Farmers’ markets
Farmers’ markets are the pride of Vancouver’s agricultural scene, showcasing the best of local farms, butchers, fisheries and artisans. Dive into the autumn flavours at Kitsilano Farmers Market on Sundays, or stroll down to the Saturday market along Comox Street in the West End. One of the biggest Saturday markets is the Trout Lake Farmers Market, where the city’s finest chefs are known to forage for choice produce.
Back to botanics
Get an early start on the turning leaves at the VanDusen Botanical Garden (pictured), which boasts a gorgeous collection of Japanese maple trees. The garden also has an Elizabethan hedge maze – one of only six on the continent. The best time to visit for fall is the second half of the month, but there’s plenty of stunning foliage to take in year-round – check out the Alma VanDusen Meadow Garden as well as the ornamental grasses.
Into the wild
September is one of the best months to experience Vancouver, so take advantage of the idyllic weather and go on a hike. Adventurous types can head for the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park – explore the eponymous jaw-dropping (or terrifying, depending on your perspective) bridge, the dramatic Cliffwalk nestled among evergreens and a lovely section of West Coast rainforest.