Cool air, colourful leaves, and coastlines worth wandering. Here’s how to make the most of autumn in Vancouver.
Fall in Vancouver is like the city’s secret season. While summer gets the spotlight and winter attracts the skiers, autumn offers something quieter, more atmospheric, and just as memorable—especially for families.
If you’re planning a fall trip, here are the best ways to enjoy the city’s cozy, colourful side.
Visit a Pumpkin Patch or Harvest Festival
Start your seasonal fun with a classic: pumpkin picking. Drive out to Richmond Country Farms or Southlands Heritage Farm for hayrides, warm apple cider, and endless photo ops. Many farms add extras like corn mazes and petting zoos, perfect for kids (and anyone young at heart).
In late October, stop by Capilano Suspension Bridge Park for Canyon Frights, a Halloween-themed experience that’s spooky without being scary. The glowing lights and gentle autumn breeze make it one of the city’s most magical seasonal events.
Take in the Fall Colours at Queen Elizabeth Park
Queen Elizabeth Park is one of the best places in Vancouver to catch fall foliage. Wander the tree-lined paths, admire the gardens, and stop by the Bloedel Conservatory for a rainforest-like escape. This elevated park offers sweeping city views that are even better when framed by fiery leaves.
Walk the Stanley Park Seawall
Stanley Park is always stunning, but there’s something extra special about it in the fall. Walk or bike the seawall from Coal Harbour to English Bay, then grab a hot chocolate at Prospect Point or enjoy a sit-down lunch at the Stanley Park Pavilion. You’ll spot golden leaves, sea otters, and maybe even a bald eagle along the way.
Try a Coastal Walk Beyond the Park
Looking to escape the crowds? Head to Pacific Spirit Regional Park or the shoreline trail in West Vancouver. These quieter paths give you the crisp ocean air and forest vibes without the foot traffic. They’re ideal for families, couples, or solo travellers who want to slow down and soak it all in.
Warm Up with Comfort Food
Fall in Vancouver is soup weather. Slurp a bowl of ramen in the West End, enjoy fresh clam chowder at Granville Island Market, or sip seasonal lattes in Mount Pleasant. Many local restaurants bring out special fall menus, so keep an eye out for pumpkin desserts and harvest-inspired dishes.
Don’t Miss These Fall Events
Autumn brings some of the city’s best cultural programming. Check out the Vancouver International Film Festival in late September and October, or browse the Eastside Culture Crawl in November. And for family fun, head to VanDusen Botanical Garden’s Glow in the Garden, an illuminated outdoor walk that’s pure fall magic.
Make It a Fall to Remember
Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or a weeklong adventure, Vancouver in the fall offers just the right mix of activity and relaxation. It’s a season built for walking, wandering, and discovering little surprises, from a perfect maple leaf on the trail to a cozy café tucked into a side street.
Autumn in Vancouver is low-key, beautiful, and endlessly rewarding. With fewer crowds and a cooler pace, you’ll have space to enjoy everything the season offers. Come for the colours, stay for the coastal calm—and leave with memories that feel golden.
