Sep. 13, 2025 By Adrienne Farr
Queens has over 295,000 mapped trees – more than any other borough – making it one of the most magical places in the fall to see leaves transform into majestic shades of orange and yellow. There’s no better way to celebrate the season than by getting outside with the family, strolling through tree-lined parks, taking a scenic hike or enjoying a picnic by a pond. Queens offers plenty of spots to soak in the beauty of autumn foliage.
One of the largest parks in Queens, Alley Pond Park is overflowing with over 1.5 thousand trees – like pin oaks, dogwoods and red oaks – whose leaves are soon to cascade into autumnal colors. It’s also home to the “Queens Giant,” a tulip tree which is thought to be the oldest (350 years old) and tallest (133.8 ft) in the New York City metro area. To make sure you see the Giant during your time at the park, start at the Horace Harding Expressway entrance and follow the Tulip Tree Trail. For an additional immersive foliage experience, try taking the 2.3 intermediate hike, called the White Trail.
Cunningham Park stretches over 250 acres and features oaks, hickories, honey locusts and more, all known for their dramatic color shifts in fall. The park has south preserve hiking that you can access near the Francis Lewis Boulevard and Union Turnpike entrances.