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It's time to give your Instagram feed an autumnal glow-up, and there's a picture-perfect backdrop opening in the Seaport to help you do just that. The annual Pumpkin Arch returns to Pier 17 from October 22–November 17 offering a charming seasonal photo spot.
The arch is crafted from hundreds of pumpkins and draped in vibrant fall leaves, but it's not just about the decor. The views of the glittering Lower Manhattan skyline and the stately Brooklyn Bridge take this photo spot to the next level.
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Find the Pumpkin Arch on the Heineken Riverdeck, that's the north side of Pier 17 at 89 South Street. Trust us, you can't miss it. Though it's on view 24/7, we recommend visiting at golden hour (that's right after sunrise or just before sunset) for the dreamiest lighting. That's when the illuminated arch will start twinkling, but you'll still have enough natural light to keep your subject's face visible.
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"Perfect by day, even more magical by night," as Seaport officials said. "This limited-time installation is your cue to plan a fall outing, camera in hand."
It's one of the only places in Manhattan where you can snap a photo surrounded by gorgeous gourds without journeying to the outer boroughs or upstate.
The Pumpkin Arch is just one of the fun fall activities happening in the Seaport. Also check out a dog Halloween costume contest on Thursday, October 30 and trick-or-treating in the neighborhood on Friday, October 31. Kids can carve pumpkins on Friday, October 31, while there's an adult pumpkin-carving night with cocktails on Wednesday, October 29. Here's the full rundown of Halloween events in the Seaport.
If you're up for something a little scarier in the neighborhood, try the Sinister Secrets of the Seaport walking tour, which highlights true crime tales from what was once known as "the wickedest ward." Get tickets here for $30-$40/person.
For more Halloween fun around the city, check out the pumpkin flotilla on the Harlem Meer, Ascarium at the New York Aquarium, a spooky light trail at New York Botanical Garden and, of course, the Village Halloween Parade. For more than 60 other Halloween events, here's our full guide to making the most of Halloween in NYC.