Wine Tours
Vivid Tours - Kelowna Wine Tours
Kelowna
THINGS TO DO · FOUR SEASONS, ONE LAKE
Welcome to Kelowna, the heart of the Okanagan, where sunny vineyards, a sparkling lake and mountain adventures create the perfect year-round playground.
228 things to do · Updated September 2026Things To Do guide · Go Kelowna
Photo: Andrey Sulitskiy · Knox Mountain Park via Google
01AT A GLANCE
The details that matter.
Kelowna is your all-season destination for adventure and relaxation. In summer, enjoy Okanagan Lake's beaches and boating. The valley's wineries offer tours and tastings year-round. Hike or cycle scenic trails like Myra Canyon in fall, and in winter, hit the slopes at Big White Ski Resort. The city's vibrant Cultural District offers arts and entertainment for every season.
- Best season
- July-August
- Known for
- Wine, lakes, skiing
- Getting around
- Car, bike, tours
- Good to know
- Book summer stays early
01MOST-LOVED
Where locals take their visitors.
Beaches, lookouts, galleries and adventures with the most local love.
Ski Resorts
Big White Ski Resort
Kelowna
Attractions
Kelowna City Park
Kelowna
Ski Resorts
SilverStar Mountain Resort
Kelowna
Hiking Trails
Knox Mountain Park
Kelowna
Outdoor & Recreation
Waterfront Park
Kelowna
Wine Tours
BARE Wine Tours
Kelowna
Markets
Kelowna Farmers' and Crafters' Market
Kelowna
Beaches
Boyce-Gyro Beach Park
Kelowna
Hiking Trails
Mission Creek Regional Park
Kelowna
Guided Tours
Sip Happens - Kelowna Wine Tours
Kelowna
Cinemas
Cineplex Cinemas Orchard Plaza
Kelowna
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•GET OUTSIDE
Trails, tee times and the lake.
Hiking, golf, cycling, paddling and boat days, all in one place.
Loading get outside…
•FOUR COMMUNITIES
Pick your side of the lake.
Kelowna, West Kelowna, Peachland and Lake Country: four communities, each with its own favourites.
Explore The City
•LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
Your Ultimate 2026 Kelowna Guide
Discover the best of Kelowna, West Kelowna, Peachland, and Lake Country with our definitive guide to every season.
The short answer
The best things to do in Kelowna include exploring world-class wineries, relaxing on the shores of Okanagan Lake, and skiing at Big White Ski Resort. For a truly local experience, cycle the historic Myra Canyon trestles or hike Knox Mountain for panoramic views.
01Soak it up
Summer: Beaches & Lake Life
Summer in Kelowna is all about Okanagan Lake. The city is dotted with fantastic beaches perfect for a day of sun and swimming. Head to Boyce-Gyro Beach Park for its long sandy stretch and family-friendly vibe, or visit Rotary Beach Park for great paddleboarding. In the Lower Mission, Sarsons Beach Park offers a quieter, more local scene. For a classic Kelowna experience, the bustling Kelowna City Park has a water park and a wide beach right downtown.
Waterfront Park connects the Cultural District to the lake with its beautiful boardwalk and gardens. It's the perfect spot for a stroll before grabbing an ice cream downtown. Across the bridge in West Kelowna, Pritchard Park and the CNR Wharf and Gellatly Bay Aquatic Park are local favourites. In Peachland, Antlers Beach Regional Park is a must-visit, while Lake Country's Beasley Park and Kaloya Regional Park offer stunning spots on Wood Lake and Kalamalka Lake.
The warm summer months are ideal for getting out on the water. You can rent everything from paddleboards and kayaks to speedboats from places like the Kelowna Downtown Marina or Okanagan Lake Boat Rentals. Whether you're looking for a peaceful paddle along the shore or a day of tubing and waterskiing, the lake provides the ultimate summer playground.
Local tips
- Parking at popular beaches fills up fast. Arrive early or consider cycling.
- Many beaches have concession stands, but packing a picnic is a great way to spend the day.
- Look for designated swimming areas, as the lake can be busy with boat traffic.
- Don't forget sunscreen and a hat – the Okanagan sun is strong.
02Take a hike
Outdoors: Parks & Hiking
Just north of downtown, Knox Mountain Park is Kelowna's largest natural area park, offering extensive trails for hiking and mountain biking. The Apex Trail is a rewarding climb with stunning panoramic views of the city and Okanagan Lake. For an easier, lakeside stroll, the Paul's Tomb trail is a beautiful choice. The park is a year-round destination for locals and visitors seeking a quick escape into nature.
A true Okanagan gem is Myra-Bellevue Provincial Park, home to the famous Myra Canyon trestles. This section of the historic Kettle Valley Railway features 18 restored trestle bridges and two tunnels clinging to the canyon wall. The nearly flat, 24-kilometre round-trip trail is perfect for walking or cycling and offers breathtaking views. You can rent bikes on-site from Myra Canyon Bicycle Rental and Tours Inc.
The region is full of diverse hiking opportunities. Mission Creek Regional Park offers flat, accessible trails along the creek, ideal for families. In West Kelowna, Bear Creek Provincial Park has a popular loop trail that leads to waterfalls. For more challenging hikes, Crawford Falls in the Lower Mission provides a steep descent to a beautiful waterfall. Mill Creek Regional Park also offers a refreshing, shaded walk to a waterfall just east of the city.
Local tips
- Check trail conditions before you go, especially in spring and fall.
- Bring plenty of water, particularly for exposed trails like Knox Mountain's Apex Trail.
- Wildlife, including bears, can be present. Be aware and make noise on the trails.
- The road to Myra Canyon is gravel; drive with care.
03Sip & savour
Tastes: Wineries & Markets
Kelowna is the birthplace of BC wine, and no visit is complete without exploring the local wineries. The region is divided into several distinct wine trails. The Westside Wine Trail in West Kelowna offers stunning lake views and world-renowned wineries. In Lake Country, the Scenic Sip trail winds through rolling hills and beautiful vineyards. The Lakeshore Wine Route in Kelowna is home to some of the area's oldest vineyards.
To explore the wineries safely and without the need to drive, consider a guided tour. Companies like Vivid Tours - Kelowna Wine Tours and Sip Happens - Kelowna Wine Tours offer a variety of packages, from half-day to full-day excursions, often including lunch. These tours provide expert local knowledge and transportation, allowing you to relax and enjoy the tastings. Other popular operators include Wicked Wine Tours, Vine 49, and Sip & Anchor for a unique boat and wine experience.
Get a taste of local life at a farmers' market. The Kelowna Farmers' and Crafters' Market, open Wednesdays and Saturdays from April to October, is a vibrant hub of local produce, crafts, and food trucks. In West Kelowna, Paynter's Fruit Market is a family-run institution famous for its fresh fruit and ice cream. For another great farm-to-table experience, stop by Don-O-Ray Farmers Market on Benvoulin Road.
Local tips
- Many wineries now require reservations for tastings, so book ahead.
- Pace yourself and stay hydrated with water between tastings.
- Most wineries can ship wine home for you.
- Bring a reusable bag to the farmers' market for your purchases.
04Get moving
Active: Golf, Cycling & More
With a long season and dozens of courses, the Okanagan is a golfer's paradise. Kelowna is home to several championship courses, including The Okanagan Golf Club, which features two distinct 18-hole courses: the Bear and the Quail. Other notable courses include the beautiful Harvest Golf Club and Black Mountain Golf Club. In West Kelowna, Shannon Lake Golf Course is carved into the mountainside, offering a challenging and scenic round.
Cycling is a fantastic way to see the region. The Okanagan Rail Trail is a highlight, offering a flat, scenic path along the shores of Kalamalka and Wood Lakes. The trail is accessible for all skill levels and provides incredible views. Rent an e-bike from a local shop like Lakeside Eco-Sports to cover more ground. For mountain bikers, the trails at Knox Mountain Park offer everything from beginner-friendly climbs to technical downhill runs.
Boating on Okanagan Lake is a quintessential Kelowna experience. From the Kelowna Yacht Club and Kelowna Downtown Marina, you can rent a variety of watercraft to explore the vast lake. Whether you're into wakeboarding, fishing, or simply cruising along the shoreline, a day on the water is unforgettable. For a more serene experience, rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore quieter bays and beaches.
Local tips
- Book tee times well in advance, especially for weekend mornings.
- The Okanagan Rail Trail can be busy; be mindful of other cyclists and pedestrians.
- If you're new to boating, consider hiring a captain or taking a short lesson.
- Always wear a life jacket when on the water.
05Embrace snow
Winter Fun at Big White
When winter arrives, all eyes turn to Big White Ski Resort, just an hour's drive from Kelowna. Famous for its champagne powder, the resort offers expansive terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities. With 16 lifts and over 118 runs, it's one of Canada's premier ski destinations. The resort also boasts the largest vertical drop for night skiing in North America.
There's more to Big White than just skiing. The resort offers a wide range of winter activities for non-skiers and families. You can go tubing, take a horse-drawn sleigh ride, or skate on Canada's highest outdoor skating rink. For a bit more adventure, try a snowmobile tour through the backcountry, go dog sledding, or explore the serene Nordic trails on snowshoes.
Even within Kelowna, winter offers unique charms. The outdoor skating rink at Stuart Park downtown is a popular spot for locals and visitors. The city's hiking trails, like those at Mission Creek Regional Park, take on a quiet beauty in the snow and are perfect for a winter walk. After a day in the cold, you can warm up at a cozy downtown pub like O'Flannigan's Pub or catch a Kelowna Rockets hockey game at Prospera Place.
Local tips
- Check the road conditions before driving up to Big White; winter tires are mandatory.
- Book accommodations and lessons at Big White well in advance, especially for holidays.
- Dress in warm layers, as mountain weather can change quickly.
- Many summer activities, like wine touring, continue through the winter.
06All-weather fun
Culture, Family & Rainy Days
Kelowna's Cultural District, a compact six-block area downtown, is the city's artistic heart. Here you'll find the Kelowna Art Gallery, which showcases both Canadian and international artists. The district is also home to the Okanagan Heritage Museum, the Okanagan Wine & Orchard Museum inside The Laurel Packinghouse, and several performance venues like the Kelowna Community Theatre. Take a stroll to see the public art, including the iconic dolphin sculpture, and the serene Kasugai Gardens.
Families will find plenty to keep kids entertained. Don-O-Ray Farm Adventure offers a petting zoo and maze, while the Energyplex features a massive indoor playground, rock climbing, and laser tag. In Peachland, ZipZone Peachland provides a thrilling ziplining experience over the canyon. On a hot day, the splash parks at Kelowna City Park and Ben Lee Park are a huge hit with younger children.
When the weather doesn't cooperate, there are many indoor options. Catch a movie at Cineplex Cinemas Orchard Plaza, Landmark Cinemas Grand 10 Kelowna, or Landmark Cinemas West Kelowna, Xtreme. For indoor climbing, check out Gneiss Climbing. Many wineries offer indoor tasting rooms, making a wine tour a great rainy-day activity. You can also explore the shops at Orchard Park Shopping Centre or enjoy a performance at the Kelowna Community Theatre.
Local tips
- Admission to many museums is by donation.
- Check the schedules for the Kelowna Community Theatre and Prospera Place for live events.
- Book rainy-day activities like escape rooms or the Energyplex in advance, as they can get busy.
- Many free events happen downtown in the summer, like 'Meet Me on Bernard'.
Vivid Tours - Kelowna Wine Tours✳Big White Ski Resort✳Kelowna City Park✳SilverStar Mountain Resort✳Knox Mountain Park✳Waterfront Park✳BARE Wine Tours✳Kelowna Farmers' and Crafters' Market✳Boyce-Gyro Beach Park✳Mission Creek Regional Park✳Sip Happens - Kelowna Wine Tours✳Cineplex Cinemas Orchard Plaza✳Bear Creek Provincial Park✳Landmark Cinemas West Kelowna, Xtreme✳Kasugai Gardens✳Prospera Place✳Ben Lee Park✳Energyplex - Entertainment Centre Kelowna✳Stuart Park✳Landmark Cinemas Grand 10 Kelowna✳O'Flannigan's Pub✳Paynter's Fruit Market✳Rotary Beach Park✳Kelowna Downtown Marina✳
•Insider Access
Let a local show you around.
Tours, rentals, shops and stays run by Kelowna locals, all bookable from their profiles.
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•THE FULL LIST
All 228 things to do.
Search by name, narrow by type or community, and sort by the most-reviewed or highest-rated.
See them on the map228 places
Wine ToursVivid Tours - Kelowna Wine ToursTour Agency in Kelowna.★ 5 (6,504) · KelownaSki ResortsBig White Ski ResortSki Resort in Kelowna.★ 4.7 (5,080) · KelownaAttractionsKelowna City ParkCity Park in Kelowna.★ 4.6 (4,794) · KelownaSki ResortsSilverStar Mountain ResortSki Resort in North Okanagan.★ 4.7 (3,022) · KelownaHiking TrailsKnox Mountain ParkKelowna's largest natural area park, offering extensive hiking and biking trails with sweeping panoramic views of the city and Okanagan Lake.★ 4.7 (2,976) · KelownaOutdoor & RecreationWaterfront ParkWaterfront Park is Kelowna's vibrant downtown oasis, offering panoramic lake views, a scenic boardwalk, and a hub for recreation and events.★ 4.7 (2,683) · KelownaWine ToursBARE Wine ToursTour Agency in Kelowna.★ 5 (2,373) · KelownaMarketsKelowna Farmers' and Crafters' MarketFarmers Market in Kelowna.★ 4.5 (2,325) · KelownaBeachesBoyce-Gyro Beach ParkBoyce-Gyro Beach Park is a lively, family-friendly Kelowna hotspot known for its wide sandy beach, shallow waters, playgrounds, and water sport rentals.★ 4.6 (2,253) · KelownaHiking TrailsMission Creek Regional ParkA nature-filled urban oasis with winding trails, a Kokanee salmon spawning channel, and an environmental education centre for all ages.★ 4.7 (2,027) · KelownaGuided ToursSip Happens - Kelowna Wine ToursTour Agency in Kelowna.★ 4.9 (1,536) · KelownaCinemasCineplex Cinemas Orchard PlazaMovie Theater in Kelowna.★ 4.2 (1,500) · Kelowna•STORIES
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•FAQ
Good to know
July and August are the most popular months for hot, sunny weather perfect for lake activities. However, September is also a fantastic time to visit, with warm weather, fewer crowds, and the grape harvest underway at local wineries.