There’s no better place to celebrate Halloween than New York City—where the city’s lights, history, and endless creativity collide in the most hauntingly fun ways. Whether you’re into eerie ghost stories, costume parades, haunted houses, or immersive attractions, NYC transforms into a playground for thrill-seekers and festive spirits alike every October.
If you’re visiting the city this fall, here’s your ultimate guide to the best Halloween activities in NYC, including one experience you can’t miss: RiseNY.
1. Experience New York’s Spirit (Literally) at RiseNY
For a truly one-of-a-kind Halloween activity, take flight at RiseNY—a part museum, part immersive journey, and part thrill ride that lifts you high above the city’s skyline.
While not your typical haunted house, RiseNY brings the magic, mystery, and energy of New York to life in a way that’s perfect for spooky season. Wander through seven immersive galleries tracing NYC’s evolution—from the early subway days to Broadway’s dazzling lights—and end your visit with a breathtaking flying theater experience that lets you soar over the city at night.
✨ Insider tip: Visit RiseNY during October for a perfect Halloween weekend stop—especially for families, date nights, or anyone who wants the “wow” factor without the scares.
2. Join the Legendary Village Halloween Parade
No Halloween in NYC is complete without the Greenwich Village Halloween Parade. Every October 31, thousands of costumed New Yorkers march through the Village with puppets, floats, and live music. Spectators line Sixth Avenue for this world-famous event that’s equal parts spooky and spectacular.
👉 Pro tip: Wear a creative costume—anyone in costume can join the parade lineup!
3. Visit Historic (and Haunted) Landmarks
NYC’s rich history means plenty of ghostly tales. Add a little mystery to your Halloween itinerary by visiting:
- The Merchant’s House Museum (East Village): Said to be one of the city’s most haunted homes.
- The Dakota (Upper West Side): Known for eerie sightings and celebrity ghost stories.
- The Morris-Jumel Mansion (Washington Heights): Manhattan’s oldest house, rumored to host Revolutionary War spirits.
Each offers ghost tours and special Halloween programming in October.
4. Go Trick-or-Treating in Style
Families can enjoy safe, festive trick-or-treating in neighborhoods like:
- Upper West Side’s 69th to 92nd Streets — known for elaborate brownstone decorations.
- Brooklyn Heights and Park Slope — community-driven events and themed house displays.
For something different, RiseNY and other Midtown attractions often offer themed giveaways and photo moments perfect for little ghouls and goblins.
5. See a Spooky Broadway or Off-Broadway Show
Celebrate Halloween with a dramatic twist—catch shows like Beetlejuice, Sweeney Todd, or Little Shop of Horrors. The theater district glows even brighter in October, and RiseNY’s Broadway Gallery is the perfect pre-show stop to learn how NYC became the global capital of entertainment.
6. End Your Night with a Skyline View
Nothing beats the twinkling NYC skyline on a crisp October night. After exploring haunted spots or dancing at costume parties, end your evening at RiseNY’s flyover experience—you’ll literally soar over the city’s landmarks, from the Empire State Building to Central Park, as the skyline glows below. It’s a magical way to wrap up your Halloween in New York City.
Plan Your Halloween Adventure in NYC
Whether you’re looking for chills, thrills, or family-friendly fun, Halloween in NYC has something for everyone. From haunted mansions to iconic parades and immersive experiences like RiseNY, the city transforms into a living celebration of creativity and community.
🎟️ Ready to take flight? Book your visit to RiseNY.com and experience New York from a whole new perspective this Halloween season!
