Autumn in New York

“Autumn in New York” is a lot more than the movie where Richard Gere and Winona Ryder fall for one another. An autumn in New York can be even more intense than seeing love conquer despite countless obstacles. And better yet, it could be the best holiday you ever had. Central Park turns to orange and ocher hues; Fifth Avenue brings out its fall season mannequins; Broadway musicals open the new season, and Times Square is just bustling. There’s no doubt that in the fall this city is just as you see it in Joan Chen’s well-known movie.

Anthony Quintano

 

Central Park Changes Color

With its 3.5 square kilometers in the shape of a perfect rectangle, Central Park is among the US’ most photographed, filmed and visited parks. It has inspired writers, painters, filmmakers and actors alike. And it is also there that we find the star reminding us that very close by, at the Dakota, John Lennon was murdered. In the fall, the Great Lawn is still a vivid green. And yet, the rest of the landscape turns to brownish orange and ocher hues, creating an autumnal scene worthy of the silver screen. Walking along its gardens, like Conservatory and Shakespeare Garden, or bordering its deepest and longest water body, The Reservoir, is a real treat.

The New Season Opens in Broadway

As the street of musicals par excellence, it’s impossible to ever be bored on Broadway. Fall is the starting gun to the new season, with theaters brimming with visitors, many of them tourists not wanting to miss the chance to experience (at least once in a lifetime) a Broadway show. This is the right time of the year to visit; plus the heat subsides, which is much appreciated.

Sunset on Brooklyn Bridge

Brooklyn Bridge needs to be crossed on foot, by car, by bike, in the spring, in the autumn, in the summer and in the winter. At the other end, in Brooklyn, you’ll be faced with one of the best views of the Big Apple’s skyline, and I can remember a sunset that is among the most beautiful ones in my memory. The sun hides behind the tall skyscrapers, turning them into a scene straight out of a movie. The autumn light is excellent for photographing sunsets, whenever the cloud cover allows it.

Fall/Winter Fashion on Fifth Avenue

The windows of New York’s main shopping street also feel the arrival of the fall with the return of all things brown, dark green, and grey. People renew their wardrobe with the start of the new season, and this super-long commercial artery fills up with potential customers. Strolling up Fifth Avenue is always a luxury and, even more so, if you have enough spare time to try on a few clothes.

There are definite perks to traveling in the autumn. Flights tend to be cheaper, accommodation options also lower their prices, and the trip itself is more fulfilling because the city has settled back in its daily routine, which makes it more authentic. You’ll experience New York in a different light.