Things to Do in Toronto in the Fall
Here are the best things to do in Toronto in fall, from outdoor adventures and cultural festivals to seasonal dining and sporting events.
There’s something magical about Toronto in fall. As summer fades, the city transforms into a vibrant canvas of red, orange and gold. Crisp air fills the streets, patios are strung with twinkling lights and markets brim with harvest flavours. Whether you’re strolling through leafy neighbourhoods, tasting seasonal menus or joining one of the city’s world-class festivals, autumn in Toronto offers unforgettable experiences for every kind of traveller.
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Fall city attractions
Fall is the perfect season to explore Toronto’s urban gems with smaller crowds and a cozy atmosphere.
- Neighbourhood strolls: Wander through the Distillery Historic District, where cobblestone lanes are lined with cafés, boutiques and art galleries. In autumn, outdoor patios are warmed with heaters, making them great spots for mulled cider or craft cocktails.
- Museums and galleries: Spend a crisp afternoon inside the Royal Ontario Museum or the Art Gallery of Ontario. Both offer rotating exhibitions that pair perfectly with fall’s reflective mood.
- Haunted tours: October is the prime season for ghost walks through Toronto... just in time for Halloween.
- Architecture walks: Fall light casts a golden glow on landmarks like Casa Loma, the gothic-style castle that becomes even more atmospheric during the fall season.
Autumn outdoor activities
Toronto’s green spaces and neighbouring nature make it a top destination for fall colours.
- Leaf peeping in the city: Stroll through High Park, explore the trails in Don Valley or take a weekend hike in Rouge National Urban Park, Canada’s largest urban park, for stunning foliage.
- Cycling & hiking: Rent a bike and ride along the Waterfront Trail, or lace up for a brisk hike through the Don Valley Trails, where fall colours meet city skylines.
- Apple picking near Toronto: Just a short drive north, you’ll find farms like Chudleigh’s and Pingle’s Farm Market, offering apple picking, hayrides and fresh-baked pies.
- Pumpkin patches near Toronto: Families love farms such as Brooks Farms or Downey’s Farm, where you can pick pumpkins, wander corn mazes and enjoy fall treats.
Fall festivals & events
Toronto’s fall calendar is stacked with festivals and cultural events that draw visitors from around the world. Check out the Toronto Events Calendar for the most up-to-date Toronto fall festivals 2025.
- Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF): Early September marks the world-famous film festival, where film buffs flock to Toronto to spot celebrities and catch award-winning films before they hit theatres.
- Nuit Blanche: This all-night contemporary art celebration transforms the city into an outdoor gallery of installations and performances.
- Toronto International Festival of Authors: A must for book lovers, featuring readings, workshops and conversations with acclaimed writers every October.
- Toronto Halloween events: From immersive haunted houses to family-friendly pumpkin parades, the city comes alive with spooky celebrations throughout October.
Fall food & dining
Harvest season means Toronto’s culinary scene shines with fall flavours.
Fall sporting events
Autumn is game time in Toronto, and the city’s sports scene is electric.
- Toronto Raptors (NBA): The season tips off in October, bringing the excitement of basketball back to Scotiabank Arena.
- Toronto Maple Leafs (NHL): Hockey season begins in the fall, and Leafs Nation fills the city with energy.
- Toronto Argonauts (CFL): Catch Canadian football action as the Argos push toward the Grey Cup.
- Toronto Blue Jays (MLB): September brings baseball postseason excitement to the Rogers Centre.
Plan your visit
Weather in Toronto in fall
- September: Avg highs around 20°C (68°F), comfortable and warm.
- October: Cool and crisp, averaging 13°C (55°F).
- November: Chilly, around 7°C (45°F), with occasional frost.
Daylight hours shorten steadily, so plan outdoor adventures earlier in the day. Rain is possible, so keep an umbrella handy.
What to wear in Toronto in fall
- Early fall: Light layers, sweaters, and a light jacket.
- Mid-to-late fall: Warm jackets, scarves, and boots.
Always bring comfortable shoes for walking, as Toronto is a city best explored on foot.
Best time for fall colours
Peak foliage typically arrives in mid-to-late October, but timing can vary with the weather.
From leaf-peeping and pumpkin patches to festivals, sports and seasonal dining, fall is one of the best times to experience Toronto. The city blends big-ticket cultural events with cozy neighbourhood charm, making it an ideal getaway for couples, families and friends alike.
