Fall in Toronto is a vibe, from the crisp air to the colourful leaves and the cozy sweater weather we all crave. Whether you’re a first-year student navigating campus life or a seasoned student looking for a break between assignments, the GTA’s got you covered with affordable, fun activities.
This guide is your fall bucket list, packed with student-friendly adventures near York University and beyond. This list is organized like a seasonal itinerary, flowing from early autumn’s harvest time to late October’s spine-tingling thrills. Sprinkled in are some of my personal favourite activities that I think are definitely worth checking out!
Pro tip: TTC and GO Transit are your best friends for getting around, so grab your PRESTO card and let’s make this autumn epic.
Apple picking and pumpkin patches
The leaves are still turning, and so are the best fall plans! These spots are budget-friendly, perfect for group study breaks and ideal for snagging that perfect Instagram shot. If you are on the hunt for the biggest pumpkin to carve or make a delicious harvest soup out of, make sure to check out the following spots.
Robintide Farms in Caledon (access from the Keele Campus via subway to the GO bus) is my personal favourite for pumpkin picking. The corn walks and farm games make the picking experience as fun as it can be, and their cider donuts are indescribable.
Dixie Orchards or Albion Orchards in Caledon have apple picking and pumpkin patches in October. Downey’s Farm Market in Caledon is another gem with wagon tours and sunflower fields, perfect for a sunny afternoon.
At the end of October (Oct. 25 and 26), Cooper’s Farm will be hosting a Pumpkin Sale with free admission and one free pumpkin from the field. Any additional pumpkins you pick are just $1 each!
Pro tip: Most of these spots offer student discounts with your YU-card, so don’t forget it!
Don’t forget about seasonal treats
On your way to these fun activities, grab a treat for yourself because fall flavours are just too good to pass up. Starbucks and Tim Hortons are serving up their seasonal best, from the classic pumpkin spice latte to cozy pecan oat cortados and pumpkin spice cold brews. Don’t miss their fall treats either, like spiced muffins, apple fritters and pumpkin pastries that pair perfectly with a cool autumn day. Whether you're headed to the pumpkin patch or just taking a scenic walk, these tasty stops are the ultimate fall pick-me-up.
Thrills: Halloween haunts
Toronto offers eerie vibes for anybody and every budget!
Ghost tours are a must! The Original Haunted Walk of Toronto (nightly in October) explores creepy spots like the Distillery District. At $25, it’s cheaper than a night out. Pair it with the Spirits of the Distillery District Ghost Tour for extra chills.
For adrenaline junkies, Canada’s Wonderland Halloween Haunt (weekends from Oct. 4 to Nov. 1, 20 minutes from the Keele Campus) is my personal favourite for its scare zones and mazes. Buying student tickets online can save you some money, so go early to skip the lines!
Add in Legends of Horror at Casa Loma (Oct. 4 to Nov.1) for a zombie apocalypse walkthrough, which is both thrilling and historic.
Last but not least, Church Street hosts a yearly Halloween festival on Oct. 31 featuring a free street party with parades, drag shows and community vibes in the Village.
Grab your Presto card, rally your friends and dive into these exciting fall activities. The beautiful fall weather won’t be here for that long, so let’s make the most of the season.