Vancouver to Pacific Northwest Fall Road Trip: Festivals, Nature & Wine

Day 1: Explore Vancouver

Vancouver, Canada on September 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Jam Cafe

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Jam Cafe, known for its classic Canadian brunch dishes and vibrant atmosphere. It's great for energising before exploring the city.
CAD20, 1h

10:00am

Visit Stanley Park

Explore the iconic Stanley Park, walking or cycling the Seawall to enjoy stunning views of water and mountains while soaking up autumn colours.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Miku Restaurant

Enjoy exquisite sushi and seafood at Miku, offering fresh local ingredients and beautiful harbour views.
CAD45, 1h

3:00pm

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

Experience nature and adrenaline by walking the suspension bridge and exploring treetop adventures amid the lovely autumn foliage.
CAD56.95, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Victoria Drive

Dine at Burgoo Bistro, known for cozy comfort foods and a welcoming atmosphere, perfect after a day outdoors.
CAD30, 1.5h

Day 2: Fall Festivals & Food

Vancouver, Canada on September 30, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Cafe Artigiano

Enjoy fresh coffee and pastries at this beloved local cafe to start your festival day bright.
CAD15, 45m

10:00am

Attend Vancouver International Wine Festival

Spend your day sampling wines from local and international vineyards celebrating the fall harvest. It’s one of Vancouver’s premier fall events.
CAD65, 4h

2:00pm

Lunch at Granville Island Public Market

Taste artisanal foods and fresh local produce at this vibrant market, perfect for fall flavours and people-watching.
CAD25, 1h

4:00pm

Visit the Vancouver Aquarium

Explore marine life and enjoy interactive animal exhibits to combine your love of nature with education.
CAD42, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Hawksworth Restaurant

Indulge in an elegant dinner featuring Pacific Northwest cuisine with a seasonally inspired menu, ideal for celebrating fall ingredients.
CAD80, 2h

Day 3: Drive to Kelowna

Kelowna, Canada on October 1, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Jam Cafe

Enjoy a final breakfast in Vancouver before the drive, opting for comfort foods and excellent coffee.
CAD20, 1h

9:00am

Drive from Vancouver to Kelowna

Travel east through scenic British Columbia for approximately 4.5 hours, with potential stopovers at small towns along the way to stretch and explore.
Fuel cost approx. CAD50, 4h30m

2:00pm

Lunch at RauDZ Regional Table

Enjoy farm-to-table dishes focusing on Kelowna’s rich agricultural bounty in a rustic yet refined setting.
CAD40, 1h

3:30pm

Visit a winery on the Kelowna Wine Trail

Tour local vineyards such as Mission Hill or Quails’ Gate, sampling wines against the backdrop of autumn vineyard colours.
CAD20 per tasting, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Waterfront Wines

Dine in style by the lake with a menu that pairs beautifully with local wines, perfect for relaxing after your journey.
CAD60, 2h

Day 4: Okanagan Wine & Nature

Kelowna, Canada on October 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bean Scene Coffee Works

Start with excellent coffee and light breakfast while enjoying the crisp fall morning air downtown.
CAD15, 45m

9:30am

Explore Myra Canyon Trestles

Cycle or walk this scenic trail featuring restored railway bridges with panoramic views of fall foliage covering the valley.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Eldorado Cafe

Savour locally sourced dishes paired with craft beers in a cozy setting making it a local favourite.
CAD30, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Summerhill Pyramid Winery

Enjoy a unique wine tasting experience with organic wines inside a stunning pyramid cellar.
CAD25, 1h

5:00pm

Relax at Okanagan Lake

Stroll the beach or rent a kayak for a gentle evening paddle with the autumn sunset over the lake.
CAD20 for kayak rental, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at BNA Brewing Co.

Enjoy a casual dinner with excellent craft beers and pub-style food in a friendly atmosphere.
CAD40, 1.5h

Day 5: Travel to Victoria

Victoria, Canada on October 3, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Kelowna Farmers’ and Crafters’ Market

Pick up fresh local produce and enjoy artisanal breakfast options for a quick and tasty meal.
CAD15, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal

Depart Kelowna early for approximately 5 hours drive south with scenic stops en route.
Fuel approx. CAD60, 5h

1:30pm

Ferry to Victoria BC

Take the 1.5 hour ferry ride from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay, crossing beautiful coastal waters with chances to enjoy wildlife sightings.
CAD20 per person, 1.5h

3:30pm

Check-in and relax

Check into your hotel and enjoy some downtime before exploring downtown Victoria.
Varies, 1.5h

5:00pm

Walk the Inner Harbour

Stroll around picturesque Inner Harbour, perfect to soak in fall colours and festive atmosphere.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Fish Store at Fisherman’s Wharf

Enjoy fresh seafood at this casual but iconic Victoria eatery embracing local flavours.
CAD50, 1.5h

Day 6: Victoria Gardens & Festivals

Victoria, Canada on October 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Mo:Lé Restaurant

Enjoy a modern twist on breakfast classics using seasonal ingredients in a stylish setting.
CAD25, 1h

9:30am

Visit Butchart Gardens

This world-famous garden is brilliant in autumn with spectacular colours, and a must-see in Victoria. It opens at 9:00am.
CAD36.50, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Blue Poppy Restaurant

Located onsite at Butchart Gardens, offering fresh seasonal dishes with lovely garden views.
CAD30, 1h

3:00pm

Explore the Victoria Fall Fair / Local Market

Enjoy the seasonal fairs or farmers markets typically active through October with local crafts, foods, and festivities.
Free entry, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Il Terrazzo

Savour Italian cuisine in a romantic setting with cozy fireplaces, ideal for cooler autumn evenings.
CAD60, 2h

Day 7: Drive to Seattle

Seattle, USA on October 5, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Jam Cafe Victoria

Enjoy one last brunch in Victoria with friendly local vibes and delicious comfort food.
CAD20, 1h

9:00am

Drive to Seattle

Depart by ferry to Vancouver followed by a drive south to Seattle, approximately 3 hours excluding border crossing times.
Fuel approx. USD40, ferry USD20, 4h

1:00pm

Lunch at Pike Place Market

Explore this legendary market with fresh seafood, artisan foods, and bustling fall atmosphere.
USD25, 1.5h

3:00pm

Visit the Chihuly Garden and Glass

Enjoy stunning glass art installations surrounded by seasonal gardens, perfect to appreciate art and nature blending.
USD32, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Canlis

Dine at this award-winning fine dining establishment known for a refined Pacific Northwest menu and excellent wine list.
USD100, 2h

Day 8: Seattle Culture & Nature

Seattle, USA on October 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Tilikum Place Cafe

Taste European-style breakfast in this cosy café, a local favourite in Seattle.
USD20, 1h

9:30am

Visit Woodland Park Zoo

Explore the immersive animal exhibits with a focus on conservation and autumn seasonal programs. Open from 9:30am to 5:00pm.
USD24, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Pink Door

Enjoy Italian-inspired dishes in a quirky, welcoming setting near Pike Place that celebrates local production.
USD40, 1.5h

3:00pm

Visit Gas Works Park

Walk this unique park featuring industrial ruins and fantastic views of Seattle skyline, great spot for sunset.
Free, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Spinasse

Indulge in exquisite Piedmontese cuisine in an intimate setting, featuring fall ingredients from local farms.
USD70, 2h

Day 9: Travel to Portland

Portland, USA on October 7, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Cafe Brioche

Start with authentic French pastries and coffee before the short drive to Portland.
USD15, 1h

9:00am

Drive to Portland

Drive approximately 3 hours south to Portland through scenic coastal and forest landscapes.
Fuel approx. USD30, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Lardo

Enjoy bold, delicious sandwiches and contemporary street food styles at this popular Portland eatery.
USD20, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Portland Japanese Garden

Experience serene walks through one of the world’s most authentic Japanese gardens decorated in autumn colours. Open from 10:00am.
USD20, 2h

5:00pm

Explore Pearl District

Discover local shops, galleries, and cafes in this lively neighbourhood known for its art scene and vibe.
Free, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at Le Pigeon

Dine on innovative French-inspired dishes with bold flavours, perfect to celebrate your arrival in Portland’s gourmet city.
USD70, 2h

Day 10: Portland Nature & Food

Portland, USA on October 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Mother's Bistro & Bar

Enjoy comforting classics with a homestyle touch using quality local ingredients.
USD20, 1h

9:30am

Visit the Oregon Zoo

Spend your morning interacting with wildlife in this engaging zoo set amidst Washington Park. Hours: 9:30am - 5:00pm.
USD19, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Screen Door

Savour Southern-inspired dishes with fresh locally sourced produce, a Portland favourite.
USD25, 1h

2:30pm

Wine Tasting in Willamette Valley

Take a short afternoon wine tour of the famous Willamette Valley, sampling Pinot Noir and other varietals at boutique wineries.
USD50, 3h

7:00pm

Dinner at Andina Restaurant

Enjoy flavorful Peruvian cuisine in a lively atmosphere, featuring dishes rich in heritage and fresh ingredients.
USD50, 2h

Day 11: Return to Vancouver

Vancouver, Canada on October 9, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Blue Star Donuts

Grab gourmet donuts and coffee to start your travel day with a delicious treat.
USD15, 30m

8:00am

Drive back to Vancouver

Begin your return trip to Vancouver, approximately 5.5 hours including border crossing and breaks.
Fuel approx. CAD70, 5.5h

2:00pm

Arrival and check-in

Settle back into your Vancouver accommodation and rest before an evening out.
Varies, 1h

5:00pm

Visit Granville Island

Explore artisan shops and galleries and enjoy the distinct fall atmosphere on the island.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Farewell dinner at Blue Water Cafe

Celebrate your road trip’s end with an elegant seafood dinner known for sustainable choices and exquisite flavours.
CAD90, 2h