With Halloween over and the holidays imminent, it can feel tricky to know what to do with your family during November. Luckily, the city is full of activities, exhibits, and spaces that are perfect for putting a unique spin on holiday lights, getting into the holiday spirit, and of course, celebrating Thanksgiving with Macy's. Check out four things to do with the whole family this month:
The Premiere of LuminoCity on Randall's Island
This light arts park at Randall’s Island Park offers three unique light art experiences-—the Winter Fantasy, the Wild Adventure, and the Sweet Dream—spanning 12 acres, each featuring LED illuminated art displays within the theme.
Visit it: Nov. 23-Jan. 5, 2020; see website for dates and themed nights. $38; $30 seniors and students; $19 children ages 3-12; free for children younger than 3. Book by Nov. 11 for a 15-percent early bird discount. Ages: All. 20 Randall’s Island, Randall’s Island; luminocityfestival.com.
The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade
It’s that time of year again! The 93rd Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is around the corner with classic floats and balloons as well as new additions such as Astronaut Snoopy, Smokey Bear, and a Cracker Barrel Old Country Store. The best part? If you’re not up for the early rise to grab a spot on the sidewalk, watch it on TV from the comfort of your couch. Free. Thursday, Nov. 26, 9am-12pm. Ages: All. Central Park West and 77th Street, moving south via Central Park South and Sixth Avenue, to Macy’s Herald Square on 34th Street. macys.com/parade.
Washington Square Park
This Manhattan oasis is a spot for artists to express themselves, chess players to battle, dogs to roam, and families to take it all in. Home to the renowned arch and fountain, Washington Square Park is known as a center for cultural activity and the place to enjoy a variety of monuments and statues to enjoy amid the hustle and bustle of NYC.
Visit it: Fifth Avenue and Waverly Place, West 4th and Macdougal streets, Greenwich Village
Can’t-miss event: Kids Bulb Planting Day; Saturday, Nov. 2, 12:30-2pm, and Thursday, Nov. 7, 3:30-5pm. Free.
Directions: Approximately a 1-hour, 40-minute drive or a 1-hour, 30-minute LIRR and subway ride from Huntington
New York Botanical Garden
Don’t let cooler weather keep you indoors this fall. New York Botanical Garden is the perfect haven for families to embrace the beauty and colors of fall in New York. Throughout the month, visit for a Fall Forest Weekend and take a walk through the Thain Family Forest for an unforgettable foliage experience (and, of course, the perfect Instagram!).
Visit it: 2900 Southern Blvd., Bronx; 718-817-8700; nybg.org
Can’t-miss event: Holiday Train Show; Nov. 23-Jan. 26, 2020; $30; $28 students and seniors; See website for prices, purchase tickets by Nov. 1 for a 30-percent discount with the code Holiday30.
Directions: Approximately a 1-hour, 40-minute drive or a 1-hour, 20-minute LIRR and subway ride from Huntington
