16 Top things to do in New York City this fall, ranked!

The end of summer isn’t necessarily a bad thing in New York City. In fact, the fun only seems to pick up as sweater weather sets in. With the arrival of cooler temps and pumpkin spice lattes comes a whole host of fun festivals, sports games, concerts and more. Here are the 16 best things to do in NYC this fall—ranked.

#16. Keith Urban & Kelsea Ballerini (Oct 22)

See two of the hottest stars in country music right now as they light up the stage to a fun-lovin’ audience at the Barclay’s Center in Brooklyn.

#15. Brooklyn Nets vs Houston Rockets (Nov 2)

If you haven’t caught a game at the beloved Barclay’s Center yet, here’s your shot. Watch a great night of basketball—and keep your eyes peeled for a possible courtside Beyonce/Jay-Z sighting—when the Houston Rockets come to Brooklyn.

Trover photo by Esther Bichachi

#14. Radio City Christmas Spectacular (Nov 9)

If you live for the holiday season (i.e. start singing Christmas carols in July), this one’s for you. Be one of the first to attend NYC’s famed Radio City Christmas Spectacular starring the Radio City Rockets at the November 9 opening show.

#13. Ed Sheeran (Sept 21)

Everyone’s favorite English singer-songwriter is coming to town in late September. Sway to the melody of “Perfect” and stomp to the beat of the “Shape of You” as uber-talented pop crooner Ed Sheeran takes the stage at MetLife Stadium.

Trover photo by ScubaMami

#12. Smorgasburg (Saturdays in October)

Accurately referred to as the “Woodstock of Eating” by the New York Times, Smorgasburg is the largest weekly outdoor food market in the world. Taste mouthwatering treats like lobster rolls and ramen burgers from more than 100 food vendors along the Williamsburg waterfront every Saturday through the end of October.

#11. “The Band’s Visit“ (Ongoing)

Already seen Hamilton 10 times? No problem. While tourists are filling seats at Lin-Manuel Miranda’s sensational Broadway hit, instead check out “The Band’s Visit.” This compelling story of an Egyptian police band nabbed the 2018 Tony Award for Best Musical (and also racked up nine others!)

Trover photo by Eritinass Corner

#10. New York Yankees vs. Toronto Blue Jays (Sept 15)

Enjoy an afternoon of hotdogs, cotton candy and baseball at one of the last Yankee home games of the season. Arrive early to the 4pm game to soak up the end-of-season excitement in and around the stadium!

#9. Amateur Night at the Apollo (Nov 21)

Be a part of the notoriously tough audience judging contestants (and possible future stars!) at the fabled Harlem talent competition. There are multiple Amateur Nights in the fall, but you’ll see the best of the best grace the Apollo stage on November 21st during the 2018 season grand finale “Super Top Dog” night.

#8. New York Comic Con (Oct 4–7)

No longer just a cult favorite, New York Comic Con at the Javits Center has turned into one of the largest pop culture events on the East Coast. Catch all the latest in comic books, video games, movies, anime and more at the 4-day event, including the famous faces behind your favorite characters, like Jason Momoa (Aquaman), Danai Gurira (Michonne on “The Walking Dead”) and Dean Cain (Superman) plus scientist Bill Nye, rapper/actor Common and dozens more.

#7. Justin Timberlake (Oct 24)

The ultimate entertainer, Justin Timberlake will light up the stage of Madison Square Garden during his Man of the Woods Tour. It’s an awesome opportunity to catch one the best performers out there in concert at such an iconic Big Apple venue.

ALSO: Get a great deal on tickets to New York’s hottest concerts, games and events, only with CheapTickets!

Trover photo by Jessie Festa

#6. 14th Annual NYC Vendy Awards (Sept 22)

Bring on the food truck wars! Get your tickets, hop on the ferry to Governors Island, and taste your way through 25 of the best food trucks in New York City. Don’t leave without seeing who is crowned champion at one of NYC’s most delicious culinary events.

#5. New York Giants vs. Philadelphia Eagles (Oct 11)

Undoubtedly one of the greatest rivalries in football, the New York Giants will take on Super Bowl champs the Philadelphia Eagles under the bright lights of MetLife Stadium.

#4. New York Coffee Festival (October 12-14)

New York is known for its coffee culture and this is the city’s ultimate caffeine celebration. From Oct 12–14, visit the New York Coffee Festival at the Metropolitan Pavilion in Chelsea and spend the day sipping some of the world’s finest brews, watching barista competitions and ogling at impressive latte art.

#3. Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade (Oct 20)

Forget the people-watching this Halloween; instead head to Tompkins Square Park on October 20th to howl your socks off at crazy dog costumes. According to CNN, it’s the largest dog costume parade in the world and—best of all—it’s free!

#2. New York City Marathon (Nov 4)

Marathon day in New York City is absolutely electric. On November 4, runners will tackle the famed 26.2-mile urban course. Feel the excitement from any spot along the route as it weaves through all five boroughs, or watch the inspiring last leg of the race along Central Park South to the finish line.

#1. Elton John (Nov 9)

It’s Elton John—need we say more? No…but we will. Don’t miss the icon as he comes to Madison Square Garden on his Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour, capping off an incomparable career and over half a century on the road. If you haven’t seen Elton in concert yet, this your last chance.