Kelowna Attractions

Start your journey in Downtown Kelowna at the beautiful Waterfront Boardwalk. This paved promenade is perfect for a stroll or bike ride along Okanagan Lake, connecting Tugboat Bay and Kelowna City Park. Along the way, you'll find the iconic Ogopogo Statue, a perfect photo opportunity celebrating our legendary lake creature. The boardwalk offers stunning views and is a hub of activity year-round.

For a panoramic perspective of the city and lake, head up to one of Kelowna's scenic viewpoints. Dilworth Lookout provides a fantastic vantage point, easily accessible for a quick stop. For hikers, the Knox Mountain Park - Upper Apex Lookout rewards your effort with incredible views. Another great spot is McCulloch Lookout, offering a different but equally beautiful perspective of the valley.

In West Kelowna, the CNR Wharf and Gellatly Bay Aquatic Park provide a charming lakeside experience. It's a wonderful spot to enjoy the water, have a picnic, and take in the views of the lake and surrounding hills. For dog owners, the nearby Gellatly Dog Beach is a popular spot for four-legged friends to cool off and play.

Local tips

• Parking at Kelowna City Park fills up quickly in summer, so arrive early.
• The Waterfront Boardwalk is a great spot for a morning run or an evening stroll.
• Knox Mountain Drive is open to vehicles seasonally, but may close due to weather or fire risk.

Escape the city buzz in the tranquil Kasugai Gardens, a hidden gem located just behind City Hall. Completed in 1987, these gardens symbolize the friendship between Kelowna and its sister city, Kasugai, Japan. Inside the walled enclosure, you'll find traditional elements like stone lanterns, pine trees, waterfalls, and a pond filled with Koi fish. It's a peaceful retreat for quiet reflection.

Step back in time at the Father Pandosy Mission, the site of the first non-native settlement in the Okanagan Valley, established in 1859. This provincial heritage site on Benvoulin Road features several restored original buildings, including a chapel and a barn. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Oblate missionaries and the region's agricultural beginnings. The grounds are open from dawn to dusk between Easter and Thanksgiving.

In the heart of the Cultural District, you'll find The Laurel Packinghouse, Kelowna's oldest and largest surviving packinghouse. Built in 1917-18 with bricks made from local Knox Mountain clay, it's a testament to the valley's fruit industry heritage. Today, it houses the Okanagan Wine and Orchard Museum and serves as a unique community event space.

To deepen your understanding of the region, visit the Okanagan Heritage Museum. It showcases the natural and human history of the Okanagan. For a look at military history, the Okanagan Military Museum is located nearby. In West Kelowna, the Sncewips Heritage Museum and Gift Store offers insights into the culture and traditions of the syilx/Okanagan People.

Local tips

• Kasugai Gardens is open seasonally, typically from spring until late October, with extended summer hours.
• Admission to Father Pandosy Mission is by donation, which helps with site maintenance.
• Check the Kelowna Museums website for current exhibits and hours for The Laurel Packinghouse and other museums.

A visit to Kelowna isn't complete without experiencing Myra Canyon. This remarkable section of the Kettle Valley Railway (KVR) is a National Historic Site located about a 40-minute drive from downtown. The trail takes you across 18 historic wooden trestle bridges and through two tunnels, offering spectacular views of the canyon below.

The trail is relatively flat and wide, making it accessible for all ages and fitness levels to walk or cycle. The full route between the Myra and Ruth station trailheads is 24 km for a round trip. A typical bike ride takes 2-3 hours, while hikers may take 3-4 hours at a relaxed pace. Many visitors choose to go as far as the first few trestles for a shorter, equally scenic experience.

To get there, take K.L.O. Road, which becomes McCulloch Road, and then follow the signs to Myra Forest Service Road. This last 8 km is a gravel road. Parking is available at the Myra Station entrance, but it can fill up quickly, especially on summer weekends. Bike rentals are available seasonally at the trailhead.

Local tips

• The trail is most popular from May to October.
• Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no services on the trail.
• The access road is gravel; drive with care.
• Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash.

The Okanagan is famous for its orchards, and a visit to a local farm market is a must. Paynter's Fruit Market in West Kelowna is a family-run staple, offering seasonal fruits, vegetables, and local goods. In Kelowna, Don-O-Ray Farmers Market is another popular spot known for its fresh produce and family-friendly atmosphere. Both are great places to taste the bounty of the valley.

For a full day of family fun, head to Don-O-Ray Farm Adventure. This attraction features a petting zoo with goats, bunnies, and chickens, a hedge maze, and an ice cream stand. Kids can also enjoy bouncy horses, archery, and get a temporary airbrush tattoo. It's a fantastic way for families to connect with agriculture and have fun at the same time.

You'll find excellent farm markets all over the area. The Kelowna Farmers' and Crafters' Market is a large, bustling market with dozens of vendors. For a more neighbourhood feel, check out K.L.O. Farm Market, Glenmore Garden Market, or Nimmi’s Farm Market. On the west side, Westbank Corner Fruit Stall and Westbank Market offer fresh, local produce right from the source.

Local tips

• Cherry season is typically in July, while apples and pumpkins are ready in the fall.
• Don-O-Ray Farm Adventure is open from the May long weekend until Halloween.
• Always check market hours before you go, as they can be seasonal.

When the sun is shining, Kelowna's parks are the place to be for families. Kelowna City Park has a fantastic water park that is a huge hit on hot summer days, along with a playground and sandy beach. Over in West Kelowna, the Kids Care Spray Park is another great option for little ones to cool off and play.

For an adrenaline rush, check out ZipZone Peachland, where you can soar over the treetops on a series of ziplines. If you prefer to stay closer to the ground, Myra Canyon Adventure Park offers climbing structures and challenges set amidst the trees.

On a rainy day, head indoors to the Energyplex - Entertainment Centre Kelowna. This massive facility has something for everyone, including a trampoline park, a 30-foot rock climbing wall, laser tag, and a large indoor playground for younger kids. It’s the perfect place to burn off energy when the weather isn't cooperating.

Museums are another excellent indoor option. The Okanagan Heritage Museum, The Laurel Packinghouse, and the KF Centre for Excellence all offer engaging exhibits. You can also catch a movie, go bowling, or try an escape room for some indoor fun.

Local tips

• The City Park Waterpark is open from the May long weekend until early September.
• Book activities like ZipZone or escape rooms in advance, especially during peak season.
• Energyplex offers drop-in rates and packages, check their website for current hours.

Enjoying Kelowna doesn't have to be expensive. Many of the city's best experiences are completely free. Walking the Waterfront Boardwalk is a top activity, offering beautiful lake views from Kelowna City Park to Tugboat Bay. It's an ideal way to spend an afternoon without opening your wallet.

Exploring Kelowna's parks and viewpoints is another fantastic free option. Pack a picnic and spend the day at Kelowna City Park, enjoying the beach and the atmosphere. For amazing views, hike up Knox Mountain Park or drive to Dilworth Lookout. These spots provide picture-perfect panoramas of the city, lake, and valley.

A visit to the tranquil Kasugai Gardens is also free of charge. This peaceful Japanese garden is a lovely spot for a quiet break right in the downtown core. You can also explore the historic grounds of the Father Pandosy Mission, where a small donation is suggested but not required for entry.

Local tips

• Many city parks have free water spray parks for kids in the summer.
• Window shopping in Downtown Kelowna's unique boutiques is a great way to spend an afternoon.
• Check for free community events and concerts, especially during the summer months at parks like City Park.