10 Things To Do in Kelowna This Summer

Considering taking a vacation to the sunny Okanagan? There’s no time better than now

If you’ve ever been to Kelowna during the summer months, sunshine, wine and beaches probably immediately come to mind. And although we definitely support experiencing all those things, there is lots more to see and do at B.C.’s vacation hot spot (pun very much intended). Put on your favourite playlist and make it a road trip, or book a plane ticket stat. However you choose to get there, a trip to Kelowna is worth the journey.

Here’s a list of things to do when you visit…

 

1. Hike Knox Mountain

Flip-flops and sneakers are the only shoes you’ll really need for your trip to Kelowna, the latter being important for the many outdoor activities you can experience. Knox Mountain offers incredible views of the city, and there are different levels of difficulty you can choose to suit your experience. If mountain biking is more your style, you can do that here, too!  

 

2. Minigolf at Scandia

In Kelowna, Scandia is your one-stop shop for feeling like a kid again. Play a few rounds of minigolf outside, or if you need a break from the sun, there’s a pirate-themed minigolf course inside. If golf isn’t your jam, you can also try your hand at a ton of arcade games or race your friends on the go-cart track.

 

3. Wander the waterfront boardwalk

Want to see amazing mountain views, feel a cool breeze coming off the lake and pet lots of dogs? Kelowna’s boardwalk is an easy two-kilometre walk and the perfect place to take in Kelowna’s scenery. Pro-tip: grab an ice cream from The Parlour and walk the boardwalk while the sun is setting.

 

4. Bike the trestles at Myra Canyon

The valley views at Myra Canyon will leave you speechless. The trail follows a section of the old Kettle Valley Railway, with 18 trestles and two tunnels. The circuit is 24 kilometres altogether, but quite flat and an easy ride. Not able to bring your own bike along? Don’t worry—you can rent them onsite, and strolling the trail is a great option, too.

 

5. Stroll the farmers’ market

During the summer months, there’s a farmers’/crafters’ market every Wednesday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Vendors come from all over the Okanagan, selling tons of handmade and locally grown products. Don’t miss Spudstix, selling their spiral cut potatoes that are battered and seasoned.

 

6. Zoom around on a JetSki

There isn’t much in the world that is more fun than whizzing around Okanagan Lake on a Jet Ski. You can rent one from Kelowna Downtown Marina, with bigger vessels fitting up to three people. But if that sounds a bit scary, paddle-boarding is a great, relaxing way to experience the lake (and cheaper, too!).

 

7. Get your sip on

A list of things to do in Kelowna just wouldn’t be complete without the mention of the many, many incredible wineries. Some wineries offer free tours and tastings, and others reimburse the tasting fee if you buy a bottle (which we’re guessing you will!). Find an organized tour (there are plenty of options) or create your own tour—just remember to find a designated driver first!

 

8. Check out Big White

Big White Mountain Ski Resort isn’t just amazing in the winter. It’s about an hour away from the city, and during the summer months you can hike, bike, stroll through the village shops or check out a restaurant. There’s plenty to do on any given day, but you can also check their calendar for special events and festivals.

 

9. Find Zen at the Japanese garden

Even though they’re located very close to downtown, you’ll feel like you’re in a different world when you enter Kelowna’s Kasugai Gardens. The garden was created to demonstrate the relationship between Kelowna and its sister city, Kasugai, Japan. Grab a coffee before you go, and enjoy a moment of peace surrounded by plants, water and koi—a true oasis.

 

10. Hop to the Kangaroo farm

We’re cheating a bit with this one, as the farm is technically located in Lake Country (about 15 minutes from Kelowna), but it’s too fun not to include! The farm is home to some seriously cute kangaroos, as well as ducks, bunnies, peacocks and other furry creatures. Even better: you can pet kangaroos on the back, and, if given the okay by staff, there are some animals you can hold.