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31 Awesome Things to do in Kelowna: The Ultimate Kelowna Travel Guide

Looking for some incredible things to do in Kelowna during your next visit? This guide is for you!

Over the years Kelowna has quickly became one of my favourite places to visit in Canada.

I find myself wanting to spend more and more time there every year!

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Quails Gate Estate Winery

Beyond how absolutely stunning it is, there’s just so many fun attractions and activities to do in Kelowna.

From visiting vineyards to boating on Lake Okanagan and hiking through the mountains.

Whether you’re more of a leisurely traveler or an adventurer, there are so many awesome things to do in Kelowna.

It is sure to make you quickly fall in love with our beautiful country!

If you’re planning a trip to Kelowna sometime soon, I hope you find this guide on the best things to do in Kelowna useful!

If you’re visiting the Okanagan soon, you may also want to check out these posts:

Table of Contents

Weather in Kelowna

Although the weather in Kelowna is some of the best you will find in Canada year round, most people tend to visit Kelowna in the summer.

Summer

Summers in Kelowna are absolutely divine!

Here the weather is nice and hot, but you don’t have the humidity that eastern cities like Toronto and Montreal are used to.

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna!
Summer in Kelowna is lovely and hot

During summertime in Kelowna, you can easily expect temperatures to be in the mid twenties all the way up to the forties (celsius of course).

Dress for warm weather if you’re coming in the summer!

Spring

Spring in Kelowna is also a beautiful time to visit.

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna!
Spring in Kelowna is beautiful and blooming!

During spring you can expect temperatures from 15 degrees all the way up to the mid twenties.

Although, during El Nino years spring has been colder so be sure to bring layers and check the forecast.

Fall

Fall in Kelowna is gorgeous, and tends to be much longer than fall in other parts of Canada.

Due to the warmer weather you really get to experience a full month or even more of the leaves changing colors.

Fall in Kelowna is stunning and so colorful

Like spring, the temperature during fall in Kelowna can vary anywhere from 10 degrees to 25 degrees or so.

Winter

Lastly, winters in Kelowna are quite mild.

Temperatures don’t often fall below zero, and although there is snow there is never a ton of it (well, at least to Alberta standards).

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna!
Even the winters are beautiful and mild in Kelowna

There is of course plenty of things to do in Kelowna even in winter!

Wineries are almost all open, and of course there are lots of outdoor winter activities to do here like skiing, snowboarding, and skating.

By the way, I have a whole guide to things to do in Kelowna in winter so be sure to check it out!

Getting Around Kelowna

It is best if you’re visiting Kelowna to have a vehicle because a lot of activities and destinations are spread out.

If you are planning on staying in downtown Kelowna you could get by without a car, however there is just so much to see outside of the downtown core.

If you will be visiting wineries during your stay in Kelowna (which is one of the best things to do in Kelowna!), you will especially want to plan to have transportation.

A lot of wineries in Kelowna are quite spread out and require driving between them.

If you don’t want to drive, one of the best and easiest ways to enjoy a day of winery hopping is to book a wine tour.

Wine tours will give you a designated driver that will take you from winery to winery meaning you won’t have to worry about how much you drink or where you’re going!

There are also a few wineries you can visit by bike, but I would highly recommend to either travel with a designated driver or book a wine tour to really get the best out of your visit.

The Kelowna or West Kelowna Afternoon Sightseeing Wine Tour is easily the highest rated wine tour in the area.

This incredible wine tour gives you the option of touring 4 of the best wineries in Kelowna, or 4 of the best wineries in West Kelowna, and it’s totally up to you to pick!

Now, onto the guide of the best things to do in Kelowna!

The Best Things to do in Kelowna

1. Step back in time and taste wine at Crown & Thieves

Address: 3887C Brown Rd, West Kelowna

I couldn’t help but start this post off with a winery, and Crown & Thieves is hands down the most unique winery in Kelowna.

Visiting wineries is one of my absolute favourite things to do when I’m in Kelowna.

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Crown & Thieves

In fact, I love it so much I wrote a full guide to the best wineries in Kelowna.

There’s just so many amazing wineries to visit in the BC region, and Kelowna alone has over 50!

Step into Crown & Thieves and you will immediately feel like you stepped back in time.

One step into Crown & Thieves and you will seriously feel like you’ve walked straight into something out of Pirates of the Carribbean!

But not only is it a stunning and unique winery, their wines are incredible too.

This is one Kelowna winery you won’t want to miss!

2. Have a drink at the Broken Hearts Club

Address: 3887C Brown Rd, West Kelowna

Another thing that makes Crown & Thieves so unique, is they actually have a speakeasy bar in the basement!

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Broken Hearts Club

Open Friday – Sunday from 12pm-9pm, The Broken Hearts Club serves great cocktails and of course Cown & Thieves wine in the coolest speakeasy bar.

They also have a happy hour Friday – Sunday from 3pm-5pm where you can get great deals on cocktails and wine.

3. Have dinner Family Style at Angel Share

Address: 3887C Brown Rd, West Kelowna

Located on the rooftop at Crown & Thieves is Angel Share, Kelowna’s only fully outdoor restaurant!

Angel Share specializes in family share plates, and the menu is ever changing.

Seriously, every day the menu is different based on the availability of local seasonal ingredients.

Expect an incredibly unique menu and great dining experience!

4. Bike or Hike along the Myra Canyon / Kettle Valley Railway

Address: Kettle Valley Rail Trail, Naramata

If you’re spending a couple of days in Kelowna you absolutely have to head out to the Myra Canyon portion of the Kettle Valley Railway.

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Kettle Valley Trail

Located about a 45 minute drive from the heart of Kelowna, the Myra Canyon Trestle trail is multi-use trail made along the old Kettle Valley Railway train tracks.

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Kettle Valley Trail

The coolest part is that the train tracks are way up high in the mountains!

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Kettle Valley Trail

It is such a unique experience that there is no surprise it’s one of Kelowna’s top attractions.

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Kettle Valley Trail

It’s an incredibly scenic 22km round trip route that’s great for walking & biking for all ages.

Along the trail you’ll pass over multiple trestles and even through tunnels that the trains used to go through and get some pretty spectacular views!

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Kettle Valley Trail

You can rent a bike in the parking lot through Myra Canyon Bike Rentals (I recommend this if you want to do the full route).

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Kettle Valley Trail

It’s such an incredible way to spend the day and get a little exercise in and I love that you can rent a bike if you don’t have one!

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Kettle Valley Trail

The Myra Canyon trestle trail is a great activity for young or old so grab your fam and get ready for a great time and incredibly scenic Kelowna views!

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Kettle Valley Trail

By the way – in case you’re wondering I wore bike shorts under my skirt and slipped the skirt overtop of them for photos.

Of course I didn’t bike in this skirt I’m not that crazy.

Location details for Myra Canyon Trestle Trail here

5. Go trail riding with Kelowna Stables at Myra Canyon Ranch

Address: 4675 June Springs Rd

Another great activity to do in Myra Canyon (located just 25 drive from downtown Kelowna) beyond biking the Kettle Valley trail is horseback riding with Kelowna Stables.

Whether you’re a beginner, moderate level or expert horseback rider Kelowna Stables is the place to go.

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Trail riding at Myra Canyon Ranch

You’ll get to experience some of the most beautiful trails, friendliest staff, and best views you’ll see all from horseback!

It’s also really easy to get both biking along the Kettle Valley trail and riding at Kelowna Stables done in one day, so if you’re making the trip out to Myra Canyon I definitely recommend doing both.

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Trail riding at Myra Canyon Ranch

In fact, you can even rent bikes at Kelowna Stables to do the Kettle Valley Railway trail!

Make sure to reserve your bike online when booking your trail ride so you can get the most out of your visit to the area.

Kelowna Stables is located at the Myra Canyon Ranch Bed & Breakfast, located right at the entrance to Myra-Bellevue Provincial Park. Location details here!

6. Taste Wine at Quails Gate Estate Winery

Address: 3303 Boucherie Rd

Quail’s Gate Estate Winery is one of Canada’s first family owned estate wineries, and really is an institution in Kelowna because of its history.

Visiting Quail's Gate Winery - a top attraction and one of my favourite things to do in Kelowna

The Stewart family who owns it has been in the viticulture business for 60 years, and Quail’s Gate has been around for 30 of those years!

We visit Quail’s Gate Estate Winery almost every time we are in Kelowna.

Quail’s Gate has one of the most beautiful views from their tasting room, you definitely don’t want to miss seeing it!

They also have numerous tasting options available, from their standard tasting to their vineyard tasting, wine and cheese tasting, and even a wine and bourbon paired tasting!

7. Have lunch (or dinner) at Old Vines Restaurant

Address: 3303 Boucherie Rd

There are a few really great wineries that have amazing restaurants for lunch in Kelowna, and Quail’s Gate is the first on this list!

Quail's Gate Winery is the perfect daytime activity to do while in Kelowna

After visiting their beautiful vineyard and doing a tasting in their tasting room, you have to stop for lunch at Old Vines Restaurant.

Old Vines Restaurant is a stunning restaurant with incredible views.

Not only is it beautiful, but it’s one of the original wineries in West Kelowna and is consistently top-ranked in the Okanagan.

I absolutely love having lunch at Old Vines Restaurant, and it truly is one of the best winery restaurants.

By the way, I have a whole guide on best wineries in Kelowna for lunch if you’re looking for more ideas!

8. Pick your own Cherries at a local Orchard

Picking cherries is something that had been on our list for the last few years but somehow we never got around to it.

Picking cherries is a fun activity to do in Kelowna
Picking cherries at FranSera Farms

I was so happy that we made it out cherry picking this year and I definitely recommend visiting an orchard and doing it yourself!

There are so many great cherry orchards you can go to pick cherries (and other fruits) at.

It’s the perfect activity to do while you’re in Kelowna.

Picking cherries - a fun activity to do in Kelowna

We went to the small family owned Fransera Farm in Lake Country (they don’t even have a website!) and it was such a great experience.

I swear the cherries taste even sweeter when you’ve picked them yourself.

Hows that for an afternoon activity you can really sink our teeth into?

Location details to FranSera Farms here

9. Pick seasonal fruit at Paynter’s Fruit Market

Address: 3687 Paynter Rd, West Kelowna

Open mid-late June until early fall, Paynter’s Fruit Market is a fantastic farm and orchard to visit in West Kelowna.

No matter what month you arrive, they will have something fun you can pick!

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Pick fruit at Paynter's Fruit Market

It is such a fun experience to visit Paynter’s and pick fresh fruit.

We went and picked golden plums which I had never heard of, and they were so delicious!

I highly recommend visiting Paynter’s when you visit.

Here is a list of the fruits they have and when they will (approximately) be ripe for the picking:

  • Apricots: July
  • Peaches: End of July – early September
  • Golden Plums: August
  • Pears: Late August – Early October
  • Apples: End September – Late October
  • Italian Prune Plums: September

10. Taste some incredible wines at Black Swift Vineyards

Address: 2345 Boucherie Rd

Black Swift Vineyards opened in 2020 and is easily one of my all time favourite wineries in Kelowna.

(you can read my guide to the best wineries in Kelowna here)

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Black Swift Vineyards

The wines at Black Swift are absolutely incredible!

Black Swift is the kind of winery for people who love good wines, but like any Jason Parkes’ winery they aren’t about being wine snobs.

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Black Swift Vineyards

But just because they aren’t your typical wine snobs, doesn’t mean their wines aren’t fantastic.

Beyond having incredible wines, the views here are stunning and they have the friendliest staff that makes your tasting experience truly enjoyable.

11. Spend your Sunday at Hangover Church

Address: 2345 Boucherie Rd

If you happen to be in Kelowna on a Sunday, you have to book yourself in for Hangover Church at Black Swift Vineyards!

Hangover Church is a one seating brunch event with a breakfast feature dish, mimosa, and full wine tasting experience.

This is one unique (and fun) way to spend your Sunday!

12. Hike to the top of Mount Boucherie and take in the stunning views.

Address: E Boundary Rd, Westbank

What was once a 2000m active volcano that dates back 60 million years is now an amazing hiking trail that takes you to 360 degree views of the Okanagan Valley below.

Due to erosion the peak is now just under 800m and has some pretty spectacular views!

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Hike to the top of Mount Boucherie

Mount Boucherie has 3 different trails you can go on that range from moderate to difficult level hikes.

At about 6km round trip, some areas are easy enough for the whole family while others require more experienced hikers.

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Hike to the top of Mount Boucherie

Pick a trail based on your skill level and get ready to see why hiking is a big attraction in Kelowna!

Thanks to Tourism Kelowna, here are the directions for both the more difficult and easier hikes:

Regular trail: To access this trail, turn onto Bartley Road from Hwy 97. This road turns into East Boundary Rd. Follow the road approximately 1.5 km and you will see a small parking area on your left. Click here for Google Maps location.

Easier trail: If you are a beginner hiker or if you have younger children with you, consider accessing the trails from Lakeview Cove Road at Eain Lamont Park. This option will reduce your elevation gain making it easier. Click here for Google Maps location.

13. Visit one of Kelowna’s many public beaches

As if you were going to visit Kelowna without spending some time on the lake right?

Whether you decide to visit one of Kelowna’s beaches and spend the day laying in the sun, strolling along the downtown harbour, checking out the passing boats, or you prefer to get out on the water yourself, you absolutely must spend some time visiting Lake Okanagan.

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna!

If you’re like me then your ideal vacation activity is spending the day laying on a beach with a good book, with not a care in the world, cooler in hand, and of course plenty of snacks packed away!

Kelowna has so many great beaches to visit and these are some of the most popular (click them for the location details):

14. Rent a boat for the day

Who doesn’t love boating right?

Why not rent a boat through Okanagan Boat Rentals and spend the day boating on Lake Okanagan!

They have boat rentals with everything you need for tubing, wakesurfing, wakeboarding, water skiing, and knee boarding!

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna!

You can reserve a boat online on their website and they have seadoos too which are such a fun activity to do while in Kelowna.

Looking for something a little more unique?

Check out Maeg’s BBQ Boats which are quite literally boats with BBQ’s in the middle!

15. Spend the day kayaking, paddle boarding or canoeing on the lake

For an extra fun activity to do in Kelowna on the lake (that’s also a great workout) I recommend you rent a kayak, paddle board, or canoe from Okanagan Beach Rentals!

They have 5 rental locations along Lake Okanagan at some of the most popular beaches and it’s a great way to get out and enjoy the lake.

Kayaking in Kelowna is a must do while visiting!

You can rent from Okanagan Beach Rentals at these locations:

For more details on Okanagan Beach Rentals and their locations click here!

16. Go for a Stroll along the Waterfront Boardwalk

The waterfront boardwalk is an absolutely stunning little walk along Lake Okanagan in downtown Kelowna.

On this walk you’ll get to see all sorts of wildlife, boats coming and going from the marina, and people out and about having picnics on the grass.

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Go for a stroll along the boardwalk
View from the boardwalk

Stop for an ice cream along the way or head into one of the local restaurants and bars nearby for a drink after your stroll.

Parking is easily available along the streets or in one of the nearby carparks.

This is the perfect place to go for an after dinner stroll especially since it’s in close proximity to so many restaurants.

17. Take in the views from up high on a Parasailing experience

Address: 230 Queensway, Kelowna

Want to see Kelowna from a whole new perspective?

Why not see it from up high in the sky on a parasailing adventure on Lake Okanagan!

We went parasailing the summer before last and it was so much fun.

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Go parasailing

Book your parasailing adventure with Ogopogo Parasail and see why it’s such a popular attraction in Kelowna.

Ogopogo offers single, tandem and triple parasailing experiences.

Make sure to wear a bathing suit because there’s a good chance you’ll get a little dip in the water on your way down.

Ogopogo Parasail is located right at the Downtown Kelowna Waterfront in Kerry Park.

18. Head for a hipster wine tasting at The Hatch

Address: 3225 Boucherie Rd

The Hatch opened in 2015 and has some of my all time favourite wines in the region.

7 years later I can still proudly say that hasn’t changed one bit!

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Taste wine at The Hatch

The Hatch prides itself in being a laid back winery that’s a far cry from the traditional “wine snob” wineries you can find in most wine regions.

They have the most artistic and fun wine labels to boot!

19. Try organic wines at Summerhill Pyramid Winery

Address: 4870 Chute Lake Rd

We’ve been visiting Summerhill Pyramid Winery for years and you may remember it from my post on Instagrammable places in Kelowna (which you should check out here!).

Summerhill never fails to remain on the top of my things to do in Kelowna list.

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Try organic wines at Summerhill Pyramid Winery

There’s a reason why this is one of the top wedding venues in Kelowna and it’s not just because it’s beautiful.

All the wines at Summerhill are organic & biodynamic, and their bistro boasts an amazing menu of delicious local & organic fare with plenty of vegan options.

Summerhill is definitely a must visit – and besides, who doesn’t want a picture with a giant bottle of bubbly?

20. Visit the local Farmer’s Market

Address: Crn Springfield &, Dilworth Dr

You’ll find some pretty amazing locally grown fruits & vegetables in Kelowna so you’d definitely be missing out if you don’t try some while you’re there.

If buying your fruits and veggies already picked is more your jam then you can grab some at one of the many orchards or head over to the Kelowna Farmer’s and Crafter’s Market.

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Visit the Farmer's Market

The market Is open every Wednesday and Saturday from 8am-1pm.

They feature a large selection of farm, food, and craft vendors from around the area.

It’s a great place to stop by to get all of your fresh fruits, veggies, meats and baked goods all in one!

Location details for Kelowna Farmer’s and Crafter’s Market here

21. Check out the Oyama Zipline & Aerial Adventure Park

Address: 5617 Oyama Lake Rd

There’s a reason why Oyama Zipline is voted one of the top Kelowna Must-Do adventure activities and attractions.

I did the Aerial Adventure Park this past summer with my sister-in-law and we had a blast!

If you think aerial adventure parks are just for kids have I got news for you.

Not only was it difficult but we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Oyama Zipline & Aerial Adventure Park

The entire course takes a couple of hours and is a great activity to do while visiting Kelowna.

Make sure you wear sneakers with decent grip on the bottom, leggings or athletic shorts, and bring a hoodie.

The park is shaded and it can get a little chillier than In the sun!

Oyama Zipline & Aerial Adventure Park has 4 courses of varying difficulties.

Start on the easiest one while you get your bearings and work your way up to the black diamond.

I thought I was in for an easy afternoon activity but couldn’t believe how sore I was the next day!

Location details for Oyama Zipline & Aerial Adventure Park here!

22. Try some amazing ciders and wine at The View Winery

Address: 2287 Ward Rd

The View Winery is not only a kick ass winery that has amazing wines but they also make cider too!

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: The View Winery and Cidery

They have a whole lineup of amazing year-round and seasonal ciders that are some of the most flavourful and delicious ciders I’ve ever tried.

Stop by to try their cider, wines, or both!

Location details for The View Winery here

23. Go for a spirit tasting at Okanagan Spirits Kelowna

Address: 267 Bernard Ave

Prefer something a little stronger? Okanagan Spirits has you covered!

Located right in the heart of downtown Kelowna and just a short walk from the harbour, Okanagan Spirits has a great spirit lineup that includes Whiskies, Vodka, Gin, Liqueurs, Brandies and even Absinthe!

Stop the shop to try out some of their spirits and go home with a bottle or two.. you won’t regret it.

Location details for Okanagan Spirits here

24. Challenge yourself with a hike at McDougall Rim

Address: McDougall Rim Hiking Trail

McDougall Rim is not for the faint of heart or for the newbie hiker, but if you’re an adventurer that likes a challenge this is a must do!

McDougall Rim is an intense uphill hike that eventually tapers off into more level land.

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Hike at McDougall Rim

Unlike the other hikes mentioned in this guide to the best things to do in Kelowna, McDougall Rim does not have clearly labeled trails and can be quite difficult to navigate.

The entire hike is over 20km and not for the faint of heart.

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Hike at McDougall Rim

Make sure you bring lots of water and snacks if you plan on trying for the whole trail!

McDougall Rim is one of the top hiking attractions in Kelowna so prepare for some pretty stellar views.

To get to McDougall Rim: Going north in Westbank on Hwy 97 turn left on Bartley Rd. Follow the road straight to a gravel road, you will be on private property for 2km. Park on the right just before the cattleguard and the trail starts here.

Location details for McDougall Rim hiking trail here

25. Grab a beer flight at BNA Brewing Co. & Eatery

Address: 1250 Ellis St

BNA was voted #1 brewery in Kelowna so of course it had to be included on my list of top Kelowna attractions!

Stop by their on-site tasting room and grab a flight of your choice from their list of 9 locally made beers or head to the restaurant for a meal and a couple pints.

By the way – they also have ten pin bowling on site so it’s the perfect afternoon activity to do in Kelowna – especially if the weather isn’t cooperating!

Want to check out more of Kelowna’s amazing cideries, breweries and distilleries? Check out this post on Tourism Kelowna’s website for a whole list of them!

Location details for BNA here

26. Visit Benvoulin Heritage Church

Address: 2279 Benvoulin Rd

Visiting churches is such a thing in Europe, but who would have thought churches would be attractions here in Canada?

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Visit Benvoulin Heritage Church

We drove by Benvoulin Heritage Church numerous times and every time we passed it I always said we need to stop there and shoot one day.

This year we finally made the stop and I’m so glad we did! It may not be as big or mighty as the historic churches in Europe… but this cute little church has plenty of history of its own!

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Visit Benvoulin Heritage Church

Here’s a little backstory on this charming little church:

  • Benvoulin was built in 1892 and formerly known as the Bethel Presbyterian Church. It was the first Protestant Church between Vernon and the US border.
  • The church was built on land donated by real estate promoter George Grant MacKay, and it was built by H.W. Raymer who became Kelowna’s first mayor in 1905.
  • The lumber came from the sawmill of notable pioneer Eli Lequime, and Lord & Lady Aberdeen who owned the neighbouring Guisachan ranch. They donated money and labour and the church was based off a church in their home of Aberdeen in Scotland!
  • It was dedicated on September 1st of 1892 by reverend Thomas Somerville of Glasgow.
  • After many changes to the building the church closed in 1964
  • In 1982 the newly formed Central Okanagan Heritage Society took on the restoration of the building. It held its official reopening September 4th of 1986.
  • Since then the church has become a well-used and much-loved community space in Kelowna. It’s now used for cultural events, weddings, concerts and so much more!

Location details for Benvoulin Heritage Church here

27. Visit the Okanagan Heritage Museum

Address: 470 Queensway

At the Okanagan Heritage Museum you’ll discover the natural and human history of Kelowna.

Admission is by donation (although $5 is recommended) so it’s a super affordable activity.

At the Okanagan Heritage Museum you’ll get to learn how the Okanagan valley was formed, and why it supports tremendous biodiversity.

Step into the world of the syilx/Okanagan people, and gain insights into their close connection to the land.

Learn about the arrival of traders and settlers, and peer into the windows of an original “Chinatown” shop.

Meet some individuals from Kelowna’s past and present, and be inspired by the Central Okanagan Sports Hall of Fame!

Okanagan Heritage Museum has both permanent and temporary exhibits so check the website to see what attractions are going on during your visit!

Location details for Okanagan Heritage Museum here

28. Head up to Silverstar Mountain Resort

Address: 123 Shortt St, Silver Star Mountain

Located an hour outside of Kelowna, Silverstar Mountain Resort is possibly the cutest and most colourful little Mountain Village and resort I’ve ever seen.

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Silverstar Mountain Resort

Silverstar Mountain Resort boasts tons of things to see and activities to do year round, so don’t let the season stop you from paying them a visit while in Kelowna!

Whether you’re looking to ski or snowboard in the winter, or you want to check out the hiking trails, the gondola, or bike during the summer months you won’t get bored at Silverstar.

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Silverstar Mountain Resort
Who’s ready for a little cross country skiing?

There are also tons of cute shops, restaurants, bars, cafes and hotels on Silverstar if you want to make a weekend out of it.

With so many attractions and activities it would be a shame to miss visiting Silverstar while in Kelowna!

Location details for Silverstar Mountain Resort here!

29. Big White Mountain

Address: 5315 Big White Rd

Like Silverstar, Big White is another super cute and colorful Mountain destination near Kelowna with tons of activities to do year round.

In the summer they have numerous hiking and biking trails, and of course in the winter you can ski and snowboard to your heart’s content!

Big White also offers numerous shops, restaurants, bars and cafes, plus the resort has a spa for those looking to get a little self-care in.

If you’re visiting Kelowna this year don’t miss this awesome attraction!

Location details for Big White Ski Resort here!

30. Do a Day Trip to Visit the Wineries of Lake Country

If you’re planning on spending a couple of days in Kelowna I definitely recommend doing the 20 minute drive and heading out to Lake Country to visit the wineries out there.

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Do a day trip to visit the wineries of Lake Country
Twirling at Arrowleaf Cellars in Lake Country

While the wineries in Kelowna are amazing, there’s something special about the smaller, quainter wineries you’ll find in the Lake Country region.

There’s no denying these have quickly become some of my favourites, and we visit them all every time I’m in the area.

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Do a day trip to visit the wineries of Lake Country
Sipping wine in the vineyard at O’Rourkes Peak Cellars in Lake Country

They’re all in very close proximity and it’s easy to get them all done in one day.

Head to this area and do a self drive winery tour hitting up all of my favourites that I’ve listed in my Wineries of Lake Country – The Perfect Kelowna Day Trip blog post!

31. Take a Day Trip to the Oliver & Osoyoos Wine Region

This year for the first time we decided to venture outside of Kelowna and head 2 hours south to the Oliver & Osoyoos region.

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Do a day trip to visit the wineries of Oliver & Osoyoos
Road 13 Winery in the Oliver & Osoyoos Region

I was super excited to visit this region because the climate is much hotter (it’s a desert climate) meaning they specialize in growing big BOLD reds.

Although I never discriminate against a bottle of wine, I do love my bold reds and I was particularly excited to visit wineries in a region where the bold red grapes flourish.

The Oliver and Osoyoos region has around 24 wineries you can visit.

Planning a trip to Kelowna soon? This guide covers all the best things to do in Kelowna from a locals perspective! From wineries and cideries, to adventure activities, hikes, waters sports and more. This guide has everything you need to plan your visit to beautiful Kelowna! Pictured here: Do a day trip to visit the wineries of Oliver & Osoyoos
Oliver Twist Winery in Oliver & Osoyoos

I listed 6 of my favourite Oliver and Osoyoos wineries that you have to check out here.

Head out to this region and spend the day visiting them all before making the drive back to Kelowna.

Just make sure you have a designated driver!

You’ll quickly see why visiting this region is a top attraction for Kelowna visitors.

Final Thoughts

As you can tell from this post there’s just so many attractions, activities, and things to do in Kelowna!

Whether you want to spend your time there visiting wineries, enjoying the lake or getting active outside Kelowna has something for everyone.

I know you’ll fall in love with Kelowna as quickly as I did.

Don’t forget to visit these other posts to plan your Kelowna visit!

Have you visited Kelowna yet? What are some of your favourite activities and attractions to do in Kelowna?

And if you haven’t which activities and attractions are you most excited to try when you do visit Kelowna?

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cass

Sunday 26th of July 2020

I'd never heard of Kelowna so this post really peaked my interest. Looks lovely (gorgeous photos) and would love to explore the outdoors and wineries here!

Kelsey

Sunday 26th of July 2020

What a hidden gem this location is! I am so glad I came across this and you shared it! This location looks awesome!

galatia savva

Saturday 25th of July 2020

absolutely stunning photos! The wineries and hiking are huge selling points !

Talia

Saturday 25th of July 2020

Been there a couple years ago and loved the wine there! This part of France is incredible!

Ophelie

Saturday 25th of July 2020

I loved all the places you have shared! It's so cool to see how you have explored your own backyard this year!