Autumn NYC

Every year when Fall roles around New Yorkers get excited! The humid summer air dies down, replaced by cool, crisp air. The leaves change from green to beautiful colors of red, orange, yellow, and brown. Many are even excited to replace their short sleeves and tank tops for hoodies and scarves. I am a big fan of Fall myself. I enjoy the weather and I also just love the Halloween season.

Last October, I gave you my top 5 list of things to do in the Fall here in the NY Tri-State area. I also shared with you my trip to Salem, MA and some other things I did. If you haven't read it, click the link for October under "Thoughts of a New Yorker". I promise you the article is still relevant and may offer some ideas if you are planning a trip into NYC or are a New Yorker and want to try something new.

This past weekend, I took a trip with my family Upstate, NY to do our usual traditional apple/pumpkin picking. Whether you have children or not, this is such a great experience. It's family friendly, dog friendly, and friend friendly! We decided to revisit the farm we went to last year called Stuarts Farm, located in Granite Springs. It was actually raining in the boroughs but it was cloudy Upstate. The weather was perfect, no mud, moist but not wet and the air was chilly as expected.

This farm allows for apple and pumpkin picking. They also have a store where they sell other products like honey, other vegetables like squash, and different kinds of pumpkins. Next to the store, is a bakery where you can find a number of freshly baked goods as well as snacks if you're hungry.

One of my favorite things about going to this particular farm is their apple cider donuts. O-M-G! As I've mentioned to you before, I love to eat, especially sweets! These apple cider donuts are baked fresh and usually come right out of the oven when you buy them. They are still warm when you bite into them and they are deliciously soft. I am telling you, this is a MUST have. Simply delicious.

Apple Cider Donuts @ Stuarts Farm, Upstate NY

All pictures posted were taken by @Miss_NYCity

Aside from the fun apple and pumpkin picking, there is a picnic area where you can rest, eat your snacks, and overall enjoy the fall ambiance. What you see is the colorful trees  changing colors and it's breathtaking.

Stuarts Farm View of Fall Foliage, Upstate NY

All pictures posted were taken by @Miss_NYCity

I am a city lady, I won't deny it however, I love going Upstate for a break from the noise to enjoy the quiet of nature.

How do you celebrate Fall in your town or here in NYC? Anything unique?
I love to hear from you!

Love,
Miss_NYCity

Top 6 Walks You Must Take This Fall!!

Happy Fall!

As the weather cools down and the leaves begin to fall, it is the perfect time to go walking. It's cool but not cold, warm but not hot. Walking is great exercise and nothing is better than being entertained with a gorgeous view. It's also free! So if you're new to NYC or just visiting we welcome you! If you've ran out of sights to see or can't think of a new date spot for your hunnie, try one of these. Get on your hoodies and sneakers, stop for a warm drink and GET THE WALKING!

1. The High Line: This was formerly an elevated railroad track on the West side of Manhattan which was converted into a park. I personally consider it more of a walkway then a park. It's overground and you have to enter it by walking up one of the many stairway entries. It starts on Gansevoort Street and stretches all the way to W34th Street (between 10th and 12th ave). It's a long walk and because it's overground the view is nice. What makes it even more interesting is that you can somewhat tell it was a former railroad. As you walk it, you are walking between buildings and apartments. They have it decorated with greenery and depending on where you start your walk, you will also get a view of the Empire State building. Check out www.thehighline.org for more information.

2. The Brooklyn Bridge: I've always been a fan of this bridge. I've walked it so many times and every time it's like I'm walking it for the first time. The Brooklyn Bridge was completed and opened in 1883 so it's officially a historical landmark of NYC. It's views of Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn, the NYC skyline and the Manhattan Bridge are gorgeous. You can even see the Statue of Liberty. The architecture on the bridge is absolutely amazing. If you are walking from Manhattan into Brooklyn you can stop at Grimaldi's (www.grimaldis.com)for amazing brick oven pizza. If you're walking from Brooklyn into Manhattan you're a short walk away from The Freedom Tower and Wall Street. There are plenty of restaurants and food trucks. Otherwise you can just enjoy walking and viewing the architecture and beauty of the city buildings.

3. Shore Park: This park runs along the Belt Parkway in Bayridge, Brooklyn. It is a long stretch for walking, biking, or just enjoying the scene, which gives you a breathtaking view of the Verrazano Bridge. I've been here before and I love it. If you are in the Brooklyn area, this is a must-see spot. Although this is a waterfront spot, it's right along the highway. I would consider this a park, so if you are looking for restaurants nearby you'd probably have to drive there. Nonetheless, it's definitely romantic and is a perfect after dinner walk!

4. Astoria Park: This park is in Astoria, Queens. It is similar to Shore Park in that it is a waterfront park that gives you a view of a bridge. It's a view of the RFK Bridge AKA the Triboro Bridge. Although similar, this park has a totally different vibe to it. It is also actually a real park. So you will find a jungle gym and a skateboard area and other park-like things. Astoria is also known for it's restaurants and social vibe so if your in the area definitely stop for food or drinks. Via Trenta is a nice Italian spot for dinner or wine. (www.viatrenta.com)  

Astoria Park, NYC

All pictures posted were taken by @Miss_NYCity

5. Long Island City Piers: I remember going to the "LIC Piers" since I was in high school and boy has it changed. When I was younger, we used to go as friends, sit on the large rocks and eat ice cream. At that time it was a secret location that few people knew about. There was one condominium building and everything else was desolate. Not anymore! This is definitely the new social spot. Plenty of restaurants, bars, rooftops, and snack spots. Located in Long Island City, Queens- Center Blvd,  it's just a few minutes away from the the 59th Street Bridge (AKA Queensboro Bridge). You could go out to eat before hand and then walk over to the piers and enjoy the view of the skyline. Try Spice for some delish Thai Food! (www.spicethainyc.com)

6. Williamsburg Park: Williamsburg has been a fairly famous social spot for people living in the city for quite some time. It's known for it's very trendy hipster style. It's fun and the environment is so alive. Whether you like to dress up, dress down, mis-match, or whatever you will fit in. Plenty of restaurants/bars to enjoy along with retro stores, boutiques, nail salons, ice cream shops, and thrift stores. It really has everything. Anyway, a short walk away is Williamsburg park. Located between N 10th and N 11th Street in Williamsburg, BK you will enjoy a gorgeous view of the Empire State Building, NYC skyline, and the Williamsburg Bridge. Feeling hungry? Try the Meatball Shop! (www.themeatballshop.com) 

Can you tell I love my city?! By the way, skyline and bridge views are my favorite!

Get out there! Take a beautiful walk, enjoy the view and tell me what you think!

xoxo,

Miss_NYCity
Follow me on twitter @Miss_NYCity