October in New York means cooler weather, colorful foliage, and plenty of fun things to do around the city. Whether you want to get into the Halloween spirit or enjoy a cultural outing, here are five things to do in NYC this month.
1. Harvest Glow at the Bronx Zoo
Enjoy the Bronx Zoo after dark during a family-friendly autumn event filled with animal-themed jack-o’-lanterns, pumpkin carving, animatronic dinosaurs, and games.
Various dates in October, Bronx Zoo
$6 for local college students with promo code NYCCOLLEGE, $34 general admission
2. Free Days and Nights at the Whitney
The Whitney Museum of American Art makes art accessible with multiple free admission dates. Visitors under 25 can always get in free, while visitors of all ages can enjoy complimentary entry on Friday nights and the museum’s Second Sundays. While you’re there, don’t miss the “Sixties Surreal” exhibition, an exploration of the surrealist art movement of that era that runs through Jan. 19.
The Whitney Museum of American Art, Manhattan
Free on select days, but tickets are required
3. Halloween Pup Parades
Few things are more delightful than dogs dressed up in silly Halloween costumes. Fortunately, several NYC neighborhoods will host canine costume contests and pup parades where you can soak in the cuteness.
Various Dates, Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx
Free
4. Ice Skating in Central Park
Wollman Rink opens in late October, marking the start of the Central Park skating season. Glide across the ice before the holiday crowds arrive, surrounded by autumn foliage—and take advantage of discounts on the “off-peak” days this month.
Opens Oct. 24, Wollman Rink, Central Park
$16 with a New York Public Library Card or an IDNYC card (includes skates and cocoa); free on select community days
5. “Treasures” Exhibit at the Library
Step into the past at the New York Public Library’s ongoing “Treasures” exhibit, showcasing one-of-a-kind historical artifacts from its vast collection. See Thomas Jefferson’s handwritten copy of the Declaration of Independence, Charles Dickens’ writing desk, and even a lock of Beethoven’s hair.
New York Public Library’s Stephen A. Schwartzman Building, Midtown
Free
