Fall Weekend Adventures in KW That Are Totally Worth Putting on Pants For
Let’s be honest—sometimes the couch, a fuzzy blanket, and a bottomless mug of tea are all we need in the fall. But Kitchener-Waterloo shows off in autumn and makes getting dressed totally worth it. Whether you’re a fall fanatic or just in it for the snacks, here are some awesome KW-area weekend adventures to inspire your next outing.
St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market: Fall Treats & Photo Ops
This is the spot for fall feels. Beyond your usual market haul, fall weekends bring:
Pumpkin stands bursting with orange goodness
Fresh apple cider, caramel apples, and local preserves
Corn mazes at nearby farms (like Waterloo Central Railway's Harvest Express combo!)
Picture-perfect scenes for your next Instagram post (yes, even with a donut in hand)
Stephanie Tip: Go early on Saturdays to beat the crowds and snag the warmest baked goods.
Scenic Drives Through Woolwich Township
Sometimes all you need is a good playlist and an open road. Take a drive through:
Bloomingdale to West Montrose, crossing the Covered Bridge
The rolling hills of Conestogo and St. Clements
Elmira’s backroads, especially near sunset
Roll down your window, sip your cider, and let the fall colours do their thing.
Day Trip: Downey’s Farm in Caledon
Okay, it's a bit of a drive—but totally worth the tank of gas.
Pumpkins galore (mini, warty, white, and giant)
A fully decked-out Pumpkin Fest with photo stations and kids’ activities
Donuts. Cider donuts. Warm cider donuts.
Farm animals, tractor rides, and all the cozy fall vibes
This one's a must for young families, date days, or just anyone who wants to frolic among gourds.
Oktoberfest Road Races
If you’re feeling active (or want to justify another pretzel), sign up for the annual Oktoberfest Road Races:
Choose from 5K, 10K, or family fun run options
Enjoy the festive energy, music, and maybe even a beer at the finish line
Great excuse to break out those running shoes and join in KW’s biggest celebration
Runner’s Tip: Dress in layers and bring gloves—it’s usually brisk at the starting line.
DIY Fall Scavenger Hunt in Local Parks
Perfect for families, couples, or solo explorers:
Print off or create your own fall scavenger hunt (red leaf, squirrel, acorn, mushroom, spooky tree—you get the idea)
Head to spots like Huron Natural Area, Bechtel Park, or Waterloo Park
Turn it into a contest (winner gets a cider from Vincenzo’s or a City Café cookie)
It’s simple fun that gets everyone moving and appreciating the season.
Bonus Ideas for Ultimate Fall Vibes
Coffee Crawl: Try warm drinks from local cafés like Smile Tiger, Show & Tell, or Seven Shores. Pumpkin spice not required.
Picnic with a Blanket: Grab takeout from a local food truck and have a cozy fall picnic at Victoria Park or Columbia Lake.
Self-Guided Mural Walk: Explore KW’s public art while the leaves change around you.
KW in the fall is cozy, crunchy, and just the right kind of magical. Whether you’re chasing foliage, craving cider donuts, or collecting leaves with the kids, there’s something every weekend that’s so worth putting on pants for (and maybe even upgrading to your “nice” fall boots).
If you're falling for KW and thinking of making it your forever hometown, I’d love to help. Let’s connect—maybe over a hot cider on a park bench!