Kelowna

The Basics

Downtown Kelowna is a good place to start your explorations. Check out the Laurel Packinghouse Building, which houses two museums. The British Columbia Wine Museum is part exhibition space and part wine store. The Okanagan has long been British Columbia’s main fruit-growing region, too; learn the history of this enterprise at the British Columbia Orchard Industry Museum.

Kelowna’s wineries surround the city on both sides of Okanagan Lake. Mission Hill and Quails’ Gate are among the largest winemakers on the west side, while Cedar Creek, Summerhill Pyramid Winery, and Tantalus Vineyards draw visitors to the eastern bank. The Kelowna area is home to craft brewers and micro-distilleries that welcome visitors as well; tours allow you to taste many offerings without worrying about driving. There are year-round outdoor pursuits here, too, including exploring Okanagan Lake, cycling, horseback riding, fishing, and skiing at nearby Big White Ski Resort.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Kelowna attracts all types of visitors, but it’s most popular with outdoor adventure seekers and wine connoisseurs.

• Summer is the busiest time to visit, so book summer tours well in advance.

• This region offers outdoor activities for everyone, from beginners to advanced adventurers.

How to Get There

Kelowna is 245 miles (390 kilometers) northeast of Vancouver in the Okanagan Valley. By car, allow about four and a half hours; you can also fly from Vancouver in less than an hour.

When to Get There

Kelowna is a year-round destination, whether you’re planning to drink wine or explore the outdoors. Summer is a great time for warm-weather activities, but it’s quieter in late fall, early spring, and winter.

Kelowna Restaurants

Along with its thriving wine culture, Kelowna’s restaurants hold their own. There are numerous farm-to-table options that draw from local producers and imbue their dishes with a sense of place. Best bets include Basil & Mint Restaurant and Bar, Krafty Kitchen & Bar, and Gulfstream.

Is Kelowna worth visiting?

Yes, Kelowna is worth a visit. Situated in the heart of British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, Kelowna boasts stunning lakes, hiking trails, gardens, watersports activities, and vineyards. So whether you’re a wine lover, a camping fan, a nature lover, or a thrill seeker, there’s something to suit all traveler types.

Do you need to book wineries in Kelowna?

Yes, it’s a good idea to book your winery visits in advance, especially if you’re visiting during the peak summer season from June through September. While many wineries can accommodate walk-in tastings, some smaller and more exclusive wineries require reservations in advance, so it’s best to book to avoid disappointment.

What is Kelowna known for?

Kelowna is known for being an award-winning wine region, home to world-class wineries and vineyards open for tastings and tours. Beyond its wine-producing prowess, Kelowna is also known for the natural beauty of its rolling hills and Okanagan Lake, which is a hub for watersports activities.

What is the best time of year to visit Kelowna?

The best time of year to visit Kelowna is during the summer from June through September, when the weather is ideal for vineyard tours, outdoor dining, and watersports on the lake. July and August are usually the busiest months, so try and visit in June or September instead.

What do you wear to a winery in Kelowna?

For a winery visit, you should wear sturdy footwear designed for walking on uneven vineyard terrain; comfortable flats or boots are a good choice. Smart casual and comfortable clothing is a safe bet. If you’re traveling outside of summer, bring layers as temperatures can change throughout the day, especially if you’re sitting outside.

Is Kelowna a walkable city?

Yes, Kelowna is a walkable city. It has plenty of parks, public green spaces, and 105 hiking trails to explore. It was also voted Canada’s greenest city because of its high-ranking walkability factor, excellent air quality, and abundance of cycle paths.