If you’re hunting for things to do in NYC in November, you’ve picked the perfect month. Crisp air, glowing foliage, and the first holiday sparkle make New York in fall feel like a movie set. This guide rounds up the best things to do in NYC in November, and every distance starts at Arlo Williamsburg.
Cheer On the NYC Marathon in Williamsburg
Kick off NYC in November on Sunday, November 1, when the TCS New York City Marathon sends more than 50,000 runners through all five boroughs. The course rolls through Williamsburg along Bedford Avenue, about 0.3 miles from Arlo Williamsburg, a 5-minute walk. Grab a coffee, claim a spot on the sidewalk, and cheer as live bands and neighbors fill the streets. Wear layers, since early November mornings feel chilly. Because roads close along the route, walk instead of calling a rideshare, and enjoy the marathon as one of the best things to do in NYC this November.
Enjoy Fall Activities in Brooklyn Close to Arlo Williamsburg
Some of the best fall activities in Brooklyn sit right around the corner. McCarren Park lies about a 5-minute walk from the hotel, and its trees put on a golden show. Next, stroll about 10 minutes to the East River Ferry landing and ride across the water for skyline views of Manhattan. Then warm up at Brooklyn Brewery, a 2-minute walk from the hotel, with a craft beer.
Chase Fall Foliage at Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Brooklyn Botanic Garden delivers New York in fall at its most colorful. Its Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden showcases maples in orange, red, yellow, and purple, while scarlet oaks line the Cherry Esplanade. The garden sits about 5 miles from Arlo Williamsburg, a 35-minute rideshare. Its quiet paths offer a peaceful counterpoint to the marathon crowds and holiday bustle. Remember that it closes on Mondays.
Catch Peak Foliage in Central Park
Central Park typically hits peak foliage in early to mid-November, so time your visit accordingly. Stroll the Mall’s towering elms, cross Bow Bridge, and watch fiery treetops reflect in the Lake. Pack a thermos and bring a camera. The park sits about 5 miles from Arlo Williamsburg, roughly a 30-minute rideshare.
Watch Sunset at Brooklyn Bridge Park
Daylight saving time ends November 1, so sunsets arrive before 5 p.m. all month. Catch the golden hour at Brooklyn Bridge Park, where the skyline glows behind the East River. Bring a jacket, because the breeze off the river turns chilly fast. The park sits about 3 miles from Arlo Williamsburg, a 15-to-20-minute rideshare.
Skate at Bryant Park Winter Village
Bryant Park’s Winter Village opens in late October and turns Midtown into a holiday wonderland. Lace up on the free-admission ice rink, then browse the holiday shops. Visit before Thanksgiving for smaller crowds and lower weekday skating costs. Bryant Park sits about 4.5 miles from Arlo Williamsburg, roughly a 30-minute rideshare.
Shop the Union Square Holiday Market
The Union Square Holiday Market opens November 13 and runs through Christmas Eve. Local artisans and small businesses sell handmade goods and seasonal treats, so you can start your holiday shopping early. The market closes on Thanksgiving Day, so plan your shopping around the holiday. It sits about 3 miles from Arlo Williamsburg, roughly a 20-minute rideshare.
Watch the 100th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
On Thursday, November 26, giant balloons, floats, and marching bands roll from Central Park West to Herald Square, starting at 8:30 a.m. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade celebrates its 100th edition this year, a milestone worth waking up early for. Street viewing is free, but the best spots fill up early, so set your alarm. Herald Square sits about 4 miles from Arlo Williamsburg, roughly a 30-minute rideshare, though street closures can slow you down. Catch the balloon inflation near the American Museum of Natural History the evening before for a sneak peek.
Plan the Best Things to Do in NYC in November
November weather swings from mild to chilly, so pack layers and comfortable shoes for all this walking. Group your Brooklyn outings together on one day and your Manhattan stops on another to save rideshare time. Also check official event pages before you go, since hours, routes, and closures can change.
Make November in New York Yours
From marathon cheers to holiday markets, things to do in NYC this November keep your calendar full. Base yourself in Williamsburg, and you can walk to some highlights while a quick rideshare carries you to the rest.
Book your stay at Arlo Williamsburg today and turn your November in New York into a trip to remember.
