Fall-In Love with Vancouver

Fall in Vancouver, the most beautiful season of the year. As the leaves start to change colour and the crisp autumn air fills the city, Vancouver comes alive with a different kind of energy. From the breathtaking sights of Capilano Suspension Bridge to the rich history of Gastown, Vancouver has an incredible lineup of activities for every kind of traveler this fall.

Here is a curated list of the best activities to experience the charm of Vancouver in all its autumnal glory.

Marvel at the Capilano Suspension Bridge

 

Start off with a trip to the Capilano Suspension Bridge, a swaying 137-meter long bridge suspended 70 meters above the Capilano River. In the fall, the surrounding rainforest pops with stunning hues of gold, red, and orange, making for a breathtakingly beautiful experience. The Treetops Adventure and the Cliffwalk, with their spectacular views, are other must-visit attractions at the park.

 

Explore the Museums

 

Fall is a great time to explore Vancouver’s vibrant museum scene. The Museum of Anthropology offers an impressive collection of indigenous art, while the Vancouver Art Gallery showcases different exhibitions. For a more interactive experience, the Science World offers plenty of hands-on exhibits.

Update: The Museum of Anthropology is temporarily closed.

Wander Around Gastown

 

Gastown, Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood, is a mix of old-world charm and modern sophistication. Stroll down the cobblestone streets, browse through the unique boutiques, and enjoy the historic architecture. Don’t forget to take a picture with the iconic steam clock, especially beautiful in the cool, crisp fall air.

But not only that, during the month of September and October you can go to the “Vancouver Lost Souls of Gastown Walking Tour”. The tour is intended for adults. Imagine walking through Gastown with a whole theater production explaining every ghost story and fun fact about this place. A very fun and interesting experience.

Get your tickets here.

 

VanDusen Botanical Garden

 

VanDusen Botanical Garden is a paradise for nature lovers. Fall brings a riot of color to the gardens as the leaves change, creating a beautiful space for leisurely walks. The garden’s Elizabethan hedge maze is a fun challenge for families, and the Shaughnessy Restaurant offers a perfect spot for a cozy lunch.

 

Wine Tasting

 

For wine lovers, a visit to the Okanagan Valley is a must. Just a few hours’ drive from Vancouver, the region is known for its award-winning wines. Many vineyards offer wine tasting tours, and the fall harvest season brings a special charm to the vineyards. Be sure to try the region’s renowned Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, some of my favorite.

Stanley Park Hike and Vancouver North Shore

 

For the more adventurous, a hike through Stanley Park is a must-do. The park, one of North America’s largest urban parks, offers a network of walking and biking trails with stunning views. The nearby North Shore mountains, including Grouse Mountain and Mount Seymour, offer more challenging hikes amidst the beautiful fall foliage.

Catch a Sports Event

 

Sports fans should check out a Vancouver Canucks hockey game at Rogers Arena or a BC Lions football match at BC Place. The electrifying atmosphere of these events is a perfect way to warm up on a cool fall evening.

Check this post out with the best sports events for this fall.

 

Whale Watching

 

Finally, a trip to Vancouver wouldn’t be complete without a whale watching tour. The waters around Vancouver are home to several species of whales, and fall is a great time to spot them as they migrate south for the winter. With the stunning backdrop of the changing leaves and the majestic mountains, it’s an experience not to be missed.

 

Check this out: Exploring Bowen Island

 

Visit the Granville Island Public Market

 

Fall in love with Vancouver’s food scene at the Granville Island Public Market. Here, you’ll find a cornucopia of fresh, seasonal produce, artisanal cheese, fresh-baked bread, and more. It’s the perfect place to grab a quick lunch or shop for a picnic to enjoy in one of the city’s many beautiful parks.

 

Explore the Nightlife in Downtown Vancouver

 

As the night falls, head to Downtown Vancouver to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife. From chic cocktail bars to lively music venues, there’s something for everyone. If you’re a jazz lover, make sure to check out Frankie’s Jazz Club for some live performances.

Take a Seaplane Tour

 

To truly appreciate the beauty of Vancouver and its surrounding areas, consider a seaplane tour. You’ll get a bird’s eye view of the city, the mountains, and the coastline, all awash with the gorgeous hues of fall.

 

Check this out: Where to stay in Vancouver

 

Visit the UBC Botanical Garden

 

For a quieter experience, visit the UBC Botanical Garden. Wander through the Asian Garden to see a variety of plants from across Asia, or explore the Alpine Garden to see plants from mountainous regions around the world. In the fall, the colours are particularly striking.

 

Average Temperatures

 

The average temperatures can be helpful in planning your activities and packing appropriately for a fall trip to Vancouver. Here’s what you can typically expect:

 

– **September:** The average high is around 19°C (66°F), and the average low is approximately 11°C (52°F).

– **October:** The average high falls to around 13°C (55°F), and the average low is about 7°C (45°F).

– **November:** The average high further drops to around 9°C (48°F), and the average low is about 3°C (37°F).

 

Remember, these are average temperatures, and actual temperatures can vary. Also, Vancouver is known for its rainfall, especially in November, so it’s a good idea to pack a rain jacket or umbrella. Wearing layers can also help you adapt to the changing temperatures throughout the day. Despite the chill, the fall foliage and the abundance of activities make Vancouver a delightful destination in the fall.