Top 20 Things to Do This Fall on Long Island

2. Walking with Purpose

Walk Now for Autism Speaks at Jones Beach in Wantagh on October 13 is an amazing way to raise money for this increasingly prevalent condition. Your whole family can do a good deed for a great cause—and get some exercise while you’re at it. Not ready to quit yet?

3. Spooky Smiles

The Rise of the Jack O’ Lanterns at Old Westbury Gardens, presented throughout October, showcases the amazing work of dozens of local artists. Spend an hour walking through the trail and see more than 5,000 hand-carved Jack O’Lanterns light up the night.

4. Gourds Galore

Pick your own pumpkins at Stakey’s Pumpkin Farm in Aquebogue and enjoy a brisk walk through the 26-acre pumpkin farm throughout October.

With more than 18 varieties of pumpkins to choose from right off the vine, this pumpkin and gourd paradise is well worth the drive. Head to our site to find more u-pick pumpkin farms in the area.

5. A Community Celebration  

The Long Island Fall Festival at Heckscher Park in Huntington is an ideal way to spend a sunny autumn afternoon. Held in early October, families come from all over the island for the carnival games, farmer’s market, old-time rides, and yummy homemade treats.

6. Oyster Overload

In Theodore Roosevelt Park in—where else?—Oyster Bay, you can shuck yourself silly (while the kiddos will find more kid-palatable fare) at the Oyster Festival. And it’s not just shellfish. Find pirate shows, tall ships, and midway rides in mid-October.

7. A Spooky Celebration

The Ghostly Gala Halloween party at Long Island Children’s Museum in late October is a fun, safe, and festive way to enjoy the holiday. With face painting, gallery trick-or-treating, and a costume party, this is one event you’ll remember well past the spooky season.

8. Long Island has many beautiful hiking trails, and one of the best is Garvies Point Museum and Preserve in Glen Cove. Leading down to a quiet beach, this easy-for-kids trail is one of the most serene on the island.

9. Autumn Art Walk

Take a stroll through the 145 acres of fields, woods, and ponds at The Nassau County Museum of Art in Roslyn Harbor and be amazed by the inspiring sculptures created by established artists.

And if you’re looking to do some leaf peeping outside the area, head to our site for our suggested locations.

10. We’re Out to Discover

Relax, sit back, and enjoy as the Ward Melville Heritage Organization’s Discovery boat takes you for a cruise through Long Island’s wetlands (offered select dates, May through October).

Learn about the history, geology, and ecology of the gorgeous area we call home. The pontoon departs from Stony Brook Harbor and cruises through the organization’s 88-acre wetlands preserve for a 1½-hour tour.

11. The Best Way Out Is Through

With the exception of pumpkin picking, nothing says fall like a romp in an old-fashioned corn maze. One of the bigger examples on the island is at Fairview Farm in Bridgehampton.

The site also has a corn cannon and yes, it is as cool as it sounds.

12. Lizards, Snakes, and Turtles—Oh My!

If your kids think cute and cuddly is boring, then Jungle Bob’s Reptile World in Centereach is sure to please them. And the fact that there’s no charge for admission will please you! This unique showroom allows you to see unusual creatures living in their own habitats.

13. Turkey Day Parade

Arguably the world’s most famous parade, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade boasts behemoth balloons, beautiful floats, and the biggest names in entertainment—and it all takes place a train ride away, in the heart of Manhattan.

14. A Night of Witchy Fun

The Edgewood in Brentwood is hosting a Halloween pop-up experience, the Witch Craft Halloween Pop Up Experience, inspired by the movie Hocus Pocus. The event will feature Hocus Pocus-themed food, drinks, and interactive performances by The Salem Sisters. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet The Salem Sisters and take photos with them. Witches of all ages are welcome to join the fun!

15. Glow in the Park

The Adventure Park in Long Island offers Glow in the Park events where families can zipline through trees at night with LED lights and music, creating a unique experience that’s perfect for fall. The LED lights guide the attendees along the trails, and each event offers a different, unforgettable adventure.

16. Haunted Hamburgers!

Haunted House of Hamburgers is a Halloween-themed restaurant on Long Island that serves delicious hamburgers, appetizers, salads, and soups. They invite families to visit in costume and enjoy the Halloween spirit year-round, but there’s no better time to get into the Halloween spirit than fall. The restaurant is officially taking reservations for the season and we’re definitely snagging a seat.

17. Can’t Forget the Apple Cider Doughnuts

Head to the Jericho Cider Mill for some of the best apple-flavored goodies the season has to offer. Visitors who head to Jericho rave about one thing: the apple cider doughnuts! It’s not really fall unless you’ve gotten your hands on some apple cider doughnuts right?

18. Fall Foliage at Planting Fields

Take in the fall foliage at the breathtaking Planting Fields Arboretum. Explore the former Gold Coast estate of the W.R. Coe family, featuring over 400 acres of enchanting gardens, rolling lawns, and nature walks. Experience the largest collection of camellias in the northeast and guided tours of the Tudor Revival residence. With special events and year-round courses, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

19. Blaze Long Island

Looking for more pumpkin fun? Head to Blaze Long Island! Families can stroll through an immersive pumpkin trail set in a 19th-century village, where they will encounter thousands of hand-carved jack-o’-lanterns lighting up the night. The trail features an original soundtrack, synchronized lighting, and special effects, making it a captivating experience for all ages.

20. Mill Neck Manor Apple Festival

Head to Mill Neck Manor for the annual Apple Festival happening mid-October. The festival will feature apple varieties, delicious bites, baked goods, crafts, ASL books, a pumpkin patch, and tons of activities for kids. Families can also enjoy live entertainment, including musicians, ASL classes, and pie-eating contests.

By Niko Vercelletto and Thalía Fernández