Fall Bucket List for Kids: 35 Top Things To Do in NYC this Fall

Jody Mercier's picture Submitted by Jody Mercier on

Join Jack Skellington, Sally, and Zero on a walk of wonders at NYBG's The Nightmare Before Christmas Light Trail. Photo by Ally Noel

With September behind us, we're focused on finding the best fall activities in NYC for families because it's official: The seasons are shifting. So, instead of lamenting the summer that was, we're looking forward to all the fall activities that await.

With that in mind, here's our season-long look at the best things to do this fall in NYC. After all, we've got assorted school holidays, plus a few long weekends to fill before the weather really changes. Without further ado, here is our fall bucket list, chock full of 35 things to do in NYC with kids.

Now that we've got you dreaming of fall, find our top picks for family-friendly fall day trips and more seasonal fun in our Guide to Fall Fun in NYC.

25 Things To Do Indoors on Long Island on a Rainy Day

Jaime Sumersille's picture Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on

The Vanderbilt has a planetarium, an expansive mansion, and a museum, making it a great place to explore on a rainy day. Photo by Kristen Markel

Fun things to do indoors with kids on rainy days are crucial when it's pouring, cold, or even just drizzling outside. We've rounded up 25 rainy-day activities and adventures across Long Island that can keep kids occupied for hours. Our list includes Long Island’s best indoor play spaces, sports centers and fun zones, museum exhibits, and the newest area attractions to visit. 

For even more things to do indoors with kids, check out our Indoor Fun Guide for Long Island Kids and our constantly updated Event Calendar. 

Best Family-Friendly Hikes to See Fall Leaves in the Adirondacks

Submitted by Katherine Dhurandhar on

The view from the summit of Rooster Comb is magical when the leaves are changing colors. Photo by the author

One of my favorite places to see fall leaves on hikes with my family is in the Adirondacks region of New York. The Adirondacks region has one of the longest-lasting fall foliage seasons in the country, with peak foliage times from late September in the High Peaks region to mid-to-late October in the Lake George area.

I have been on numerous hikes with my family in the Adirondacks, and these are my favorite family-friendly hikes and viewing spots to appreciate this spectacular seasonal change. So, if you're planning a leaf-peeping trip this fall, add these hikes to your list.

Find more great things to do this autumn with your fam in our Westchester & Hudson Valley Kids Fall Guide. 

Acres of Fun Await at Weed Orchards, a Kid-Pleasing Hudson Valley Farm

Submitted by Jennifer Rojas on

Weed Orchards & Winery is a fifth-generation Hudson Valley farm that blossoms with seasonal activities for families.

Weed Orchards & Winery is a go-to spot for a memorable local adventure. Nestled at the base of the Marlboro Mountains, Weed Orchards & Winery is a picturesque fifth-generation family farm spread across 100 acres. It’s the perfect setting for a fun and relaxing family outing. You’ll love picking Hudson Valley produce like apples, peaches, pears, pumpkins, and grapes.

Read on for our favorite things to do at this Hudson Valley farm and find more local farms for apple picking or pumpkin picking in our Guide to Pick Your Own Farms.

Family-Friendly Fun for Oktoberfest in Atlanta

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Helen, Georgia is the ultimate spot to celebrate Oktoberfest near Atlanta -- there are events throughout fall! Photo by Bill Leffler

It's Oktoberfest — bring out the polka bands and lederhosen because it's time to celebrate! Atlanta hosts great Oktoberfest-themed events and activities, including our own Bavarian town, Helen, Georgia! We've gathered some of our favorite Oktoberfest events in Atlanta that will get everyone singing, "oompah, oompah!" 

For more awesome fall activities and festivals, check out our Atlanta Fall Guide. We've got up-to-date news and ideas about Halloween, pumpkin patches, and much more!

Oktoberfest in Chicago: The Best Oktoberfests for Families in Chicago

Submitted by Maureen Wilkey on

Dad and son at Oktoberfest. Photo courtesy of St. Benedict's Oktoberfest

Step aside, pumpkin spice latte. It's time to celebrate fall with the original autumn beverage: Oktoberfest beer! And luckily for us Chicagoans, the Bavarian tradition is strong and there are lots of Oktoberfests in Chicago to help you celebrate.

Like the original Oktoberfest, these local festivities have live music, carnival games, and other fun and family-friendly activities, and as a bonus, most are free (minus food and drinks) or super affordable to attend. Look out for Oktoberfests in traditional German neighborhoods and suburbs like Lincoln Square and Schaumburg, and feel free to don the traditional Bavarian garb—you won't be the only one! And of course, don't forget to snag a pretzel or two.

Family-Friendly Fun for Oktoberfest in Orlando

Submitted by Melanie Preis on

Autumn brings family-friendly Oktoberfest celebrations to Orlando.

Celebrate Oktoberfest with the whole fam at kid-friendly Orlando events! Don some lederhosen for the ultimate Oktoberfest fun with the kids. Whether you love Bavarian music, traditional outfits, delicious food, or fun dances, Oktoberfest is a wonderful time for everyone. And of course, mom and dad can enjoy a toppling beer stein during the day's festivities. Take a look at some fun Oktoberfest events in Orlando throughout the month!

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