As the warm colours of fall metamorphose the landscape, the city of Kelowna in British Columbia reveals an enchanting side brimming with endless opportunities for recreation and exploration. Autumn transforms the city into an artist's palette, invoking a certain magic that charms locals and visitors alike. There's an exhaustive list of things to do in Kelowna during fall, from wine tasting at award-winning vineyards to hiking trails kissed by autumn hues, each infused with the unique vibe of the season.
Indulge in Wine Tasting Tours
Fall and wine go hand in hand in Kelowna, as it's the season of harvest in the city's expansive vineyards. The internationally acclaimed wine region invites visitors to partake in various wine tours, which are a great opportunity to press the pause button on life and clue into the fine subtleties of viticulture.
Places like the Summerhill Pyramid Winery offer mesmerizing views of Okanagan Lake, surrounded by a riot of fall colours. You can indulge in organic and biodynamic wines while being part of the sustainable wine-making story they so beautifully narrate.
Nature Trails and Parks
Kelowna and its outskirts, with their awe-inspiring backdrops, house an array of parks and trails that are a treat for the senses during fall. One of these must-visit places is Myra Canyon, situated on the reclaimed Kettle Valley Railway. The trail is an absolute spectacle during fall, with a panorama of forests basking in autumn colours, rustic trestles, and tunnels along the path that spark a sense of childlike wonder.
Knox Mountain Park, Sutherland Hills, and Dilworth Mountain, just to name a few, also offer a piece of nature's cake during the season. Surrounded by the multi-hued trees that add a touch of drama to the landscape, these parks make for a fantastic spot for outdoor activities like biking, walking, or a peaceful retreat into nature.
Fall Foodie Delights
Autumn spells harvest season in Kelowna, and that means the local cuisine is at its seasonal best. The city is dotted with farmers' markets, which brim with fresh autumn harvest – fruits, vegetables, and of course, pumpkins! Kelowna's gastronomy scene is highly applauded for its farm-to-table culture, and visiting a local restaurant at this time of the year is a gastronomic journey that shouldn’t be missed.
- Home Block at CedarCreek Estate Winery – This restaurant prides itself on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, such as those from Carmelis Goat Cheese and Codfathers Seafood. Their fall menu often highlights the seasonal bounty from the Okanagan Valley, complemented by stunning views of Okanagan Lake.
- KRAFTY Kitchen + Bar – Known for its fun, casual vibe and dedication to local ingredients, KRAFTY offers a farm-to-table experience with dishes featuring seasonal produce. This is a great spot to enjoy fall flavours in a laid-back setting.
- Old Vines Restaurant at Quails’ Gate – Celebrating the best local ingredients, Old Vines is famous for its seasonal menus and fall dishes that highlight the freshest produce of the region. Their cozy atmosphere makes it perfect for a fall harvest meal.
Experience the Wildlife
Autumn also offers exciting wildlife viewing opportunities in Kelowna. The region's parks and trails serve as the habitat to a variety of flora and fauna, making it a playground for nature enthusiasts. Guided wildlife and bird-watching tours are popular among families and wildlife enthusiasts.
Watersports and Lake Activities
While Kelowna's many beaches are prime attractions during the summer, lake fun isn't sidelined in the fall. Although a tad chillier, these majestic lakes, with their clear, calm surfaces, reflect the beautiful fall colours, offering a feast for the eyes. Sailing and fishing are great autumnal activities to indulge in. There is also a multitude of relaxing and fun activities for all ages, including lakeside picnics or kayak and paddeboard trips surrounded by panoramic views. Plus, since the lake is less busy, its even easier to wakeboard and waterski on the chilled glassy waters. Don't forget your wetsuit!
Kelowna, with its abundant natural landscapes, vineyards, exciting foods, and wildlife, offers endless exciting possibilities during fall. The magic of fall in Kelowna is a feeling, an experience, an aesthetic, and a memory to make. This city wrapped in autumn colours invites you to do more than just see - it compels you to immerse and find a symphony between nature and man-made marvels.
