Another 5 Things to Do This Fall in New York State

Old Fort Niagara

Autumn in New York State is the perfect season to combine colourful scenery with history, outdoor adventure, art and unforgettable attractions. From exploring America's 250th anniversary heritage to paddling the Erie Canal, visiting magnificent castles and casting a line in legendary fishing waters, there are plenty of reasons to plan a New York fall getaway.

1) Follow New York's Path Through History

History comes alive across New York State through 13 Path Through History themes covering everything from the Revolutionary War to the state's role in advancing civil rights.

Olana State Historic Site

Visit Old Fort Niagara, one of North America's oldest continuously occupied military sites, or explore Olana State Historic Site, the remarkable former home and artistic masterpiece of Frederic Edwin Church. In Jamestown, the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum celebrates the life and career of the legendary star of I Love Lucy.

October is New York State History Month, making it an ideal time to explore historic destinations. Path Through History Weekend, held October 10-12, 2026, offers another opportunity to discover the state's heritage.

As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, visitors can explore Revolutionary War sites, attend historical reenactments and follow America 250-themed road trips across New York.

2) Cycle, Paddle and Cruise the Erie Canal

The Erie Canal

The Erie Canal is a spectacular destination in autumn when the surrounding landscape bursts into shades of red, orange and gold.

Travellers can explore the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor by boat, with cruises such as Sam Patch and Erie Canal Cruises providing a relaxing way to experience the scenery.

For a more active adventure, hire a bicycle or take a golden-hour paddle along the waterway. Charming canal communities including Lockport, Fairport and Pittsford provide opportunities to stop, explore local attractions and enjoy seasonal dining.

3) Discover Art in the Great Outdoors

Adonai, Storm King Art Center

New York's autumn scenery creates a spectacular backdrop for outdoor art.

In the Hudson Valley, Storm King Art Center stretches across 500 acres, combining monumental sculpture with rolling landscapes and mountain views. Art Omi in Ghent features sculpture, architecture, paintings and drawings across more than 100 acres.

Griffis Sculpture Park in Western New York is another extraordinary destination. One of America's oldest and largest sculpture parks, it offers a dramatic autumn experience, including the Night Lights event, when theatrical lighting transforms the landscape after dark.

4) Step Inside New York's Magnificent Castles

Boldt Castle

For a fairytale-style autumn experience, explore New York State's impressive castles and historic estates.

Singer Castle on Dark Island in the Thousand Islands features elaborate architecture, historic furnishings and secret passageways. Nearby Boldt Castle on Heart Island provides another spectacular island attraction with tours available through October 12.

In the Hudson Valley, Bannerman Castle offers guided and self-guided tours through October, while Long Island's OHEKA Castle is a grand French Chateau-style mansion where visitors can tour the estate and gardens or stay overnight.

5) Go Fishing in New York State

Autumn is also an excellent season for a fishing adventure, with opportunities ranging from deep-sea fishing off Long Island to freshwater angling in northern New York.

The St. Lawrence River is renowned for bass fishing, while the Catskills are famous for fly fishing. The Beaverkill River is a legendary trout stream stocked annually with more than 18,000 brown trout.

Visitors interested in the history and traditions of fly fishing can also visit the Catskill Fly Fishing Center & Museum.

Plan Your New York Fall Adventure

From historic landmarks and scenic waterways to outdoor art, castles and world-class fishing, New York State offers countless ways to experience autumn beyond the traditional fall foliage tour.

I LOVE NY

Website: https://www.iloveny.com/
Phone: 1-800-CALL-NYS
Address: Empire State Development, 633 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10017, USA

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