15+ Best Places To Go This October Around Toronto and GTA
October in Toronto is buzzing with energy, and there’s no shortage of must-hit events and places to go this month. Whether you’re chasing cozy fall vibes, indulging in the city’s top food fests, or looking for a killer Halloween experience, we’ve got you covered. From culture-packed festivals to spooky night-outs, here are some of the coolest events happening and places to go this fall in Toronto this October 2024 that you’ll want on your radar.
Things to do this fall 2024
Where to go near Toronto in autumn? Check out the top spots for colorful leaves, cozy vibes, and quick weekend getaways just outside the city!
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1. PumpkinFest (OCTOBER 11-14)
Pumpkinfest Toronto returns for a weekend filled with family-friendly fall fun. Enjoy this pumpkin festival, pumpkin-themed activities, midway rides, food trucks, and an exciting pumpkin patch perfect for photo ops. There will also be live entertainment and contests for everyone to enjoy.
- Website: www.pumpkinfesttoronto.com
- Where: Downsview Park (35 Carl Hall Rd, Toronto, Ontario M3K 2B6)
- When: October 11-14, 2024
- Price: From CA$16.34 – CA$32.09 (+HST) | check tickets website for updates
- Best for: Families, kids, fall lovers, pumpkin enthusiasts
- Category: Family-friendly
Get your tickets here.
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2. Mamma Mia!(October 8 – November 10)
Feel-good fun and ABBA’s greatest hits come together in this heartwarming story of love, family, and friendship. Mamma Mia! will have you dancing in your seat to iconic tracks like “Dancing Queen” and “Mamma Mia” as you follow Sophie’s journey to discover the truth about her father before her wedding day.
- Where: 244 Victoria St, Toronto, ON, M5B 1V8, CAA Ed Mirvish Theatre
- When: October 8 – November 10, 2024
- Price: CA$59.00 – CA$220.00
- Best for: Musical enthusiasts, ABBA fans, date nights
Get your tickets here.
3. Apple Picking at Watsons
Watson Farms is family-owned and accessible from Toronto by public transit. As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp, it’s time to head out to Watson Farms for the ultimate fall activity—apple picking! Whether you’re planning a family outing or a casual day with friends, Watson Farms offers a range of apple varieties, from Honeycrisp to Gala, and plenty of fun extras like a petting zoo and wagon rides.
- Where: Watson Farms, 2287 Hwy 2, Bowmanville, ON
- When: Open 7 days a week, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (September through October)
- Price: CA$5 for adults, CA$3 for children (admission); apples priced by bag
- Best for: Families, friends, nature lovers
- Contact: (905) 623-7252
- Website: www.watsonfarms.ca
4. Halloween Haunt (September 27 – november 2)
Halloween Haunt is back and scarier than ever at Canada’s Wonderland! Experience the park as it transforms into a horror-filled playground with haunted mazes, terrifying scare zones, live entertainment, and adrenaline-pumping rides in the dark. It’s the ultimate Halloween event for thrill-seekers looking for a good scare!
- Where: Canada’s Wonderland, 1 Canada’s Wonderland Drive, Vaughan, ON
- When: Select Nights, September 27 – November 2, 2024
- Price: Tickets start at CA$44.99 (Fast Lane passes available for an extra CA$110 – CA$125); Parking is CA$30
- Best for: Horror enthusiasts, thrill-seekers (recommended for ages 14+)
- Website: Canada’s Wonderland Halloween Haunt
Get your tickets here
5. Markham Fair (OCTOBER 3-6)
Markham Fair 2024 is celebrating its 180th year as one of Canada’s oldest country fairs! This four-day event brings together the best in agriculture, entertainment, and family fun. From thrilling midway rides and games to live animal shows, local food vendors, and exciting competitions, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss the famous demolition derby and live music performances.
- Where: Markham Fairgrounds, 10801 McCowan Rd, Markham, ON
- When: October 3 – 6, 2024
- Price: General admission starts at CA$15 (children under 12 are free)
- Best for: Families, fair lovers, and those looking to experience a slice of country life
- Website: www.markhamfair.ca
Get your tickets here.
6. Dundas Peak
Dundas Peak is the ultimate fall destination for breathtaking views of colorful foliage and the Dundas Valley. Perfect for hikers and photographers, this scenic spot is especially popular in October. Don’t forget to reserve your spot ahead of time—spaces fill up fast during peak season!
- Where: Spencer Gorge Conservation Area, Dundas, ON
- When: October 2024(open year-round, but fall is prime time)
- Price: Parking fees (online reservations required)
- Website: Hamilton Conservation Authority
7. The Lights Festival (OCTOBER 5)
The Lights Festival is an unforgettable, once-a-year magical event where thousands gather to release sky lanterns into the night sky, symbolizing hope and dreams. It’s a night filled with music, food trucks, and a serene lantern release at dusk, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
- Where: Grand Bend Speedway & Festival Center, 70114D Grand Bend Line, Parkhill, ON N0M 2K0
- When: October 5, 2024, 4 pm
- Price: Starts at CAD$65
- Best for: Families, couples, and anyone looking for a magical evening
- Website: https://thelightsfest.com/sky-lantern-events/toronto/
Get your tickets here.
8. Evergreen Brick Works
Evergreen Brick Works is the perfect spot for a Saturday outing in Toronto. Explore the Saturday Farmers Market, stocked with local produce and artisan goods, or visit the Evergreen Garden Market for eco-friendly products. Kids can enjoy Weekend Nature Play in the Children’s Garden, while adults can hit the scenic nature trails that surround the site for a breath of fresh air and stunning views of the Don Valley.
- Where: Evergreen Brick Works, 550 Bayview Ave, Toronto, ON
- When: Every Saturday (check the website for hours)
- Price: Free entry (products and activities may have additional costs)
- Best for: Families, nature lovers, market enthusiasts
- Website: https://www.evergreen.ca/
9. Legends of Horror (October 3 – November 2)
Legends of Horror is back at Casa Loma, turning the historic castle into a terrifying, immersive Halloween experience. Walk through 2 kilometers of haunted trails, dark tunnels, and eerie gardens filled with live actors and spine-chilling sets. It’s a must-see for horror lovers and thrill-seekers looking for a night of unforgettable scares.
- Where: Casa Loma, 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto, ON
- When: October 3 – November 2, 2024
- Price: Starts at CAD$50 (from $45 online)
- Best for: Date/Friends, Horror fans, thrill-seekers, Halloween enthusiasts
Get your tickets here.
Pro tip: Save money by checking Groupon for exclusive deals on tickets. Get the thrills for less!
10. Algonquin Park
Algonquin Park is at its most breathtaking in October, as the vibrant fall foliage transforms the landscape into a fiery spectacle of reds, oranges, and yellows. Known for being one of the best places in Ontario for leaf-peeping, October is the ideal time to hike the park’s scenic trails, canoe its pristine lakes, or enjoy a peaceful campfire under the autumn sky. Whether you’re there for the colors or the crisp fall air, Algonquin is the perfect fall escape.
- Where: Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario
- When: Best in October for fall colors (open year-round)
- Price: Park fees apply (day passes and camping available)
- Best for: Fall foliage lovers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts
- Website: https://ontarioparks.ca/park/algonquin
11. Blue Mountain
Blue Mountain is an absolute must-visit in October, with the crisp autumn air and vibrant fall foliage making it the perfect spot for a scenic getaway. Known primarily for its winter ski resorts, Blue Mountain transforms into a fall paradise, offering everything from hiking trails with stunning views of Georgian Bay to zip-lining, mountain biking, and the famous Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, fall at Blue Mountain offers something for everyone.
- Where: Blue Mountain Resort, Collingwood, ON
- When: October for fall colors (open year-round)
- Price:
- Hiking: Free access to trails, parking fees may apply
- Activities (Ridge Runner, zip-lining, etc.): Prices vary by activity
- Best for: Fall adventurers, families, and those looking for scenic relaxation
- Website: https://www.bluemountain.ca/things-to-do/activities#filters=seasons:Autumn
Get your tickets here.
12. Horseback Riding Tour in Ontario at The Ranch
Looking for an adventure with a scenic twist? The Ranch offers an unforgettable horseback riding experience, perfect for soaking in Ontario’s stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a first-timer, their guided tours are designed for all skill levels. Fall is the ideal time to visit, with colorful foliage making the trails even more breathtaking. Saddle up, enjoy the fresh air, and explore Ontario’s countryside in style!
- Where: The Ranch, Ontario
- When: Open year-round (October is prime for fall colors)
- Price: Starting From CAD$80
- Best for: Outdoor adventurers, families, and couples looking for a unique experience
- Website: https://ridetheranch.com/
Know about the rates here.
13. Bala Cranberry Festival (October 18-20)
The Bala Cranberry Festival is Ontario’s ultimate fall festival, celebrating everything cranberry! Held in the charming town of Bala, this event brings together locals and visitors alike for a weekend of food, crafts, and entertainment. Explore the beautiful cranberry marshes, enjoy live music, shop for unique artisan goods, and of course, indulge in all things cranberry—from wines and jams to delicious baked goods.
- Where: Bala, Ontario
- When: October 18-20, 2024
- Price: Adult Admission (ages 12+): CA$15, Youth (ages 6-11): CA$5 & Children (5 and under): Free
- Best for: Families, foodies, and those looking to celebrate fall in a unique way
- Website: https://www.balacranberryfestival.on.ca/
Get your tickets here.
14. The Distillery Fall Market (October 12,13)
Celebrate the fall season in style at the Distillery Fall Market, happening during the Thanksgiving weekend! Explore the Distillery District’s cobblestone streets as they transform into a cozy autumn haven with local vendors, artisan crafts, and seasonal treats. Whether you’re hunting for unique goods, sipping on warm drinks, or simply soaking in the festive decor, this market is the perfect way to enjoy Thanksgiving Day and the fall season in Toronto.
- Where: Distillery District, Toronto, ON
- When: October 12,13
- Price: Free entry (shopping and activities extra)
- Best for: Families, couples, and anyone looking to embrace the fall spirit
- Website: https://www.thedistillerydistrict.com/events/
15. Toronto Prohibition & Spirits Tour (Sat/Sun @1:30pm)
Uncover the secrets of Toronto’s Prohibition era with the Toronto Prohibition and Spirits Tour. Every Saturday and Sunday at 1:30 PM, dive into the city’s hidden history of speakeasies, smuggling, and bootlegging while visiting historic bars and tasting local spirits. This tour offers a unique glimpse into Toronto’s underground past, perfect for history buffs and cocktail lovers alike.
- Where: Tour begins at various historic locations in downtown Toronto
- When: Saturdays and Sundays @ 1:30 PM (year-round)
- Price: Check the website for ticket prices
- Best for: History enthusiasts, cocktail lovers, and curious explorers
16. Sneaker Con Toronto (October 5 & 6)
Sneaker Con Toronto 2024 is the ultimate event for sneakerheads! Bringing together collectors, brands, and enthusiasts, this is your chance to buy, sell, and trade the hottest sneakers and streetwear. Whether you’re hunting for rare kicks, meeting fellow sneaker fans, or catching exclusive releases, Sneaker Con has something for everyone. Plus, don’t miss out on live shows, giveaways, and special guest appearances.
- Where: Enercare Centre, 100 Princes’ Blvd #1, Toronto, ON M6K 3C3, Canada
- When: October 5-6, 2024
- Price: Starts at CAD$ 31.74
- Best for: Sneakerheads, streetwear fans, and collectors
- Website: Sneaker Con Toronto
Grab the tickets here.
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