Planning a family getaway when the leaves start to turn is always a great idea, and Canada makes it easy. That’s why we’ve pulled together 11 Canadian cities families should road trip to this fall. The season is perfect for slowing down, hitting the road, and seeing the country in a whole new light. The crisp air, the changing trees, and the chance to share simple adventures together make fall road trips one of the best ways to spend time as a family.
What makes this time of year so special is how it turns even ordinary drives into something memorable. Kids can spot wildlife, parents can take in the colors, and everyone can enjoy a break from busy routines. You don’t need a complicated plan or a long stretch of vacation days. Just a packed car, a few snacks, and the excitement of heading somewhere new.
Banff, Alberta
Nestled in the Canadian Rockies, Banff is spectacular in autumn when golden larch trees paint the mountainsides. Families can take easy hikes around Lake Louise or Moraine Lake, where reflections of snow-dusted peaks shimmer on turquoise waters. Wildlife sightings—elk, deer, and mountain goats—often thrill children. Gondola rides give panoramic views of valleys glowing with fall colors. In town, shops and cozy cafés welcome visitors after outdoor adventures. Scenic drives along the Icefields Parkway highlight glaciers, waterfalls, and forests in transition. Banff combines natural grandeur with family-friendly activities, making it an unforgettable destination during the autumn season.
Québec City, Québec
Québec City in autumn feels like stepping into a storybook. The cobblestone lanes of Old Québec glow beneath red and gold leaves, while historic stone buildings create a sense of old-world charm. Families can stroll along the fortified walls, explore the Plains of Abraham, or take in views of the St. Lawrence River framed by fall colors. Children will love the funicular ride down to Petit-Champlain, where boutique shops and seasonal decorations brighten the streets. Crisp air, horse-drawn carriages, and pumpkin displays make this city a magical destination during the harvest season.
Victoria, British Columbia
Autumn in this coastal city brings crisp air, colorful gardens, and calm harborside strolls. Families can wander through Beacon Hill Park, where giant trees turn brilliant shades of orange and red, or visit the world-famous Butchart Gardens, which glow with seasonal displays. Whale-watching tours still run in early fall, giving children a chance to spot orcas and seals. The Royal BC Museum adds history and interactive exhibits to the trip. Along the Inner Harbour, street performers and market stalls create a lively atmosphere. Victoria’s mix of nature, culture, and seaside charm makes it a rewarding autumn stop.
Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Autumn brings a cozy charm to this small capital, where tree-lined streets glow in shades of red and gold. Families can stroll along Victoria Row, visit historic Province House, or take a carriage ride through the city. Harvest festivals fill the air with music and local crafts, while nearby farms invite children to pick pumpkins or sample fresh apples. The waterfront boardwalk, framed by colorful foliage, is perfect for an afternoon walk. Scenic drives across the island reveal rolling fields and coastal views that shine during the season, making Charlottetown a memorable stop for families on a fall road trip.
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
The South Saskatchewan River valley transforms into a ribbon of gold and crimson during fall, making this prairie city especially scenic. Families can walk or bike along the Meewasin Trail, where bridges frame views of the changing foliage. Wanuskewin Heritage Park introduces children to Indigenous culture and history through interactive exhibits and outdoor programs. Local pumpkin patches and corn mazes add seasonal fun, while the city’s markets brim with autumn produce and crafts. Museums and galleries balance outdoor exploration with indoor learning. With its mix of culture, nature, and seasonal activities, Saskatoon makes a rewarding fall road trip stop.
Halifax, Nova Scotia
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A lively waterfront, historic sites, and nearby nature trails make this city a rewarding autumn road trip destination. Families can visit the Halifax Citadel for a glimpse into Canada’s past or stroll along the boardwalk where tall ships and seafood stalls line the harbor. Point Pleasant Park bursts with fiery maple leaves, while nearby Peggy’s Cove showcases a lighthouse surrounded by rocky shores. Seasonal events and farmers’ markets fill the city with harvest spirit. With museums, boat tours, and scenic drives along the coast, Halifax creates a balance of learning and outdoor exploration for families in the fall.
Kelowna, British Columbia
Surrounded by rolling hills and orchards, this Okanagan Valley city shines brightest during harvest season. Families can pick apples or pumpkins at local farms, then head to lakeside parks for picnics beneath golden trees. Hiking trails such as Knox Mountain give sweeping views of Okanagan Lake framed by autumn colors. For children, kangaroo farms and adventure playgrounds add excitement to the trip. Seasonal festivals celebrate the harvest with music, crafts, and farm-fresh produce. Scenic drives through vineyards and hillsides create postcard-worthy views. Kelowna’s combination of outdoor fun and seasonal charm makes it a memorable fall destination for families.
Mont-Tremblant, Québec
Nestled in the Laurentian Mountains, this resort town becomes a kaleidoscope of color during autumn. Families can ride the gondola to the summit for sweeping views of fiery hillsides, then explore hiking trails suitable for all ages. The pedestrian village bustles with shops, cafés, and street performances, creating a lively atmosphere. Canoeing on nearby lakes or cycling along forested paths adds outdoor fun. Seasonal events often feature music, crafts, and harvest traditions. With its mountain scenery, crisp air, and family-friendly activities, Mont-Tremblant is a picture-perfect destination for those seeking an autumn adventure in Québec.
St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador
Perched on the edge of the Atlantic, this colorful city is especially striking when framed by autumn skies. Families can climb Signal Hill for sweeping views of the harbor lined with bright row houses, or walk coastal trails where rugged cliffs meet crashing waves. Quidi Vidi Village, with its historic fishing stages, feels timeless in fall light. Seasonal festivals celebrate music and local traditions, giving visitors a taste of the region’s character. Kids often enjoy spotting puffins or learning about marine life at The Rooms museum. St. John’s combines history, scenery, and family-friendly adventure during the season.
Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
Niagara-on-the-Lake is a charming destination during autumn, with tree-lined streets glowing in shades of amber and scarlet. Families can stroll past 19th-century architecture, browse local shops, and stop at bakeries filled with seasonal treats. Pumpkin patches and apple orchards nearby create fun day trips for children. A short drive brings you to Niagara Falls, where mist rises dramatically against the backdrop of colorful foliage. Carriage rides through the historic district add a touch of old-fashioned charm. Festivals, harvest markets, and crisp vineyard views make this small town an ideal stop for families seeking autumn adventures.
Ottawa, Ontario
Canada’s capital city transforms into a vibrant autumn landscape, with fiery maples lining the Rideau Canal and parks bursting with color. Families can wander Parliament Hill, then head to Gatineau Park nearby for breathtaking hikes through rolling hills. Museums such as the Canadian Museum of Nature or the Canadian Children’s Museum add an educational touch to the trip. The ByWard Market buzzes with seasonal produce, crafts, and harvest decorations. Paddleboats, bike rides, and scenic drives give families plenty of outdoor fun. Ottawa’s balance of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a memorable fall road trip stop.
Pumpkins, Pines, and Pit Stops
Fall has a way of making travel feel simple and fun. The cooler air keeps long drives comfortable, and the scenery outside the window is never boring. Whether it’s the burst of color along the highways or the small towns that pop up along the route, every mile feels like part of the adventure. Families don’t need a huge budget or weeks of planning to make it happen, just the decision to go.
The best part is how road trips create memories that stick. Kids remember the silly car games, the roadside stops, and the first time they saw landscapes change with the season. Parents get a break from the usual routine and a chance to reconnect. Fall doesn’t last forever, but hitting the road while it’s here is a great way to enjoy it together. Pack a bag, load up the car, and start your next family adventure.
