint old townhomes make a perfect backdrop to a fall getaway with a heavy dose of historic Americana. (Though don’t worry, there’s a lot to do other than paying a visit to the liberty bell and the constitution center.)

What to do: After a trip to the must-hit Philadelphia Museum of Art , check out the recently relocated Barnes Foundation  just a short walk. LGBTQ+ travelers should pay a visit to the gayborhood and art lovers can pop in galleries throughout Fishtown.

Where to stay: The gorgeous, recently opened Guild House Hotel provides luxuriously appointed rooms in a historic building just blocks from city hall. The “invisible operation” hotel also partners with women-owned businesses to provide food and amenities for rooms.

12.  Warwick, NY

A day at the orchard sounds nice, right? And just an hour and a half away from NYC? Even better. What to do: Warwick’s main attraction is Masker Fruit Farms (45 Ball Rd; 845-986-1058, maskers.com ) —a 200-acre orchard open for apple picking seven days a week. Admission is free and and apples are roughly $30 per half bushel (about 20). Swing by the country store on your way out to pick up apple butter and a jug of cider. Where to stay: Warwick Valley Bed & Breakfast (24 Maple Ave; 845-987-7255, wvbedandbreakfast.com ) kicks casually accommodations up a notch with on-call massage therapists and a vegetarian or vegan breakfast made at your request.

13.  Stone Ridge, NY

This centrally located, historic upstate New York town is the jumping off point for the rest of the Catskills—a great home base for exploring Phoenicia, Kingston or Rosendale.

What to do: Build up a sweat at Minnewaska State Park (5281 Rte 44-55; 845-255-0752, parks.ny.gov ) , a nearly 23,000-acre nature preserve. The Millbrook Mountain trail is a five-plus–mile loop within the park that climbs the mountain along the cliffs of Shawangunk Conglomerate. The steep path gives way to several gaps in the trees, where rocky bluffs overlook hundreds of miles of untouched park, which will undoubtedly painted in glorious colors. (In other words: be prepared, Instagrammers.)

Where to stay: The recently reopened Hasbrouck House (3805 Rte 209; 845-687-0736, hasbrouckhouseny.com ) is in an 18th-century Dutch Colonial mansion, with 17 rooms and nearby carriage and stable houses. Spread across three separate stone buildings, each with a collection of both vintage and modern pieces, the property is surrounded by country gardens and pays homage to the locally sourced food and drink of the Catskills. The restaurant Butterfield takes on a country-tavern vibe but with elevated cuisine like its Three Little Pigs Sandwich with smoked paprika, pulled pork, house-cured ham and slaw on a potato bun.

14.  Athens, NY

While all of your Brooklyn friends are brunching across the river in Hudson, you’ve hopped the ferry and are doing exactly the same thing across the river in Athens—minus all the sceney crowds. Head to the  Athens Rooster  ( 44 Second Street ) which serves great coffee and an “elevated” breakfast and lunch. Tip: Grab a pint of Jane’s homemade ice cream for the road.

What to do: Take a walk to Black Horse Farms (10094 Rte 9W; 518-943-9324, blackhorsefarms.com ) , a local CSA with its own gourmet market. The Farms, open through Christmas, is a quintessential country market with flowers brimming out of ornate pots, baked goods—try a cider doughnut for a full-on fall experience—fresh produce, gifts, and spreads and jams in adorable jars. Here you can stuff yourself silly with fall treats like fudge and fruit pies. Cap off the day with a local pint at Crossroads Brewing Company (21 2nd St; 518-945-2337, crossroadsbrewingco.com ) , just four miles down the road.

Where to stay: Make your reservations now at the Stewart House (2 N Water St; 518-444-8317, stewarthouse.com ) because with just 9 rooms, it fills up fast. Sitting on the Hudson riverfront—and having recently undergone a complete renovation—the hotel has a crowd that swings hipster, with guests drawn to its exposed brick and original floors. Suites give off a country-time feel, inciting visions of lemonade on front porches, but sport modern, refined amenities like marble showers and flatscreen TVs.

15.  Saratoga Springs, NY

Saratoga Springs has been a posh retreat from the big city for more than 200 years due to its natural mineral springs that spawned its name. The naturally carbonated wonders are some of the only ones in the country and attract throngs for their healing benefits, namely antacid properties to help upset stomachs and heartburn. But there’s plenty else to see and do in this upstate New York retreat in the fall, from apple picking and corn mazes to foliage hikes and autumnal farmers’ markets.

What to do: Zen out at Yaddo (312 Union Ave; 518-584-0746, yaddo.org ) , an artists’ hub that opened in 1900 and sits on a bucolic 400-acre estate. Its mission is to give artists the space to work without interruption. Today it’s a center for choreography, film, literature, music, painting, performance art, photography, sculpture and video installments, and aside from all the arty happenings, it’s worth a visit just for the pleasant walk around the gardens. You should also check out the Saratoga Spa State Park , which has mineral springs, classical bath and spa houses used in the 1930s and the Saratoga Performing Arts Center.

Where to stay: Right on bustling Broadway, Saratoga Arms (497 Broadway; 518-584-1775, saratogaarms.com ) is a stone’s throw from boutique shops and restaurants. Breakfast is included daily at this country-style inn, where you can find wraparound porches, fireplaces and balconies. 

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The Best Places to Go Apple Picking Near New York City

As the dog days of summer ease into a mild—if not slightly chilly—fall, autumnal joys like pumpkin spice, cider donuts, Halloween decorations, and cozy farmers’ markets, flood our moodboards and imaginations. Arguably one of the most anticipated fall activities is apple picking, as the leaves start to fall and classic crowd-pleasers like Galas and Honeycrisps fully blush into their red-yellow skins.

While orchards and farms can feel like pastoral getaways from bustling cosmopolitan hubs like New York City , the Big Apple isn’t far from some of the year’s best harvests. On the contrary, between upstate pit stops and easy day trips to Jersey boltholes, there is a veritable bounty of options to explore, and more than enough fruit to fill your wicker basket.

Whether you’re looking for a two-for-one deal where you can pick up a couple of pumpkins to carve, a family-friendly visit with hayrides and petting zoos, or an orchard that brews its own cider label, here's where to find some of the best apple picking near New York City.

Alstede Farms

Location: 1 Alstede Farms Ln, Chester, NJ (About one hour and 15 minutes away from NYC by car)

Once you visit Alstede, it’s easy to find yourself craving their homemade ice cream, heirloom apple breeds, and fresh-churned Amish butter, but you’re in luck—the farm has an online store that can deliver right to your door or local farmers’ market. Beyond apples, your whole grocery run practically lives here whether you’re looking for eggplant, potatoes, blueberries, or more. But if it’s the ambience of the grounds that you find yourself missing, they also host regular tours, seasonal harvest moon nights, and weddings for those who are truly in love with the venue.

Fishkill Farms

Location: 9 Fishkill Farm Rd, Hopewell Junction, NY (About one hour and 45 minutes away from NYC by car)

Sample a glass of this farm’s tree-to-bottle Treasury Cider to uncover the Champagne of ciders. The family-run operation hand presses their own special breeds of dessert and bittersweet apple to achieve the label’s nuanced taste, and you can expect this level of effort throughout all their endeavors—not only does the farm grow organic Crimson Crisp and Spartan apples, but they also grow most of the produce according to eco-certified and ecologically grown standards, which both have rigorous requirements for what the fruit is exposed to from seed to sale. But the fun’s not just in the fruit—dine at the Fishkill Farms Grill with all the Catskills surrounding you, or catch an evening performance of live music by a visiting band.

Masker Orchards

Location: 45 Ball Rd, Warwick, NY (About one hour and 45 minutes away from NYC by car; three hours by train)

Sprawling orchard grounds have never been more accessible than at Masker—open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day of the week rather than being condition or seasonally dependent, the orchard is also designed for driving through, so you can take the car right up to the trees you want to pick from or picnic under. Beforehand, consult their website banner that clearly states which varieties are ready for picking, and download the map of the orchard so you’ll know ahead of time that Red Deliciouses can be found on the corner of ‘Strudel’ and ‘Pie’ lanes.

Minard's Family Farm

Location: 250 Hurds Rd, Clintondale, NY (About two hours away from NYC by car)

The name might’ve already clued you in, but this farm goes all out for the kids—there’s a busy bee train, chances to leave their mark on the Chalk Bus, a tire climbing wall, a giant bounce pillow, and that’s not even to mention the petting zoo or 2.5-acre corn maze. While there’s more than enough to keep the whole family engaged with those activities alone, the best time to visit is throughout October, when the lion’s share of the farm’s apples are ripe and the pumpkins are ready to pick too.

Battleview Orchards

Location: 91 Wemrock Rd, Freehold, NJ (About two hours away from NYC by car)

Owned and operated by the Applegate family for the past 116 years, Battleview is the oldest pick-your-own farm in New Jersey . This year, the orchard is offering 19 varieties of apples throughout the fall, and it also has year-round opportunities to pick sour cherries, strawberries, peaches, and pumpkins. And as kids explore some of the 130-acre grounds on the seasonal hayride, parents can walk the aisles of the on-site country store stocked with favorites like housemade cider and fresh-baked pies, and speciality items such as the customizable fruit baskets. Their website has Applegate family recipes for every variety of fruit the orchard cultivates.

Demarest Farms

Location: 244 Werimus Rd, Hillsdale, NJ (About one hour away from NYC by car; 90 minutes by train)

This farm puts its vast-spanning orchards to use as a canvas for some of the best light shows in the tri-state area. In the daytime throughout the summer and fall months, peaches and apples are the main attraction, but when the sun sets during the holiday seasons, new life is breathed into the orchards as they host a Halloween light show in October peppered with skeletons, jack-o-lanterns, and the rogue’s gallery of classic monsters, and the Orchard of Lights during the winter months with giant snowflakes, reindeer, and even Dr. Seuss’ Grinch.

Outhouse Orchards

Location: 139 Hardscrabble Rd, North Salem, NY (About 90 minutes away from NYC by car)

These orchards aren't just some of the best apple picking near New York City, they're a celebration of all things autumnal. The best time to come is throughout September and October when Outhouse puts on its Fall Festival . Every corner of the grounds offers something to entertain, whether it's racing rubber ducks or blowing bubbles for the little ones, hayrides for the whole family, or snacking on wood-fired pizza and washing it down with the in-house hard cider for food lovers. With 12 apple varieties that ripen during the pick-your-own season, there’s enough diversity to satisfy fans of tangy Mcintoshes and honey-sweet Jonamacs alike.

Sun High Orchards

Location: 19 Canfield Ave, Randolph, NJ (About 75 minutes away from NYC by car)

These orchards are no-frills and focus on quality fruit-picking. With their low-entry fees of $4 per person on the weekends and $2 on the weekdays, free-of-charge apple bags, and pay-by-weight system, Sun High allows visitors to expense only what they experience. Sun High grows dwarf trees in their orchards with a generous picking radius, another subtle attention to detail. With some friendly farm animals, picnic tables overlooking the grounds, and a pumpkin patch that opens later in the fall, this is one of the best under-the-radar apple picking venues around.

Dr Davies Farm

Location: 306 NY-304, Congers, NY (About 90 minutes away from NYC by car)

This is your classic apple and pumpkin picking experience. Having been around since 1891, the farm, now run by the practiced hands of fourth- and fifth-generation Davies, runs like a well-oiled machine. Admission is $17 cash per person, and if you don’t know where to start with the over 5,000 trees and 27 different apple varieties on the farm, the website has a “ Meet Our Apples ” page where each is identified with a well-lit picture, name, ripening timeline, and flavor profile. If you’d like to enjoy even more fruits from the farm but not your own labor, the brewery arm, Red Barn Cidery, produces a host of its own ciders, local beers, and nonalcoholic options.

Apple Dave's Orchard & Distillery

Location: 82 Four Corners Rd., Warwick, NY (About one hour and 45 minutes away from NYC by car)

If you’ve ever wanted to live inside a Bob Ross painting, this is the orchard for you. At Apple Dave’s, visitors are backgrounded by the farm’s own lake against sweeping views of the northern Appalachian Mountains. Meandering walking trails through the trees and the on-site store filled with fresh produce and charming Halloween decor provide casual yet engaging activities for a fun day out with the family. But for the 21+ crowd, the distillery offers Apple Jacks, Shawangunk wines, and cocktails enhanced with the farm’s produce amongst the usual suspects of local beers and ciders.

Stuart's Fruit Farm

Location: 62 Granite Springs Rd, Granite Springs, NY (About 90 minutes away from NYC by car)

Beyond their orchards, Stuart’s is also home to a Christmas tree farm and bakery which churns out irresistible cider donuts and fresh-baked pies. The farm also does not charge entrance and parking fees, meaning visitors are only charged for what they pick and purchase at the store. But this is definitely one of those trips where the journey getting there is just as worth it as the destination—driving through Granite Springs, visitors get to experience Westchester at its autumnal best as the mountains pass by in a montage of gold and orange.

Orchards of Concklin

Location: 2 S Mountain Rd, Pomona, NY (About 80 minutes away from NYC by car; two hours by train)

These orchards in the quaint town of Pomona are the ideal weekend day trip out of the city . In addition to sampling some of the newest and coolest apple varieties on the market (who wouldn’t want to take a bite out of a Ludacrisp?), the bakery offers everything from timeless apple pies to peanut butter custard pies that are begging to be your next holiday dinner centerpiece. While there’s enough to occupy your Saturday and Sunday afternoons, the farm also has a strong presence at local farmers’ markets such as Bronxville, Riverdale, and White Plains.

Twin Star Orchards

Location: 155 N Ohioville Rd, New Paltz, NY (About two hours away from NYC by car)

After you spend an afternoon plucking Fujis and Galas, Honeycrisps, and Cortlandts, take the load off at Twin Star’s on-site restaurant. Wood-fired pizzas are sumptuous and savory with options such as sweet sausage and broccoli rabe and Dragon’s Breath for the daring. Inclusive items like the vegan pizza and black bean burger also feature on the menu to accomodate for dietary preferences. And for those truly looking to indulge, be sure to visit on a Saturday and Sunday for the low-and-slow barbecue and stack your plate with fall-apart ribs and brisket. This is an orchard for the epicurean.

Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard

Location: 130 Hardscrabble Rd, North Salem, NY (About 90 minutes away from NYC)

There’s a little something for everyone at this North Salem farm and orchard—kids can learn from the property’s educational tours, cozy creatives can sip and paint or attend a bonsai grooming workshop, families can dig in to Sunday brunch at the onsite restaurant, and green thumbs can give back by contributing to the Community Supported Agriculture program (CSA). During the fall, Harvest Moon runs festivals every weekend featuring live country music performances, tractor hayrides, photo ops with scarecrows and fresh-picked pumpkins, and a rotation of local food vendors in addition to their scenic apple orchard.

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7 Cutest Small College Towns In Upstate New York

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From Niagara Falls, one of the natural wonders worth seeing in the U.S. , to the Finger Lakes to true urban playgrounds like Buffalo, Upstate New York is home to amazing vacation spots that will make you forget the rest of the world. Whether you're interested in connecting with nature, exploring art, discovering the rich heritage of baseball, or catching a glimpse of Hudson’s Valley’s charming small towns , the region is brimming with magical adventures, including extraordinary hidden gems like the 1,000 Islands.

Although there are endless options for fun experiences in this region, college towns boast great features that make them incredible tourist destinations as well. These towns come with quirky shopping spots, historical sites, bustling nightlife scenes, breathtaking natural beauty, and more. Take a look at the cutest small college towns in Upstate New York.

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7 Saratoga Springs

Home to empire state university , founded in 1971, and skidmore college , dating back to 1903.

Famous for being the "Queen of Spas,” thanks to its healing spring waters, Saratoga Springs is one of the cutest small college towns in Upstate New York. It’s home to two notable colleges: Empire State University, a portion of the State University of New York system, as well as Skidmore College, a liberal arts college that’s highly ranked for its incredible academic, health and wellness, and diversity in the student body.

The town has a thriving arts scene, which you can explore in its art galleries, museums, and performing arts venues. Various events and festivals are held throughout the year, including race horse events, food festivals, fireworks, and more. You’ll also discover unique shopping opportunities, including Saratoga Farmers’ Market, where you can explore food, art, and live music.

Wondering if Saratoga Springs is truly haunted? Well, several historic places say yes , including the Yaddo Gardens, which historical to be haunted by the Trasks, the family who were the estate's original owners.

Home to Cornell University , founded in 1865

Surrounded by incredibly spectacular natural wonders, from cascading waterfalls to the Finger Lakes, Ithaca is a small New York town that you can visit for less than $800 a week , thanks to its incredibly low travel costs. The town is nestled below Cayuga, the longest of the 11 Finger Lakes, offering multiple outdoor activities, including chasing waterfalls and boating on the lake.

Cornell University, founded in 1865, is one of the top private universities in the U.S., and is highly ranked in the world. The campus has several beautiful attractions, including Cornell Botanic Gardens, which includes impressive gardens and an arboterum.

Home to SUNY Oswego , founded in 1861

Oswego is one of the best small towns in Upstate New York to visit and guarantees an unforgettable experience, thanks to its rich history, multiple outdoor activities, and thriving arts community. The Port City of Central New York, the town offers many fabulous waterfront experiences, including restaurants with outdoor seating and lakefront hotels with amazing accommodations.

Its college campus, SUNY Oswego, which was founded in 1861, covers 696 acres, boasts breathtaking natural scenery and some of the most stunning sunsets in the area.

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4 Hyde Park

Home to the culinary institute of america , founded in 1946.

One of the small towns in the Hudson Valley that feel like a Hallmark Movie , Hyde Park, is the hometown of Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd President of the United States. The Roosevelt estate, the site of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site , is operated by the U.S. National Park Service. Apart from learning about the former President, it offers amazing art experiences, like the Artists’ Collective in Hyde Park, where you can enjoy various art shows and special events.

Hyde Park is among the cutest small college towns in Upstate New York, hosting the Culinary Institute of America, one of the world’s best culinary colleges. The institution is home to a variety of restaurants where you can explore a range of culinary adventures.

Home to SUNY Fredonia , founded in 1826

One of the best-kept-secret small towns in Upstate New York for a peaceful and quiet winter visit , Fredonia is famous for being the first town in the world to be illuminated by natural gas in 1825 . Beyond its unique history, Fredonia is surrounded by natural beauty all-round, thanks to its location among vineyards on Lake Erie.

Its downtown area beckons with picturesque Victorian architecture, one-of-a-kind shops, and historic inns that have stood the test of time. Its college campus, SUNY Fredonia, dating back to 1826, has one of the richest histories in the State University of New York System.

Home to SUNY Cortland , founded in 1868, rebuilt in 1923

Also known as the “Crown City,” thanks to being the highest-elevation city in New York, Cortland is known as the gateway to the Finger Lakes region, and lies halfway between Syracuse and Binghamton. The town has a rich history, having been first settled in 1791 , but it was not until 1900 when it was incorporated officially.

The fact that it’s surrounded by seven valleys means plenty of options for outdoor recreation as well as endless breathtaking vistas. But that’s not what it’s all about. Cortland is a stunning college town, recognized for SUNY College, a medium-sized public college founded in 1868 as the Cortland Normal School .

The campus was initially located in the downtown area but unfortunately suffered a fire that destroyed it completely in 1919. The current college campus was rebuilt in 1923.

Cortland’s low cost of living, along with other incredible perks make it one of the affordable small towns to retire in Upstate New York .

7 Best Small Towns In New York For A Weekend Retreat

Leave the hectic pace of cities this weekend for the serenity of these small and beautiful towns in the Empire State.

1 New Paltz

Home to suny new paltz , founded in 1828.

One of the cozy college towns in New York State that have plenty to offer visitors , New Paltz was first settled in 1677 by French Huguenots , known as the “Duzine.” The town, located in the Shawangunk Mountains, is best recognized for being a nature lover’s paradise, surrounded by some of the most breathtaking views of the Hudson Valley.

It hosts a variety of biking and hiking trails as well as kayaking and rock-climbing opportunities. It’s also known for its lively music scene, unique boutiques, and farm-to-table restaurants that guarantee unforgettable culinary adventures. Its college, SUNY New Paltz, is a public liberal arts college that was founded in 1828 .

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This Modern Farmhouse Combines Practicality and Polish

Family-friendly living—leveled up.

To some, it may seem unlikely that a family home can be both polished and practical, but certain spaces are proof the two characteristics can indeed exist in tandem. Kylie K. Bass, the founder of KKB Interiors in New York City, prioritizes the art of infusing timeless and functional elements in her dwellings, so it’s no surprise that she did just that when designing this Westport, Connecticut house. 

Take a Tour of This Modern Connecticut Farmhouse

The home—a light-filled modern farmhouse—is ideal for hosting, and Bass’s clients are avid entertainers who are able to make the most of the spacious kitchen and airy living room, which boasts gorgeous views of the outdoors. To ensure that the home is welcoming and cozy whether guests are over or the family is relaxing on their own, Bass and her designers infused the home with warm fabrics and textures, clean lines, and sculptural lighting. I spoke with Bass to learn more about how she created a space that is true to her clients’ needs today and is designed to grow with them as a family, too.

Before founding KBB Interiors in 2018, Kylie K. Bass apprenticed for a number of prestigious interior design firms in New York City. Kylie received her undergraduate degree from the University of Miami with a double major in Communications and Sport Administration and a minor in Business Administration. Kylie continued on to study at the New York School of Interior Design. 

This house has such a vibe—pairing modernity with a classic farmhouse feel. Take us through some of the unique elements of the original architecture. What are some of the changes you made?

One of the standout architectural features of this home is the double-height window situated in front of the staircase. This window not only draws the eye from the exterior but also serves as a dramatic focal point within the interior. To enhance this feature, we chose to add a statement chandelier that functions both as a light source and as a sculptural piece of art. 

How did you prioritize functionality and livability for a family with two small children while maintaining a style- and design-centric approach?

In designing this open-concept home for a family with two young children, we prioritized livability without sacrificing style. Every finish and piece of furniture was selected with durability and practicality in mind. I focused on sourcing from vendors known for their modern yet timeless designs, ensuring that the pieces would last both functionally and aesthetically. For instance, the coffee table is a perfect example—its stained wood legs paired with a concrete top add a striking design element while being sturdy enough for everyday family use.

The home benefits from so much natural light. How did you highlight and maximize this feature in the space?

The abundance of natural light in this home is amazing, and we wanted to capitalize on it to create a warm and inviting space. The homeowner’s thoughtful approach to design played a crucial role here. Although the home is rooted in modern design , there was a clear intention to infuse warmth throughout the space. The oversized windows not only flood the interiors with light but also frame the beautiful landscaping outside, which we used as a seamless extension of the interior design. This connection between the indoors and outdoors became a key element in the overall aesthetic.

The family loves to host and entertain. How did you support this element of their lifestyle in the final design?

We focused on creating spaces that are both stylish and durable, ensuring that they could host friends and family without worrying about wear and tear. One of the standout features is the reeded bar, which we designed to complement elements from the kitchen. This bar not only adds a sophisticated touch but also enhances the home’s overall flow.

With thoughtful choices, you can create a space that is both family-friendly and beautifully designed.

What piece of decorating wisdom would you like to share?

Don’t let having children or an open-concept space deter you from investing in high-quality furniture. The key is to focus on selecting materials that are both durable and stylish, and to choose brands known for their craftsmanship. With thoughtful choices, you can create a space that is both family-friendly and beautifully designed.

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School Workers’ Families Took Disney Trip Meant for Homeless Students

New York City school employees took their children or grandchildren to Disney World and other places through a program intended for homeless students, investigators found.

By Ed Shanahan

A half-dozen New York City school system employees took their children or grandchildren to Disney World, New Orleans and other destinations by exploiting a program intended for homeless students, investigators said in a report released this month.

The trips were meant as “enrichment opportunities,” attendance incentives and rewards for academic achievement for students living in shelters and other temporary housing, according to the report by the special commissioner of investigation for the city’s public schools.

The abuse of the grant-funded program was led by Linda Wilson, who at the time was the Queens manager for the Department of Education office that supports homeless students, the report says. As many as one in nine of the city’s roughly one million public school students are homeless.

Ms. Wilson, who supervised about 20 employees, took her daughters on some of the trips and encouraged several workers she supervised to do so as well but to keep the activities secret, the report says.

“What happens here stays with us,” she told one employee, according to the report.

Ms. Wilson and others forged the signatures of homeless students’ parents as part of the scheme, and she used a nonprofit organization to arrange the trips to evade Department of Education oversight, the report says.

“Few of the homeless students listed on the trip paperwork actually attended the trips,” the report says, although at least in the case of the Disney World trip, some homeless students did attend. One person interviewed by investigators told them “he had to beg” Ms. Wilson to allow him to add two of his students to the trip, the report says.

Ms. Wilson could not be reached on Tuesday. In an interview with The New York Post , which first reported the investigation, she denied that she had taken her daughters on the outings or had suggested that others do the same, and she called the inquiry by the special commissioner, Anastasia Coleman, “a witch hunt.”

The trips in question, which also included travel to Boston, Washington, D.C., and upstate New York and to at least one Broadway show, happened from 2016 to 2019.

A Department of Education spokeswoman, Jenna Lyle, noted that the abuses occurred before the current chancellor, David C. Banks, took the helm of the nation’s largest public school system.

Still, Ms. Lyle said, “this kind of behavior is unacceptable, and all staff identified in this report are no longer employed by New York City Public Schools.” The department has taken steps to prevent such misconduct in the future, she added.

Most of the trips included about half a dozen Department of Education staff members as chaperones and one or two buses carrying about 30 students apiece, the report says.

Several of the trips were supposed to be college tours, but the students and those accompanying them never visited the campuses, according to the report. In one instance, the report says, a group that included Ms. Wilson and one of her daughters ate lunch at Syracuse University in June 2018 but did not tour the school and traveled to Niagara Falls instead.

The special commissioner’s inquiry began in 2019 after a whistle-blower’s tip, and the report detailing the investigators’ findings was issued in January 2023. It was released on Sept. 9 after administrative actions against Ms. Wilson and the other employees became final, the special commissioner’s office said on Tuesday.

In addition to the Department of Education, the investigators’ findings were referred to the city’s Conflicts of Interest Board.

In a settlement with the board last month, one of the employees, Mishawn Jack, admitted taking her two daughters to the Broadway show “Wicked” and on a trip to Washington in 2016, using slots meant for students living “in a shelter, a car, a park or an abandoned building.”

Kirsten Noyes contributed research.

Ed Shanahan is a rewrite reporter and editor covering breaking news and general assignments on the Metro desk. More about Ed Shanahan

Around the New York Region

A look at life, culture, politics and more in new york, new jersey and connecticut..

A Mayor in Turmoil:  As federal investigations  swirl around Mayor Eric Adams, his political influence, his agenda and his re-election effort are at risk .

Insurance Crisis Looms:  The largest insurer of taxis and Ubers in New York City is insolvent. Its collapse could force thousands of cars out of service .

Where Is Happy the Elephant?:  The star attraction of the Bronx Zoo hasn’t been seen since July. The zoo says she’s fine, but animal rights activists are not so sure .

Street Wars:  The police have been cracking down on New York City’s street vendors over the past year, upsetting sellers who say they are just trying to earn a living. Can these vendors survive?

Sunday Routine:  The 90-year-old comedian D’yan Forest spends her Sundays  swimming and playing golf, then closing her day with a 10-minute set at Gotham Comedy Club.

This Upstate NY city has been named one of the best college towns in America

• Updated: Sep. 18, 2024, 6:48 p.m.
• | Published: Sep. 18, 2024, 6:00 a.m.

The beautiful High Falls of Rochester, N.Y. Getty Images/500px Plus

• Samantha House | [email protected]

Rochester, N.Y. — Upstate New York is dotted with unforgettable college towns brimming with school spirit.

And Rochester , a vibrant city with an impressive number of higher education institutions, has just been named one of the best college towns in the United States.

Rochester was one of 20 communities included in a roundup of the top college towns in America by Thrillist , a digital publication focused on travel. The Flower City was the only place in college-saturated New York state to make the list, which included towns ranging from Ann Arbor, Michigan to State College, Pennsylvania.

The Rochester area hosts several public and private colleges — including the University of Rochester, the Rochester Institute of Technology, St. John Fisher University and SUNY Brockport.

Nineteenth-century statues stand by Rush Rhees Library at the University of Rochester on Wednesday, February 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Ted Shaffrey) AP

For those students, Rochester offers a unique late-night, rite-of-passage eat: garbage plates , a dish created by Nick Tahou Hots that traditionally consists of hamburgers or hot dogs on a mountain of home fries and macaroni salad topped with a spicy meat sauce.

Garbage plates are a “big part” of the college experience in Rochester, Thrillist wrote.

“Rochester’s confluence of students from the University of Rochester, RIT, and nearby SUNYs at Brockport and Geneseo have made it the stuff of late-night legends,” the magazine wrote.

But there is much more to Rochester’s college scene than garbage plates.

The city is “teeming with college-friendly culture,” Thrillist said — from the Neighborhood of Play, home to Nerdvana and the Strong National Museum of Play , to Rochester’s proximity to Letchworth State Park , the Grand Canyon of the East.

Here are the 20 communities that made Thrillist’s list of the best college communities in the U.S.:

• Ann Arbor, Michigan
• Athens, Georgia
• Bloomington, Indiana
• Boone, North Carolina
• Boulder, Colorado
• Chapel Hill, North Carolina
• Clemson, South Carolina
• Columbus, Ohio
• Eugene, Oregon
• Knoxville, Tennessee
• Lexington, Kentucky
• Madison, Wisconsin
• Oxford, Mississippi
• Providence, Rhode Island
• Rochester, New York
• San Marcos, Texas
• State College, Pennsylvania
• Tallahassee, Florida
• Tempe, Arizona
• Tucson, Arizona

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