Just because we are urbanites dwelling in the concrete jungle does not mean we do not have access or opportunity to explore the most beautiful part of fall. Take advantage of the gorgeousness of East Coast fall and seek out the best spots fall foliage had to offer. And better yet, you don’t have to leave the 5 boroughs. Many of these foliage-viewing venues may not be in Manhattan-proper, but each location within our selection is located within the 5 boroughs and is incredibly accessible via public transportation - even from SNOWMAN’s Midtown Showroom.

BRONX

Van Cortlandt Park
Van Cortland Park is absolutely enormous with 1,000+ acres and miles of nature hikes. The tulip and maple trees add variety to the foliage sighting in this park with the bright yellows and vibrant reds. This park is home to the Croton Reservoir, which once sourced New York City’s clean water. Hop on the 1 train anywhere in Manhattan and head straight north!

Wave Hill

This magical spot is still a pretty well kept secret. And surprisingly enough, it is less that a 30min ride from Midtown on the 1 train. Wave Hill describes itself as “a 28-acre public garden and cultural center in the Bronx overlooking the Hudson River and Palisades. Its mission is to celebrate the artistry and legacy of its gardens and landscapes, to preserve its magnificent views, and to explore human connections to the natural world...” (wavehill.org). One special tree in this park is the Katsura Tree on the lawn south of the Glyndor Gallery. This tree is unique because of its heart-shaped leaves that turn pale yellow on the tree.
Once they fall, they emit a fragrance similar to caramel.

STATEN ISLAND

Greenbelt

The Greenbelt consists of more than 2,800 acres of public and private land in central Staten Island, and includes natural areas and traditional parks. Start your expedition at the Nature Center, where you can pick up a copy of the trail map (which can also be downloaded from the website) and talk to naturalists.

QUEENS

Alley Pond Park

At just over a half-mile long, Tulip Tree Trail is a great place to spot tulip trees, which is beautiful in the fall. There are a host of other trails. To learn more, visit the Alley Pond Environmental Center upon arrival. The APEC is located just east of the Cross Island Parkway on Northern Blvd. in Northeast Queens.

BROOKLYN

Prospect Park

This very accessible park is located in the heart of South Brooklyn. Enjoy the lovely shops and restaurants in Park Slope, flanking the park’s Western edge. Then dive into the park, where you will feel worlds away. Head to the Ravine the highest concentration of plants or to the lake. Also within the park’s boundaries is the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens, a perfect fall getaway.

Works Consulted: Timeout NY

This is a list of 5 accessible spots to explore the wonder and beauty of fall. But do not wait until November rolls around! Make sure to enjoy the foliage before October ends. In the New York area, leave hues should peak around mid to late October. Send us your favorite pictures from your adventures! We would love to be inspired by beautiful fall hues.