Autumn Awaits
Fall in Victoria, BC is a season of transformation—where vibrant foliage paints the city in gold and crimson, the air turns crisp with a hint of salt from the sea, and snug, cozy moments await around every corner. Whether you’re wandering through lush gardens glowing in autumn’s light, savouring farm-to-table feasts, or soaking in the views along the rugged coastline, Victoria’s blend of natural beauty and laid-back sophistication makes for an unforgettable escape. Here, fall unfolds in ways that inspire—inviting you to embrace the season’s charm, explore with curiosity, and find warmth in the unexpected.
Where to Stay
Day 1
Beacon Hill Park
Start your fall escape by wandering through the sprawling greenspace at Beacon Hill Park, where autumn’s colours come alive. Golden leaves rustle beneath towering trees, and the crisp air carries the scents of pine and cedar. Stroll past the park’s iconic stone bridge, watch peacocks roam freely, and find a quiet bench to soak in the calm. It’s the perfect blend of nature and serenity, all just footsteps from the Inner Harbour.
Learn more10 Acres Bistro
For lunch, head to 10 Acres Bistro, where farm-to-table dining celebrates the season with ingredients harvested from their very own farm. Picture cozy fall flavours like roasted squash and warm root vegetables paired with locally sourced seafood or farm-raised meats. It’s more than just a meal—it’s an experience that brings the essence of autumn to your plate in a laid-back, yet sophisticated setting.
Learn moreGovernment Street Shopping
A stroll down Government Street is a must. Begin at Munro’s Books, where Victorian era architecture meets shelves brimming with literary treasures. It’s easy to lose yourself in this timeless spot, especially on a cool fall day. Next, stop by Rogers’ Chocolates, located in a historic Heritage Building, to treat yourself to some seasonal goodies—imagine biting into rich chocolate infused with fall spices. Finally, sip a warming blend at Murchie’s Tea & Coffee, Canada’s oldest tea company, perfect for recharging as you take in the charming streetscape and bustling vibe. Don’t forget to swing into Murchie’s gift shop to pick up some ever-so-Victoria tea for your home collection.
Craigdarroch Castle
End your day with a step into the past at Craigdarroch Castle, where autumn light spills through stained glass, casting colourful shadows across opulent rooms. Wander the halls of this Victorian-era mansion, marvel at the grand woodwork, and take in panoramic views of the city from its tower. In fall, the castle’s historic charm feels even more romantic—like you’ve just stepped into a bygone world of elegance and intrigue.
Learn moreDay 2
OEB Breakfast Co.
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at OEB Breakfast Co., where creative takes on morning classics bring comfort and excitement to your fall morning. From pierogies & duck to hog & scallops breakfast poutine, each dish is a burst of fall flavour that feels indulgent yet familiar. The cozy, welcoming atmosphere is the ideal prelude to a day of exploration.
Learn moreSea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse
Make your way to Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse, a local gem where apple trees dance in the sea breeze. With a glass of cider in hand— you’ll gaze out over the Haro Strait and its endless islands, bathed in autumn hues. The experience is pure fall bliss, combining seasonal sips with the fresh, earthy scent of harvest-time apples.
Local Tip: Even cider has a fall flavour. Be sure to taste Sea Cider’s Witch’s Broom, a spooky, semi-sweet cider infused with fall spices.
The Butchart Gardens
In the afternoon, wander through The Butchart Gardens, where fall transforms the world-renowned floral displays into a sea of warm tones. Japanese maples ignite in fiery reds and oranges, while dahlias and chrysanthemums add bursts of vibrant colour. The quiet serenity of the gardens in autumn and crisp autumn air, lets you fully appreciate the beauty of nature’s transition.
Learn moreNourish Kitchen & Cafe
For dinner, Nourish Kitchen & Cafe offers a fresh, farm-inspired meal that feels as cozy as your favourite fall sweater. The heritage home setting and rustic decor create a sense of warmth, while the seasonal menu—with its roasted root veggies, homemade broths, and hearty grains—nourishes you inside and out. It’s fall, served in the most thoughtful, delightful way.
Learn moreDay 3
Fernwood Coffee
Kickstart your morning in the artistic neighborhood of Fernwood, where Fernwood Coffee offers up bold, locally roasted brews. The laid-back, community-centered vibe of this spot makes it feel like you’re part of the local scene. As you sip, you’ll taste the thoughtfulness behind every cup, warming you from the inside out on a brisk fall morning.
Learn moreDallas Road & Ross Bay Cemetery
Next, let’s catch a scenic walk along Dallas Road, where the rugged coastline meets the wild energy of fall winds. Waves crash dramatically against the shore, and the horizon stretches to the foot of the mighty Olympic mountain range. As you meander along the coast, take the time to stroll through the historic Ross Bay Cemetery, where century-old tombstones stand silently among fallen autumn leaves. The air is crisp and still, a perfect moment of peaceful reflection amidst the beauty of the season.
Local Tip: The Ross Bay Cemetery is the oldest surviving formal landscape design in BC and is the final resting place of famed Canadian artist, Emily Carr. From mid-February through mid- December, The Old Cemeteries Society hosts guided walking tours through Ross Bay Cemetery every Sunday, covering an array of different topics.
Afternoon Tea
Treat yourself to the elegance of Afternoon Tea, where steaming cups of carefully brewed tea pair perfectly with tiered trays of finger sandwiches, scones, and sweet treats. In the cool, crisp air of fall, this timeless tradition feels extra comforting—an indulgent pause in your day that invites you to savour the slower moments.
Learn moreRoyal BC Museum
Immerse yourself in the rich history of British Columbia at the Royal BC Museum, where fall's quieter pace allows you to take your time. From Indigenous culture to the wonders of the natural world, the museum’s exhibits bring the province’s stories to life. As you explore, you’ll find a deep sense of connection to the land and the many people who’ve shaped it.
Local Tip: Take your museum tour on a walk. Explore the Seven Signs of the Lekwungen, unique site markers that identify sites of cultural significance to the local Lekwungen-speaking peoples of the Songhees Nation and Xwsepsum Nation. These bronze casts of a spindle whorl, a tool used by local Indigenous peoples to spin wool for thousands of years, are scattered throughout the city, and tell a story.
Ghostly Walks
Finish your day with a thrilling Ghostly Walks tour. As you explore Victoria’s historic streets by night, the guide’s eerie tales and the cool autumn air combine to send a delightful chill down your spine. The shadows stretch long, and the stories of the past come to life in a way that feels perfectly suited to the season. It’s the ideal way to end a fall’s evening filled with wonder, warmth, and a touch of mystery.
Learn moreDay 4
House of Boateng
For a brunch unlike any other, House of Boateng Cafe brings together the vibrant flavours of West Africa with the seasonal bounty of Vancouver Island. Chef Castro Boateng’s signature dishes offer a creative, comforting twist on brunch, celebrating local ingredients in an intimate, welcoming setting. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a thoughtfully crafted meal that captures both global inspiration and island freshness, making your fall morning in Victoria truly memorable.
Learn moreMalahat SkyWalk
Next, embark on a short drive to the Malahat SkyWalk, where you’ll ascend a spiraling wooden pathway surrounded by the vibrant hues of fall foliage. At the top, take in sweeping panoramic views of the Saanich Peninsula and beyond. The crisp, fresh air invigorates you as you stand on top of the world—an autumn adventure with a view that’s nothing short of breathtaking. Then cap it all off with a gentle, smile-inducing ride down their spiral slide back to ground level.
Learn moreGoldstream Provincial Park
Head to Goldstream Provincial Park next, where fall brings the salmon run and the forest floor glows with reds and yellows. Take a hike through the ancient temperate rainforest, listening to the quiet rush of Goldstream River and the occasional splash of fish. It’s a magical, wild space that feels alive with the season’s energy.
Local Tip: While you’re there be sure to stop for a photo op at Niagara Falls. The towering falls are a must for aspiring influencers blending the rugged nature of our coastal rainforests with dazzling fall colours.
End Dive
As night falls, unwind at End Dive, a casual, offbeat spot with upbeat character. No two visits are ever the same. The vibe is funky and unpretentious, with eclectic decor and a menu that hits just the right notes of comfort and creativity. Whether it’s a craft cocktail or expertly cooked seafood, this quirky spot rounds out your day with the kind of relaxed charm only Victoria can offer.
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