While this pandemic has certainly been a difficult and unprecedented time, one blessing in disguise is that it’s given me the opportunity to truly explore more of my home state. It’s funny how when you live somewhere, you miss out on so much of what’s around you because you’re so engrained in your daily routine. This fall, I’ve been using the weekends to discover the beauty of the great outdoors, and it’s been the most wonderful mental, emotional, and physical break amidst hours of staring at a computer screen. As I’m sure many of you are, I’m all Zoom’ed out!
I’m so excited to share my top fall getaway destinations from New York City. These places are all accessible via car or public transportation and under 3 hours away, making them perfect for day trips. Whether you’re an outdoorsy hiker, a vintage thrifter, or a culture buff, there is something for you. Or if you’re just looking for cute spots for the ‘gram (no judgement here!) — well, you’ve come to the right place. Keep on reading for my favorite autumn escapes from NYC!
Apple Picking at Wilkens Farm + Afternoon Stroll at Teatown
No fall is complete without a trip to the apple orchards! Wilkens Farm in Yorktown has pick-your-own apples (by the bushel) along with a shop filled with delicious homemade treats. Their apple raspberry pie is to die for, so be sure to grab one to go!
Tip: Harvest Moon Orchard is another popular orchard for apple picking. Every fall they have a carnival with live music and food trucks! Across the street is Outhouse Orchards, which has a giant pumpkin patch. Please note that activities and offerings may be altered due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Once you’re done apple picking, head over to Teatown Lake Reservation in Ossining for an afternoon lakeside stroll. The nature preserve is so peaceful and the perfect place to curl up with a book!
Outfit: Calvin Klein puffer coat (packable!) | Hillflint sweater (various colleges available) | Free People jeans | DVF boots (old, similar here)
The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze + Sunset at Croton Landing Park
The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze is one of the coolest fall festivities in the Hudson Valley! Meander through Van Cortlandt Manor, a 17th century landscape decked out in over 7000 hand-carved and illuminated jack o’lanterns. The creativity that goes into these pumpkins is so inspiring and jaw-dropping. Some of my favorite exhibits are the Pumpkin Planetarium, Pumpkin Carousel, and Pumpkin Windmill.
Tip: If you’re coming via public transportation, take the Metro North (Hudson Line) from Grand Central and get off at Croton-on-Hudson. Blaze is only a short walk away. Book a nighttime ticket for the full experience. The jack o’lanterns look so much more magical in the dark!
If you do end up snagging a nighttime ticket, get to Croton a bit earlier to catch the sunset at Croton Landing Park. Part of the Westchester RiverWalk, Croton Landing Park is an esplanade along the Hudson River with paved pathways, a footbridge, benches and lawns, and even sculptures. It also has the most beautiful sunsets and views of mountains and sailboats — honestly, sometimes I forget that I’m even in New York!
Outfit: Nanette Lepore sports bra (similar here) | Nike leggings
Hiking Anthony’s Nose + Shopping at Woodbury Common
Anthony’s Nose in Cortlandt Manor is one of my favorite hikes outside of NYC. It’s 2.6 miles, part of the Appalachian Trail, and boasts an awesome view of the Bear Mountain Bridge at the peak. Even better, it’s only a twenty minute drive from the Woodbury Common Premium Outlets, where you can score amazing deals on designer wardrobes. I’m not even exaggerating when I say that half my wardrobe is from there — I’ve been shopping there ever since I was a kid! And believe me, the outlet just keeps getting better over time. There are so many new stores and delicious restaurants!
Tip: Anthony’s Nose is very popular so if you’re visiting on a weekend, be sure to get there early. For those who crave more adventure, Breakneck Ridge is nearby and a harder hike (with even more incredible views). The Metro North stops at Breakneck Ridge on weekends only (Hudson line).
Outfit: Loft striped shirt (similar here) | Nike Air leggings | Nike sneakers | Kate Spade backpack (similar here)
Muscoot Farm + Downtown Katonah
Bring out your inner child at Muscoot Farm in Katonah! You can find all your classic barnyard animals here, from pigs and cows to goats and ponies. There’s nothing more nostalgic than petting baby animals!
When you’re done, head on over to downtown Katonah and grab a bite to eat at one of the many cafés and restaurants. Visit the Katonah Museum of Art, go gallery hopping, or check out the Community Shop at the Community Center of Northern Westchester for some incredible thrift shopping. I got the navy J. Crew vest I’m wearing below for $25, and found a vintage Salvatore Ferragamo tote for only $20!!
Outfit: Zara sweater (similar here) | J. Crew vest | Madewell jeans | Marc Fisher boots
Tip: Muscoot Farm has a farmers market on Sundays from 9:30-2:30, during the months of May through November. Shop goodies from all your favorite local vendors.
Outfit: Loft polka dot shirt (similar here) | Reebok leggings | Vince sneakers | Badgley Mischka bag (old, similar here)
Leaf Peeping at John Boyd Thacher State Park + Climb the Indian Ladder Trail
Catch the peak foliage in the Capitol region at John Boyd Thacher State Park! From the LaGrange parking lot, you’re greeted with the most unbe(leaf)able view of the Helderberg Escarpment — sorry, I had to 🙂 A few steps away is the Indian Ladder Trail, where you’ll find cliffs, caves, and waterfalls. It’s a short walk and very doable even if you’re not a hiker.
Tip: Parking is $6 for a day pass. Bring some food, drinks, and snacks for an afternoon picnic at one of the many picnic areas.
Outfit: Joie sweater | Tommy Hilfiger scarf (old, similar here) | Reebok leggings | Adidas sneakers
Giant Ledge + The Catskills
For the most breathtaking view of the Catskills, head upstate to Phoenicia and hike Giant Ledge. This was hands down my favorite hike I’ve done this fall. Peak foliage here is an absolute dream! The hike is about 3 miles long, and the climb up is certainly not easy. I had to stop multiple times to catch my breath (and pause for snacks of course), but the view made the struggle all worth it.
Tip: There are 5 different ledges once you reach the peak. The first ledge is the most popular one, but all of them have similar views. If you want an even bigger workout, continue hiking to Panther Mountain, which would put your hike at a total of 7 miles roundtrip.
Outfit: DVF sweater (old, similar here) | Reebok leggings | Croft & Barrow scarf (old, similar here) | Timberland boots | Primark hat (old, similar here)
Explore the Berkshires + Hike Monument Mountain
I’ve been wanting to visit the Berkshires for a while now, so I’m happy that I finally got the opportunity to do so this fall. Ideally I’d like to spend a long weekend here (once it’s safe again to do so, of course) and explore all the culture the Berkshires has to offer. The incredible food, the historical landmarks, the picturesque landscape… there’s no place better to escape and find some peace. And not to mention all the cute towns like Great Barrington, Lenox, and Stockbridge — they look straight out of a Hallmark movie!
But alas, we only had a day so we had to make the most of it and hike Monument Mountain! Monument Mountain was recently named one of the most beautiful sights in the US by USA Today, and was the source of inspiration to Herman Melville, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and plenty of other literary figures and artists. The hike is very moderate (around 3 miles) and boasts incredible views of the Berkshires from the summit.
Outfit: Rachel Zoe faux fur coat (similar here) | 90 Degree by Reflex leggings (similar here)
Tip: Parking is $5 for a day pass. We used this hiking trail guide, which was very clear. Be sure to stop at Devil’s Pulpit for the best view!
As always, you can shop my outfits using the links below! Be sure to save this post for future reference when planning your next fall getaway. What are some of your favorite fall destinations for me to explore next year?
