Kelowna, British Columbia is a popular city to visit year-round – on account of its stunning location and the sheer number and variety of activities available. Its justly famous for its food, wine and great weather – particularly in spring and fall when it’s the pits in other parts of Canada. You can count on quick access to nature and outdoor activities.
Over three days in spring I enjoyed a raft of unique activities in Kelowna from birdwatching to biking at a couple of beautiful locations, wine tastings, a coffee tasting, a fabulous traditional syilx plant use walking tour and an evening nature walk in a nocturnal preserve. Sure, I missed zipping around the lake in a boat and checking out the beer scene – but truth be told, it’s wine I really love.
Kelowna is a great destination for a mini-vacation when you’re looking for a recharge and change of scenery in a beautiful part of the world. The city is easy to access from many of Canada’s largest cities including Vancouver, Edmonton, Calgary, and Toronto. And really, there’s never a bad time to visit. Here are some unique things to do in Kelowna during the spring, summer, and fall:
Spring
- Orchard and Vineyard Tours, Visit local orchards and vineyards to see the spring blossoms and enjoy fresh fruit. articipate in a guided tour to learn about the wine-making process and enjoy wine tastings.
- Kangaroo Creek Farm, Visit this unique farm to see kangaroos, wallabies, and other exotic animals up close. Great for families and animal lovers.
- Okanagan Lavender & Herb Farm, Stroll through fragrant lavender fields and herb gardens. Participate in workshops and purchase handmade lavender products.
- Hiking Knox Mountain, Take advantage of the cooler spring weather to hike Knox Mountain. Enjoy panoramic views of Kelowna and Okanagan Lake from the summit.
- Kelowna Farmers' and Crafters' Market, Explore this bustling market featuring local produce, crafts, and artisanal products. A great place to sample local foods and buy unique souvenirs.
Summer
- Okanagan Lake Activities, Enjoy boating, paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming in the warm waters of Okanagan Lake. Rent a boat or join a guided tour to explore the lake.
- Wine Tasting Tours, Summer is the perfect time to explore the region's renowned wineries. Join a guided tour or create your own itinerary to visit several vineyards and enjoy tastings.
- Myra Canyon Trestles, Bike or hike along the historic Kettle Valley Railway trestles in Myra Canyon. This scenic route offers breathtaking views and is suitable for all ages.
- Golfing, Kelowna boasts numerous top-rated golf courses. Play a round at courses like The Harvest Golf Club or Gallagher’s Canyon Golf & Country Club.
- Fruit Picking, Visit local orchards to pick fresh cherries, peaches, apples, and more. Many orchards offer u-pick options and farm tours.
Fall
- Wine Crush Events, Participate in wine crush and harvest events at local wineries. Experience the wine-making process firsthand and enjoy special tastings and dinners.
- Scenic Drives, Take a drive through the Okanagan Valley to enjoy the stunning fall foliage. Routes like the Westside Wine Trail and Naramata Bench are particularly beautiful.
- Kelowna Corn Maze, Navigate your way through a fun and challenging corn maze. Great for families and those looking for a seasonal adventure.
- Harvest Festivals, Attend local harvest festivals celebrating the fall bounty. Enjoy local food, live music, and family-friendly activities.
- Hiking and Biking, Cooler fall temperatures make it a great time for outdoor activities. Explore trails in Knox Mountain Park, Okanagan Mountain Park, or along the Kettle Valley Railway.
Kelowna offers a wealth of unique experiences throughout the year, making it a fantastic destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to enjoy the best of the Okanagan Valley.