Peak Fall Foliage

Crisp air. Cool breeze. Warm drinks (PSL anyone?). The perfect formula for fall in Central Park. Encompassing 843 acres, it can be hard to decide where to optimize your stroll to take in the best fall foliage while exploring the park.

How much time do you have?

Straight to the point.

Grab a coffee and a car (or walk) to Belvedere Castle located on 79th Street which runs through the park from east to west. Follow this 30 minute self guided loop on paved paths (and a few stairs). Head straight to the 38 acre Ramble to take in the best fall foliage and a large tupelo tree conveniently named “Tupelo Meadow”. The tupelo tree is known for its’ amazing array of leaves in multiple fall colors. 

Make it a day.

Central to it all, Central Park is a straight shot up 7th Avenue from Park Central hotel in New York City to the park entrance. From there, verge right on Center Drive and head north through the park. You can either stay on this route or divert through the pedestrian only paths through the park. About a 1 mile stroll, sit down for a bite to eat at The Loeb and enjoy views of The Lake. From here, you can head to The Point along the lake and start the Ramble self guided tour to Tupelo Meadow for the best fall foliage. Head back to the 7th street entrance by taking West Drive for the ‘west side’ scenery of the park.

Been there, done that.

If you’re willing to take a little trek across the river, make your way to Prospect Park in Brooklyn. This is peak time for the leaves to be in full fall colors. The most densely populated trees can be found in the Ravine for full effect.