As the seasons transition from summer weather to chilly temps; something magical happens. The trees change colors to shades of yellows, oranges, and reds. It’s a truly stunning sight here in the Northeast and something bound to impress even the most expert travelers. While NYC has some parks with good leaf peeping, it’s best to hop in your car and venture out if you really want to maximize your sights.
Here’s our list of the best places for leaf peeping within a reasonable drive from Manhattan.
The Hawk’s Nest is a scenic location outside Port Jervis, New York high above the Delaware River on New York State Route 97. Its name is derived from the birds of prey that nest in the area. The location is also known for its winding roads and scenic overlooks in the Delaware River Valley. In the Fall this spot brings in the crowds with their gorgeous Fall foliage, so make sure to get there early.
Town: Sparrow Bush, NY
Distance from NYC: 2 Hours
Accessible by Public Transit: No
The Mohonk Mountain House was founded by the Smiley Family in 1869 as a luxury Victorian castle resort. You don’t need to be a hotel guest to explore the grounds near the hotel. A day pass to access the nearby grounds costs between $10 – $35 depending on where your starting point is. The picturesque castles really adds wonders to the backdrop once the season colors start to change.
Town: New Paltz, NY
Distance from NYC: 2 hours
Accessible by Public Transit: No
Storm King, located in the Hudson Valley, lights up with orange and yellow Fall colors by about Mid-October. The grounds include a 500-acre outdoor museum with a sculpture garden you won’t want to miss. As you walk the huge grounds there are thousands of perfect spots for photo opportunities. Make sure you book your tickets in advance as they do tend to sell out. Tickets are pay-by-car starting at $23/pp.
Town: New Windsor, NY
Distance from NYC: 1.5 hours
Accessible by Public Transit: Yes
The Bear Mountain Bridge stretches 2,200 feet in length and is quite the sigh come the Fall months when both sides of the bridge are surrounded by amazing colors. The park is home to over 50 different trails across 200 miles so you can surely make a day out of it between sightseeing and hiking.
Town: Garrison, NY
Distance from NYC: 1 hour
Accessible by Public Transit: Yes
From the picturesque downtown of New Hope, PA; you can hop on a vintage railroad and take a tour of the changing colors of Bucks County. While on board, a narrator will provide you with interesting facts and stories regarding locations along the route. The excursion lasts for approximately two hours and you have the option of sitting in a first class or coach cabin.
Town: New Hope, PA
Distance from NYC: 1.5 hours
Accessible by Public Transit: Yes
We couldn’t leave NYC off this list entirely. Central Park has a handful of great options for Fall Foliage sighting in the park, which include: The North Woods, the Conservatory Garden, The Pool, and The Reservoir. Pictured in the shot above is The Mall, featuring a quadruple row of American Elms. Fun Fact: The Mall is Central Park’s only intentional straight line.
If you’re looking for a way to pack in your leaf peeping with a unique adventure – this is it. Hop on a pedal car and pedal your way through an 8 mile round trip adventure (there is electric pedal assistance). Soak up the sights of nature and even bring your pup with you. The tour takes approximately 2.5 hours from the time you board.
Town: Phoenicia, NY
Distance from NYC: 2.5 hours
Accessible by Public Transit: No
This one might be a little too far for a day trip but if you catch it in the right season – the views are definitely worth the trek. Climb to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain and you will have the perfect view of the charming town of Deerfield, Massachusetts down below. It’s tough to beat fall foliage in New England.
Town: Deerfield, MA
Distance from NYC: 3.5 hours
Accessible by Public Transit: No
Take a trail hike through Talcott Mountain State Park that ends at the Heublein Tower. The tower is open to visiting guests on weekends from 10am – 12pm & 1pm – 4pm. From the street, it takes approximately 30 minutes to get to the tower. From the top of the hill, you will be able to see the beautiful fall foliage below.
Town: Simsbury, CT
Distance from NYC: 3 hours
Accessible by Public Transit: No
