Fall in Toronto: The Ultimate Guide
Toronto, the biggest city in Canada, begins transforming into an iconic yellow, red, and orange landscape at the end of September each year.
The transformation marks the beginning of the fall season, but it’s not the only thing to look forward to during fall in Toronto! The city offers plenty of activities that showcase its natural beauty and vibrant culture. Whether you live here or are just visiting, fall in Toronto is a season you don’t want to miss.
Let’s explore some of the best things to do and see in Toronto during autumn.
Table of Contents:
Fall Weather in Toronto
Toronto’s fall season spans from mid-September to November, with temperatures gradually dropping each week. Officially, the first day of autumn is September 22nd, 2025, however chilly days often appear earlier in the month, and October can still bring back stretches of mild, sunny weather.
Early fall can still feel warm with temperatures around 15-20°C (59-68°F).
By November, it’s common to see cooler days closer to 5-10°C (41-50°F).
Rain is frequent in the fall, especially in October, and there’s a chance of the first snowfall towards the end of November.
How to Dress for Fall in Toronto
Layering is key in Toronto during the fall. Mornings and evenings can be chilly, but the afternoons might still feel relatively warm. A light sweater, jacket, or windbreaker works well for early fall, with heavier coats becoming necessary as temperatures drop. Scarves, gloves, and waterproof footwear are also good to have on hand, especially as the weather becomes wetter. It’s a good time to unpack your winter clothes and shoes.
How to Pack for Fall in Toronto
If you’re visiting Toronto in the fall, a little preparation goes a long way! Here are a few essentials to bring along:
Layers that you can mix and match: Fall weather in Toronto can be unpredictable and might vary throughout the day. It’s a good idea to always have a light jacket handy, a sweater, and some long-sleeve shirts.
Comfortable walking shoes: Bring a pair you don’t mind wearing all day, ideally waterproof, since you’ll likely be exploring on foot and may run into rain or damp leaves.
Accessories for cooler weather: A scarf, hat, and light gloves can make a big difference on chilly mornings or evenings by the lake.
An umbrella or compact raincoat: Fall showers can pop up unexpectedly.
A versatile bag or backpack: Perfect for carrying extra layers during warmer afternoons.
💡Tip: Pack clothing you can dress up or down. Toronto’s fall calendar is full of events, so you might go from a casual walk in High Park to dinner downtown on the same day.
What To Do During Fall in Toronto
Toronto in the fall offers something for everyone: mild days are perfect for exploring colourful parks and outdoor festivals, while cooler moments call for cozy cafés, museums, and cultural events around the city. Seasonal flavours also add to the atmosphere: pumpkin spice lattes, apple desserts, and other fall treats pop up everywhere, adding a touch of autumn warmth wherever you go.
💡 Fun fact: “Pumpkin spice” doesn’t really involve pumpkin at all! Its name indicates a blend of spices commonly found in pumpkin pie. This flavour typically includes cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
Outdoor Fall Activities in Toronto
Toronto Islands
A short ferry ride from downtown, the Toronto Islands offer a peaceful escape from the city’s buzz. In the fall, it’s quieter, giving you the perfect chance to explore the trails, rent a bike, or simply relax with a view of the skyline. Just be sure to check the ferry schedule ahead of time, as it changes in the fall.
Evergreen Brick Works
This community environmental hub, Evergreen Brick Works, has plenty going on throughout fall. You can explore the farmer’s market, join in on workshops, or hike through the surrounding parkland. There’s always something to do here.
Humber Bay Shores
Humber Bay Shores is a well-known natural park right in the heart of Toronto. Not only is this park a great place to unwind and spend time in nature, it’s also a wildlife hub. During the fall, you can visit Humber Bay Shores and spot the renowned salmon migration in the Humber River.
Pumpkin Patches
Fall means pumpkin everything, and nothing says fall like a trip to the pumpkin patch! Head to Downey’s Farm or Dixie Orchards just outside the city for festive fun with wagon rides, corn mazes, and plenty of treats, or keep it simple at Andrews Farm in Milton with a cozy stroll and pumpkin picking. Either way, it’s the perfect dose of autumn magic.
Apple Picking
Just outside the city, there are several orchards where you can go apple picking—a great way to spend a day with family or friends. Places like Chudleigh’s Farm and Albion Orchards also offer hayrides and other fall-themed activities.
It’s a fun activity enjoyed by all ages, perfect for everything from a family adventure to an impromptu date idea.
If you prefer to simply enjoy the harvest, you’ll be sure to find apple desserts and ciders across Toronto to sample. It’s almost as popular a flavour as pumpkin spice during the fall!
Best Places to Admire Fall Colours in Toronto
Fall in Toronto is a favourite for many, thanks to the beautiful foliage in places like High Park and the Toronto Islands. For even more inspiration (and some stunning local snapshots), check out this Reddit thread of Torontonians sharing their favourite fall photos.
High Park
One of the top spots to experience fall in Toronto is High Park. With its wide trails and gorgeous gardens, it’s perfect for a relaxed walk or a picnic among the colourful leaves. Spanning nearly 400 acres, this park gives you plenty of space to soak in the crisp autumn air.
The Don Valley
If you’re looking for more scenic trails, the Don Valley is your go-to spot right in the city. Whether you prefer biking or hiking, the trails here offer incredible views of the changing leaves. It’s a favourite for nature lovers and photographers hoping to capture the perfect fall shot.
Moore Park Ravine
Nestled in Midtown, Moore Park Ravine offers a peaceful loop of about 6 km that's perfect for walking, cycling, or birdwatching. In fall, the foliage turns into a beautiful canopy of autumn hues, making it a serene, lesser-known escape.
Trinity Bellwoods
Conveniently located downtown along Queen Street West, Trinity Bellwoods Park lights up each autumn with brilliant streaks of reds, oranges, and yellows. Its tree-lined paths, with glimpses of the CN Tower in the distance, make it a picturesque and beloved urban fall spot.
Fall Events and Festivals in Toronto
If you prefer cultural and social events, there’s no shortage of them happening from October to December in the city. Here are a few of the most renowned fall events and festivals in Toronto, plus a couple under-the-radar local favourites.
Toronto International Film Festival: September 4th-14th, 2025
The Toronto International Film Festival is one of the most prestigious annual film festivals in the world, and this year marks their 50th anniversary. Visitors can browse the festival schedule to catch screenings of international films, attend world premieres, or even spot celebrities walking the red carpet. Whether you’re a casual moviegoer or a dedicated film buff, TIFF offers plenty of opportunities to experience cinema at its finest right in the heart of downtown Toronto.
Toronto International Festival of Authors: October 29th-November 2nd, 2025
Bookworms, this one’s for you! The Toronto International Festival of Authors brings together writers, poets, and literary stars from around the globe for readings, discussions, and book signings. It’s an amazing opportunity to dive into the literary world and discover new stories.
Even if you miss the festival, the organization hosts other events and author meet-and-greets throughout the year. Check out the calendar of events coming up this fall for more details!
Nuit Blanche: October 4th-October 5th, 2025
Every October, Toronto hosts Nuit Blanche, an all-night art festival that turns the city into a massive creative space. Artists from all over the world showcase their work in public areas, museums, and galleries, making it a must-see for art lovers.
Halloween Events in Toronto
Right in the middle of fall is October 31st, when Halloween is celebrated in Toronto and across North America. You can find specific events in the city to enjoy Halloween, like haunted houses, pumpkin carving events, parties & nightlife, and more.
Conclusion
Fall in Toronto is a special time, offering a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor fun. Whether you’re checking out the city’s vibrant neighbourhoods, enjoying seasonal treats, or diving into the arts, there’s something for everyone. Make the most of autumn in Toronto with this guide—you’ll quickly see why it’s one of the best times to enjoy this amazing city.
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