Whether you like it or not, the days of summer weather are soon behind us.
September 22 marked the first official day of fall and one of the most wonderful parts of the season is watching the trees change colour from various shades of green to seemingly millions of shades of golden yellow, orange, red, and brown as chlorophyll production slows down.
Vancouver might just be one of the most beautiful places in the world to experience the fall season, and we’ve put together a list of the best places to experience that fall magic.
Queen Elizabeth Park
View this post on Instagram
There are numerous reasons to visit Queen Elizabeth Park: disc golf, pitch-and-putt, quaint little ponds filled with ducks, and the Bloedel Conservatory.
But, the entire park is filled and surrounded by all sorts of trees that are on the precipice of turning into a feast for your eyes. The surrounding residential neighbourhoods are also perfect for strolls while tree-watching.
Fun fact: QE Park is actually Vancouver’s highest point.
Address: 4600 Cambie Street, Vancouver
Most Vancouver neighbourhoods
Rocky Tower in Vancouver. (inEthos Design/Shutterstock)
When it comes to nature, Vancouver is truly blessed.
While this list is filled with parks, gardens, and lakes, you really just need to step outside your door to be surrounded by nature.
Basically, every residential street in Vancouver is lined with gorgeous trees that are about to turn into a mosaic of colour.
Kitsilano
View this post on Instagram
Although it’s true that most neighbourhoods can become a visual feast during autumn, Kitsilano is particularly special in the fall.
Along with having access to areas like Kits Beach and West 4th, most residential streets in Kitsilano make for perfect pleasure walks in autumn.
Just bring an umbrella.
Trout Lake
View this post on Instagram
Trout Lake in the fall is practically an autumn wonderland.
Surrounded by trees, you’ll be treated to an assortment of colours everywhere you look.
Address: 3300 Victoria Drive, Vancouver
Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden
View this post on Instagram
Located in the Chinatown area, Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Botanical Gardens is not only a great place for some mental relaxation, but it’s also a great spot to watch the leaves change. Don’t forget to capture some photos of nature’s beauty.
Address: 578 Carrall Street, Vancouver
Fraser River Park
View this post on Instagram
This hidden gem could be described as South Vancouver’s secret seawall.
Tucked away behind Marine Drive, Fraser River Park is a glorious walking and cycling trail that overlooks the Fraser River.
Not overpopulated by tourists, it also serves as another great spot for photos of leaves turning colour in Vancouver.
Address: 8705 Angus Drive, Vancouver
VanDusen Botanical Garden
View this post on Instagram
While VanDusen is a host for a plethora of plant and flower species, it’s also home to a wide variety of trees.
The fall bloom at VanDusen is a sight to behold.
Address: 5251 Oak Street, Vancouver
UBC Campus
View this post on Instagram
With the return to campus in full swing, there’s good news if you’re an autumn lover and a UBC student.
You’ll have a glorious view of fall colours right from campus.
There’s also the UBC Botanical Garden, which is another great place to ring in the season.
Memorial Park
View this post on Instagram
Another South Vancouver gem in the autumn season, Memorial Park turns into an ocean of fallen leaves ranging in shades and colours.
It’s also the perfect spot for physical activity in Vancouver’s brisk autumn air if you’re into that sort of thing.
Address: 5955 Ross Street, Vancouver
Grouse Mountain
View this post on Instagram
Evergreen trees make up the majority of the tree population at Grouse Mountain.
However, once you get to the top, you get a view of the city and surrounding areas that can’t be rivalled. It is a worthy spot to have an unforgettable autumn experience.
Address: 6400 Nancy Greene Way
Stanley Park
View this post on Instagram
It’s a staple in Vancouver for a reason.
Vancouver’s iconic Stanley Park is beautiful in every season, but there’s something special about taking a stroll or a bike among the fall colours just a few minutes from the downtown core.
Plus, at a massive 405 hectares in size, each visit to the park is like a brand new experience as you explore the extensive pathway systems.
- You might also like:
- 10 fall dates I want my boyfriend to take me on in Vancouver
- Fun fall activities in and around Metro Vancouver for $25 or less
- 18 streets to find the best colourful fall leaves in Vancouver
If you hurry, you can also check out all the birds as they set off for winter migration.
Now that vehicles are permitted back on the Stanley Park roadway, you’re sure to get a fantastic view.
Address: The main entrance is at the west end of Georgia Street, west of downtown Vancouver.
What’s your favourite fall spot? Let us know in the comments!
This piece was first published in 2021 and has since been updated.
Follow Channels and Categories