Vancouver in Fall

Fall in Vancouver is absolutely stunning. As the temperature cools down, the leaves change colour and the city becomes a mosaic of yellows, reds and purples. While it is colder (and often rainy), there is still lots to do during the fall. Here is a list of some of our favourites:

Photo by: PoYang_博仰

City walks and hikes
One of the best ways to enjoy the fall foliage is with a walk around the city.

• One of the most popular walks is around the Stanley Park Seawall. Alternatively you could go for a stroll through the park or around Lost Lagoon and admire the changing colours.
• Another favourite is the walk from Olympic Village to Granville Island. Walk along the water and enjoy the views of the harbour and downtown Vancouver. Once you reach Granville Island, treat yourself to a coffee and a pastry from the market.
• If you’re looking for more of a workout, check out the Grouse Grind (make sure to check the weather conditions first). If that’s a little too intense, the UBC Endowment Lands are always beautiful.

Festivals and Events
There is always something going on in Vancouver, and fall brings with it a number of different fall festivals and events.

• VIFF is the Vancouver International Film Festival. It happens every year and is on now until October 14, 2011. The festival showcases films from around the world and is not to be missed!
• If you like a good scare, check out Fright Nights at the PNE. This Halloween event is on from October 14 - 31, 2011. There will be 5 haunted houses and several rides to enjoy.
• The Chocolate Festival is an absolute must for chocolate lovers! Unfortunately, this annual festival may not happen in 2011, but make sure to check it out in 2012.
• The Farmer’s Markets are still on for the first few weeks in October. Head down to Trout Lake, Kits or Lonsdale Quay for amazing produce and other yummy treats.

Photo of Stanley Park by afcone

Indoors Activities
It’s Vancouver, so it’s liable to rain. When it does, head inside - there’s still loads to do!

• Get cultured at the Vancouver Art Gallery. The gallery has a wonderful collection and always offers interesting and innovative exhibitions. Right now you can check out The Distance Between You and Me, featuring 3 artists from Vancouver, Los Angeles and Guadalajara. (On until January 2012)
• If you’re visiting Vancouver with kids take them to the Aquarium, Science World or the Granville Island Kid’s Market.
• If you’re an avid reader, head down to the Central Vancouver Library downtown.
• Eat! Vancouver has tons of different restaurants with cuisine from all over the world. Whether you’re craving Dim Sum, Italian, sushi, Mexican or something else entirely, there’s a restaurant to accommodate you.

Hockey!
Fall means the start of the hockey season. Catch a Canucks’ game at Roger’s Arena or a local sports bar.

Have we missed something? What are your favourite fall activities in Vancouver?