As fall approaches, the air fills with the festive spirit of pumpkin season across the United States. People stroll through streets adorned with whimsical jack-o’-lanterns and catch whiffs of pumpkin-spiced delights wafting from cafés and bakeries. But nothing compares to the joy of witnessing ripe pumpkins gleaming in the sunlight, celebrating nature’s bounty. Here are three prime destinations to enjoy the vibrant autumn colors and pumpkin festivities in New York.
**New York Botanical Garden (NYBG)**
This fall, the New York Botanical Garden transforms into the city’s pumpkin headquarters, featuring a stunning array of pumpkins, gourds, and autumn blooms. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the joyous atmosphere of harvest season. The garden hosts a range of activities, from pumpkin carving competitions to enchanting light pathways, not to mention the immensely popular beer-tasting events that amplify the charm of the season.
On select nights, families can stroll through a beautifully lit pathway, encouraging children and adults alike to don their Halloween costumes as they enjoy an unforgettable fall outing amid breathtaking seasonal landscapes.
In addition to the rich activities, the NYBG serves as a picturesque backdrop for capturing fall memories. With hundreds of pumpkins in various shapes, sizes, and colors placed around, it offers endless opportunities for photo ops. Whether you’re taking family portraits or snapping fun pictures with friends, this venue promises to be an ideal setting for your autumn snapshots.
The garden is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM to 6 PM, and also welcomes visitors on federal holiday Mondays. Located at 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10458-5126. For more details, visit nybg.org.
**Hank’s PumpkinTown**
If you’re looking for a place to enjoy the fall scenery, experience pumpkin picking, and escape the bustle of city life, Hank’s PumpkinTown on Long Island is the perfect choice.
Covering over 30 acres, Hank’s is a vibrant farm sanctuary that transforms into a colorful harvest paradise each autumn, attracting visitors from all around. One of the most popular activities is pumpkin picking, where guests can select their favorite pumpkin straight from the patch—ideal for decorating, baking, or crafting jack-o’-lanterns. With prices starting at just $0.79 per pound, it’s easy to bring home a piece of autumn magic without breaking the bank.
Beyond pumpkin picking, Hank’s offers a variety of family-friendly activities. Visitors can enjoy hayrides through pumpkin and cornfields, taking in the spectacular pastoral views while learning about the farm’s harvest stories. Families looking for a fun challenge can explore the corn maze, making it a thrilling adventure for kids and adults alike.
On weekends and holidays, guests can indulge in traditional fall treats, from apple cider and doughnuts to caramel apples, ensuring a delightful sensory experience of autumn’s bounty.
The farm is open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM, located at 240 Montauk Hwy, Water Mill, NY 11976. For more ticket information and details, check out hankspumpkintown.com.
**Queens County Farm Museum**
Every October, the Queens County Farm Museum becomes a celebrated hotspot in New York City, thanks to its picturesque pumpkin fields. This farm is not just a pumpkin-picking destination; it boasts over 300 years of rich agricultural heritage. Since 1697, this land has been continuously cultivated, making it one of the oldest farms in New York.
Visitors can wander through the expansive 47 acres of farmland, immersing themselves in the area’s historical significance and unique autumn allure. Each field and pasture tells a story, inspiring both visual and emotional connections to the past. Additionally, interaction with animals is another highlight of the farm, where visitors can purchase hay to feed the sheep.
This month, admission for activities at the Queens County Farm is free. Regular hours are Monday to Friday, 12 PM to 4:30 PM, and weekends and holidays from 10 AM to 4:30 PM, with some days requiring specific tickets. For more information, visit queensfarm.org.
