Just being in NYC in the fall is an experience in itself—for a few brief months, we all channel Meg Ryan in You’ve Got Mail and breathe in the crisp air filled with the smell of leaves and pretend we’re in the middle of a love story for the ages (maybe we are). It’s true that NYC is one of the most sought-after places to experience the best that fall offers, from delightfully spooky Halloween events to gorgeous leaf-peeping opportunities and haunted houses to scare you silly.

Autumn in NYC is tough to match! Keep scrolling to find out how to make this the best one yet.