Sometimes people ask, “What is there to do for fun in Vancouver?” and the answer can be daunting. It can range from events that happen once a year, or things that only locals know about, to big public events that you could see anyone at. Sometimes it helps to know what’s going on before you start planning your free time.

In no particular order, here’s a list of some things that may interest you in the fall of 2021! Remember to check back for updates, as this is an ongoing list.

Grouse Mountain – The Peak of Vancouver

Vancouver is known for its beautiful mountains, and Grouse Mountain happens to be one of them. While you can visit year-round, the fall is stunning because of all the foliage changing colors. The Peak of Vancouver has several things going on this time of year:

Fall Ziplining – There are some pretty spectacular views from the zipline, with Whistler and the ocean in the distance. If you’ve never done a zipline before, it’s hard to explain just how much fun it is, but consider that this is no typical zipline. The line runs over 2000 feet long over some pretty spectacular scenery with tree-top views of mountains and lakes.
The Peak of Vancouver’s Annual Pumpkin Festival – While not the only pumpkin festival in BC, this is one of the best, with amazing views and a wide variety of activities for all ages. It has everything from live music to petting zoos to horse rides, so there should be something that appeals to even the youngest members of your family!
The Peak of Vancouver’s Annual Pumpkin Drop – This is a great way to ring in the fall and celebrate Halloween, as well as getting some pretty spectacular pictures. The drop involves a giant pumpkin that gets rolled to the top of Grouse Mountain then dropped from over 300 feet. Each year they try to beat their previous years’ record.
Grouse Mountain’s Annual Halloween Parade – This is a lot of fun for families and kids, with free candy to those who come in costumes. The parade starts at the base of the mountain and makes its way up via ski lift so you can hop on if you want to participate without having to hike up yourself.
Grouse Mountain’s Annual Christmas Lights – This event starts in early December and involves over one million lights all across the mountain. It’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit!

Sea to Sky Gondola

The Sea to Sky gondola is another local landmark that happens to be beautiful, with spectacular views of Howe Sound to the west or Squamish to the east. You can get to the top by cable car, but it’s worth hiking up for some spectacular views! The gondola has several events this time of year:

Brackendale Eagles Provincial Park – BC Parks – (Bald Eagles are there)

The Sea to Sky Gondola Annual Brunch with the Eagles – This is a great way to get up close and personal with some of the West Coast’s most majestic creatures. You can watch these birds fish, then eat breakfast with them!

Sea to Sky Gondola’s Annual Pumpkin Festival & Halloween Parade – While not as big an event as the one up at Grouse Mountain, it has many fun activities for kids and families. The Pumpkin Festival includes a haunted house, live music, and pumpkin carving contests! The Halloween Parade is very family-friendly and involves many faces you’ll recognize from TV and Movies.

Fall in Whistler BC | Tourism Whistler

Whistler is an hour and a half up the highway from Vancouver, but it’s worth its section on this list. Whistler has over 200 km of trails for hiking and biking, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. You can also find lots to do in town with activities like river rafting, fishing, great restaurants, and bars.

Visit during autumn to experience the World’s Greatest Cycling Race, which takes place every September. The course changes every year, so you’ve never seen Whistler like this before!
Great hiking and biking trails for those who love the outdoors and nature. Most trails don’t open until summer because of snow, but late September through October is a great time to visit!
Whistler has amazing views, and there are plenty of lookout points for those who want to enjoy them. Some favorites include:
The Peak – Located at Mountain Square, this is the highest viewpoint in Whistler and gives you 360˚ views of many mountains, glaciers, and Howe Sound.
Rainbow Park – In the center of Whistler, this park is a great place to enjoy views of Alta Lake, Whistler Mountain, and Blackcomb Mountain.
The Wedge Overlook – Right in town on top of Nicklaus North Golf Course, this lookout point gives you 360˚ views of the mountains and glaciers. You’ll also be able to see the Cheakamus River winding its way below.

Pacific Rim National Park

Vancouver Island is the only place in Canada where rainforest can be found, making it an excellent location for nature lovers. Pacific Rim National Park has about 250 km of trails for hiking, biking, and watching wildlife. There are also lots of places to go whale watching or spot bears during the fall months!

The Big Tree Trail – This well-marked trail is full of beautiful, giant trees and a few viewpoints along the way.
Long Beach – This 8 km stretch of sandy beach is one of the most popular trails on Vancouver Island. It’s an easy walk with amazing views! If you’re up for it, keep walking to Schooner Cove beyond the 8 km mark.
Nuu Chah Nulth Tribal Park – This park is on the west coast of Vancouver Island and has some fantastic tide pools to explore.
Nitinat Triangle – Located on the northern part of Vancouver Island, this beautiful stretch of shoreline can be explored by kayak or hiking trail.
Tofino is a small town on the west coast of Vancouver Island. This coastal community has terrific beaches and surfing, great restaurants with ocean views, and many things to do like whale watching or bear tours! There is also plenty of good shopping for those looking for souvenirs.

Drive up Northern British Columbia

For those who love adventure, a drive up northern BC is the perfect fall road trip. You’ll have amazing views all along the way and plenty of places to stop along the way. This will also be a great chance to see some wildlife like moose or grizzly bears!

The Alaska Highway – One of North America’s most epic roads, this highway takes you from Dawson Creek to Alaska. Along the way, you’ll have a chance to stop at historical landmarks or just enjoy the stunning views along the way!
Fear Factory – If you’re looking for a unique adventure, try a guided tour of a Yukon gold mine where your guides will tell scary stories and legends from the area.
Kluane National Park – The views of the Rocky Mountains and glaciers are awesome all along this highway! Stop to hike, take pictures, or just enjoy the view.
Liard Hot Springs – If you’re looking for somewhere to relax after your long drive, try one of these naturally warm pools in the middle of nowhere.

Every autumn, Vancouver experiences some of the most stunning landscapes around. There are so many things to do here that you’re sure never to get bored!