Updated June 2026: This guide has been refreshed with current transportation notes, active food and drink suggestions, updated market information, and new accommodation booking links.
Kelowna is a lively lake city in the heart of British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, where vineyards climb the hills, orchards line the roads, and Okanagan Lake gives the whole place its summer rhythm. Whether you want wine tasting, hiking, beaches, restaurants, markets, golf, skiing, or a slow lakeside weekend, there is never a shortage of things to do in Kelowna.
I lived in Kelowna for a couple of years in the ’90s, and each return visit reminds me how much the city has changed. There are more condos, more traffic, and more big-city conveniences now, but the bones of the place are still pure Okanagan: hot summer afternoons, lake views, dry hills, fruit stands, and that easy vacation feeling that arrives as soon as you see the water.
For families, Kelowna has beaches, parks, water rentals, orchards, and easy day trips. For couples, there are winery lunches, sunset walks, boutique hotels, and spa weekends. For friends, there are breweries, patios, boat days, nightlife, and wine tours where nobody has to be the designated driver.
There are also plenty of places to stay, from hostels and chain hotels to lakefront resorts and apartment-style suites. We’ve updated the accommodation section below with current booking options and Stay22 links where they make sense.
Use this guide as a practical starting point for your next Okanagan trip. Some attractions are seasonal, and hours can change quickly around holidays, wildfire smoke, weather, and shoulder season, so always check directly before you go.
Affiliate disclosure: This article may contain affiliate links, including Stay22 hotel links. If you book through these links, Discover the PNW may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Getting to Kelowna
If you are driving from Vancouver, Kelowna is usually about 4.5 to 5.5 hours away, depending on the route, traffic, weather, and construction. The Coquihalla route is typically faster, while the Hope-Princeton route is slower but more scenic.
From Seattle, expect roughly 5.5 to 7 hours depending on border wait times and whether you route through Abbotsford or take a more scenic interior route. In winter, check highway conditions before committing to the drive.
Kelowna International Airport offers direct flights from several major Canadian cities and seasonal or direct service from select U.S. cities, including Seattle. Check Kelowna International Airport for current routes and airlines.
Intercity bus service has changed since this article was first published. Greyhound no longer operates the old Vancouver–Kelowna route. For current bus options, check Ebus, Red Arrow, or Rider Express before you travel.
Fun and Fabulous Things to do in Kelowna, BC
1. Cycle Myra Canyon Trestles
The Myra Canyon Trestles are one of Kelowna’s signature outdoor experiences. This section of the historic Kettle Valley Rail Trail sits about 24 km from downtown Kelowna and includes 18 wooden trestle bridges, two tunnels, and big views over the canyon.
The trail is mostly flat, which makes it ideal for casual cyclists, families, and visitors who want scenery without a strenuous hike. You can walk part of it, ride the full trestle section, or rent bikes near Myra Station through local operators like Myra Canyon Bicycle Rentals.
PNW tip: The access road can be dusty or rough depending on the season. Bring water, sun protection, and a light layer, even on warm days. For current trail information, start with Tourism Kelowna’s Myra Canyon guide.
2. Enjoy a Kelowna Wine Tour & Tasting
Wine tasting is one of the top things to do in Kelowna, and for good reason. The city sits in the Okanagan Valley, with more than 40 wineries within a short drive of town and many more stretching south toward Summerland, Naramata, and Osoyoos.
You can self-drive with a map if someone is happy to skip the tastings, but an organized tour is much easier. A local guide keeps the day relaxed, helps you choose wineries that match your style, and lets everyone enjoy the views and pours without worrying about the road.
We had a great experience wine tasting in the Okanagan, and you can read more in our related guide to wine tasting in the Okanagan Valley. For current winery maps and trip ideas, check Tourism Kelowna’s winery guide.
3. Pick Fruit or Stop at a Farm Stand
The Okanagan is orchard country. Before wine became the region’s most famous draw, the hills and roads around Kelowna were already full of cherries, apples, peaches, pears, plums, apricots, berries, and farm stands.
From late spring through fall, you can find seasonal produce across the valley. Cherries usually get the summer glory, but peaches, apricots, apples, and pears all have their moment. U-pick farms change hours based on weather and crop conditions, so check before you drive out.
We picked cherries at Kempf Orchards and loved the simple joy of filling a bucket under the trees. Even if you do not pick your own, stop at a roadside fruit stand for picnic supplies.
4. Have a Meal at a Winery
Winery dining is one of the best ways to slow down in Kelowna. Many winery restaurants pair Okanagan views with seasonal ingredients, local produce, and wine flights that make lunch feel like the main event of the day.
Long-time favourites include Old Vines Restaurant at Quails’ Gate, The Terrace Restaurant at Mission Hill Family Estate, and Home Block at CedarCreek Estate Winery.
The photo above is from a past meal at Red Fox Club at Indigenous World Winery, which is no longer operating as it did when this article was first published. Indigenous World Winery itself has continued to be an important Okanagan wine name, but always check current tasting room details before visiting.
PNW tip: Winery restaurants can book up quickly in summer and during harvest season. Make reservations ahead, especially for sunset dinners and weekend lunches.
5. Get Out on Okanagan Lake
Okanagan Lake is the reason Kelowna feels like a summer city. It stretches for roughly 135 km through the valley, with Kelowna sitting near the middle and beaches, marinas, parks, and resorts lining the shore.
Rent a kayak or paddleboard for a quiet morning, book a boat rental with friends, join a sailing or sunset cruise, or spend the day swimming from one of the city beaches. If you are traveling with kids, a calm beach day can be just as memorable as a full tour schedule.
PNW tip: Wind can pick up in the afternoon, so morning is often best for paddling. Check weather, smoke, and water conditions before heading out.
6. Play in Kelowna’s Parks and Beaches
Kelowna has an easy outdoor rhythm: beach in the morning, shade in the afternoon, patio at night. The city has more than enough parks and beaches to fill a week, whether you want a central waterfront walk or a full day by the water.
Hot Sands Beach at City Park is the easiest choice if you are staying downtown. There is a beach, boardwalk, playground, water park, volleyball, and quick access to restaurants and shops. Boyce-Gyro Beach is another favourite, with sandy shoreline, lawns, washrooms, and a classic summer feel.
For a quieter outing, look at smaller beaches and parks along Abbott Street or farther south toward the Mission area. Check City of Kelowna parks and beaches for current facilities and rules.
7. Visit Breweries, Cideries & Distilleries
Kelowna may be wine country, but the craft beer and spirits scene has grown up fast. The city has a lively Brewery District, cider options tied to the orchard landscape, and distilleries pouring creative cocktails downtown.
Start with the Kelowna and West Kelowna Ale Trail for an updated route. Good stops to check include Kelowna Beer Institute, Railside Brewing, The Office Brewery, and Urban Distilleries on Bernard Avenue.
PNW tip: If you plan to taste at more than one stop, walk, use transit, book a tour, or choose a designated driver. Many breweries cluster close enough to make a casual self-guided afternoon.
8. Hike Knox Mountain
Knox Mountain Park is the go-to hike close to downtown Kelowna. You can make it a workout, a viewpoint stop, or an easy lake-view walk depending on how far you want to go.
The Apex Trail is the classic climb, with steep sections and big rewards at the lookout. For something gentler, try Paul’s Tomb Trail, which follows the lakeside slope toward a quiet picnic and swimming spot.
Summer heat can be intense on the exposed sections, so start early, carry water, and skip midday if temperatures are high. In spring and fall, this is one of the best close-to-town hikes in Kelowna.
9. Explore Downtown Kelowna
Downtown Kelowna is walkable, sunny, and best enjoyed at an unhurried pace. Stroll the waterfront boardwalk, watch the marina traffic, browse shops, stop for coffee, and wander into the Cultural District for galleries, breweries, and events.
The downtown core is especially good in the evening when the heat softens and patios fill up. Start near Waterfront Park, walk toward City Park, then choose a rooftop, lakeside patio, or brewery for dinner.
PNW tip: Parking can be busy in summer. If you are staying downtown, leave the car parked and walk the waterfront instead.
10. Catch a Show, Game or Festival
Kelowna has a year-round event calendar, from concerts and hockey games to summer festivals, winery concerts, cultural performances, comedy, and outdoor events. Downtown venues and waterfront spaces make it easy to add a show to a weekend trip.
Prospera Place hosts concerts, sporting events, and larger performances, while smaller venues, theatres, and wineries fill in the rest of the calendar.
For current listings, check Tourism Kelowna’s events calendar before your dates are locked in.
11. Wander Kelowna Farmers’ & Crafters’ Market
The Kelowna Farmers’ and Crafters’ Market is one of the best ways to taste the Okanagan in one place. In the main outdoor season, the market typically runs Wednesday and Saturday mornings at the Landmark District, with produce, flowers, crafts, baked goods, prepared foods, and local makers.
Bring a tote, arrive hungry, and build your own picnic from whatever looks best that morning. This is a good stop before a beach day, winery afternoon, or drive south along the lake.
Updated market note: For 2026, the outdoor main market is listed from April 4 through October 31, Wednesdays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Always confirm the current calendar before you go.
12. Have Drinks by the Waterfront
Rose’s Waterfront Pub, which appeared in the original version of this article, has closed. The lakeside location is now home to King Taps Lakeside, a large waterfront restaurant and bar with boardwalk access, lake views, rotating taps, pizza, cocktails, and one of the most recognizable patio locations in downtown Kelowna.
If you are staying downtown, this area is easy to pair with a boardwalk stroll, sunset, or post-beach dinner. It is not the only waterfront option, but it is one of the most convenient if you want the classic Kelowna lakefront patio experience.
PNW tip: Make reservations when possible in summer. The best patio tables go quickly on warm evenings.
13. Get Active at Big White
Big White Ski Resort is about an hour from Kelowna and gives the city a true four-season adventure edge. Winter is the main draw, with skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, tubing, skating, and a full village atmosphere.
In summer, Big White shifts into mountain biking, hiking, scenic chairlift rides, events, and cooler alpine air when the valley gets hot. It is an easy day trip from Kelowna, but you can also stay overnight on the mountain if you want a full resort weekend.
PNW tip: Mountain weather changes quickly. Check lift operations, trail openings, and road conditions before you drive up.
14. Play a Round of Golf
Kelowna is a strong golf destination thanks to its dry climate, long season, and views that make even a rough round feel worthwhile. Courses range from relaxed and affordable to polished resort-style layouts with lake, orchard, and vineyard backdrops.
Popular area options include Gallagher’s Canyon, The Harvest, Tower Ranch, Okanagan Golf Club, and Two Eagles in nearby West Kelowna. Book tee times ahead in summer and early fall.
PNW tip: If you are visiting in July or August, choose an early tee time. The afternoon heat can be serious.
15. Experience Kelowna Nightlife
Kelowna nightlife has range. You can keep it casual with a brewery flight, dress up for cocktails, watch live music, catch a comedy show, or dance late downtown. In summer, the evening often starts on a patio and slowly moves into bars, lounges, or live music venues.
Look around Bernard Avenue, the Cultural District, and the waterfront for the easiest concentration of options. Check event listings first if live music is part of the plan.
Good to know: The legal drinking age in British Columbia is 19. Bring ID, even if you are well past 19, as venues may still ask.
Kelowna Accommodations
Kelowna accommodations range from hostels and highway hotels to boutique motels, full-service resorts, and lakefront suites. If you want to walk to beaches, restaurants, and nightlife, stay downtown. If you want a quieter resort feel, look toward Manteo, Eldorado, or the Mission area. If you are focused on wineries, West Kelowna or Lake Country can also make sense.
Here are a few Kelowna hotels and stays to start your search. Always compare total price, parking, cancellation policy, resort fees, and location before booking.
Budget
HI Kelowna Hostel is the updated name to look for if you remember Samesun Kelowna from the older version of this guide. It is a social, budget-friendly downtown hostel close to beaches, cafés, nightlife, and the waterfront, with shared facilities and private or dorm-style options depending on availability.
Days Inn by Wyndham Kelowna is a practical budget hotel option with simple rooms, parking, and highway access. The trade-off is location: it is not a walkable lakefront stay, so plan to drive or use rideshare if your itinerary is focused downtown.
Mid Price
Coast Capri Hotel is a full-service Kelowna hotel with a pool, restaurant, spa services, and a central location that works well if you have a car and want easy access to both downtown and other parts of the city.
Hotel Zed Kelowna is colourful, casual, and close to City Park, the lake, and downtown restaurants. It is one of the easiest mid-range choices if you want a fun stay with walkable summer access.
Luxury
Delta Hotels by Marriott Grand Okanagan Resort is still one of the strongest lakefront choices in Kelowna if the budget allows. The downtown waterfront location gives you easy access to the boardwalk, marina, restaurants, beaches, and events, while the resort itself has pools, dining, spa access, and full-service amenities.
Manteo at Eldorado Resort is another strong lakefront option, especially if you want more of a resort feel outside the downtown core. It is well located for beach time, lake activities, and exploring the Mission area.
Best Time to Visit Kelowna
Summer is the classic Kelowna season, with beach days, boating, patios, orchards, and long evenings by the lake. It is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.
Spring brings blossoms, fresh green hills, lighter crowds, and early winery season. It is a good time for hiking, cycling, markets, and lower hotel rates.
Fall is one of the best times for wine lovers. Harvest season, cooler hiking weather, golden vineyards, and quieter beaches make September and October especially appealing.
Winter works well if you want Big White skiing, cozy restaurants, wine tasting without summer crowds, and a quieter lake city feel.
Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Kelowna
Kelowna is easy to enjoy because the best parts of the Okanagan are close together: lake, hills, orchards, wineries, markets, breweries, beaches, and trails. You can make the trip as active or as relaxed as you want.
Ride the Myra Canyon Trestles, book a wine tour, eat lunch with a vineyard view, swim in Okanagan Lake, wander downtown, and leave time for a fruit stand stop on the way out. That mix of simple pleasures is what keeps Kelowna feeling like a true PNW summer classic.
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A long-time resident of Bristish Columbia, Sarah is a writer, traveler, wine & food lover and co-owner of Discover the Pacific Northwest and Live Dream Discover.
