As temperatures cool down, fall foliage bursts into vibrant colors, and New York City is more beautiful than ever. Visitors can explore over 1,700 parks, playgrounds, and recreation facilities across the five boroughs, including woodlands and wetlands. From iconic Central Park in Manhattan, to Prospect Park in Brooklyn, and lesser known parks and community gardens, the concrete jungle isn't too far from a real forest, if you know where to look.
Fall is also when Broadway and NYC come alive again with new shows and incredible entertainment. We asked two members of our Broadway Inbound team about why they love NYC in the fall.
Allison French, Broadway Inbound Director of Sales:
Why is the city better in the fall? “In late summer, the city tends to empty of locals who take vacations. After Labor Day, you can feel the energy picking back up and people getting excited for the new Broadway season and countless openings.”
What are a few of the most interesting things to do in the city during the fall? “Besides Broadway, I personally love the farmer’s markets in New York City in the fall; they have apples, squash, and pumpkins to decorate! People watching in Union Square Park with a coffee and donut from the market is really fun too, and visitors should be sure to find the delicious apple cider donuts!"
What are good activities that families can enjoy? "Boo at the Zoo at the Bronx Zoo is adorable. The kids dress up, and they get in for free; it’s super cute and fun! The fall foliage and cooler temperatures during a NYC autumn are also great! Astoria Park is one of my favorites for its beautiful views right on the East River. I also love riding a bike over to Roosevelt Island from Astoria and taking the path around the island up to the Lighthouse Park.”
Why should people make time for Broadway? "We’re going to have a cool and unique season of new shows. Since I have such an awesome job, I often get the opportunity to be able to see shows before they come to Broadway or as they are in rehearsals. For example, I had the opportunity to travel to Chicago to preview SpongeBob SquarePants during the pre-Broadway run. It's opening for previews on Broadway in November, and it is such a quirky, fun show, full of the silly humor you love from the animated series."
Todd Rappaport, Broadway Inbound Director of Marketing
Why is the city better in the fall? "It’s funny you should ask… I think the city is better in the fall because the weather is amazing, and the parks are gorgeous. Like the High Line. It’s my favorite place to take people who are visiting New York for the first time. On a personal level, I moved here in the fall, so it’s always a very romantic season for me."
What are a few of the most interesting things to do in the city during the fall? "Obviously, I get excited about all the new Broadway shows starting previews in the fall. I’m really excited about The Band’s Visit and Once on This Island. Honestly, there’s no question; Broadway is THE most interesting thing to do in the fall.“
Why should people make time for Broadway? "I’ve lived in New York for two decades now. I’ve seen hundreds and hundreds of Broadway shows thanks to my job, and I’ve taken so many friends and family to shows who trust my recommendations. You really have to see a show on a visit to NYC, or you're missing out, especially when a new season debuts—no ifs, ands, or buts!"
If you’re looking to see a show in the fall but are having difficulty finding availability, try our insider tip and look on Halloween. Because parents are out with their kids trick-or-treating, shows have great availability on this spooky holiday. Later in the season, be sure to check out the legendary Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, which will be held on Thanksgiving Day, November 23, 2017. The parade is a great opportunity to get a taste of what’s on Broadway. Past performances at the parade included Waitress, Cats, School of Rock and Kinky Boots.
There is plenty to see and do this season, so start planning your trip by booking your show tickets now. As you can see, a Broadway show in the fall is a must!