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Looking for the best things to do in NYC this fall? From immersive art and candlelit concerts to quirky dinners and historic tours, New York City is packed with fresh ways to spend crisp autumn days and cozy nights. Use this guide to plan your weekends, date nights, and family outings across the city.
Read to the end — we’ve added a few bonus events you won’t want to miss!
Where: New York Botanical Garden (2900 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, 10458)
When: Select Dates September 25 – November 30
Why go: Experience Halloween and the holidays collide as the New York Botanical Garden transforms into Jack Skellington’s whimsical world. With dazzling lights, larger-than-life sculptures, and scenes inspired by the Tim Burton classic, this immersive trail turns one of NYC’s most beloved gardens into a glowing storybook you can walk through.
Good to know: Best after dusk. Evenings and weekends get busy, so arrive early.
Where: Arte Museum New York (61 Chelsea Piers, New York, 10011)
When: Ongoing September through November, timed entry
Why go: Step into a world where art, technology, and nature converge. ARTE MUSEUM transforms Chelsea Piers into a multi-sensory wonderland with massive digital landscapes, evocative soundscapes, and custom scents. It’s an immersive cultural experience that’s as inspiring for art lovers as it is captivating for families.
Good to know: Plan for about 90 minutes to fully enjoy the installations.
Where: American Dream (1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, 07073)
When: Ongoing, timed entry
Why go: Bubble Planet takes visitors on a whimsical journey through themed rooms filled with larger-than-life bubbles, vibrant colors, and interactive technology. From VR adventures to sensory play, it’s an imaginative, family-friendly experience that sparks wonder for kids and adults alike.
Good to know: Socks required for the Bubble Bath area. Allow about 60 minutes.
Where: Irondale (85 South Oxford Street Brooklyn, NY, 11217)
When: September 20 & 28, October 4 & 24, November 2 & 22, December 14 & 20
Why go: Step beyond traditional theater and into the jury box, where you decide the outcome of a gripping courtroom drama. As you weigh testimony, examine evidence, and deliberate with your fellow audience members, you’ll experience the tension and responsibility of justice in a way that’s immersive, thought-provoking, and unforgettable.
Good to know: Recommended 12+. Runs about 60 minutes.
Where: Church of the Heavenly Rest (1085 5th Avenue, New York, 10128)
When: Select Dates starting September 20th
Why go: Hear Adele’s most beloved songs reimagined by a live string quartet, performed in the intimate glow of candlelight inside one of New York’s most beautiful historic churches. From “Hello” to “Someone Like You,” this tribute concert turns chart-topping hits into a moving, multi-sensory evening of music and atmosphere.
Good to know: Doors open 45 minutes early. Late entry is not permitted.
Where: Sony Hall (235 West 46th Street, Manhattan, 10036)
When: September 21, January 18, February 22, April 23
Why go: The Jazz Room brings the soulful energy of New Orleans straight to New York with live performances in an intimate, speakeasy-style setting. From timeless standards like When the Saints Go Marching In to spontaneous improvisations, the show captures the heart and spirit of jazz, making it the perfect night out for music lovers and anyone looking for a stylish, feel-good escape.
Good to know: The venue is 18+ and has a full bar, so plan to arrive early, order a cocktail, and settle in for the music.
Where: Arlo NoMad (11E 31st Street, Manhattan, 10016)
When: September 12 & 26, October 10 & 24, November 7 & 21
Why go: Step outside the ordinary with a three-course dinner enjoyed completely blindfolded. By heightening your senses of taste and smell, this playful dining experience transforms every bite into a surprise and turns a meal into a one-of-a-kind culinary adventure in the heart of Manhattan.
Good to know: Choose meat, seafood, or vegan when you book. Gratuity and drinks not included.
Where: Kaye Playhouse (695 Park Avenue, Manhattan, 10065)
When: September 19, November 7, January 23, March 7
Why go: This reimagining of Sleeping Beauty blends classical ballet with dazzling light effects to create a modern take on the timeless fairytale. Glow-in-the-dark costumes and dynamic choreography bring the story to life in a way that’s visually stunning, family-friendly, and unlike any ballet you’ve seen before.
Good to know: 60-minute show with no intermission. Arrive early for best seating within your zone.
Where: St. Ann & the Holy Trinity Church (157 Montague Street, Brooklyn, 11201)
When: Select dates starting September 12
Why go: From “Love Story” to “All Too Well,” Taylor Swift’s biggest hits are reimagined by a live string quartet inside a venue glowing with candlelight. The combination of timeless melodies and an intimate atmosphere creates a magical evening that every Swiftie and music lover will remember.
Good to know: Seating is first come within your zone. Doors open 45 minutes before the show.
Where: ARTECHOUSE NYC (Chelsea Market, 439 W 15th St, NY 10011)
When: October 10 - December 14
Why Go: Step inside SUBMERGE: Beyond the Render, ARTECHOUSE NYC’s most ambitious exhibition to date. An awe-inspiring fusion of art and technology featuring 15 global digital creators. This immersive showcase transforms Chelsea Market’s historic boiler room into a futuristic dreamscape. Wander through cinematic worlds from Emmy-winning artists Maciej Kuciara and Emily Yang, visionary designers like FVCKRENDER and Gavin Shapiro, and other trailblazing creators redefining the boundaries of digital art.
Good to know: Stop by the XR Bar to sip exhibition-inspired cocktails surrounded by glowing digital worlds.
Where: The Historic Players Theatre (115 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012)
When: October 10–11 & 17–18
Why Go: Step into a haunting reimagining of Washington Irving’s classic tale with Sleepy Hollow: The Musical, a chilling blend of live music, movement, and mystery in the heart of Greenwich Village. Nominated for an Innovative Theatre Award for Best Original Music, this atmospheric production transforms the Hollow into a living, breathing force through haunting choreography and a live chamber ensemble of cello and percussion. Follow Ichabod Crane’s fateful journey into the supernatural as reality blurs with legend in this immersive, spine-tingling experience that captures the darkness of both the forest and the human heart.
Good to know: Arrive early to explore the historic Players Theatre, one of New York’s oldest Off-Broadway venues, it’s said to have its own ghostly residents lingering behind the curtain.
Where: Eclipso NYC (555 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019)
When: Open daily (except Mondays) through October
Why Go: Step 4,500 years back in time and explore the Great Pyramid of Giza like never before. Using groundbreaking virtual reality technology, this award-winning experience lets you walk freely through the Queen’s Chamber, uncover hidden hieroglyphs, and relive the reign of King Khufu. Developed in collaboration with Harvard Egyptologist Peter Der Manuelian, this cinematic journey blends history, exploration, and cutting-edge innovation for an unforgettable look at one of the world’s greatest wonders.
Good to know: Arrive at least 15 minutes early for check-in and headset setup, weekends tend to be busy.
Where: The Sheen Center for Thought & Culture (18 Bleecker Street, New York, NY 10012)
When: October 11, December 6, and January 24
Why Go: Experience the raw passion and artistry of Spain. Direct from a sold-out international tour, this four-act performance captures the essence of flamenco through fiery choreography, masterful guitar, and hauntingly beautiful vocals. Surrounded by a rose-covered stage and evocative lighting, each movement tells a story of love, intensity, and tradition. Whether you’re a long-time admirer of the art form or discovering it for the first time, this unforgettable evening at The Sheen Center will ignite your senses and stir your soul.
Good to know: Arrive 30 minutes early to enjoy the best available seats within your zone, doors close promptly, and late entry is not permitted.
Where: The Ruby Theatre (35 W 39th St, 10018)
When: November through December
Why go: Shakespeare like you’ve never seen it before, five actors take the stage, one fueled by shots of alcohol, and chaos (and comedy) ensues. Every performance is wildly different, blending improv, wit, and cocktails for an Off-Broadway hit that’s equal parts theater and party. Whether you love the Bard or just a good laugh, it’s one of NYC’s most unique nights out.
Good to know: Guests must be 21+ with valid ID, and drinks can be ordered from the bar and delivered to your seat.
From candlelit concerts and immersive art shows to historic tours and unique dining, fall in New York City offers endless ways to celebrate the season. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a cultural night, or a one-of-a-kind date, these experiences highlight the best of what NYC has to offer in 2025.
Don’t wait too long, tickets for popular events sell out fast. Secure your spot now and make this autumn in New York City one to remember.
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