As a New York native, I feel well-equipped to inform you of the ins and outs of fall in New York City. Here is your guide to autumn must-dos and don’ts this year, so grab your sweater and hop on the Metro North!

1. Vale Cinema Series: must-do

There is no better way to prepare for Spooky Szn than by rewatching some Halloween classics, on a rooftop in Brooklyn no less. The Vale Cinema Series is showing Scream on October 2 and Hocus Pocus on October 16. Located on the rooftop of the William Vale Hotel, lawn tickets go for $23 and lounge tickets go for $32. The doors open at 6:00 p.m. and the movies start at 7:00 p.m. Sit back, relax and enjoy a sunset movie with friends. 

 2. Union Square Greenmarket: must-do

Arguably one of the best parts of fall is the food. Sample tasty treats and more at the Greenmarket in Union Square Park. With up to 140 different booths, bakers and farmers come together to sell their products. From fresh fruits and vegetables, raw honey and baked goods, to cheese, seafood and assorted meats, you are guaranteed to leave the market with bags full of goodies. 

3. Chelsea Flea: must-do

Before it gets too cold to try on clothes, take a trip to Chelsea Flea. Open every Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., this flea market is the perfect place to shop sustainably for clothing, furniture and decor. Chelsea Flea has around 60 vintage and antique vendors, bringing authentic and original pieces and collectibles. 

4. The High Line: must-do

Take in NYC’s foliage on the High Line, open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m daily. Featuring contemporary art exhibits, delicious food and beautiful displays of nature. The High Line is the perfect place to take a date, visit with friends and family, or even walk around alone. Tours are available on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays from May to October and Wednesdays and Saturdays from November to April. 

5. Color Factory’s Haunted Hues: must-avoid

Color Factory is an interactive museum showcasing bright colors of the city. If you are looking to get some cheugy photos for your Instagram feed, then this place is for you. If you are looking to have a fun time, choose something previously listed. The Halloween show, Haunted Hues, will incorporate fall colors and motifs into their exhibits. For $59, you can experience an artificial pumpkin patch, or you could just go to a real one for free! 

6. Big Bus New York: must-avoid

I do not want to catch any Yalies on double-decker buses this season — or any for that matter. Seeing NYC on a cold open-top bus is not as thrilling as it sounds, and it already sounds dreadful. Instead of interacting with landmarks, going into shops and trying food, you can observe all from a distance. For just $54 you can get stuck in traffic while huddling for warmth and listening to a tour guide read from a script! 

Get out of your dorm and take advantage of Yale’s proximity to New York City. There are so many fun activities to partake in just a train ride away.