Welcome, listeners, to Things to Do in New York City with Oly Bennet, your globe-trotting, sport-obsessed, adventure-seeking host who's more pumped about quirky competitions than a pigeon at a hot dog eating contest. It's Sunday, October 12, 2025, and New York is buzzing! The city woke up under cool autumn skies—think pumpkin spice latte weather, peak leaf-peeping opportunity, and just enough brisk air to turn a walk into an urban adventure.

The pulse of the city today is off the charts, thanks partly to New York Comic Con wrapping up its mythical run at the Javits Center. Expect throngs of superheroes, cosplayers, and pop culture devotees parading down Eighth Avenue—honestly, you haven't lived until you've seen Batman trying to hail a cab. And if you missed the madness inside, don't fret: the Fantastic Four: First Steps Immersive Pop-Up is still in action this morning, letting fans and the merely curious step inside the legendary Baxter Building—no Comic Con ticket required! Snap an epic photo and try not to trip over The Thing’s lunch[1][5][10].

Grand Central is serving pure inspiration too! The Dear New York art installation by Humans of New York creator Brandon Stanton is taking over every screen, turning unassuming commuters into art patrons while sharing thousands of portraits and stories from everyday New Yorkers. It’s a love letter to the city that never sleeps, free and open 24/7, so swing by and let the stories give your day a boost[1].

Family fun? You’ve got options. NYC Parks is hosting Kids In Motion at playgrounds all over the boroughs—think organized sports, board games, fitness demos, water games, and more, absolutely free. Bring the little ones and let them run wild—Central Park’s playgrounds will be jumping with energy and squeaky clean sneakers[2][3].

Want to party like a true New Yorker? AMMNESIA NEW YORK is making Brooklyn bounce with an EDM house music after-party, featuring international special guests at Listen Brooklyn till 8 am—honestly, it’s the night that never ends, like trying to leave a roller disco but your shoes keep boogying[4].

Local news flash! The Cookie Odyssey is celebrating its grand opening at FAENA NEW YORK on 18th Street Plaza, a sweet spot for those who think cookie dough is a lifestyle, not just a dessert[1]. If you’re feeling fancy, word is out about Laura Geller Beauty’s one-day pop-up bringing back the legendary Baked Gelato Swirl Illuminator—expect glow and complimentary gelato ice cream galore! Reserve your spot or just walk in if you like living dangerously.

Transit-wise, subways are running smoothly post-rush hour—no unexpected squirrel standoffs or flash-mob musicians seen yet. But keep an eye out; this is New York. The New York Transit Museum is hosting its Movers and Makers family workshop this morning—ideal for junior trainspotters and anyone who's ever wondered if they could drive a subway car with style[17].

Looking for classic NYC? Take a stroll through Central Park for unbeatable views and autumn foliage or marvel at the skyline atop the Empire State Building—it’s still one of the best 360-degree city views in existence. For something offbeat, check out the Seaport’s Pumpkin Arch before it gets mobbed by photo-happy ghosts and ghouls later in the month.

Here’s a local tip straight from a taxi driver who swears he once picked up a ninja turtle: if you want to see the city’s true colors, walk the side streets in SoHo on Sundays. You’ll find street performers, hidden pop-up shops, and bagels so good they’ll make you rethink your relationship with gluten.

But don’t call it a day yet! Coming up tomorrow, the city kicks into high gear for Indigenous Peoples’ Day celebrations, with parades, museum programs, and even pumpkin patches for the little adventurers. And for night owls, the countdown to the Bronx Halloween Parade and Brooklyn Dribble community basketball bash is...