Fall Guide
There’s a new crispness in the air, which means one thing: It’s time for some fabulous foliage! It’s fall in Central Park, and we’re celebrating with the Central Park Conservancy’s OFFICIAL guide to the season.
When the days start getting shorter and the weather grows crisp, there’s nothing quite as exquisite as the sight of scarlet oak and sweetgum trees putting on their glorious autumn displays. Get a front-row seat at the foliage fashion show with our new interactive map that tracks peak foliage throughout the season.
But while the trees may be the Park’s stars come autumn, Central Park is still full of activity, with plants, animals, and humans alike preparing for the winter ahead. Whether you're hoping to check out migrating birds, take a fall foliage tour, or just sip hot cider on a Park bench, this guide has you covered.
Before we begin, don’t forget to bookmark our Alerts page for all the info you’ll need on scheduled or weather-related Park closures. Another great spot for Central Park updates? Our social channels. Give us a follow, tag us from the Park @CentralParkNYC, and keep up to date on all the goings-on in these 843 acres.
Fall in Love with Central Park
We could go on and on about why we love caring for Central Park—and we have! Check out our robust online magazine to learn about the Conservancy’s work, how we care for this space, and the history behind the creation of the Park.
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Peak Foliage Map
How can you make the most of fall’s ephemeral beauty? Use this interactive map to track where peak foliage is happening throughout Central Park. We're continually updating this throughout the season, so don't forget to check back for updates! -
Plants and Trees
Which Autumn Tree Are You?
Statement-maker, over-achiever, relaxed and going with the flow…whatever your personality is like, there’s a tree in the Park for you.Tags: Highlights / Staff Picks / All Ages
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Plants and Trees
Dressed to Thrill
Central Park’s autumn wardrobe is a sight to behold—but as with any fashionable gathering, there are always a few standouts. Learn more about four species of trees whose fall foliage is among the most beautiful in the Park.Tags: Fall / Trees
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Things to See and Do
A “Last Hurrah”
Ever wanted to know what a professional arborist thinks of the fall foliage? Curious about the science behind the changing leaves? Maybe you just want to drop the word “abscission” at Thanksgiving dinner? Learn all this (and more) in this conversation with Conservancy arborist Alan Clark.Tags: Fall / Trees
Leaf Your Cares Behind
The foliage is fabulous, but that’s not all there is to Central Park in autumn. From larger-than-life monuments and kid-sized playgrounds to luxuriant lawns and woodlands that let all five senses come alive, there’s something for everyone in the Park this season.
Get to Know the Park with a Conservancy Guide
Interested in an even more tailored Park experience? Look no further than our expert Conservancy staff and their decades of Park research. Our staff offers in-person and virtual tours, online weekly walks, and handy maps for your self-guided tours.
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Picture-Perfect Central Park
Want one tour that has it all? This is the excursion for you! Join Central Park Conservancy guides as we visit the Park’s most famous sites, from Sheep Meadow’s views of the Manhattan skyline to the majestic American elms along the Mall. -
Urban Sanctuary
Only a few steps from the hustle and bustle of Midtown Manhattan, the Hallett Nature Sanctuary is a little slice of native-woodland paradise. Take a guided tour through one of Central Park’s best-kept secrets and admire not only the autumn foliage but also the birds—including egrets and black-crowned night herons—that reside in the Pond nearby. -
Flying South for the Winter
A lush woodland that hosts more than 210 species of migrating birds each year, the North Woods is a paradise for birdwatchers and leaf-peepers alike. Take a stroll through this vibrant habitat with one of our Conservancy guides. -
Discovery Walks for Families
Let the Park be your classroom! These family-friendly tours are a great way for parents and children of all ages to learn about the ecology and history of Central Park, and tickets include a complimentary Discovery Journal for each child.
The Park Needs Us
Trees are environmental superheroes. They clean our air, filter our water, and boost our mood. To thank these arboreal wonders, consider endowing an existing Park tree or gifting a sapling! Each tree is expertly planted and cared for by our Conservancy experts.
Want to be an honorary member of our Tree Care team? Remember this one rule: Never climb on trees or their branches, pick their flowers or leaves, or etch into their bark. Trees may seem sturdy, but they need to be treated with care. Leaves, branches, bark, and roots all play a crucial role in keeping trees healthy. We need the Park’s trees, and #TheParkNeedsUs!