Kelowna Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Located in the heart of the stunning Okanagan Valley in British Columbia, Canada, Kelowna is a city that seamlessly blends natural beauty with urban amenities. Surrounded by picturesque mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and lush vineyards, Kelowna offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, and world-class cuisine.
Nature enthusiasts will be in awe of Kelowna's breathtaking landscapes. With over 20 beaches and parks, visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing on the pristine waters of Okanagan Lake. For a more challenging adventure, hiking and biking trails crisscross the surrounding mountains, offering panoramic views of the valley below. In the winter months, nearby Big White Ski Resort transforms into a winter wonderland, offering skiing, snowboarding, and tubing for all skill levels.
Kelowna is also known as the gateway to the renowned Okanagan wine region. With more than 40 wineries dotting the countryside, visitors can indulge in wine tastings, vineyard tours, and farm-to-table dining experiences. From award-winning reds to crisp whites and delicate rosés, the region's winemakers have mastered the art of producing exceptional wines.
Culture thrives in Kelowna, evident in its vibrant arts and entertainment scene. The Kelowna Art Gallery showcases a diverse range of contemporary and historical artworks, while the Rotary Centre for the Arts hosts theater performances, live music concerts, and art classes. For those interested in history, the Okanagan Heritage Museum offers fascinating exhibits on the region's indigenous peoples and early settlers.
Food enthusiasts will delight in Kelowna's culinary offerings. Farm-to-table restaurants, bustling cafes, and gourmet food trucks serve up fresh, locally sourced ingredients, highlighting the region's bountiful harvest. Be sure to visit the Kelowna Farmers' Market, where you can sample artisanal cheeses, organic produce, and homemade treats.
Kelowna is also a haven for golfers, boasting numerous championship golf courses that cater to all levels of play. Tee off against the backdrop of rolling hills and sparkling lakes, and enjoy the warm climate that makes golfing a year-round activity.
Kelowna Attractions - What to See and Explore
Kelowna offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Gyro Beach Park, Rotary Centre for the Arts, Stuart Park, Downtown Marina Kelowna. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Things to See and Do in Kelowna by Category
Sights, interesting and unusual places and attractions valued by most tourists. See the list of places to visit in Kelowna.
Active
Prospera Place
Central City, KelownaOutdoor activities Sport venue Sport Cultural District 
Pinnacle Golf Course At Gallagher's Canyon
Southeast KelownaGolf Gallaghers Canyon 
Downtown Marina Kelowna
Central City, KelownaSailing Marina Boat rental Downtown North 
Golf Centre Driving Range
South Pandosy - K.L.O., KelownaGolf Munson
Other categories
ParkNeighbourhoodKelowna – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Kelowna, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Crystal Mountain (West Kelowna), Locolanding Mini Golf (Penticton), Mount Boucherie (West Kelowna).
Best Time To Visit Kelowna
Learn when is the best time to travel to Kelowna weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the City
Food & drink
CuisineA guide to some of the best local dishes and drinks that you will meet in the region.
Caesar
The Caesar is a beloved cocktail in Canada, celebrated for its distinctive blend of vodka, Caesar mix, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and clam broth. Typically served in a large glass rimmed with celery salt, it is garnished with a stalk of celery and a wedge of lime.
Cocktail
Poutine
Poutine, a cherished Canadian dish, is a delightful amalgamation of crispy french fries, squeaky cheese curds, and rich brown gravy. It emerged in Quebec in the late 1950s and, despite initial ridicule, has grown into a celebrated emblem of Quebecois cultural pride.
Dish
Barbecue
Barbecue, sometimes spelled "barbeque" encompasses more than just a cooking method. It refers to a type of grill, a style of cuisine, and a cherished social event where people gather to enjoy this smoky fare. Typically, barbecuing involves smoking meat outdoors over...
Ginger beef
Ginger beef is a celebrated Canadian Chinese dish that features deep-fried beef strips coated in a delectably sweet sauce infused with hints of ginger, garlic, and hot peppers. The dish is often garnished with julienned carrots and onions blended into the sauce.
Dish
Smoked meat
Smoking meat is a time-honored tradition that dates back to the Paleolithic Era. This method not only enhances the flavor and appearance of meat but also aids in its preservation through curing. There are two primary types of smoking: cold smoking, which is chiefly...
British Columbia