New York Botanical Garden Vs Brooklyn Botanic Garden: Which NYC Oasis Wins?

Two lush gardens. One city. Where will you stop and smell the roses?

Published: May 2, 2025
New York Botanical Garden

Craving a break from concrete and car horns? New York City might surprise you with just how green it can be—if you know where to look. The New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx and the Brooklyn Botanic Garden are two of the city’s most beautiful natural escapes, offering blooming flowers, peaceful walking trails, and some serious garden envy. But which garden should you visit? We’ve compared them leaf to leaf to help you choose the best botanical experience for your NYC adventure. 

The Lowdown 

New York Botanical Garden (NYBG) 

  • Located in the Bronx, next to the Bronx Zoo 

  • Covers 250 acres, including forests, meadows, and curated gardens 

  • Features a stunning Victorian-style glass conservatory 

  • Home to over one million plants from around the world 

  • Seasonal exhibitions like the Holiday Train Show and Orchid Show 

  • Offers tram tours and guided walks 

Brooklyn Botanic Garden (BBG) 

  • Located in Prospect Park, Brooklyn 

  • Covers 52 acres of themed gardens and plant collections 

  • Known for its Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden and Cherry Esplanade 

  • Features a bonsai museum and native flora garden 

  • Accessible, walkable, and perfect for a shorter visit 

  • Offers art exhibits, tours, and kids’ programming 

 

Sounds Good, Tell Me More... 

New York Botanical Garden 

The NYBG is a sprawling paradise—big, bold, and filled with plant life from every corner of the planet. It’s perfect for a day of slow wandering, thanks to expansive walking paths, wooded trails, and vibrant seasonal displays. Highlights include the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, a 1902 glasshouse brimming with tropical, desert, and aquatic plants, and the 50-acre Thain Forest, one of NYC’s last natural woodlands. Annual shows like the Orchid Show and Holiday Train Show transform the space into an immersive wonderland. With multiple cafés, a gift shop, and a tram to help you get around, it’s as practical as it is peaceful. 

Brooklyn Botanic Garden 

If NYBG is a sweeping epic, BBG is a beautifully curated short story. It’s easier to explore in a couple of hours, but no less magical. The Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden is a meditative masterpiece, with bridges, koi ponds, and cherry blossoms in spring. The Cherry Esplanade is one of NYC’s most Instagrammed springtime spots, while the Shakespeare Garden offers blooms mentioned in the Bard’s plays. BBG is deeply integrated with the surrounding community and features art installations, a Discovery Garden for kids, and events that make it feel lively but never overwhelming. 

Okay, So Which One Is Most Impressive? 

Okay, So Which One Is Most Impressive? 

In terms of size and diversity, NYBG is the heavyweight champion. It’s one of the largest botanical gardens in the U.S. and feels like a full-day escape. BBG impresses with charm, accessibility, and thoughtful design. Both are stunning—but NYBG wins if you’re going for scale and variety. 

 

Which One Is More Fun? 

BBG feels a bit more playful. Its seasonal festivals, interactive kids’ areas, and themed gardens offer little surprises at every turn. NYBG leans more into grandeur and educational programming, which can feel more formal—but the sheer range of exhibits makes it deeply rewarding for curious minds. 

Which Is More Beautiful? 

This one’s subjective, but let’s break it down. NYBG’s vastness and forested areas give you nature at its wildest and most impressive. The Victorian conservatory is jaw-dropping. BBG, though, is more about artistic landscaping and tranquil moments—especially in the Japanese Garden. If you’re chasing serenity and poetry, BBG wins. If you want awe and grandeur, NYBG delivers. 

Which Has The Better View? 

BBG’s views are about curated harmony—think flowering cherry trees, koi ponds, and skyline glimpses through the trees. NYBG offers sweeping landscapes, hidden woodland paths, and elevated viewpoints of the Bronx River and native forests. If you want variety in scenery, NYBG has more to explore. 

 

How Do I Get There? 

How Do I Get There? 

New York Botanical Garden 

  • Address: 2900 Southern Boulevard, Bronx 

  • Subway: Take the B, D, or 4 train to Bedford Park Blvd, then a short bus ride or 20-minute walk 

  • Metro-North: Just 20 minutes from Grand Central to Botanical Garden station 

Brooklyn Botanic Garden 

  • Address: 990 Washington Avenue, Brooklyn 

  • Subway: Take the 2, 3, 4, 5 to Franklin Avenue or the B, Q, S to Prospect Park 

Both are accessible by public transport—BBG is more centrally located for most travelers. 

Best Choice For Families, Couples, Or Friends 

Families will love both, but BBG is more manageable with younger kids and has a great Discovery Garden. NYBG is a dream for couples and friends planning a full-day nature date. For romance, the conservatory at NYBG is a stunner. For casual strolls and catching up with friends, BBG is a lovely backdrop. 

I’ve Got Fidgety Kids To Entertain – Which Has More ‘Hands-On’ Activities? 

BBG takes this one. The Discovery Garden is full of hands-on fun, and seasonal programming keeps kids engaged. NYBG has educational signage and occasional activities, but it’s more about exploration than interactivity. 

What’s The Accessibility Like? 

Both gardens are well-equipped with paved paths, accessible entrances, and rest areas. NYBG has a tram system, which is helpful for guests with mobility needs due to its size. BBG’s compact layout makes it easy to get around on foot or with a stroller or wheelchair. 

Best Lunch Spots Nearby? 

Best Lunch Spots Nearby? 

Near New York Botanical Garden 

  • Arthur Avenue Market – A short walk to Little Italy in the Bronx, packed with amazing Italian eats 

  • Mike’s Deli – Inside the market, known for huge sandwiches and cannoli 

  • Bronx Beer Hall – Great local beers and bar snacks right by the market 

Near Brooklyn Botanic Garden 

  • Olmsted – Michelin Bib Gourmand pick offering inventive farm-to-table dishes nearby 

  • LunÀtico – Cozy wine bar with great tapas and occasional live jazz 

 

Where Are The Best Photo Opportunities? 

At NYBG, head to the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory for tropical plant shots, or snap a serene photo in the Thain Forest. BBG offers picture-perfect moments in the Japanese Garden, the Cranford Rose Garden, and along the Cherry Esplanade in spring. BBG is especially photogenic in April and May when the cherry blossoms explode into color. 

We’re Finished And Thirsty – Is There A Decent Bar In The Area? 

Near New York Botanical Garden 

  • Emilia’s – Cozy trattoria with strong drinks and classic dishes 

Near Brooklyn Botanic Garden 

  • Bar Meridian – Chill neighborhood bar with great cocktails and natural wine 

  • Tooker Alley – Craft cocktail bar with vintage vibes and outdoor seating 

  • Covenhoven – Quirky beer bar with a backyard garden and great tap list 

Any Other Good Stuff Nearby? 

Any Other Good Stuff Nearby? 

Near New York Botanical Garden 

  • Bronx Zoo – One of the world’s best zoos, right next door 

  • Arthur Avenue – The Bronx’s Little Italy, perfect for food lovers 

Near Brooklyn Botanic Garden 

  • Prospect Park – Vast and full of hidden gems, just across the street 

 

Whether you’re wandering through the wilds of the Bronx or strolling the sculpted serenity of Brooklyn, both of these botanical gardens offer an unforgettable NYC escape. The New York Botanical Garden is big, bold, and packed with plant-life wonders. The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is smaller, sweeter, and ideal for a slower-paced visit. With Go City®, you can explore either one—and save while you stop to smell the roses (and orchids, and lilacs, and bonsai...). Take your pick, or better yet, plan for both. 

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New York in June

Looking for the ultimate summer in New York experience? Wherever your interests may lie, the city is the perfect destination with fantastic activities, spectacular landmarks, and world-class cultural amenities to embrace your sense of wonder and thrill. Head out for a day of kayaking at the Brooklyn Bridge Park Boathouse, enjoy some sweet tunes at the Blue Notes Jazz Festival, or have a blast at the Coney Island Mermaid Parade – this place has it all! Whatever you choose to do, we promise you won’t leave disappointed! With Go City, you can see more, for less. Experience the Culture of the City New York comes alive in the summertime with some great musical events. From June 15th right through to August 15th, audiences can catch contemporary jazz masters doing what they do best, as hosted by the Blue Note Jazz Club. The annual jazz festival features over 80 acts at a variety of city venues, but we think that the best place to hear some tunes is right against the backdrop of Central Park – honestly, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend the afternoon. A well-recognized intellectual hub, New York presents a wide array of incredible museums for visitors all year round. Celebrating the city’s rich concentration of culture, the Museum Mile Festival provides the opportunity for visitors to view some of the area’s most revered art and history repositories. Stretching along Fifth Avenue, the block party includes some of the city’s finest institutions, such as the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Museum of the City of New York. With specialities ranging from modern, contemporary and historic art to Latin American and Jewish history, there’s a little something for everybody here. Get the perfect taste of New York from favorite local vendors as you explore the Bronx across the Harlem River. Run by a diverse, female-operated team, the Bronx Night Market seeks to showcase the vibrancy of the area through its food and culture. A total feast for the senses, the event features a broad array of delicious provisions at super affordable prices. Whether you’re more savory or sweet, one thing’s for sure – you won’t be leaving on an empty stomach! In addition to all the great food, the market also offers some interesting stalls to browse as well as live performances from local musicians. Try Something New Summers in New York can get, shall we say, a little humid? If you’re looking for a fun way to cool down, why not try kayaking? Running from the beginning of the month, visitors can head down to the Brooklyn Bridge Park Boathouse to for a free session. All paddlers are accompanied by friendly watersport experts and provided with proper kayaking equipment to ensure full safety. Granting amazing views of lower Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty, this truly one-of-a-kind experience should be at the top of everyone’s itinerary! When the summertime rolls around, many of the city’s renowned cultural institutes transform themselves to suit the weather. A cornerstone of New York City culture, the Lincoln Center consolidates art with nature with a number of outside programs. During the month of June, visitors can relax in the outdoor reading room or catch live jazz performances and cabaret concerts under the stars. In addition, the establishment's newly designed park serves as the perfect place for fun and recreation after a busy day’s exploring. One of our favorite things to do for June in New York is head down to Brooklyn to catch the Coney Island Mermaid Parade. Eccentric and lively, the event is the country's largest art parade and one of the city's greatest summer events. Bringing together creatives from all over the nation, the festival celebrates ancient mythology whilst serving as a total flourish of self-expression. A must-do for lovers of all things campy, this one-of-a-kind fiesta involves outlandish nautical-themed costumes, huge floats, and fun marching bands. Artsy, exciting, and downright ludicrous - hey, isn’t that what New York City is all about? Get Festive June in New York brings a whole host of fun and festivities. Drawing in tens of thousands of participants and millions of spectators each year, the city’s pride parade is one of the largest LGBTQ+ marches in the world. If you’re looking to join in on the fun, head down to Fifth Avenue towards the end of the month to experience the incredible and vibrant parade take to the streets. Complete with rainbow-colored floats, high-spirited dancing and iconic performers, you won’t want to skip this one. Those familiar with New York can attest that the city provides a wide array of fun festivals for visitors throughout the summertime. Kicking off towards the end of the month, Juneteenth is a federal holiday commemorating the emancipation of African-American slaves and celebrating diversity in culture. Perhaps the most conventional way to celebrate the holiday is by rocking up to the Juneteenth NYC, which kicks off at 5 p.m. in Brooklyn each year. In addition, the city hosts many cool and unique ways to celebrate black culture across all five boroughs, including special screenings at the Museum of Moving Image, Broadway productions celebrating black performers, and Juneteenth Freedom Fest NYC: Block Party. Those who are looking for a fun and affordable ways to experience the city might be interested in the next item on our list. Originally created in the aftermath of 9/11, the River to River Festival was presented with the intention to soothe and celebrate the city’s strength through art. Starting from mid-June, the event features everything from music and dance performances to live installations and screenings. With an incredible atmosphere and so much to see, this one is fun for all the family. New York is what vacation destination dreams are made of. Whether you’re a foodie, an artsy type, or a music lover, you’ll be spoiled for choice with great things to do in the city. Explore the area to its full potential with Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.
Sarah Harris
USS intrepid
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The Ultimate Kid Experience: 10 Things to Try at Intrepid

Kids Take Off: 10 Reasons the Intrepid Museum Amazes Families  You land in New York with little explorers in tow, ready for adventure. But how do you get kids excited to swap playgrounds for museums? Easy: you head straight for the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. Sitting right on the Hudson River, this colossal aircraft carrier is loaded with interactive science, real-life space shuttles, sleek fighter jets, and stories that put every history book to shame. Here, learning blasts off at full throttle—and the “no touching” rule? That’s mostly forgotten. We’re about to unveil the very best reasons the Intrepid is a kid magnet, plus plenty of smart tips for making the most of your New York family trip.  Our favorite Intrepid Museum highlights for kids include:  Exploring an actual aircraft carrier  Meeting the Space Shuttle Enterprise  Climbing inside a Cold War submarine  Hands-on fun in the Exploreum Hall  Pretending to pilot jets and helicopters  SIMULATOR RIDES  Family scavenger hunts  Watching dramatic flight deck demonstrations  Getting wowed by big city views  Discovering history that feels like a game    Let’s set sail through each adventure—plus share some extra New York sights nearby for families who want to keep the good times rolling.  2. Get Up Close to the Space Shuttle Enterprise  You don’t need a rocket ticket to see a real spacecraft—the Intrepid has one parked on deck! The Enterprise, a full-sized NASA orbiter, is on display beneath an awe-inspiring pavilion. Its design looks straight out of Star Wars, and the story of how it never actually flew in space but paved the way for other shuttles just adds to its one-of-a-kind status.  Inside the shuttle pavilion, families can trace the whole “what’s it take to blast off?” story through hands-on exhibits and gripping short films. Want to show your mini astronauts just how risky and wild the space shuttle program was? This is where dreams take flight, and you’ll see plenty of kids plotting their own lunar adventures by the end.  Why kids love it: The scale alone is mind-blowing, but the swoopy, futuristic design means it looks just like the spaceships in their favorite cartoons. Bonus: the assembly of fun facts, space suits, and videos keeps everyone inspired and engaged.  3. Submarine Tour: Brave the Growler!  Next up—descend into spy territory. The Intrepid’s USS Growler submarine is a crowd favorite, best for older kids (the ladders and hatches are a genuine workout). The Growler is the only American guided missile submarine available to the public. Once you duck inside, the close quarters get everyone whispering and giggling at the sleeping bunks stacked like sardines and endless pipes overhead.  The “control room” feels straight out of a movie, with dials, switches, and a periscope you can peer through! Kids love the feeling that they’ve left modern life far behind. Guides love to share stories of what sailors ate, how they spent months underwater, and—true crowd-pleaser—how submariners used the bathroom.  Why this is a hit: Everything feels hands-on and fully immersive. It’s both a playground and a piece of spy history, bringing out kids’ inner secret agents and comedians alike.  4. Exploreum Hall: Science Meets Playground  Suspect your kids will want to touch everything? Good news: The Exploreum Hall is made for hands-on action. This dedicated family space is part immersive learning, part high-energy play zone. Sit in an actual Bell helicopter, plot a mission in a real plane’s cockpit, and try the “life on a carrier” bunks (warning: parents may get jealous).  Around the room, engaging science stations let you create sound waves, play with pulleys, and test your balance—turning everyday science into a challenge fit for engineers-in-training. Little ones have safe, mess-free freedom to scramble, turn, pull, and build (while parents snag a breather nearby).  What sets it apart: The Exploreum Hall combines creative play and science, with real objects instead of screen-based learning. Every kid finds their favorite station, and you’ll actually enjoy the “let’s do that again!” requests.  6. Test Your Courage in Flight and Space Simulators  Ready for a wild ride? The Intrepid’s simulators crank up the fun. These capsule rides give everyone a taste of what it’s like to launch from a carrier deck or dodge through outer space. Some are virtual reality-based, others use motion seats to boost the adrenaline—either way, your kids will be giggling, grabbing onto the edge of their seats, and (in the best way) hollering “Again!” before it’s over.  The G-Force Encounter gets you spinning in orbit, while the 4D Experience combines wild visuals, sound, and motion for a next-level “in the cockpit” sensation. Lines can build up on busy days, but the buzz and anticipation become part of the fun.  What kids remember: This is video games, real life, and imagination wrapped into one ride. It’s a party for the senses and puts every player right at the heart of the action.  7. Family Scavenger Hunts and Special Kids’ Activities  The Intrepid Museum rolls out the red carpet for families, designing scavenger hunts and themed activity booklets that keep little hands busy—and brains switched on. Themed hunts take you to different corners of the carrier, hunting for quirky details (can you spot the shark mouth nose art?) and collecting cool trivia.  Big events at the museum—like “Kids Week” during school holidays—mean hands-on workshops with astronauts, STEM demos, even real animals from local zoos. Check the schedule ahead; families love catching everything from story time and dance to coding robots and paper airplane races.  What’s so fun: It’s never the same adventure twice. Kids leave feeling like junior museum detectives, and parents love how the activities sneak in history, math, and science in ways that stick.  8. Flight Deck Demonstrations: Action in Full Color  Catching a demonstration on the flight deck makes the whole ship come alive. Costumed guides present mock launches, let kids try on vests or helmets, and run “jet blast” safety briefings that turn technical talk into games. Exhibits frequently feature real engine parts, old-timey tools, and everyday objects from armed forces life.  These demonstrations have the energy of a great field trip: lots of questions, hands-on props, and the satisfaction of “learning by doing.” On busy weekends, there might even be special guests—Navy veterans telling tales, or visiting pilots sharing how it feels to fly the fastest planes in the world.  What’s extra: The vibe is always welcoming and lively, with friendly educators who remember what it’s like to be little and full of questions.  9. Soak in Skyline and Waterfront Views  You might arrive for ships and jets—but count on the view to wow the whole family. The Intrepid sits right on the Hudson, with sweeping angles of the Manhattan skyline, New Jersey’s shores, and even glimpses of cruise ships and sightseeing boats gliding past. Kids often love counting skyscrapers and spotting landmarks. It’s a reward for yourself, too: after climbing ladders and chasing after excited kids, stand at the edge of the deck and take in that classic New York horizon. Nearby, you’ll spot the Spirit of New York cruise terminal—a fun plan for families wanting to keep the nautical theme going. Or stroll along Hudson River Park, grabbing ice cream at Ample Hills Creamery (the Ooey Gooey Butter Cake is unforgettable) and watching kayaks on the water.  Why it’s special: The Intrepid combines world-class experiences for kids and the kind of photo backdrop that will make your friends jealous for years.  10. History Comes Alive—No Boring Bits Allowed  For kids, the difference between a “good museum” and a “can we go home now?” museum is energy, relatability, and surprises—three things Intrepid absolutely delivers. Real letters from sailors, uniforms you can try, and exhibits that encourage climbing, steering, and playing: this is history that feels truly alive.  The museum doesn’t sugarcoat the tough stuff, either. Through interactive displays (and those awesome guides!), you’ll learn about teamwork, bravery, tough choices, and why innovation matters. Families always leave with at least one favorite fact or story—plus plans to come back and see what they missed.  Why it works: Kids get to be part of the action—not just watch from the sidelines. Everyone leaves a little braver, a little more curious, and ready to explore more of New York’s wonders.  Beyond the Intrepid: More Kid-Friendly NYC Adventures Nearby  Ready for another adventure after you’ve conquered the Intrepid? Luckily, Midtown West overflows with family fun:  American Museum of Natural History: Dinosaurs, blue whales, and mysterious mummies await—one subway stop or a 15-minute cab ride away.  Central Park: Bike, picnic, or hit one of the city’s best playgrounds.  Luna Park at Coney Island: If your explorers want thrill rides and carnival treats, it’s accessible by subway for a day at the beach.  Harbor Cruises: Circle Line offers departures near the museum—the Landmark Cruise or the Statue of Liberty trips are entertaining ways to see the city from water level.  Madame Tussauds: Just a 15-minute walk inland for a brush with celebrity.  Pairing the Intrepid with another of these family attractions easily fills an entire day—and keeps the New York momentum going.  In Summary: The Intrepid Museum Makes Learning Awesome  Exploring New York with kids demands a stop at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. It brings big history down to kid-size, offers up once-in-a-lifetime experiences, and mixes adventure with outrageously fun discoveries. Start on deck, dash through the Exploreum, plunge into the submarine, and let science collide with imagination. You’ll leave with tired feet, awesome photos, and a kid asking: “Can we come back tomorrow?”    Enjoyed this? Find out why Go City’s New York pass beats buying tickets individually and check out our guide to acing SoHo.  Step up your sightseeing with Go City®    We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.   See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® – just choose a pass to get started! 
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New York in October

Searching for interesting activities and exciting events in New York this Autumn? Well, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re planning a fun family trip or travelling solo, the city provides a wide array of engaging experiences to keep you busy in the fall. Those looking for stunning architecture, delicious food and world-class art will not be disappointed. If you’re planning to make the trip, read on for some of our top things to do in New York during October. Explore the City If you’re looking to avoid those rainy Autumn afternoons, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. Built into a stunning building overlooking the Hudson River, The Cloisters specializes in European medieval art, with an emphasis on the Romanesque and Gothic periods. A total must-see for art lovers, the repository holds an expansive collection of over 5,000 paintings, sculptures, tapestries and more. Fascinating and exciting, this place provides a delightful educational experience for those of all ages. Those who are interested in exploring the history and culture of New York might want to check out the Merchant’s House Museum. Though once serving as a home to the Tredwells, a prospering merchant-class family, this fully intact row house now seeks to provide an intimate glimpse into Old New York. Listed as a National Historic Landmark, this small venerable building is considered to be one of the best remaining examples of Greek Revival and late-Federal architecture. Visitors can take self-guided walking tours to view the elaborate plasterwork and rare art pieces whilst learning more about those who lived there. Don’t let the weather ruin your vacation. If you’re wanting to stay dry whilst soaking up some culture, why not check out the New York Film Festival? Standing out amongst other fantastic attractions in the city, this event is one of the longest-running and most prestigious film festivals in the United States. Screening a broad selection of feature films, short pictures, and documentary pieces, there's more than enough to choose from. Those who are particularly interested in learning more about cinema can also catch special events, masterclasses and talks. Find Interesting Activities There’s always a fun event to attend in the city. Attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, the New York Wine and Food Festival brings together some of the world’s most celebrated chefs and sommeliers together for this annual four-day extravaganza. A great stop for all foodies, the event offers a wide array of culinary events, including walk-around tastings, intimate dinners, culinary demonstrations and late-night parties. Elegant, relaxing and affordable all at once - what's not to love? The city presents a wide variety of indoor attractions once the weather starts to cool down. If you’re interested in pop culture, you might want to check out New York Comic Con. Since establishing itself in 2006, the event has grown to become one of the biggest Comic Cons of them all, celebrating all things nerdy! The festival features everything from exciting workshops and artist and celebrity Q&A panels, to lightsaber battles and cosplay contests right in the center of Manhattan. With previous guests like Adam West, David Harbour and Bryan Cranston, you won't want to miss out on this one! How could we talk about October in New York without mentioning Oktoberfest? Running from the start of the month, this traditional Bavarian festival is undoubtedly one of fall’s finest delights. Celebrations take place across all five boroughs at various restaurants, bars and outdoor spaces. Soak up the suds at the biergarten, dig into a hot bratwurst straight off the grill or enjoy an authentic music performance – the choice is yours! Arguably, one of the greatest things about New York City is its delicious gastronomic offerings. Those who are looking for a taste of the city should head down to the Brooklyn Bagelfest for an unparalleled cultural and culinary adventure. Enjoy the best bagels from a wide variety of favorite New York vendors, as well as craft beer on tap. As if that wasn’t enough, the festival also features bagel-themed activities, art and music. Get Festive October is Halloween season, and we refuse to just ignore it. If you’re looking to kick the spookiness into high gear, you might want to look into Central Park’s Pumpkin Flotilla. Amongst the best fall foliage in the city, you can hear ghost stories, check out a costume parade, and carve out a delightful pumpkin! After the festivities, watch fifty gourds glow up the Harlem Meer at twilight. Feel free to dress up for the occasion! Another one of our favorite October events is the Village Halloween Parade. Drawing in millions of spectators each year, the event is recognized as the world’s largest Halloween procession. Billed as ‘’New York’s Carnival’’, the spectacular parade features around 50, 000 costumed participants, exceptional marching bands, remarkable floats and enormous puppets. A little quirky and a whole lot of fun, the festival delivers a one-of-a-kind holiday experience to remember for years to come. If you were thinking that Halloween was the only way to celebrate in New York in October, you were wrong! A national holiday for many, Columbus Day celebrates the discovery of the New World whilst also serving as an important festival for the Italian American community. Drawing in around a million spectators each year, the Columbus Day Parade brings a whole host of family-filled fun, complete with colorful floats, lively musical performances and dancing. Those who are travelling during the federal holiday should keep in mind that other attractions may be closed for the rest of the day. The East Coast dazzles all year round, but we particularly love New York in the vibrant autumn months. The air is brisk, the colors are changing, and the city comes alive with a whole host of seasonal experiences. Whether you're looking for fun Halloween events like the Pumpkin Flotilla, or something cozier like a quiet museum day, the city presents a wide array of engaging experiences to keep you busy in the fall. Explore the city to its maximum potential with Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.
Sarah Harris

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