Things To Do In Vancouver In September (Before The Rain Hits)

September might be the best-kept secret in Vancouver. It’s warm, calm, and packed with things to do — without the summer crowds or soggy fall weather.

If you’re wondering what’s still open or worth doing before the rain sets in, I

September is always my favourite time to get outside and make the most of the season, and you’ll probably agree with me once you see how many fun things there are to see and do.

From apple picking to quiet hikes and day trips, this list of things to do in Vancouver in September is full of relaxed, seasonal ideas (like apple picking and fall hikes – the mist in the trees and the cooler weather make me so happy).

Tazim stands in an orchard holding a freshly picked apple, wearing a plaid shirt and crossbody bag in the golden afternoon sun. Apple picking is one of the most wholesome and photogenic things to do around Vancouver in early fall.

Table of Contents

1. Go Apple Picking Just Outside the City

September is the best time to pick apples around Vancouver. It’s cool enough to be comfortable and dry enough to enjoy the day.

There are plenty of spots within an hour of the city. Some have farm stands, cider, and baked goods, too.

A few popular options include:

Willow View Farms in Abbotsford (great variety, relaxed vibe)
Taves Family Farms (has a cider barn, but skip it if you’re avoiding alcohol)

If you’re planning a fall day trip, it helps to know where to pick your own fruit near Vancouver, including what’s in season and when.

Tip: Bring your own bags or bins, and wear shoes you don’t mind getting muddy.

2. Take a Fall Hike Through Vancouver’s Forest Trails

Early fall is one of the best times to hike in and around Vancouver. Trails are quieter, the air feels fresh, and the leaves start to turn, especially in the city’s older forests.

You don’t have to go far to get that peaceful, deep-in-the-woods feeling.

A few great options for September:

Pacific Spirit Regional Park – wide gravel trails, big trees, and ocean views near UBC
Lighthouse Park – coastal rainforest with rugged shoreline lookouts
Lynn Canyon – waterfalls, a free suspension bridge, and mossy trails

If you’re looking for more fall hikes near Vancouver, there are a few spots that really show off this time of year, even if you’re not a regular hiker.

Tip: Go early or on weekdays to avoid parking stress, especially in smaller lots like Lynn Canyon.

What is there to do in Whistler during Fall?

Watch this video on YouTube.

3. Take a Day Trip (It’s Peak Road Trip Season)

September is when I usually plan my favourite local road trips. The weather’s cooler, traffic’s lighter, and everything feels a little more relaxed.

I’ve done these routes often enough to know which ones feel extra special in early fall.

Try one of these:

Spend a day in Whistler – easy to do in a day, especially if you stop at waterfalls or forest walks along the Sea-to-Sky

A day trip to Victoria (can be done, but I recommend spending a weekend or 3 days in Victoria) – take the ferry in the morning and spend the afternoon walking the Inner Harbour and finding good food

Bowen Island Day-Trip with Sunset - Vancouver Getaway Excursion

Watch this video on YouTube.

A day on Bowen Island is the perfect amount of time – short ferry, peaceful trails, and coastal cafés that are even better once the summer crowds are gone

This is the time to take it slow. No pressure to fit everything in — just open space, changing colours, and a chance to enjoy the drive.

Tip: For Victoria or Bowen, check the ferry schedule and reserve in advance if you’re going on a weekend.

4. Events Worth Checking Out This September

Vancouver doesn’t shut down after summer — September is still full of things to do, especially if you’re into arts, culture, or local makers.

Here are a few events that stand out:

Vancouver Fringe Festival

📍 Granville Island & other venues
📅 September 4-14, 2025
🎟️ vancouverfringe.com
Expect everything from solo comedy to experimental storytelling. It’s one of the most creative events of the year. Some shows sell out fast, so check the schedule early and plan ahead.

Car Free Day

📍Commercial Drive (6th) and Main Street (14th)
📆 September 6 and 14, 2025
🎟️ Car Free Days
Car Free Days of Summer in Vancouver are making a comeback for 2025! Get ready for vibrant car-free zones packed with local vendors, live music, and mouthwatering food.

BC Culture Days

📅 September 19 to October 12, 2025
🎟️ BC Culture Days
Culture Days is the biggest arts participation campaign in Canada! Join in on the fun and celebrate local arts, culture, and heritage with free interactive events in your community.

A tranquil waterfront scene with people walking along the shore, framed by colorful autumn leaves and a distant view of the Lion’s Gate Bridge. This captures the essence of enjoying nature and scenic views during fall in Vancouver. — Cate’s Park, North Vancouver

5. Where to See Fall Colours in September 🍂

September is early in Vancouver’s fall season to see leaves changing colours, but you’ll start to notice trees changing, especially in higher or more exposed areas.

UBC is one of the first spots to show off. If you walk near the Student Union Building or the Rose Garden, you’ll spot trees turning red and gold long before the rain really sets in.

Some other good early-season colour:

Quiet streets in Mount Pleasant and Kitsilano
Trails at Queen Elizabeth Park with wide views toward the mountains
The seawall near Stanley Park’s Totem Poles, especially if the sun hits just right

If you want to catch the best of the season later on, I’ve shared more spots for seeing fall colours around Vancouver, especially once October rolls in.

A suspension bridge illuminated with twinkling lights stretches over the canyon at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. The iconic Canyon Lights event enhances the natural beauty of the forest and bridges. — Photo by Tazim Damji

6. Visit Capilano Suspension Bridge Before the Crowds Return

September is a great time to visit Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. The summer tourist rush is over, and the Halloween events haven’t started yet, so you can take your time without shoulder-to-shoulder traffic on the bridge.

The forest feels extra calm this time of year. You get that cool morning mist, golden light through the trees, and the start of fall colour in the canyon.

If you’re into photography or just want space to walk slowly and breathe, this is the moment.

Tip: Book tickets online and go midweek if you can. The earlier in the day, the quieter it tends to be.

Stanley Park North Shore View. A bronze mermaid statue sits atop a rock in the water, with Vancouver’s port, distant mountains, and a large cargo ship in the background.

7. Walk or Bike the Stanley Park Seawall 🚴‍♀️

The Seawall in September just feels different — cooler air, fewer tourists, and the trees along the path start to shift from green to gold.

It’s one of those places where you don’t need a plan. Just start walking or biking and see what shows up — ocean views, birds on the beach, fog lifting off the water.

If you go early in the morning or late in the afternoon, it’s even quieter. Perfect if you’re not a fan of busy trails.

Some nice spots to pause:

Second Beach — wide open views and benches to sit for a while
Totem Poles area — a good place to spot the first pops of colour
Lost Lagoon — a peaceful loop if you want something shorter

Tip: Layer up and bring water. Even short walks can feel longer if the wind picks up.

8. Slow Down in One of Vancouver’s Gardens

If you’re looking for somewhere quiet to recharge, early fall is the best time to visit Vancouver’s gardens. The summer heat has faded, and you’ll often have the paths mostly to yourself.

Each one offers a different feel, but all are peaceful, walkable, and full of subtle signs that the season’s changing.

Some favourites:

VanDusen Botanical Garden – open lawns, early fall trees, and space to wander
Nitobe Memorial Garden – a traditional Japanese garden that feels especially meditative in September
UBC Botanical Garden – forested trails, native plants, and an aerial tree walk if you’re up for it
Park & Tilford Gardens (North Vancouver) – small but thoughtfully designed, with paths tucked between themed sections

These are great spots to ease into the new season, especially if you’re feeling like everything’s moving too fast.

Planning tip: Weekday afternoons are usually quietest. Bring a light jacket — the shade can feel cool even on a sunny day.

Cate's Park Sunset Views - Two people sit on a wooden pier as the sun sets over Vancouver’s skyline, casting the water and clouds in orange light. September evenings invite you to slow down and take in the city’s dramatic golden-hour views. — Cate’s Park, North Vancouver

9. Catch a September Sunset

September sunsets hit different — the skies turn fast, the colours are richer, and there’s a stillness you just don’t get in the summer months.

I’ve spent more than a decade based in North Vancouver, so I’ve had time to find the sunset spots that actually feel calm and worth sticking around for. These are my personal favourites — places I go back to year after year.

David Lam Park - Sailboats and buildings are bathed in soft pink light as sunset reflects off the water in False Creek, with a seagull gliding above. September sunsets in Vancouver are some of the most beautiful of the year, especially when viewed from the water. — David Lam Park

Here’s where to go:

Cypress Mountain Lookout (West Vancouver) – sweeping city views, especially when the fog rolls in below
The University of British Columbia (UBC) Rose Garden – west-facing and peaceful, great just before dinner
Cates Park (North Vancouver) – forest paths, beach access, and views over Indian Arm
David Lam Park – a quiet downtown option for a last-minute sunset walk
Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area (Burnaby) – benches, trails, and wide views over Indian Arm
Waterfront Park (North Vancouver) – you’ll see the sun drop behind the city skyline
Deep Cove (North Vancouver) – sunset kayaking here is one of my favourite ways to end a fall day

Evening Kayaking Cate's Park North Vancouver

Watch this video on YouTube.

Tip: Check sunset times before heading out — they get earlier fast in September.

What to Wear in Fall: A collage features lightweight jackets, hiking shoes, and photos of Tazim dressed for various outdoor adventures in the fall. Knowing what to wear helps you make the most of all the fun things to do in Vancouver during September’s changing weather.

10. What to Wear in Vancouver in September

September can be unpredictable. One day it’s warm enough for a beach walk, the next you’ll want a light jacket and waterproof shoes.

I’ve shared a full breakdown of what to wear in Vancouver in September based on layering tips, local style, and what actually works when you’re out walking around the city all day.

Here’s the short version:

Lightweight layers (think long-sleeved tee + hoodie or jacket)
Comfortable shoes you can walk in for hours, and that won’t soak through
A small foldable umbrella or rain shell (especially later in the month)
A scarf or light toque for mornings and evenings

If you’re packing or shopping, these waterproof shoes for rainy weather are the ones I actually use — no soggy socks, no slipping on wet sidewalks.

🌧️ Tired of wet socks and sore feet?

Get the right shoes for rainy weather travel

This guide breaks down what actually works, waterproof walking shoes that are comfortable, supportive, and built to handle soggy sidewalks without slowing you down

I NEED THIS 👀

A pair of tan sneakers stands on soaked concrete, next to a white painted line, with raindrops visibly falling. These waterproof walking trainers don’t just look good—they keep you dry when the skies open up.

Helpful Information for September Travel

Weather Overview

September is usually mild, with daytime highs between 17–21°C (around 63–70°F) and cooler evenings. Early in the month, it still feels like summer. By the end, you’ll start to see more clouds and the first signs of Vancouver’s rainy season.

Sunsets shift fast — expect them between 7:45 pm (early Sept) and 6:45 pm (late Sept). Bring layers and check the forecast if you’re heading out for the day.

Booking Tips

Fringe Festival shows can sell out, especially on weekends. Check the schedule and reserve ahead.
Ferries to Victoria or Bowen Island are quieter than in summer but can still book up on Friday afternoons and Sundays.
If you’re visiting Capilano Suspension Bridge, weekday mornings are the calmest.

Getting Around

Transit works well for most of the spots listed above, especially if you’re not keen on driving in Vancouver. Use the SeaBus for North Vancouver spots like Lonsdale, Waterfront Park, or the Fall for Local Market. Biking the Seawall? Mobi Bikes are available all around downtown.

Top Recommendations for Where to Stay in Vancouver

📍Budget: Blue Horizon Hotel
🏨 Boutique: L’Hermitage Hotel
✨ Higher-End: Shangri-La Vancouver
🧸 Family-Friendly: Fairmont Waterfront
🌹Romantic: Rosewood Hotel Georgia

Top FAQs About Visiting Vancouver in September

Does it rain a lot in September?

Not usually. Early September is often dry, but showers become more common by the end of the month. Always check the forecast and pack layers.

Can you see fall colours in September?

Yes — especially near UBC, Queen Elizabeth Park, and North Vancouver. The colours start subtly but show early in these areas.

Are major attractions still open in September?

Most are! Summer hours might be reduced, but places like Capilano Suspension Bridge, gardens, and museums are still open daily.

Tips Before You Go

Layer your clothing. Mornings and evenings are cool, and afternoons can still feel summery.
Book in advance for events, ferries, and weekend outings — it’s still a popular travel month.
Keep it flexible. Vancouver’s weather can change quickly. Have a backup plan (like one of these indoor things to do) just in case.
Slow travel is your friend. You don’t need to do everything. A few meaningful stops will make your September trip way more enjoyable.

If you’re still in Vancouver in October, there are plenty of things to do—both Halloween-themed events and general cultural celebrations, as well as nature-based activities.

November in Vancouver is when the rain hits hard, but it’s also when you can escape the city and go eagle viewing in Squamish for a day trip!

🌲 ➡️ Join our community at BC Travel: Scenic Outdoor & Cultural Attractions to keep the conversation going, ask questions, and share your love for exploring British Columbia’s top outdoor and cultural experiences!🌲

Things to Do in Vancouver in September (Before the Rain Hits)

1. Go Apple Picking Just Outside the City

2. Take a Fall Hike Through Vancouver’s Forest Trails

3. Take a Day Trip (It’s Peak Road Trip Season)