Local's Guide: Discover the Best Activities
Kelowna is a paradise that seamlessly combines the vibrancy of a busy city with the peacefulness of the beautiful Canadian wilderness. For nature enthusiasts, foodies, and art lovers, this city has an exciting local scene just waiting to be explored. Join us as we take you on a tour through the city's best activities in this insider's guide to Kelowna.
Experience Wine Culture
No trip to Kelowna would be complete without a foray into the area's world-renowned wine culture. Kelowna is home to over 40 wineries, each with its own unique charm.
If you're new to the wine scene, start with the Kelowna Wine Trails. There are five unique wine trails in the Kelowna area: Lake Country’s Scenic Sip, the Westside Wine Trail, the Lakeshore Wine Route, Sip South East Kelowna, and the Downtown Grapes and Grains.
There are over 40 wineries to explore in Kelowna. A local favourite is the Summerhill Pyramid Winery, celebrated for its award-winning organic and biodynamic wines, and the alluring pyramid cellar. For a more boutique experience, The Hatch is a must-visit, with its quirky art and small-batch wines.
Culinary Delights
Kelowna's food scene is a culinary gem, offering everything from outstanding breakfast eateries to high-end dining. Salt & Brick is a beloved downtown bistro that perfectly embodies Kelowna's farm-to-table philosophy. Each dish here is meticulously crafted and bursting with local flavours. For a more upscale dining experience, try Waterfront Wines, frequently named the best restaurant in Kelowna. The menu changes seasonally, reflecting the freshest local produce.
Explore the Great Outdoors
Kelowna's abundant natural beauty provides endless opportunities for outdoor activities. For hiking enthusiasts, Knox Mountain offers trails with stunning views of the city and Okanagan Lake. If you're a fan of biking, the Kettle Valley Railway is a must. This reclaimed railway line offers over 600km of connected trails, winding through orchards, vineyards, and lakeside vistas.
In the summer, the city's numerous beaches and the clear, warm waters of Okanagan Lake offer a refreshing retreat. For a more adventure-filled day, try paddle boarding, sailing, or even parasailing over the lake. Alternatively, if you want to experience a cherished local secret, Paul's Tomb on Knox Mountain is a leisurely trail that winds along the water, providing access to secluded beach spots. When you reach the end, note that Paul's Tomb is to the right and slightly up the hill before going down to the water.
Revel in the Arts and Culture
Kelowna is also home to a lively arts and culture scene. From numerous galleries and theatres to music festivals, there's always something going on. Visit the Kelowna Art Gallery, where you can enjoy rotating contemporary and historical exhibitions. For those interested in the performing arts, the Rotary Centre for the Arts hosts live performances regularly, from music to theatre to dance.
Every summer, the Parks Alive! program provides free outdoor concerts in various parks around town. Local, national, and international performers showcase a wide variety of genres, offering a little something for everyone.
Unique Shopping Experiences
For those who love to shop, Kelowna offers a range of boutiques, markets, and stores. For a truly local experience, check out the Kelowna Farmers' and Crafters' Market. This is the perfect spot to pick up fresh, local produce, artisanal goods, and unique handcrafted items.
Downtown Kelowna also boasts numerous independent boutiques. Funktional is a beloved spot, offering a mix of local and globally-sourced goods from clothing to homeware. For the book lovers, Mosaic Books is the largest independent bookstore in the Okanagan, with an extensive selection sure to please any bibliophile.
Conclusion
Kelowna offers a unique blend of urban life and natural beauty, bursting with activities for every kind of adventurer. This guide merely scratches the surface of what Kelowna has to offer. So, go ahead and start exploring, and let the best of this vibrant city surprise you at every turn.
