Before the first frost: fall experiences in NYC

This year, make New York your November vacation destination. In fact, the mini-season between mid-Fall and Christmas is the ideal time to visit.

There's magic in the air as leaves in Central Park shift from gold to amber. The air grows crisp with the promise of change, while markets brim with seasonal bounty and stores gear up for Christmas. And when you think you've seen it all, the streets become a stage for spellbinding Thanksgiving festivities.

This is a time when the city feels peaceful and intimate, but ready to leap into life. We love this time of year, and we're sure you will too. Here are four musts for your seasonal to-do schedule that elevate showcase its unique appeal.

Join NYC's Festivities at the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade

The Macy's Thanksgiving Parade is unquestionably NYC's premier autumn experience, offering an unmissable spectacle for everyone who visits.

For those who haven't been before, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade begins at 1:30 pm on November 27, on the West Side of Central Park at 77th Street. Over 30 oversized floats, marching bands and balloons glide through the city before gathering in front of the iconic Macy’s storefront on 34th Street and 6th Avenue.

The parade itself is an intoxicating celebration of New York's energy. Hundreds of street performers dance, clown, and delight onlookers. Meanwhile, floats crafted by brands like Disney and Nickelodeon enchant the streets with familiar characters and vibrant colors.

However, here's a tip from The Surrey team. We recommend visiting the Macy's balloon inflation the night before for an authentic Macy's Day experience. 
The magic truly begins at 6:00 pm on the 26th near the American Museum of Natural History as the street transforms into an open-air theater. Balloons slowly take shape beneath the night sky, giving attendees a precious glimpse of the artistry behind the parade before it makes its grand debut. Visiting the balloon inflation extends the event into a two-day fiesta.

Make Christmas come early with a sneak peek at festive storefronts

Christmas lies outside the scope of a fall escape at The Surrey, A Corinthia Hotel. Nevertheless, visitors can enjoy some yuletide cheer as NYC prepares for the holiday season. The month before Christmas is actually the perfect time to catch storefront unveilings as retailers compete to wow shoppers with visual spectacles.
Bergdorf Goodman, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s transform their façades into theatrical displays that stop passersby in their tracks.

In 2024, Macy's and Bergdorf Goodman chose November 21 for their big days, while Bloomingdale's opted for the week before. This year, the last couple of weeks of the month are the best time to visit, even more so as Sak's Fifth Avenue is bringing back its ever-popular light show after a one-year absence.

We don't know what world-leading artisan decorators have in mind. That's what makes the unveiling period so captivating. Previous years have seen riffs on Wicked and Oz from Bloomingdale's. Sak's allowed fashion masterpieces from Oscar de la Renta and Prada to cast their spells. Meanwhile, across stores like Tiffany & Co. and Ralph Lauren will look to compete.

One thing is certain: a walking tour of New York's luxury retailers is an essential part of anyone's to-do list.

Soak up fabulous colors in Central Park

Another seasonal essential does not require the skill of storefront curators to stop us in our tracks. In Central Park, nature intervenes in spectacular style as the foliage becomes a riotous blend of red, yellow and orange tones.

In our opinion, the Mall offers one of the most striking walks with its soaring elm trees forming a canopy that seems designed for peace and reflection. Leaves crunch softly underfoot while light filters through branches like stained glass. It makes the city’s grandest promenade feel intimate enough to feel personal.

Why not combine a stroll down the mall with a basket of seasonal pastries? Decadent enough anytime, an artisan cinnamon twist or a buttery croissant feels more indulgent when enjoyed against nature's intoxicating backdrop.

Wander through the park at an unhurried pace. Gaze across the lake as mirrored colors ripple and dance underneath the soaring towers of Manhattan. Trace inviting paths to hidden sculptures and romantic groves. And place serenity and joy at the heart of your experience.

Enjoy gourmet fall tastes at Union Square Greenmarket 

Nature's bounty isn't just a treat for the eyes before the frosts arrive. Autumn brings a cornucopia of delicious produce. And New York's markets are the perfect place to sample them.

We love ducking into Union Square Greenmarket (an easy walk from The Surrey), where visitors can sip on spiced cider made from New England apples. Wander aisles packed with outlandishly sculpted heirloom squashes and baskets of fruit picked fresh from the orchard. Try scented sourdough loaves and savor the aroma of cinnamon sprinkled over oven-warmed buns. 

Of course, the market is only a taster for New York's seasonal food scene. Book spots at wine events like Autumn Crush, which brings together over 100 elite sommeliers. Or ask our concierge team to reserve a table at one of the Upper East Side's finest eateries for a seasonal feast. 

Enjoy the season in comfort and style at The Surrey, A Corinthia Hotel

Wherever your itinerary takes you, The Surrey ensures a comfortable refuge. Think elegant suites, outstanding Italian cuisine, and restorative massages from Parisian experts. Sounds idyllic? Contact our team today to plan an unforgettable getaway.