special offer
our
top 10
our favourite things to do in kelowna
number 1
sip through the valley on a wine tour
One of the most popular activities to do in Kelowna is a Wine Tour. There are so many different regions and wineries to explore that you may need to plan a few days of exploring the Valley. The closest Wine Touring Routes to downtown Kelowna are the West Kelowna Wine Trail, Lakeshore & Southeast Kelowna Wine Route and Lake Country’s Scenic Sip Wine Trail. Heading further south into the Summerland, Naramata, Okanagan Falls and South Okanagan Regions will have you tasting bigger and bolder red wines in addition to some great sparkling, white and rose wines. You will taste from 4 to 6 different wines during each of your wine tastings, so please ensure you are being responsible when wine touring. We highly recommend booking a Wine Tour Experience with a licensed Tour Operator that will include transportation, pre-booked tasting reservations and a knowledgeable Wine Tour Driver.
number 2
spend some time on the water
When you are in the Okanagan and the sun is shining, you are going to want to be out on the Water! Kelowna has a great selection of beaches and waterfront parks that including family & pet-friendly options as well as splash parks and fun activities for the kids. Boat and Jetski rentals are another great way to spend the day – you can even book boat rentals with licensed Captains who will do all the driving for you. For a more tranquil day on the water, rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the Okanagan shoreline at your own leisurely pace.
number 3
play a round of golf
The golf courses around the Okanagan Valley feature orchard, mountain, vineyard and lake views making every round a beautiful experience. Whether you are looking to shoot 18 holes or a quick 9, the courses range from Championship Level to Executive style, so there is a golf course for every ability. Kelowna has one of the longest golf seasons in Canada starting as early as February or March and into October / November when the weather cooperates.
number 4
dine with a vineyard view
It’s no secret that Kelowna is surrounded by stunning wineries, but did you know that many of the Wineries have exceptional restaurants? Enjoying lunch or dinner on a patio overlooking the vines and lake is a must while you are in Kelowna. Most winery menus are a reflection of the season featuring local produce and artisans that are found within the valley and then each menu item is perfectly paired with a delicious wine.
number 5
shop 'til you drop on Bernard Avenue
Downtown Kelowna’s “Main Street” is Bernard Avenue which is flanked by cafes, local shops and restaurants. You can easily spend the day wandering Bernard Avenue, starting with Coffee, Brunch or Lunch at one of the delicious Cafes or Restaurants followed by popping in and out of the local shops. For dinner, there are great dine-in or take-out options and some stunning rooftop patio restaurants that are perfect for dining with a view.
number 6
experience history on the Myra canyon trestles
The highly acclaimed Myra Canyon Trestles are a true marvel of Kelowna history. Once serving the Kettle Valley Railway (KVR), the railway was a major economic driver of the Southern Interior connecting the West Coast to the Kootenays. The Myra Canyon section of the KVR proved to be very challenging to construct and featured 19 (now 18) massive wooden trestles and 2 tunnels. In 1980 the Canadian Pacific Railway removed the rails and it wasn’t until 1993 that the trials were open for safe public use. Because of the level terrain, it makes for the perfect 2 to 3 hour leisurely hike or approachable bike ride.
number 7
taste your way through the craft brewery district
The Craft District has really flourished over the past few years in the North End of Downtown Kelowna. This region now boasts 5+ Craft Breweries, Cideries and even an Urban Winery. With all of these spots being so close together, you can easily spend and afternoon brewery-hopping to taste some unique flavours of the valley. The food options are just as delicious as the brews and you’ll often see some local favourite food trucks parked near a tasting room.
number 8
dine like a VIP at a celebrity chef restaurant
Kelowna’s culinary scene has really hit the map with many of our local Chefs being featured on Food Network or competing in both Regional and National Food Competitions. They have all taken their own flare on their culinary craft to their local restaurants, making some extremely noteworthy dining options. Be sure to make your reservations ahead of time to claim your spot in one of their dining rooms.
number 9
get the view from the top of knox mountain
Located at the North End of Downtown Kelowna, Knox Mountain is a favourite hike that rewards you with a 360 degree view of the Valley. You can make this hike as easy or challenging as you prefer with a paved gradual incline walkway perfect for strollers, or mountain paths that wind up the side of the mountain. There are also multiple lookout locations so you can choose to rest and enjoy the view before climbing further or retreating down the mountain.
number 10
get your toes in the sand at the beach
The Okanagan sun is hot, reaching above 30 degrees for much of July and August. Blow up those floaties, pack up that cooler and head to one of Kelowna’s many beach locations. Whether you want to enjoy a bustling day at the beach or hide out on a tranquil beach access, there is a perfect waterfront location waiting for you. Downtown Kelowna has Waterfront Park which includes the sandy Tugboat Bay beach, expansive grassy park areas and the ever-popular boardwalk.
