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October in New York – What to Pack  blog image

October in New York – What to Pack

October 02 2023

New York in October is an unforgettable experience. With Halloween around the corner, fall colors in full swing, and pumpkin-spiced everything available in every coffee shop – there is no better time to visit.

What to Pack?

Quite simply, there is no way to predict the weather in the city during the fall months. Expect rain, sun, wind, and very, very rarely – you might even see snow. One of the best ways to prepare for the city’s ever-changing weather is to layer up. Bring a selection of light sweaters, jackets, long-sleeved shirts, and a coat for the evenings. Throughout the day, you can layer up or layer down depending on your activities and the weather.

Another important must-have in New York is good, comfortable shoes. Even if you’re not planning on doing a lot of walking in the city – take it from a local – you will end up walking a lot. Whether it’s the city parks, the neighborhoods, or even your favorite museum – being on your feet all day will take its toll if you don’t have the right shoes.

When it comes to accessories, a small portable umbrella is another essential item – October in New York sees the occasional rain shower, and an umbrella will keep you protected if you do get caught while out and about. Alongside an umbrella, it’s a great idea to pack a scarf, gloves, and a hat to keep warm – especially for the evenings when the weather can drop, although October is generally a mild month.

Elderly couple hold hands as they walk through a tunnel in a woodland

What to See in October in New York

The best thing about New York in October is, hands down, the fall foliage. There are plenty of spots to see the colors all over the city, but if it’s your first time in New York for fall, there is nowhere quite as spectacular as Central Park.

Being October, Halloween festivities will be in full swing towards the end of the month. Head to the famous brownstones on the Upper West Side to see the pumpkin displays, visit a haunted house or go to an event to see some of the most impressive costumes you’ve ever seen.

Halloween decor on a staircase. Pumpkins and seasonal flowers lines the stairs.

If you’re into your sports, you can enjoy football (NFL), the last games of the baseball season, and the first games of the Ice Hockey season in October. And speaking of ice – if you’ve ever fancied ice skating in one of New York’s famous outdoor skating rinks, the Rockefeller Rink opens in October, with discounted prices and a lot smaller crowds than in the run-up to the holiday season.

Whatever your reason for visiting New York this October, the Hotel Beacon is located in the heart of the action.