Things to Do in Vancouver in October

October mornings are good for the covered market, the spice vendors from South Asia set up early and the smell of fresh bread from Terra Breads competes with the first catch of the day from Granville Island's 30+ fishmongers. Rain drives locals inside, so you'll share the oyster bar with actual Vancouverites instead of cruise ship crowds.

October's 14°C (57°F) highs make the 8.8 km (5.5 mile) Seawall loop comfortable without overheating. The maple trees along the Rose Garden turn technicolor orange, and salmon splash in the lagoon below the Prospect Point viewpoint. Morning fog usually clears by 10am, revealing snow on the North Shore mountains that tourists in summer never see.

October transforms the temperate rainforest into a canyon of dripping moss and golden cedars. The bridge bounces less with smaller crowds, and you can hear Lynn Creek rushing 70 m (230 ft) below. The cliffwalk's metal grates feel cold through your shoes. But the cedar scent is strongest in fall humidity.

October food truck festivals happen every Saturday at the Vancouver Art Gallery plaza, the steam from hot soup vendors rises into the cool air while maple leaves stick to the pavement. Korean hot pot trucks pull up next to local salmon burger stands, and the line for tacofino's fish tacos stays 20 people deep even in drizzle.

October clears haze for the best city views, you can spot BC Place's white roof and the Lions Gate Bridge from the 1.2 km (0.75 mile) Skyride ascent. The summit sits at 1,200 m (3,937 ft), so pack layers as temperature drops 8°C (14°F) from downtown. Bears are actively foraging before hibernation. Guided bear-watching walks run twice daily.