Fall is here and winter is near, so why not make it fun? Get together with your friends, families or someone special to make some warm memories this year. Living in New York City (NYC), there are so many choices for activities to partake in.
Something light, yet warm, is perfect for any high schooler who wants to relish things that are enjoyable for these upcoming months. While some are costly, others are free of charge — music to our ears.
Apple picking
Apple picking is a fall classic, and fun to do with anyone. The best part is that fall is the season for all apple-themed treats. Due to apple picking usually taking place in farms or orchards, there tend to be more fun family-friendly activities around for anyone to see and enjoy. It’s a great idea for couples, or even those with younger siblings and cousins.
With a delicious variety stemming from fresh and sweet apples to donuts and cider and even pumpkin picking, go to Queens County Farm Museum. However, if you want something a little more family-catered, especially for kids, check out Green Meadows Farm New York. They tend to do candy hunts during the halloween season and even have many animals to look at.
If this isn’t to your tastes and you’d like something more simple and casual, then head over to Dr Davies Farm. With around seven different apples to pick from, sweet cider, and much more, it’d be the perfect place to go during the time when the leaves turn orange.
Halloween activities and fun
For those who crave a good scare during spooky season, there is so much to do during October. From tick-or-treating to haunted houses, NYC has something for everyone. Fort Totten, located in Bayside, holds their annual “Terror on Totten,” which is free for all who attend — although it is recommended for ages 12 and up.
For a more immersive experience, try “A Haunting in Hollis” in Queens Village, an escape room that has received rave reviews for just $20. If trick-or-treating is more your style, Long Island is a candy lover’s paradise, with the best neighborhoods being Bay Shore, Floral Park, Huntington, and Port Jefferson — don’t forget to grab those king-sized candy bars!
Jack O’Lanterns
To those basking in the Halloween spirit but don’t want to be scared out of their minds, Jack O’Lantern making is perfect for you to do with anyone. Sure, it can get messy, but that simply adds to the fun. If you can’t handle the mess but still love the sights, you can visit “The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze: Hudson Valley” The experience is a ticket required event and may be a bit pricey, but customers every year say that it is worth it. Snacks are included, and so are drinks along with a nice ride over the many hand crafted Jack O’Lanterns.
Ice skating
Whether it’s a date idea, silly group idea or even spending time with family, ice skating is always a simple yet great choice. For those who aren’t professional skaters, trying to get the hang of it and learn is a ton of fun. The feeling of laughing as you or someone you know falls down onto the ice so you have to try and help them stand is an unforgettable experience.
As well, it becomes the perfect excuse for skinship, if you’re on a date, and your love language is physical touch. Two areas that are either affordable or very accessible would be “World Ice Arena” in Queens and the other would be “Skating at Bryant Park” a well known choice. Both prices are in the $20 range with lots of great food nearby. It’s the perfect hangout spot for all sorts of groups and duos.
Winter Village at Bryant Park
If you’re looking to shop and walk around with a loved one, the Winter Village in Manhattan is a fun experience with tons of different foods to try. Most teenagers tend to love eating with friends, so this is the perfect spot. Although the prices do tend to range, they are all delicious, especially their iconic hot cocoa.
Many of the vendors are NYC owned shops to support your local small businesses. The best part of this is seeing the giant Christmas tree during December as well, even if it does get crowded. You can also roam around, go shopping and much more while in the area which is always better since it means spending more time with your loved ones.
