When the air turns crisper and leaves start to glow golden, Vancouver Island transforms into a fall playground—perfect for families on a budget. This season, explore magic, local markets and cozy outdoor escapes without spending a fortune.
South Island
Esquimalt Lagoon Migratory Bird Sanctuary, Colwood: A free and peaceful spot for birdwatching during peak migration season. Come with binoculars to catch all the birds in the trees and enjoy the seasonal flurry of geese and shorebirds. esquimaltlagoon.com
Sooke Regional Museum, Sooke: Located just off Highway 14 in Sooke, the Sooke Regional Museum delights families with indoor exhibits on First Nations culture, logging, mining, maritime history, plus outdoor artifacts like a rescued lighthouse and blacksmith shop. This donation-based museum also serves as a Visitor Information Centre and includes a lovely gift shop. sookeregionmuseum.ca
Duncan & Mill Bay
Duncan Farmers’ Market, Duncan: A year-round Saturday market with local produce, crafts and homemade goodies. Walk around, soak up the harvest vibe—it’s all free to browse and enjoy the entertainment on site. duncanfarmersmarket.ca
Bright Angel Regional Park, Duncan: A peaceful gem with forested trails, a kid-loved suspension bridge, playground, picnic shelters and river access. Perfect for a crisp fall day visit. cvrd.ca
Bamberton Provincial Park, Mill Bay: A tranquil beach and woodland park on the Saanich Inlet. It’s a quiet, scenic spot for family walks or beachcombing. bcparks.ca
Somenos Marsh & Boardwalk, Just beyond Crofton: This wildlife refuge showcases migratory birds with accessible boardwalks and peaceful views—it’s nature’s free fall spectacle. somenosmarsh.com
Chemainus Murals Walking Tour, Chemainus: Stroll through town exploring more than 40 stunning outdoor murals that chronicle local history and culture. Grab a self-guided map—it’s totally free and creativity-packed. visitchemainus.ca
Central Island
Harbourfront & Nanaimo Bastion, Nanaimo: Although the Bastion is only open during the summer, you can wander along the scenic waterfront and snap some cool photos near the beautiful and historic Nanaimo Bastion. It’s a quiet stroll and a slice of local history. nanaimomuseum.ca
Englishman River Falls & Little Qualicum Falls, Qualicum Beach: Two stunning waterfall parks, each offering easy family-friendly loop trails surrounded by brilliant fall foliage. Catch sight of salmon spawning in late fall for an added spectacular bonus. bcparks.ca
Farmers Markets & Coombs Old Country Market, “Goats on the Roof” in Coombs: Wander morning markets in Qualicum, park for free, chat with bakers and grab local snacks. Don’t miss the quirky goats grazing on Coombs Market’s rooftop—it’s a fun stop for all ages. oldcountrymarket.com
West Island
Port Alberni Museum & Maritime Discovery Centre, Port Alberni: Explore local history, First Nations culture and interactive exhibits that engage all ages. It’s a great way to spend a rainy fall day with a family rate of just $25. portalbernimaritimeheritage.ca
Fossli Provincial Park & Sproat Lake, Port Alberni: Hike to a historic homestead site amid stunning autumn foliage or enjoy lake-side views with fall’s incredible fire-hued palette. bcparks.ca
Amphitrite Point Lighthouse & Lighthouse Loop, Ucluelet: Part of the Wild Pacific Trail, this stroller-friendly 2.6km loop delivers dramatic coastal views, and a historic 1915 concrete lighthouse. The lighthouse tower is off-limits, but the grounds are free to explore, making it perfect for families craving accessible, scenic adventure. wildpacifictrail.com
North Island
Quatsino Provincial Park Wilderness Escape, Port Alice: Primitive and peaceful, this is a real hidden gem! It’s great for mid-fall kayaking or hiking trips among bald eagles, old-growth forest and coastal wildlife. bcparks.ca
Nymph Falls & Salmon Watching, Black Creek: Here is an easy forest walk ending at Nymph Falls with opportunities to spot salmon swimming upstream in November. comoxvalleyrd.ca
Courtenay Riverway Heritage Walk/Bike Path, Courtenay: This is a scenic, flat path perfect for family strolls or bike rides along the river. courtenay.ca
Comox Air Force Museum & Heritage Air Park, Comox: This donation-based museum showcases aircraft and aviation history, including a heritage hangar and cool outdoor displays. comoxairforcemuseum.ca
Shamrock Farm Pumpkin Picking & Fall Treats, Comox: Affordable pick-your-own pumpkins and seasonal delights await your family at this unique family-friendly farm. shamrockfarm.ca
Elk Falls Provincial Park & Suspension Bridge, Campbell River: Experience dramatic waterfalls and canyon views from a suspension bridge. It is totally accessible and free to visit. bcparks.ca
