As summer’s vibrant energy gently fades, Long Island transforms into a picturesque haven adorned with autumnal hues and a crisp, inviting atmosphere. The air turns cooler, the crowds thin out, and a sense of tranquility descends upon the island, making fall an ideal time to explore its diverse offerings. With pleasant temperatures gracing the landscape, it’s the perfect season to immerse yourself in outdoor adventures, indulge in seasonal delights, and discover the unique charm that Long Island has to offer.
From exploring sprawling pumpkin patches and apple orchards to embarking on scenic hikes and experiencing the thrill of Halloween festivities, Long Island in the fall promises an array of captivating experiences. So, pack your layers, lace up your walking shoes, and prepare to be captivated by the beauty and charm of Long Island as it embraces the magic of autumn. This is The Best Things to Do on Long Island in the Fall.
Embrace the Artistic Spirit at The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze
As the days grow shorter and the nights grow longer, Long Island comes alive with the spooky spirit of Halloween. One of the most enchanting and captivating events of the season is The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze Long Island, held annually at the historic Old Bethpage Village Restoration from late September to early November.
Imagine a landscape transformed into a mesmerizing wonderland, illuminated by thousands of intricately carved pumpkins. Skilled artisans meticulously craft these gourds into breathtaking displays, ranging from whimsical creatures and spooky characters to iconic landmarks and awe-inspiring artistic creations. Lighthouses stand tall, their pumpkin-carved facades glowing with warmth, while fields of spooky sunflowers stretch as far as the eye can see, their pumpkin faces radiating an eerie charm.
As you wander through this illuminated wonderland, you’ll be transported to a realm of imagination and wonder. The artistry and creativity on display are truly remarkable, showcasing the endless possibilities of pumpkin carving. The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze Long Island is an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of the artistry and creativity of the season.
Ride the Waves with Long Island’s Surfers
While summer may be synonymous with surfing for many, fall on Long Island offers a unique and often overlooked opportunity to catch some waves. With milder temperatures and fewer crowds, the autumn season presents an ideal time for both seasoned surfers and aspiring wave riders to experience the thrill of the Atlantic Ocean.
The beaches of Long Island become less congested, providing surfers with ample space to maneuver and enjoy the waves. The water temperature remains relatively comfortable, allowing for extended surfing sessions without the need for heavy wetsuits. For those new to the sport, several surf schools in Long Beach, such as Skudin Surf and Surf2Life Surf School, offer lessons throughout the year, providing expert guidance and instruction for beginners.
To witness the prowess of experienced surfers, head to renowned surf spots like Ditch Plains in Montauk, Robert Moses State Park in Fire Island, Gilgo Beach in Babylon, or Lido Beach in Long Beach. These locations attract skilled surfers who gracefully glide across the waves, showcasing their talent and mastery of the sport. Whether you’re a surfer yourself or simply enjoy watching the action from the shore, Long Island’s beaches offer a thrilling and captivating experience during the fall season.
Harvest the Bounty at Long Island’s Apple Orchards
Autumn is synonymous with apple picking, and Long Island boasts a rich agricultural heritage, making it a prime destination for indulging in this quintessential fall activity. The crisp air, vibrant foliage, and the aroma of ripe apples create an idyllic setting for a memorable day in the orchard.
Long Island’s apple orchards offer a diverse selection of apple varieties, each with its unique flavor and texture. From the sweet and crisp Honeycrisp to the tart and juicy Granny Smith, there’s an apple to suit every palate. Wander through rows of apple trees, laden with ripe fruit, and carefully select your favorite varieties to take home and enjoy.
Many of Long Island’s farms offer more than just apple picking. Lewin Farms, the first pick-your-own farm on Long Island, provides a variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables, including apples, strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, peaches, tomatoes, corn, and pumpkins. The Milk Pail in Water Mill offers apple cider, fresh apples, and apple pie at their farm stand, in addition to their U-pick orchards. A day spent apple picking on Long Island is a delightful way to connect with nature, support local farmers, and savor the flavors of the season.
Discover the Perfect Pumpkin at Long Island’s Farms
As Halloween approaches, Long Island’s pumpkin patches burst into a vibrant tapestry of orange hues, beckoning visitors to embark on a quest for the perfect pumpkin. From sprawling farms with sprawling fields to smaller, more intimate patches, Long Island offers a diverse selection of pumpkin-picking experiences.
Beyond the thrill of selecting the perfect pumpkin, many Long Island farms offer a range of fall-themed activities to enhance the experience. Corn mazes provide a fun and challenging adventure for families, while hayrides offer a leisurely way to explore the farm and enjoy the scenic surroundings. Brightwater’s in Bayshore hosts a full-blown harvest festival, while Fairview Farm in Bridgehampton features a large corn maze that changes every year, ensuring a new and exciting challenge for returning visitors.
For those seeking an organic pumpkin and a quieter experience, Organics Today Farm in Islip offers pesticide-free pumpkins and tractor-pulled hayrides. Regardless of your preference, Long Island’s pumpkin farms provide a memorable and enjoyable way to celebrate the fall season and prepare for Halloween.
Hike Amidst the Autumn Splendor of Long Island’s Landscapes
Long Island’s natural beauty shines even brighter during the fall months as the leaves transform into a kaleidoscope of colors. Hiking trails wind through forests adorned with fiery reds, vibrant oranges, and golden yellows, creating a breathtaking backdrop for outdoor adventures.
Garvies Point Preserve offers trails that lead down to a quiet beach, providing stunning views of the Long Island Sound. The Oyster Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for waterfowl, attracting a diverse array of species starting in September and October. The Nature Conservancy’s Uplands Farm Sanctuary features a double-loop trail surrounded by red cedar, oak, hickory, and other tall trees that put on a colorful display in the fall.
Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll, Long Island’s hiking trails offer an opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and appreciate the splendor of the fall season.
Brave the Haunted Side of Long Island for Halloween
For those seeking a spine-chilling adventure, Long Island offers a plethora of haunted locations that are sure to send shivers down your spine. The Kings Park Psychiatric Center, also known as The Psych Center, is one of the most talked-about haunted places on Long Island. While you can’t go inside, walking by the long-abandoned building may be enough for a scary experience.
The Fire Island Lighthouse, built in 1857, is open to the public, and you can walk up the 157 steps and two small ladders for a view from the top. Be warned, this is where people have encountered mysterious shadows and heard ghostly laughs and doors mysteriously open and close. For those with a penchant for the paranormal, Long Island’s haunted locations offer a thrilling and unforgettable Halloween experience.
Stroll Along the Serene Shores of Long Island’s Beaches
With the summer crowds gone and the temperatures milder, fall is an ideal time to enjoy the tranquility of Long Island’s beaches. The absence of daily fees and season passes makes it even more appealing to stroll along the sandy shores, breathe in the fresh sea air, and listen to the soothing sounds of the surf.
Jones Beach State Park, just 33 miles from Manhattan, boasts 6.5 miles of expansive sand, a two-mile-long boardwalk, and an amphitheater. At the park’s west end, you can go fishing and enjoy a little solitude in the park’s untouched areas, which are great for bird-watching. Fire Island, a scenic barrier island parallel to the South Shore, is accessible only by ferry and offers a range of scenic beaches, as well as the infamous Fire Island Lighthouse.
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape or a scenic stroll, Long Island’s beaches provide a refreshing and rejuvenating experience during the fall season.
Explore the Beauty of Long Island’s Gardens
Long Island is home to a variety of beautiful public gardens that showcase the splendor of nature. Fall is a particularly enchanting time to explore these gardens, as the foliage transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors and the air is filled with the crisp scent of autumn.
LongHouse Reserve in East Hampton and the Humes Japanese Stroll Garden in Mill Neck offer serene Japanese-inspired landscapes. The Clark Botanic Garden in Albertson is a 12-acre living museum and educational facility that hosts special events and classes throughout the year. A leisurely walk through Long Island’s gardens is a delightful way to appreciate the beauty of nature and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Discover Artistic Treasures at an Outdoor Sculpture Garden
The Nassau County Museum of Art in Roslyn Harbor features exhibits of major artists in its Gold Coast Georgian mansion. Outside, wander through 145 acres of fields, woods, ponds, and formal gardens where sculptures by Niki de Saint Phalle, Fernando Botero, Tom Otterness, Alexander Calder, and other luminaries adorn the outdoor setting.
Embrace the Outdoors with Your Canine Companion
Fall is a great time to jog or take long walks with your dog on Long Island. Designated dog runs welcome your furry friend with open arms. Some are fenced off-leash parks while others are dog-friendly trails where you just need to keep your dog with you on a leash. Many beautiful parks welcome on-leash dogs, including Bailey Arboretum and Sagamore Hill National Historic Site.
Indulge in a Gatsby-Style Getaway
Plan yourself a Long Island getaway in grand style at places such as the award-winning Mansion at Glen Cove, which was built in 1910, or historic Oheka Castle in Huntington, which is reminiscent of a French chateau. Treat yourself to a fancy fall getaway in the Hamptons or in Long Island’s Wine Country, where you can enjoy wine tastings and leisurely bike rides to small villages or pay a visit to the Whaling Museum in Sag Harbor.
Savor the Culinary Delights of Long Island
Long Island’s culinary scene is as diverse and vibrant as its landscape. From seafood restaurants and vegetarian restaurants to outdoor dining and everything in between, Long Island offers a wealth of great places to eat. The Clam Bar at Napeague serves up fresh locally-sourced fish. Crow’s Nest in Montauk offers fresh fish. Taking a drive and stopping for a meal can make for a fun outing. Visit a brewery or go wine tasting on Long Island’s North Fork and end your day with a relaxing dinner.
As you can see, The Best Things to Do on Long Island in the Fall are wide-ranging. So, embrace the season and explore all that Long Island has to offer.
