Nestled in the heart of British Columbia’s sun-drenched Okanagan Valley, Kelowna is a slice of lakeside paradise that feels like it was designed for pure fun.
Imagine a place where desert hills meet a sparkling, huge lake, and the sun shines over 2,000 hours a year. This isn’t just a pretty postcard; it’s a vibrant city packed with enough activities to fill a lifetime of vacations.
But with so many options, where do you even start? Don’t sweat it. We’ve done the legwork for you. Get ready to dive into the ultimate list of the best things to do in Kelowna.
We’re talking hidden beaches, fruity adventures, cultural gems, and those unforgettable family spots. This guide is your insider’s key to unlocking everything that makes a trip to Kelowna so special. Let’s jump right in and explore what makes this city a must-visit destination.
1. Soak Up the Sun at City Park and the Beaches – Best Overall
You can’t talk about Kelowna without starting with its crown jewel: Okanagan Lake. And the absolute best place to get acquainted with it is at City Park.
This sprawling, waterfront green space is the social heart of the city. It’s where locals and visitors alike come to play, relax, and soak in those incredible views.
You can sprawl out on the large, sandy beach for a perfect swimming day. The water is surprisingly warm and inviting. The park itself is a hub of activity with its famous waterfront promenade perfect for a stroll or bike ride. Kids go crazy for the large, unique playground.
There are plenty of grassy areas for a picnic, volleyball courts, and even a skate park. It’s the perfect, easy-going introduction to the Kelowna lifestyle.
Spending a day here is easily one of the top things to do in Kelowna for first-timers. It gives you a real taste of the relaxed, outdoor vibe that defines this amazing city.
2. Stroll Through Kasugai Gardens – Best for a Peaceful Escape
Tucked right behind Kelowna’s City Hall, you’ll find a hidden gem that feels a million miles away from the city bustle. Kasugai Gardens is a traditional Japanese friendship garden that is an oasis of pure calm.
The moment you step through the gate, the world seems to get quieter. This isn’t a large, sprawling garden, but an intimate and beautifully designed space.
Every twist and turn of the path reveals a new, carefully composed scene. You’ll find a serene koi pond, a gentle waterfall, and beautifully pruned trees and shrubs. Stone lanterns and a small, graceful bridge add to the authentic atmosphere. It’s a place designed for quiet contemplation.
Take a deep breath. Let the stress melt away. This is one of those free things to do in Kelowna that feels priceless. It’s a beautiful spot for some reflection or to capture some stunning, peaceful photographs.
3. Discover Fun at the Kangaroo Creek Farm – Best for Families
Ready for an animal encounter that’s totally outside the box? Pack up the kids and head to the Kangaroo Creek Farm. This place is an absolute blast for the young and the young at heart.
It’s not a zoo; it’s a hands-on, walk-through experience where you get up close and personal with some incredibly friendly and unique animals.
The star attractions are, of course, the kangaroos and wallabies. You can walk right into their enclosure. Many of them are super chill and will hop right up to you. You can even pet them! But the fun doesn’t stop there.
You’ll also meet capybaras, sugar gliders, parrots, and emus. The staff are passionate and full of fun facts. This spot is easily one of the most fun things to do in Kelowna with kids.
Their smiles and laughter will be all the proof you need. Just remember to book your tickets in advance, as this popular spot can get busy.
4. Pedal the Scenic Myra Canyon Trestles – Best for Adventure & Views
Get ready for one of the most breathtaking adventures not just in Kelowna, but in all of Canada. The Myra Canyon Trestles are a phenomenal feat of history and engineering, perched high up on the canyon walls.
This 7.4-mile (12 km) section of the Kettle Valley Railway Trail features 18 wooden trestle bridges and two rock tunnels.
The best way to experience it? On a bike. You can rent bikes right at the top from several local outfitters. The ride is mostly flat and follows the old railway grade, making it suitable for most fitness levels.
As you pedal across these historic bridges, you’re treated to absolutely jaw-dropping views of the canyon and the city below. It feels like you’re riding through the sky.
This is, without a doubt, a bucket-list item and one of the most spectacular things to do in Kelowna. The combination of history, engineering, and raw natural beauty is unbeatable.
5. Explore the Okanagan Heritage Museum – Best for a Cultural Fix
Want to understand the soul of the place you’re visiting? The Okanagan Heritage Museum is your go-to spot.
This fantastic museum tells the rich and layered story of the Okanagan Valley, from the deep history of the Syilx (Okanagan) people right up to the early settlers. The exhibits are engaging and well-designed, making history feel alive and relevant.
You’ll see a full-scale replica of a 19th-century fur trader’s cabin. You can explore displays of traditional Indigenous basketry and tools. There’s even a cool collection of vintage vehicles and a look at the valley’s natural history.
It’s a perfect activity for a rainy day or when you need a break from the sun. Best of all, admission is by donation, making it one of the most accessible and rewarding things to do in Kelowna. You’ll walk out with a much deeper appreciation for this special region.
6. Pick Your Own Fruit at a Local Orchard – Best for a Authentic Taste
You’re in the Okanagan, one of Canada’s prime fruit-growing regions. You absolutely have to experience the joy of harvesting your own snack.
Visiting a local u-pick orchard is a quintessential Kelowna activity. The season kicks off with cherries in July, followed by apricots, peaches, plums, and apples, right through the early fall.
There’s nothing quite like biting into a sun-warmed peach you just picked yourself. The flavor is unbelievable. It’s a super fun, family-friendly activity that gets you out into the beautiful agricultural landscape surrounding the city.
Many farms also have farm stands where you can buy fresh-pressed juices, pies, and other local goodies. This is a delicious and authentic way to spend a morning and is one of the tastiest things to do in Kelowna. Check online for which farms are open for u-pick during your visit.
7. Get on the Water with a Boat Cruise – Best for Seeing the Sights
To truly grasp the beauty of the Okanagan Valley, you need to see it from the water. Climbing aboard a scenic boat cruise is the perfect way to do it.
Several companies offer tours that depart right from the downtown marina. You’ll glide effortlessly across the deep blue waters of Okanagan Lake, with the city skyline on one side and the rolling, sun-baked hills on the other.
The cruises offer fantastic, unobstructed views of the lakeshore mansions, beautiful parks, and the surrounding mountains. It’s a relaxing and incredibly picturesque experience. Some tours even offer dinner or brunch options, making for a really special outing.
Whether you choose a large paddle wheeler or a smaller, more intimate vessel, a boat cruise is definitely one of the most relaxing and scenic things to do in Kelowna. Don’t forget your camera.
8. Wander the Kelowna Farmers’ and Crafters’ Market – Best for Local Flavor
If you want to feel the pulse of the local community, make a beeline for the Kelowna Farmers’ and Crafters’ Market.
This isn’t just a place to shop; it’s a weekly celebration of all things Okanagan. Held outdoors from April to October, the market is a vibrant, bustling scene packed with color, aroma, and energy.
You can chat directly with the farmers who grew your food. You’ll find everything from just-picked berries and organic vegetables to artisan cheeses and fresh-baked bread. The crafter section is full of unique, hand-made goods, from pottery to jewelry.
Grab a prepared snack from one of the food vendors and enjoy some live music. It’s a feast for all the senses. A visit here is easily one of the best things to do in Kelowna to grab a true taste of local life and support the community.
9. Hike the Trails of Knox Mountain – Best for Panoramic Views
For the best bird’s-eye view of Kelowna and Okanagan Lake, you have to earn it. Lace up your hiking shoes and head to Knox Mountain Park, right on the city’s northern edge.
This beautiful natural area offers a network of trails for all levels. The most direct route to the summit is the Apex Trail, a steady, paved road that climbs about 790 feet (240 meters) over 1.5 miles.
If you prefer a more natural path, the Paul’s Tomb Trail is a slightly longer but gorgeous hike through the forest to a secluded pebble beach. When you finally reach the top lookout at Knox Mountain, the payoff is immense.
You’ll see the entire city, the long, winding lake, and the surrounding valleys laid out before you. It’s a spectacular, and best of all, free vista. This hike is a cornerstone of any active person’s list of things to do in Kelowna.
10. Play All Day at Scandia Golf & Games – Best for Family Fun
Sometimes you just need a day of pure, uncomplicated fun. Scandia Golf & Games has been delivering that to families for decades.
This classic family entertainment center is packed with activities that everyone can enjoy together. Challenge each other to a round of mini-golf on their well-kept courses.
Feel the need for speed on the go-kart track. The arcade is loaded with a huge variety of games, from classic skee-ball to the latest video games. They also have bumper boats and a rock-climbing wall.
It’s the perfect place to let loose and be a kid again. For a guaranteed good time that keeps everyone smiling, Scandia is one of the top family-friendly things to do in Kelowna. It’s a surefire hit.
11. Indulge in Kelowna’s Thriving Food Scene – Best for Foodies
Kelowna’s food scene has exploded in recent years, becoming a destination in its own right. The focus here is squarely on fresh, local, and innovative cuisine.
Thanks to the rich agricultural land, chefs have an incredible palette of local ingredients to work with. You can find everything from cozy cafes serving perfect pastries to high-end restaurants with stunning lake views.
Are you a meat lover? You’ll find steakhouses and burger joints serving locally raised beef. Following a plant-based diet? You’re in luck. Many spots have incredible, creative vegan and vegetarian dishes that are the star of the menu.
Exploring the diverse and delicious restaurants is absolutely one of the essential things to do in Kelowna. Every meal can be an adventure.
12. Cycle the Okanagan Rail Trail – Best for a Leisurely Bike Ride
For a flat, easy, and incredibly beautiful bike ride, you can’t beat the Okanagan Rail Trail. This is a relatively new, 31-mile (50 km) trail built on a former railway line that connects Kelowna to the nearby communities of Lake Country and Vernon.
The section starting in Kelowna takes you right along the edge of Okanagan Lake, through beautiful wetlands, and past scenic orchards.
The trail is paved and hard-packed gravel, making it perfect for a casual cyclist, a family with kids, or even a walk or jog. The views are consistently stunning, and there are plenty of little beaches and parks along the way to stop for a break or a swim.
Renting a bike and hitting this trail is one of the most enjoyable and active things to do in Kelowna. It’s a wonderful way to experience the landscape at your own pace.
Conclusion
From lakeside lounging to canyon adventures and everything in between, Kelowna is a destination that truly has it all. This list of the best things to do in Kelowna is just the beginning. Each season brings its own magic, from sunny beach days to crisp, colorful autumn hikes.
The hardest part will be fitting all this amazingness into one trip. So what are you waiting for? The Okanagan sun is calling your name. Start planning your ultimate Kelowna itinerary today and get ready to make some unforgettable memories in this Canadian paradise.