Top 3 things to see and do in Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
From conquering mountaintops and exploring vineyards to indulging in mouth-watering cuisine, Kelowna, British Columbia offers diverse experiences for every type of traveler.
1. Release your Inner Adventurer
Kelowna is a stellar hiking destination with trails for every type of explorer and mountain tops that offer diverse and unique aerial views of the city. Located just 20 minutes from downtown Kelowna, Myra Canyon is a restored section of the Kettle Valley Railway Trail that runs approximately 24 km (12 miles) roundtrip and includes two tunnels and 18 trestles. With a vantage point like no other, cycling enthusiasts and hikers alike will bask in the astounding canyon and Okanagan Valley views.
- Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate
- Location: Lat. 49.801944 Long. -119.3125
- Free, bike rentals available, popular with locals
Mount Boucherie, located on the west shore of Lake Okanagan in West Kelowna, is what remains of a nearly 60 million-year-old extinct volcano and one of the best hikes in the Kelowna area. With a top elevation of 758 metres, the mountainside switchbacks and several lookout points allow for continuous photo ops. Educational signage about local flora and fauna and possible wildlife sightings also add to the hiking experience. It may be an hour+ trip to the top, but the spectacular lake and city views are well worth the trip.
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to hard
- Location: Lat. 49.852529 Long. -119.568067
- Free, popular with locals, hikers, and cyclists
2. Tantalize your taste bud
The dining scene in downtown Kelowna is nothing short of impressive. From brewpubs to authentic Mexican cuisine, Kelowna offers a diverse dining experience for every palate. BNA Brewing Co. supports local farmers and businesses showcasing Okanagan ingredients when crafting their incredible menu. The interior is cozy, rustic, inviting, and exudes classic west coast charm. Don’t leave without trying their spicy prawn tempura with citrus aioli and chives along with a tasting flight (3 x 5oz) of their current selection of draught beer. Try the Pamela Blond Ale, made in-house.
- www.bnabrewing.com
- Price: $$-$$$ Location:
- 1250 Ellis St., downtown Kelowna
Unique Feature: Enjoy a good ol’ fashioned game of indoor Bocce Ball on the pub’s upper level
El Taquero serves up some of the most incredible Mexico City-style tacos, quesadillas, tostadas, and tortas right in the heart of Kelowna. Grab a stool, a side of chips & pico and immerse yourself in the authentic Mexican cuisine, décor, and music and before you know it, you’ll swear you were dining in the streets of Mexico. Portions are huge, and the tostadas are a must. Don’t miss out on Happy Hour from 2-6 daily and enjoy four tacos and Mexican beer, sangria, or frozen margarita for $15.
- www.el-taquero.com
- Price: $-$$ Location:
- 1443 Ellis St., downtown Kelowna
Unique Feature: The salsa bar is fun and yummy (try the watermelon flavour), and all tacos are served on soft, gluten-free corn tortillas.
3. Wine. Because wine not?
It’s impossible to visit Kelowna or the Okanagan Valley without tasting some local wines, mainly because it’s home to some of the highest quality wine and wineries in the country with national and international recognition. With over 30 wineries in the region, many are open year round for self-guided or guided tastings and tours. Sip and savour a vast array of wines that encompass the flair and flavours of the Okanagan.
- Price: $-$$$$ varies per winery
- Location: Okanagan Valley
- Unique Feature: Tour operators offer stress-free shuttle services
