Things To Do
in Kelowna
Kelowna is a picturesque city located in British Columbia, Canada, known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Situated on the shores of Okanagan Lake, Kelowna offers a mild climate perfect for exploring vineyards, orchards, and hiking trails. The city also boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, with galleries, theaters, and music events throughout the year.
With its mix of urban amenities and access to nature, Kelowna is a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $45
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $120
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the scenic Knox Mountain Park for a hike with breathtaking views of Okanagan Lake. Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at a local café nearby.
Explore the Kelowna Waterfront Park, taking in the lovely gardens and fountains. Afterward, indulge in a wine tasting at one of the renowned wineries in the area.
Dine at a lakeside restaurant with stunning sunset views. End your day with a stroll along the beach, enjoying the calm evening atmosphere.
Begin your morning with a walk on the Mission Creek Greenway, a peaceful trail that's perfect for spotting local wildlife. Grab a smoothie from a nearby juice bar afterward.
Visit the Okanagan Heritage Museum to learn about the region's rich history and culture. Enjoy lunch at a local deli featuring fresh, farm-to-table ingredients.
Spend your evening at the Kelowna Art Gallery, exploring various art exhibits. Conclude with a casual dinner at a trendy bistro downtown.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery with lakes and mountains
- Outdoor recreational activities available year-round, such as skiing, hiking, and water sports
- A warm climate with hot summers and mild winters
- Thriving wine industry with numerous vineyards and wineries in the region
- Family-friendly community with good schools and parks
- Growing economy with job opportunities in various sectors including technology and tourism
- High cost of living, particularly in housing and real estate
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities
- Can experience heavy tourist traffic during peak seasons
- Potential for wildfires in the summer months
- Job market can be competitive in certain sectors
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger urban areas
Best Activities in Kelowna
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the numerous hiking trails in and around Kelowna, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains, lakes, and forests.
Take a scenic wine tour through the beautiful vineyards and wineries of the Okanagan Valley, known for producing high-quality wines.
Enjoy cycling along the Kettle Valley Rail Trail or around the city, taking in the picturesque landscapes and fresh air.
Play golf at one of the many world-class golf courses in Kelowna offering scenic views of the surrounding natural beauty.
Engage in various water sports activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating on the lakes of Kelowna.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kelowna with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kelowna
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning panoramic views of Kelowna and Okanagan Lake, with various lookout points perfect for photography.
Provides a picturesque backdrop of vineyards, lake, and mountains, ideal for capturing scenic photos.
Elevated location with sweeping views of the city, lake, and surrounding landscapes, offering great photography opportunities.
Food in Kelowna
Kelowna Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A delectable pie made with the freshest fruits from the Okanagan Valley, such as peaches, cherries, and apples. Must-try at Bliss Bakery.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught trout from Okanagan Lake, often served grilled with local herbs and accompanied by seasonal vegetables. Recommended at Raudz Regional Table.
A traditional Indigenous fry bread that can be enjoyed sweet or savory, often served with local honey or wild game meats. Available at Kekuli Cafe.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kelowna better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a wide array of fresh fruits, vegetables, artisanal products, and ready-to-eat foods. Must-visit for farm-fresh produce and local snacks.
Located along the waterfront, this food truck hub features a variety of culinary delights, from gourmet grilled cheese to authentic tacos and fusion cuisine.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kelowna, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, especially in more formal or business settings. It is also important to make eye contact and use a friendly and respectful tone during greetings.
Canadians, including those in Kelowna, generally value personal space and may stand a bit farther apart during conversations than people from some other cultures. It is important to be mindful of this and not to invade personal space.
Tipping is customary in Kelowna, with 15-20% of the bill being a standard tip in restaurants and for other services. It is important to factor in tipping when budgeting for services.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kelowna with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kelowna
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kelowna, Canada, tipping is customary in restaurants, bars, and for other services such as haircuts, taxi rides, and tours. The standard tip for good service is generally 15-20% of the total bill.
Payment in Kelowna, Canada is widely accepted in cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Contactless payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are also increasingly common. It's important to check with individual businesses regarding their accepted payment methods before making a purchase.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kelowna.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Kelowna as the weather starts to warm up, flowers bloom, and wineries begin to open for the season. Outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and golfing become popular as the landscape transforms into a colorful and vibrant setting.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Kelowna due to the warm weather and numerous outdoor events and festivals. Visitors can enjoy water activities on Okanagan Lake, explore the vineyards and orchards, and attend cultural events and music festivals.
Fall in Kelowna is marked by beautiful foliage as the trees change color, creating picturesque landscapes. It's also the harvest season for wineries and orchards, offering wine tours, wine tasting, and the chance to pick fresh fruits.
Winter in Kelowna brings opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports at nearby resorts like Big White. The city also hosts seasonal events such as craft fairs, holiday markets, and outdoor light displays.
Kelowna at Night
Hiking in Kelowna
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking area featuring trails with stunning views of Okanagan Lake and the city of Kelowna. The hike to the peak is moderately challenging.
Offers a variety of trails ranging from easy to difficult, with scenic views of the Okanagan Valley and access to the historic Kettle Valley Railway.
A more leisurely hike suitable for all ages, this greenway follows the creek and includes several trails, parks, and beautiful natural scenery.
Features rugged terrain and trails that lead to panoramic viewpoints. Suitable for more experienced hikers looking for adventure.
Offers a variety of hiking trails, some leading to beautiful views of the lake, along with opportunities for swimming and picnicking.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kelowna through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kelowna by plane.
Located approximately 390 kilometers west of Kelowna, Vancouver International Airport is the second busiest airport in Canada and serves as a major hub for international flights.
Situated about 670 kilometers northeast of Kelowna, Calgary International Airport is a major airport in Canada, offering extensive international connections.
Located roughly 450 kilometers south of Kelowna, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is a significant international gateway in the Pacific Northwest of the United States.
Approximately 800 kilometers north of Kelowna, Edmonton International Airport is one of Alberta's primary airports with international flight options.
Located about 3,000 kilometers east of Kelowna, Toronto Pearson International Airport is Canada's largest and busiest airport, serving numerous international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly of British, Irish, and other European descent, making up a large portion of the population.
Includes First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities, representing a significant cultural presence in the area.
A growing demographic group, including individuals of Chinese, Indian, Filipino, and other Asian descents.
A smaller, but increasing population with roots in Latin American countries.
Includes African and Caribbean communities, contributing to the multicultural fabric of Kelowna.
A diverse group with origins from various Middle Eastern nations, adding to Kelowna's diversity.
The Soul of Kelowna
Discover the essence of Kelowna through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular winter sport in Kelowna, with multiple local teams and leagues, including the Kelowna Rockets in the WHL.
Kelowna boasts several world-class golf courses, making it a popular summer activity for both residents and tourists.
Lacrosse is popular in Kelowna, with teams competing at various levels and a strong community following.
Soccer is widely played, with numerous youth leagues and adult recreational leagues available in the city.
Basketball is a popular sport, with local schools and community centers hosting leagues and events.
With several public courts available, tennis is enjoyed by many in Kelowna, particularly in the summer months.
The scenic landscapes and trails make running and triathlons popular activities, with various events held throughout the year.
Kelowna's lakes provide a perfect setting for rowing, with a local club that encourages participation across skill levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kelowna.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Kelowna offer diverse vegetarian and vegan dishes, with innovative plant-based creations showcasing the bounty of local produce. Check out Naked Cafe for a range of vegetarian and vegan-friendly options.
For those with gluten sensitivities, several eateries feature gluten-free menus or can accommodate special requests. BNA Brewing Co. & Eatery provides a dedicated gluten-sensitive menu.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kelowna with these cultural adventures.
