A Ghoulish Guide to Fall Fun in New York City!
A guide of fun things to do and see this fall in New York City.
Between horror movie marathons, pumpkin spiced everything and haunt-tacular things to do, what’s not to love about New York City in the fall?!
Aside from a huge list of events and limited time to get around to them all, it’s a recipe for making memories and checking out the greatest of seasonal fun. We’ve personally rounded up some places to go, things to see and wonders to taste if you’re trying to get your frolic on. Here’s our guide to ghoulish fun in the Big Apple right now.
Pick & Paint Pumpkins at Greg’s Great Pumpkin Patch
Greg’s Great Pumpkin Patch
If you’ve never been before, prepare to have your heart warmed by Greg’s Great Pumpkin Patch, a family friendly, family-run business bringing ghostly joy to the Greenwood Park Beer Garden at 555 7th Avenue now through October 31st. Explore a massive selection of pumpkins and fancy gourds of all shapes and sizes perfect for adding a bit of spirit to your desk or kitchen table. From hand painted mini pumpkins to carving kits and tons of Halloween decor, there is something special for everyone.
Tip: Attend the special child-friendly and adult pumpkin painting workshops and make time to experience Instagrammable photo opportunities, hay bales and corn stalks throughout.
Discover Seasonal Vintage Gems at Grand Bazaar NYC
Whether you need to revamp your wardrobe, spruce up your home or find a special something for a loved one that adores the season, Grand Bazaar NYC has everything you need. Located at 100 W 77th Street for more than 40 years, this indoor and outdoor market showcases over 150 curated vendors rain or shine, making it the city’s longest-running and largest market. Every Sunday, the iconic Upper West Side sells everything from vintage fashion, designer bags, antiques, and one-of-a-kind jewelry to artisan home goods, upcycled finds, and other classic treasures.
Tip: Plan to explore the market during one of their upcoming seasonal weekends including the Spooky Spectacular Bazaar on October 25th.
Celebrate Fall with Fornino During the Harvest Festival
Fornino at Brooklyn Bridge Park, Pier 6
Delight in a wood-fired pie from Fornino while you take in sweeping waterfront views during Brooklyn Bridge Park’s annual Harvest Festival on Saturday, October 17th from 11 AM to 3 PM at Pier 6. This free and family-friendly celebration will feature a mini pumpkin patch where kids can pick and decorate their own pumpkins, fall-themed arts and crafts activities, face painting, games, live music, a stiltwalker, and educational activities from the park’s horticulture and education teams. Guests can watch professional pumpkin carver Lenny Calvin in action and enter a giveaway for the chance to take home one of his creations. Free coffee and lattes will be available from In The Raw and Brooklyn Roasting Company, while additional refreshments will be available for purchase from Fornino.
Tip: Wear your best Halloween costumes for festive photo opportunities on-site.
Face Thrills & Terror at BloodManor
New York City’s long favored haunted attraction BloodManor is back this season, and brings with them two decades of expertise in delivering spine-chilling scares. Located at 359 Broadway, BloodManor is a Halloween season staple, known for delighting and terrifying millions of visitors over the years. This year promises an unprecedented level of horror with new rooms, eye-catching costumes from Abracadabra, and a terrifyingly talented team of actors, set designers, make-up artists and more!
Tip: If you’re looking for something more immersive, opt in for BloodManor’s Scare Actor Experience, a ticketed option which allows attendees to go behind the scenes in monster make up and a costume to scare guests throughout the night.
Clinton Hall Celebrates Oktoberfest with Themed Bites and Stein-Hoisting
Oktoberfest at Clinton Hall
Clinton Hall is going all out for Oktoberfest this year with festive food and drinks at all of their Manhattan locations, now through October. Visitors can play themed games like Pretzel Toss or Beer Pong with Steins, and witness Clinton Hall's annual Stein-Hoisting Contest which will take place weekly on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays starting at 7 PM with a $50 gift card up for grabs each go around. Expect Oktoberfest-themed music, a rotating fest beer flight for $20 and fun oversized bites like their jumbo pretzels, German Burger served on a pretzel roll, 'wurst' tots, and the Wurstfest Oktoberfest Platter ($35). There will be plenty of photo-worthy moments to capture—from giant pretzels and wurst platters, to stein-hoisting triumphs.
Tip: Guests looking for a challenge can take on Clinton Hall’s Challenge Burger which features a 20 oz signature beef patty, nueske's bacon, yellow and white american cheese and toppings like barbecue chicken tenders, crispy onion rings and CH sauce on a sourdough roll and bed of french fries served with a 16oz Gigawatt beer. Finish it and it’s FREE.
Attend A Spooky Movie Night & Sip Seasonal Cocktails at Foxtail
Get cozy and spooked during Freaky Movie Fridays, a monthlong activation at Foxtail located within Arlo SoHo’s “Living Room” at 231 Hudson Street. The speakeasy atmosphere and themed cocktails and bites will help guests get into the Halloween spirit while enjoying films like Hereditary on October 16th, The Craft on October 23rd, and The Shining on October 30th. This series coincides with the release of Foxtail’s new Fall Espresso Martini Flight featuring a Roasted Pumpkin Spice option topped with a pumpkin cookie.
Tip: Make it a nostalgic dinner and a movie experience by ordering their Spooky Deal which includes a sandwich, chips, and cookie for just $19.
Pumpkin Carving & A Beer Festival in Dumbo at TOMNY
Time Out Market New York located in Brooklyn at 55 Water Street is hosting a lineup of fall festivities on their DUMBO waterfront. Start with the upcoming 5th Annual Fall Beer Festival on Saturday, October 24th, which offers beer lovers an afternoon of live music, a variety of brews to sip and a chance to explore the market’s local eateries while taking in views of the Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan Bridge and city skyline. Check out the Halloween Pumpkin Carving Workshop from October 27th to 30th, offering a hands-on experience to make jack-o’-lanterns during a 90-minute workshop. On Halloween morning, families can enjoy a Children’s Halloween Concert featuring Suzi Shelton, presented in partnership with Macaroni KID Brooklyn NW, which takes place on the market’s fifth floor at 10 AM and is suitable for young kids and babies. Later that evening, the Halloween Horror From Above party runs from 9 PM to 2 AM featuring host and media personality Ken Starr (@kenstarrz) (Hot 97 / Revolt TV / Seeing Starz), alongside a special lineup of friends bringing authentic NYC energy all night long.
Tip: There will be a $100 gift card prize for the best costume so prepare to wow judges with your killer look.
Dance the Night Away During Taylorween, An Eras Night Dance Party at Slate
Taylor Swift fans can indulge in an evening of dancing and Swiftie mayhem at Slate (54 West 21st Street) in Chelsea during Taylorween, An Eras Night Dance Party from DJ Ricky and Ricky’s House Presents on Monday, October 26th! This 21+ Halloween celebration invites party-goers to arrive dressed in their favorite Halloween costumes and spend the evening singing along to Taylor Swift’s most popular hits, spanning every era. Taking place from 7:30 PM to 11 PM, Taylorween offers a pop-fueled way to kick off Halloween week with a full night of music, costumes and dancing in the heart of Manhattan.
Tip: Plan to explore the venue’s 16,000 square foot space with mini bowling, arcade games, ping pong, pool, Skee-Ball, social darts, gaming simulators, and Slate's iconic 20-foot slide.
Attend Harry Styles Themed Harryween Parties at Golden Child
Harry Styles super fans can celebrate Halloween with Golden Child, located atop Hotel Park Ave. at 444 Park Ave S on October 30th and 31st. The special themed cocktail menu with showcase three $18 Harry Styles-inspired cocktails including The Golden Styles, a honeybee hive cocktail made with Absolut Elyx Vodka, Beehive Honeydew, wildflowers, Prosecco and lemon; Sunflower, a bright, sunny sipper featuring Great Jones bourbon, apple, lychee, matcha and lemon; and Sign of the Times, a romantic cocktail made with Tom Cat Gin, mango and cardamom. Kick things off on Friday, October 30th, during a Harry-ween Costume Contest, with those dressed as their favorite Harry receiving their first drink on the house, valued up to $22.
Tip: Dress to impress since the best costume will win a free dinner for two at Park Rose, a modern Italian American restaurant at the hotel, valued at up to $150.
Nightmare on Broadway takes over Elsie Rooftop
Get your frights in while indulging in skyline elegance during Nightmare on Broadway at Elsie Rooftop at 1412 Broadway. On Friday, October 30th on the 25th floor, guests can attend a Halloween party above Midtown Manhattan. Inspired by actress and decorator Elsie de Wolfe, the all-season rooftop pairs Art Deco touches and plush seating with panoramic skyline views, making this a frightful and fashionable festivity. Guests can expect a night of costumes, music and dancing, with signature cocktails flowing and indoor spaces enclosed and heated for comfort. Costumes are encouraged for an evening of Halloween revelry high above the city lights near Times Square.
Tip: Get there a bit before the 9 PM start so you can check your coat and show off your costume.
Pregame Ahead of the Halloween Action at TOMUS
Get into the Halloween spirit with a fun pre-game at Time Out Market Union Square, located at 124 East 14th Street, from 7 PM to 11 PM on October 31st. Arrive in costume, bring your friends and order cocktails to kick things off before departing right into the heart of the city. It’s the perfect place to launch your arrival to parties or grab a good viewing spot of the NYC Village Halloween Parade.
Tip: Make sure to come hungry since vendors like Kam Rai Thai and BKLYN Wild offer delicious bites to fuel your fun all night long.
NYC Staycation: A Change of Scenery
During the ‘Covid era,” it’s important to keep your mental health in check, not just your physical health! While staying in the best thing to do right now, it’s not always the best option mentally. That’s why we’re putting together a list of the best ways for you to enjoy the city while still staying safe, starting with Hotel Hendricks, a brand new hotel with great food, a proper work from home set-up, and a convenient location near Bryant Park in the heart of NYC.
About Hotel Hendricks:
Hotel Hendricks is the newest addition to Fortuna Realty Group’s collection of Manhattan hotels. The hotel is located at 25 W 38th Street, conveniently situated between Herald Square, Bryant Park, and Fifth Avenue shopping, providing guests with the best of New York City right outside their doors. Property Unleashes Luxury Accommodations, Elevated Latin Cuisine and Two Rooftop Venues in a Space Where Uptown Glamour and Downtown Edge Converge. The 176-room property features modern interiors by LA-based designer Marcello Pozzi, a Latin-inspired restaurant on the ground floor by renowned chef PJ Calapa, and two rooftop bar concepts. Hotel Hendricks is a member of the Preferred Hotels & Resorts Lifestyle Collection.
The hotel greeted us with a private welcoming tour of their breathtaking open-aired rooftop including miraculous views of the NYC Skyline (pictured below):
Being a New Yorker, I can assure you that the views provided by the top of Hotel Hendricks are unparalleled to anything in the area. One can argue that it is all in the details -- from the Murano glass chandeliers hanging from the ceiling to the 37,000 pennies accenting the two bars, and even the cherry blossoms spelling out the ‘H’ motif. Hotel Hendricks is welcomed to the hotel scene alongside its sister hotels completing the ‘H’ pattern; Hotel Hugo, Hotel Henri, Hotel Hayden.
With modern interior designs by LA-based Marcello Pozzi, the boutique ambiance was the perfect recipe for a Staycation. Upon entering the room, the picturesque view of the Empire State Building dramatized my new office. Work-from-hotel approved with a proper desk, a chic yet comfortable chair, pens & notepads and most importantly coffee.
WFH
+
Views
= The Perfect Setup
Time to eat. Hotel Hendricks hosted us for a private rooftop dinner from The Paloma- Latin-inspired restaurant on the ground floor by renowned chef PJ Calapa. Exceeding my expectations, this meal was on our list of great meals. Pan seared salmon with lemon caper butter sauce, churros, vanilla bean cheesecake, and flowing champagne (pictured below).
Safety measures at Hotel Hendricks include:
Distancing will be maintained in common areas
Waitstaff will wear masks and all diners must wear masks unless eating or drinking
Each table will be disinfected in between each seating
What to do nearby?
Bryant Park: Situated steps away from Hotel Hendricks, Bryant Park offers ice-skating, seasonal shops in an outdoor market, and countless restaurants and cafes to enjoy. Located between Fifth and Sixth Avenues/ 40th and 42nd street, Bryant Park offers a refreshing break of nature in between the high rises of Midtown Manhattan.
Hudson Yards: With its official debut in March 2019, Hudson Yards provides work, entertainment, shops, and dining. InvitedNYC explored this territory reporting that this megadevelopment is open for business with options ranging from visiting The Edge, Soul Cycle, or Thomas Heatherwick's Vessel (the centerpiece of Hudson Yards pictured below).
Union Square Park: Heading downtown, you can find one of Manhattan's most desired outdoor markets located in Union Square on: Monday, Wednesday, Friday or Saturday. Anything from fruit to plants or artisan dog treats, Union Square market has everything you want and not need on a staycation.
Union Square Greenmarket
Stay tuned and visit InvitedNYC.com for more upcoming events and reviews.
Grand Opening of RFTP at the POD BK Hotel
On Wednesday, July 11, POD BK Hotel presented its guests and visitors with a new bar in town: RFTP. The bar is a lounge located on the rooftop of the POD BK Hotel.
RFTP is the perfect spot for an after-work hangout or a weekend meetup. It features an extensive terrace with a comfy lounging area and a large bar, which offers delicious drinks such as Frosé, Modelo and Pacifico. To complement the drinks, RFTP presents “Vegetable Garden,” which is a mixture of seasonal vegetables served on quinoa with a touch of black olive and burnt leek powder to resemble edible soil, all accompanied by a buttermilk ranch dip. The “Artichoke Dip,” which is a delightful mix of cauliflower, garlic confit, seared fontina, is served with pita chips and guarantees a perfect match to any drink from the bar. RFTP also provides classic side appetizers, such as a charcuterie board and paratha flatbread, which consists of feta, figs, arugula and balsamic.
Extend your visit to RFTP by also staying at the POD BK Hotel, which features a clean and minimalist design with splashes of color. The hotel, which opened in October of 2017, features cozy rooms with bunk beds and queen-size beds, while also emphasizing comfort in a close-knit space. Each hotel room is small, but as one of the staff members pointed out, “You come to New York to be outside of your hotel room.” Indeed, the hotel is a perfect place to rest and re-energize before heading to the city.
247 Metropolitan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Photos courtesy of RFTP
Kevin Johnn Resort 2019 Presentation
On a chilly Tuesday evening, crowds gathered on the rooftop of The Dominick Hotel to celebrate to a fashion spectacle: Kevin Johnn Resort 2019 Collection presentation. The collection, which was appropriately titled, “Urban Resort,” merged the worlds of soft touches of resort collections with the dark color palette inspired by New York City.
From pastel colors such as shades of baby blue, to sheer fabrics, some of which included chiffon and silk, the collection certainly pleased the crowd with its summer feel. Yet, since the designer is based in New York, there wouldn’t be a collection without including dark-colored fabrics and more structured fits.
The Kevin Johnn Resort 2019 collection offered a few black gowns with intricate cut-outs, striped and solid black flared trousers, a mesh top with chains layered atop for an embellished look, and dark floral motifs that would pop-up within the collection.
The collection intrigued and inspired. The views of Manhattan from the roof of the hotel set an appealing backdrop for the show. The summer skies allowed the audience to imagine their ideal vacation and the wardrobe to match it. The presentation ended with cheers from the satisfied crowd, certainly setting the mood for the rest of the perfect summer evening.
Photography by Evan Angelastro.
Sneak Preview of Borrachito at The Garret East
On Wednesday night, one of New York City’s most reputable cocktail bars, The Garret, located in the Lower East Side, turned into a finger-licking taco concept. As guests walked in, they were welcomed to a drink of their choice at the bar, where they had a chance to strike up a conversation with a compelling stranger. And when the evening went well, invitees continued their night by walking further into a more romantic setup dubbed, “Borrachito.”
Borrachito, which is located in the back area, was once a speakeasy restaurant entitled, “Dinnertable,” turned itself into an intimate and date-appropriate bar and taco spot, filled with lots of delicious tacos to accompany a wide array of boozy cocktails and luscious wines.
Borrachito brings Mexican street food inspired by family recipes to the comfort of a New York City bar. Executive Chef Yuval Ochoa thrills the crowd with tacos filled with pork, steak, and fish, as well as delightfully unexpected fillings, such as burrata. Each taco is a masterpiece of its own: the “Pork Bomb” taco includes roasted pork belly, confit pork shoulder and deep fried pork skin, andpico de gallo and pickled onions; the “Baja Fish” taco is a refreshing creation comprised of fried seabass, grilled pineapple salsa, and guajillo majo. Not feeling tacos but still want a flavor of Mexico? Try “Del Every Dia” soup, or ceviche and guacamole appetizers. And for those with a sweet tooth, Borrachito does not disappoint. There is a choice of paletas (ice pops) with flavors such as pineapple mezcal and strawberry cilantro, and duros (sweet chips) covered in sugar, cinnamon, and served with a side of corn ice cream.
To accompany the flavorful feast, grab one of the delicious cocktails from The Garret’s bar. From “Detroit Dancehall” to “Cheap Furniture,” your night is guaranteed to be a blast. With mouthwatering food and equally delicious drinks, what else could one wish for? In the age of Instagram, it is an aesthetically-pleasing venue, which Borrachito and The Garret most definitely offer.
Looking to experience street style tacos but are on a date, or would just like to enjoy flavors of Mexico with a delicious drink in another hand? Borrachito is for you. It doesn’t have to be #TacoTuesday for you to visit this cozy and flavorful location this weekend by going to 206 Avenue A, NY, NY 10009, located in the back of The Garret East.
Photo credit @fohnyc
Flamenco Night at Dizzy's Club Coca-Cola
If you are looking for a place to relax to smooth sounds of jazz in the midst of a busy city, you might want to turn to Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola. Located at Jazz at Lincoln Center, Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola hosts weekly jazz events featuring a variety of talented musicians, along with the opportunity to wine and dine, for students, members, and fans of jazz.
On Friday, March 23, 2018, Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola turned into a destination for anyone who wished to hear the collision of the sounds of jazz and flamenco without traveling to the origin of flamenco--Spain. The evening, accompanied by delicious cocktails and a wine carte, as well as a range of mouthwatering appetizers, such as a gooey mac-n-cheese and roasted brussel sprouts with bits of bacon, introduced the New York crowd to four exceptional artists: DORANTES, Adam Ben Ezra, Chano Domínguez, and a guest musician, Tim Ries.
The quartet created an energetic and picante melange of jazz, flamenco, classical, and Latin melodies in order to bring elements of surprise and curiosity into the audience. With nighttime lights of Columbus Circle and Central Park in the background, the night seemed to take unexpected yet pleasant turns with every note of music.
If you are looking to conclude a tiresome week on an upbeat note, or find a new romantic private spot in the city for a successful date night, Jazz at Lincoln Center is the place to do all of the above and more. Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola at Jazz at Lincoln Center holds weekly, two evening sessions: one at 7:30 pm, and another at 9:30pm, as well as a late night session at 11:15pm. There is always time to enjoy jazz for every New Yorker.
Jazz at Lincoln Center is also the destination for students who are looking to indulge in the sounds of jazz by themselves or with a friend, since the tickets are only priced at $20 for most of the sessions. As for the post-studies crowd, have no fear as the jazz destination allows to absorb most of the musical nights starting at $35.
Whether you're a fan of jazz or just looking for a more unique cultural experience, Jazz at Lincoln Center has it all. If you are interested in paying a visit or two to Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola in Jazz at Lincoln Center, visit http://www.jazz.org/dizzys/ for more information.