kelowna tourist info center

• [ March 11, 2023 ] FAQ Attractions and Playgrounds
• [ February 28, 2023 ] Discovering the Wine Culture of Kelowna Wine - Guided tours and activities
• [ March 17, 2022 ] CANADIAN WILDLIFE MUSEUM – Vernon Attractions and Playgrounds
• [ March 6, 2022 ] B&B Accommodations wine tour pickup B&B Accommodations
• [ January 28, 2021 ] What is special about a West Kelowna Wine tour Wine - Guided tours and activities

Visitor Information

The Downtown Kelowna Visitor Centre welcomes visitors and connects residents with information on the many events and attractions in Kelowna and the Central Okanagan. Tourism Kelowna’s Visitor Experience team, made up of staff and volunteers, can offer suggestions and insider tips for local ‘must-sees’ to make your time in Kelowna unforgettable. Souvenirs, including a selection of local artisan products, are available for purchase, as are tickets for a most local shows and events. The Kelowna Visitor Centre is located right on the lake at 238 Queensway.For hours and how we can help, visit https://www.tourismkelowna.com/ Phone: 250-861-1515

Other Visitor Centres

Westbank Visitors Centre and Museum is located at: “2376 Dobbin Road, Westbank, 250-768-2712 Kelowna International Airport 1-800-663-4345

TRANSPORTATION SERVICES  Information

Airport Terminal ylw.kelowna.ca 250 765-5125 Air-Hart Aviation (Floatplanes) 250 762-9830 Air Canada Reservations 1-888-247-2262 Shell Aero Centre (Private) 250-765-8155 Horizon Air Reservations 1-800-547-9308 Central Mountain Air 1-888-865-8585 WestJet Reservations 1-888-937-8538 United Airlines 1-800-684-8331 Air North 1-800-661-4070

Other Transportation services

E Bus to Vancouver https://myebus.ca/ 1-877-769-328 Kelowna Airport Shuttle (Lets Go Transport ) 778-821-0101 Kelowna Transit System bctransit.com/kelown a 250-860-8121    Taxi- Kelowna Cabs (1981) Ltd. 250-762-2222 BC Ferries Information Toll Free 1-888-223-3779 Red Dog Wine Tours (Kelowna area)  1-866-477-5266

The legal drinking age is 19 in BC. Anyone under 19 is a minor and not permitted in nightclubs & most pubs (some pubs allow families during certain times of the day; others do not). In restaurants a minor cannot purchase alcoholic beverages.  This applies at wineries and wine tastings. In BC, there are serious consequences if you’re caught driving with a blood-alcohol content between 0.05 and 0.08. These include steep fines, having your license suspended, and even losing your car.  Only book wine tours with a company that picks up and drops off at your hotel so you can avoid  driving over the legal limit.

TIPPING & GRATUITIES

Tips are not calculated on your bill, so we suggest you add a minimum of 10% to the bill’s amount before taxes. (Most people tip between 15 and 20% depending on the  quality of food and service you receive. 

Emergency Numbers

Police / Fire / Ambulance 911 Non Emergency Police 250 762-3300 Kelowna General Hospital 250 862-4000 Non Emergency Health Information 811 Crisis Line 250 493-6622 Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868 Emergency Prescriptions 250 763-5312

TAXES ON PURCHASES

The goods and services tax (GST) of 5% will apply to various goods and services you purchase during your stay in Canada. An additional 7% Provincial Sales Tax  (PST) applies to certain purchases. 2% city levy is charged on hotel, motel and resort accommodations in Kelowna.  All these taxes are added on top of the posted price, unless otherwise noted.

Can you get intoxicated on wine tours? The level of intoxication during a wine tour is at your discretion. It’s crucial to manage your alcohol intake responsibly, and you don’t have to consume every drop in your glass. Wineries often provide spittoons, and pouring out excess wine is perfectly acceptable, offering a thoughtful approach to tasting. If you’re interested in learning more about responsible wine tour practices, you can find additional information here .

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Discover Kelowna

Explore the beauty and charm of Kelowna, British Columbia with our comprehensive guide. Discover the best attractions, activities, dining, and accommodations for both visitors and residents.

Exploring the Finest Wineries in Kelowna: A Journey to Unforgettable Wine-Tasting Experiences

A guide to the best wineries in Kelowna

The Best Restaurants in Kelowna: Exploring Culinary Delights in British Columbia

A guide to the best restaurants in Kelowna

About Discover Kelowna

Discover Kelowna is your ultimate guide to exploring the beautiful city of Kelowna, British Columbia. Whether you're a visitor or a resident, we provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your time in Kelowna. From the best attractions to the hidden gems, we've got you covered.

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A kayaker paddles past scores of new tract houses on a hillside: it's an iconic image for ever-growing Kelowna, the unofficial 'capital' of the Okanagan and the sprawling center of all that's good and not-so-good with the region.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Kelowna. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Kelowna City Park

Kelowna's lakeside park is a charming feature and gets busy on warm summer days.

Summerhill Pyramid Winery

In the hills along the lake’s eastern shore, you’ll soon come to one of the Okanagan’s most colorful wineries. Summerhill Pyramid Winery combines a…

BC Tree Fruits Cidery & Tasting Bar

The cidery division of BC Tree Fruits, a 400-family BC cooperative, is booming. Head to the Cidery & Tasting Bar, next to its fruit and vegetable market…

Carmelis Goat Cheese Artisan

At Carmelis you can sample soft-ripened cheeses with names such as Moonlight and Heavenly, or the hard-ripened Smoked Carmel or Goatgonzola. For those…

Sandhill Wines

Formerly known as Calona Vineyards, Sandhill Wines was the Okanagan’s first winery when it kicked off production in 1932. Its architecturally striking…

Okanagan Lavender Farm

Visiting Okanagan Lavender Farm is a heady experience. Rows and rows of more than 60 types of lavender waft in the breeze against a backdrop of the…

Okanagan Wine & Orchard Museum

Located in the historic Laurel Packing House, the Okanagan Wine & Orchard Museum recounts the Okanagan Valley from its ranchland past, grazed by cows, to…

CedarCreek Estate Winery

Known for excellent tours, its Riesling and its Ehrenfelser, a refreshing fruity white wine. Its bistro,Home Block at CedarCreek, has the kind of view…

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• Record Details

Kelowna Visitor Centre

Tourism kelowna.

Contact Information

Description & services, other details, kcr community resources.

Program listings do not constitute an endorsement of these organizations by KCR Community Resources and none should be inferred. Any content should be independently verified with specific programs. Please read full Disclaimer .

Kelowna Community Resources Society holds the intellectual property rights for the information on this site. Please read full Copyright Policy.

• 1.1 Climate
• 2.2.1 Canadian airlines operating to Kelowna:
• 2.2.2 Other airlines operating to Kelowna:
• 2.2.3 Ground transportation
• 2.4 By train
• 3.1 By public transit
• 3.2 By taxi
• 3.3 By ride hailing
• 3.4 Vehicle rentals
• 3.5 Downtown
• 9.2 Mid-range
• 9.3 Splurge
• 10.1 Wineries
• 11.1 Budget
• 11.2 Mid-range
• 11.3 Splurge
• 12 Stay safe
• 13.1 Newspapers
• 13.2 Hospital

Kelowna is a city in the Okanagan region of British Columbia . Kelowna is the largest inland city in British Columbia, in the heart of BC's wine country. Okanagan Lake is the main draw in the summer.

Understand [ edit ]

Kelowna is the largest city in the tourist-oriented Okanagan Valley with a population of about 142,000 in the city, and 215,000 in the metropolitan area (2020). During the summer, Okanagan Lake is the main draw, this 135 km-long (84 mi) jewel is a big draw for boaters (power and sail), swimmers and kite-boarders; in addition, golf, hiking and biking are popular summer activities. In winter thousands of tourists come from all parts of the world to ski at Big White resort, which is 55 km (34 mi) from the city.

Kelowna produces wines that have received international recognition. Vineyards are common around and south of the city where the climate is ideal for the many wineries. Tourists also come in the Sep-Nov (mostly) to experience and taste the Okanagan's world-class wines from wineries throughout the valley.

Climate [ edit ]

Kelowna is classified as a humid continental climate or an inland oceanic climate, with dry, hot, sunny summers and cool, cloudy winters, and four seasons. Summers in Kelowna are hot (sometimes extremely hot) and sunny. Not unusually, heat waves occur in July, August, and even June and September on occasion, where temperatures above 30 °C (86 °F) persist for weeks. During summer, clear, dry air allows night-time temperatures to fall rapidly. Kelowna has the second mildest winter of any non-coastal city in Canada, after neighboring Penticton, caused by the moderating effects of Okanagan Lake combined with mountains separating most of BC from the prairies. Weather conditions during December and January are characterized by persistent valley cloud as Okanagan Lake hardly ever freezes.

Get in [ edit ]

By car [ edit ]

Highway 97 is the major highway through Kelowna, with Vernon and Highway 1 to the north, Penticton and Highway 3 to the south, and Merritt (via the Okanagan Connector, a.k.a. Highway 97C) to the west. Highway 33 provides secondary access to points south and east. It's a 4-5 hour drive from Vancouver via the Okanagan Connector, and 8-9 hours from Calgary .

By plane [ edit ]

Canadian airlines operating to kelowna: [ edit ], other airlines operating to kelowna: [ edit ], ground transportation [ edit ].

• Ebus (see below under By bus) stops at the airport terminal.
• BC Transit (see below By public transit) bus routes 23 (limited trips northbound and southbound) and 90 (northbound trips only) have stops about 250 m west of the terminal. For far more trip options, you will need to walk 700 m west of the terminal along Airport Way to Innovation Dr (stop are on Innovation Dr just south of Airport Way), where all trips of routes 23 and 90 stop, heading northbound and southbound. For travel to and from downtown Kelowna, a transfer at UBC Okanagan (UBCO) is required. UBCO is the southern terminus for routes 23 and 90. Route 97 is the quickest bus route between UBCO and downtown Kelowna.
• Taxis are also available (see below under By taxi).
• Using ride hailing, only Lucky to go is authorized to service the airport.
• Multiple car rental agencies are located at the airport.

By bus [ edit ]

• Between Kelowna and Vancouver with stops in Merritt , Hope , Chilliwack , Abbotsford , and Surrey . Travel time to Kelowna from Vancouver is 5.5 hours, from Abbotsford is 4.25 hours, and from Hope is 3 hours.
• Kamloops and Kelowna with stops in Chase, Sorrento, Salmon Arm , Enderby , Armstrong , and Vernon . Travel time to Kelowna from Kamloops is 2.5-3.25 hours (some trips do not stop between Vernon and Kamloops), from Salmon Arm is 1 hour 50 minutes, and from Vernon is 1 hour.
• Rider Express , toll-free: +1-833-583-3636 . Service from Vernon and Salmon Arm . ( updated Apr 2023 )
• Silver City Stagelines Limited , [email protected] . Multiple days per week bus service between Trail and Kelowna with stops in Nelson , Castlegar , Christina Lake , Grand Forks , Greenwood , Midway, and Rock Creek. Travel time to Kelowna from Trail is 6 hours, from Nelson from is 5 hours, from Castlegar is 4.25 hours, and from Grand Forks is 3 hours. ( updated Mar 2022 )

By train [ edit ]

There is no train service available to Kelowna. However, you can use the nearest train terminal in Kamloops (about 90 minutes north-west of Kelowna by car).

Get around [ edit ]

Traffic can be quite heavy on major roads in Kelowna during the summer months, especially at the approaches to the floating bridge. A lack of advance left turn traffic lights contributes to accidents at major intersections.

• Kelowna has an extensive network of bike lanes. Cyclists are advised to use bike lanes (when not obstructed by parked vehicles) and intersections with caution. Cycling on local highways is not recommended. See the City of Kelowna website for a detailed map .
• There are several boat launches along the lakeshore with parking facilities. Be prepared to queue in the summer months. As for the lake itself, it can get crowded out there, especially with small watercraft.
• The downtown area is pedestrian-friendly, especially along the waterfront.

By public transit [ edit ]

• Bus route 97 is a limited stop frequent route. It travels between the University of British Columbia Okanagan campus (UBCO) and West Kelowna with stops in Rutland and downtown Kelowna. At most hours, it is the only option to cross Okanagan Lake between Kelowna, and West Kelowna and Peachland.

By taxi [ edit ]

• Current Taxi , ☏ +1-250-864-8294 . ( updated Jul 2022 )
• Kelowna Cabs , ☏ +1 250-762-2222 , toll-free: +1-800-375-9848 . ( updated Jul 2022 )
• Kelowna Eco Taxi , ☏ +1 250-860-6666 . ( updated Jul 2022 )
• West Cabs , ☏ +1 778-754-8888 , toll-free: +1-855-829-8294 . ( updated Jul 2022 )

By ride hailing [ edit ]

• Kabu . ( updated Jul 2022 )
• Lucky to go . ( updated Mar 2023 )

Vehicle rentals [ edit ]

• Budget Car Rentals
• Enterprise Rent-a-Car
• Avis Car Rentals
• Discount Car and Truck Rentals
• McScoot's Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals [dead link]

Downtown [ edit ]

The Downtown Core is easily accessible with public transit as well as taxis and bicycles, once downtown you have two major parkades to choose from if you decide to drive yourself one is of Pandosy Street (the Verve Restaurant is in the first level) or at the library by the RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police) Station, so parking shouldn't be a chore.

The rush hour (usually 4:30–6PM) can be a challenge in the downtown core as well as on the main transportation arteries: Highway 97C, Highway 33, Lakeshore Rd.

See [ edit ]

Parks [ edit ]

• 49.785 -119.561 1 Bertram Creek Regional Park , 5680 Lakeshore Rd ( end of Lakeshore Rd ). One of the best kept secrets of Kelowna is Bertram Park at the end of Lakeshore Road, with beautiful beaches and grassy areas to picnic on it is one of the most idyllic places in Kelowna, it offers BBQ's as well as change/wash rooms.  
• 49.8841 -119.5017 2 City Park ( Downtown City Park ), Abbott St at Leon ( west of Abbott St between Bernard and Harvey, car access from the corner of Abbott & Leon ). A great environment in the summer to sun tan, play and enjoy yourself, or be with your family at the playgrounds. The water and skate park offer a great time in the sun.  
• 49.8549 -119.491 3 Boyce-Gyro Beach Park , 3400 Lakeshore Rd ( Lakeshore Rd & Swordy Rd ). Enjoy the half submerged playground in summer by swimming and hanging out of the beach. You can let yourself slide along the rope into the lake within which you may come across our lake's resident the Ogopogo (we are not joking, Loch Ness isn't the only body of water with a lake monster [the term monster is used loosely]). If you see Ogopogo make sure to be friendly as it is his home you're swimming in ;). ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 49.913 -119.483 4 Knox Mountain Park , Knox Mountain Rd ( accessed from the end of Ellis St ). 6AM-10PM; vehicle access only in summer M-Sa 9:30AM-9PM, Su noon-9PM . Large park and natural area north of Kelowna's downtown. The view from the top has great views of the valley, including downtown Kelowna and Okanagan Lake. There is a road most of the way up with parking, that is open in the summer. There are also many trails for walking and biking that lead to other viewpoints and Paul's Tomb, the only beach in the park. ( updated Nov 2015 )
• 49.8777 -119.4298 5 Mission Creek Regional Park , 2363 Springfield Rd , ☏ +1 250 469-6140 (EECO Center) . Open during daylight hours . Park set on both sides of Mission Creek. The EECO Center has environment exhibits and park information. The creekside trail has a fish ladder, an old homestead site, interpretive signs and a playground/picnic area. Salmon return to the spawning channel in Sept-Oct each year. ( updated Nov 2015 )
• 49.8882 -119.4972 6 Stuart Park , Water St, between Mill & Doyle . 6AM-11PM . Waterfront park with some nice views. Notable for Bear Plaza and it's public art, and the outdoor skating rink in winter. ( updated Nov 2015 )
• 49.893 -119.4996 7 Waterfront Park , 1200 Water St . 6AM-10PM . Another park along downtown Kelowna's waterfront. It's well-maintained with a boardwalk along the waterfront, gardens, a sandy beach for swimming (Tugboat Beach) and seasonal concession stand and washroom facilities. There's also a bird sanctuary (Rotary Marsh) at the northern end. ( updated Nov 2015 )

Sports [ edit ]

Do [ edit ].

• Boating, Sailing, Seadoo-ing, Boating, and Windsurfing on Okanagan Lake .
• Wine tasting in this significant region for vineyards and wineries. See "Drink" section for local wineries.
• 49.88337 -119.45857 1 Parkinson Recreation Center , 1800 Parkinson Way , ☏ +1 250-469-8800 . ( updated Mar 2023 ) , Capital News Center ).
• 49.83572 -119.47983 2 Capital News Center , 4105 Gordon Dr , ☏ +1 250-764-6288 . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• Ballet Kelowna , ☏ +1 250-762-6105 . See a ballet performance. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• Bike and hike the local mountains (Kettle Valley, 49.7827 -119.3154 3 Myra Canyon , 49.91219 -119.48388 4 Knox Mountain )
• 49.841 -119.3798 5 Gallagher's Canyon Golf & Country Club , 4320 Gallagher's Dr W , ☏ +1 250-861-4240 . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 49.8561 -119.4246 6 Harvest Golf Club , 2725 KLO Rd , ☏ +1 250-862-3103 . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 49.9558 -119.3953 7 The Okanagan Golf Club , 3200 Via Centrale , ☏ +1 250-765-5955 . Features The Bear golf course and The Quail golf course. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 49.83793 -119.48113 8 H2O Adventure and Fitness Center , 4075 Gordon Dr , ☏ +1 250 764-4040 . H2O Adventure + Fitness Centre is the largest municipally owned water park in Canada and features an Olympic-length 50-m pool, wave pool, river run, 3 water slides, children's water play area, and an ocean wave surf simulator. And, for the fitness enthusiast, a 12,000-square-foot cardio, weight equipment and exercise space await you.  
• 49.91221 -119.48392 9 Knox Mountain Climb ( two viewpoints ). An annual hill climb is one of the highlights of this peak.  
• 49.8435 -119.4737 10 Mission Creek Greenway . A path that follows Mission Creek.  
• Skateboarding/longboarding--the skateparks are average but lots of great hills

Learn [ edit ]

Work [ edit ]

The main industry in Kelowna is tourism, with its requisite offering of service industry jobs at or slightly above minimum wage. The local ski hill Big White offers winter employment for ski/board instructors, liftees, servers, and so on. With the boom in housing, there is a shortage of skilled tradespeople in the construction industry.

Buy [ edit ]

• 49.88632 -119.49267 1 Bernard Avenue (between Richter and Water Street) & the downtown area: Frock (vintage clothing), Olive & Elle (beautiful household items), Funktional
• 49.88279 -119.4526 2 koLu , 115-1950 Harvey Ave , ☏ +1 250-861-5658 . Women's fashion store. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 49.8794 -119.44 3 Orchard Tree Shopping Centre , 2271 Harvey Ave , toll-free: +1-800-610-7467 . The area's largest shopping mall. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 49.862 -119.4913 4 Pandosy St at/around KLO Road
• Rosebuds designer consignments

Eat [ edit ]

Budget [ edit ]

• 49.8866 -119.4928 1 Bohemian Cafe , 524 Bernard Ave , ☏ +1 250 862-3517 . W-F 7:30AM-2:30PM, Sa 8:30AM-2:30PM, Su 8:30AM-2PM . Cafe that serves breakfast, soups and sandwiches. Focuses on local sourced ingredients and makes their own bagels and bread. Breakfast $5.50-16, lunch $7-17 . ( updated Nov 2015 )
• 49.8785 -119.4587 2 Lake Tai Vegetarian Restaurant , 1958 Kirschner Rd , ☏ +1 778 478-9931 . M-F 11AM-9PM, Sa Su 12:30PM-9PM . Awesome little Taiwanese vegetarian restaurant serving light, healthy meals even carnivores will love. Almost all dishes are also vegan and gluten-free. Also serves wide selection of teas, bubble tea. Incredibly nice people, great service. Accepts credit cards. Try the honey crispy bean! $10-15 . ( updated Nov 2015 )
• 49.8861 -119.4917 3 Mad Mango Cafe , 551 Bernard Ave ( across the street from the bargain shop on Bernard ), ☏ +1 250 762-8988 . Tu-Sa 7:30AM-6PM, Su 7:30AM-5PM . Small and popular cafe that serves a mix of Asian cuisine — won ton soup, pho, Malaysian curries, sweet and sour rice and vermicelli noodles — as well as a small selection of sandwiches and breakfast items. $4-7.50 . ( updated Nov 2015 )
• 49.9018 -119.386 4 Subcity Donair , 1007 Rutland Rd N , ☏ +1 250 765-4440 . 9AM-9PM . Local Subway or Quizno's style of restaurant with locations downtown and around the city. Offers chicken and beef donairs, small selection of subs, and fries and other sides. $7-10 for a donair or sub . ( updated Nov 2015 )
• 49.86466 -119.49096 5 The Marmalade Cat cafe , #103-2903 Pandosy St , ☏ +1 250-861-4158 . ( updated Mar 2023 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

• 49.88619 -119.49737 6 Bai Tong Thai Restaurant , 275 Bernard Ave , ☏ +1 250-763-8638 . One of Kelowna's best Thai food places! ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 49.8861 -119.497 7 Memphis Blues , 289 Bernard Ave , ☏ +1 250 868-3699 . A fantastic BBQ house, close to the water in downtown Kelowna.  
• 49.88345 -119.45387 8 O-Zeki Japanese , 1-1745 Spall Rd , ☏ +1 250-862-8860 . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 49.8858 -119.4969 9 RauDZ Regional Table , 1560 Water St , ☏ +1 250 868-8805 . 5-10PM . Popular and well regarded bistro. Dishes focus mostly on BC seafood or meat from BC or Alberta. Seating is varied — there's one long communal table or you can choose a more traditional booth seat. Mains $16-32 . ( updated Nov 2015 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• 49.8944 -119.4959 10 Bouchons Bistro , 1180 Sunset Dr #105 , ☏ +1 250 763-6595 . 5:30PM-10:30PM . Elegant French restaurant with many French classics — bouillabaisse, cassoulet, foie gras, duck confit, rabbit, lamb Provinçale and pommes frites. There's also a weekly "Chef's Table", a three-course fixed price menu. Mains $23-40, Chef's Table menu $45 . ( updated Nov 2015 )
• 49.85836 -119.4908 11 The Fixx Cafe , 101-3275 Lakeshore Rd , ☏ +1 250-861-3499 . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 49.95118 -119.38856 12 Gulfstream Restaurant , 5505 Airport Way ( inside Four Points by Sheraton Kelowna Airport ), ☏ +1 250-807-7427 . Steak ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 49.88759 -119.49331 13 La Bussola Restaurant , 1451 Ellis St , ☏ +1 250-763-3110 . Italian restaurant ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 49.8788 -119.44541 14 Mon Thong , 1876 Cooper Rd , ☏ +1 250-860-6809 . Thai restaurant.  
• 49.89453 -119.49616 15 Waterfront Wines Restaurant , 104-1180 Sunset Dr , ☏ +1 250-979-1222 .  

Drink [ edit ]

Pubs close at 1AM and clubs at 2AM.

• 49.88482 -119.42892 1 97 Street Pub , 2400 Hwy 97 N ( At the intersection of Hwy 97 and Leckie Road (Beside the Best Western Hotel) ), ☏ +1 250-979-6921 . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 49.88526 -119.49436 2 The Blue Gator , 441 Lawrence Ave , ☏ +1 250-860-1529 . A Blues club on Lawrence Street. Has an outdoor sidewalk patio where you can eat/drink. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 49.88667 -119.49641 3 Skinny Duke's Glorious Emporium , 1481 Water Street . ( updated Jun 2021 )
• 49.88464 -119.49368 4 Tonics Pub & Grill , 1654 Ellis St , ☏ +1 250-860-2997 . Good food, and great prices on drinks. Nice atmosphere and friendly, helpful staff. ( updated Mar 2023 )

Wineries [ edit ]

Wineries and wine tours have become popular things to do in Kelowna. There are over 20 wineries in Kelowna and the surrounding area, ranging from some of the biggest names in BC wine to small boutique wineries. The list below includes wineries that are in Kelowna only — several popular wineries associated with Kelowna, such as Mission Hill and Quail's Gate, are in neighbouring West Kelowna and covered there.

• 49.8605 -119.4116 7 The Vibrant Vine / Okanagan Villa Estate Winery , 3240 Pooley Rd , ☏ +1 778-478-4153 . May-Sep: 11AM-6PM; Oct-Dec: 1-4PM . Small but distinctive winery. The tasting room is a 3D experience with the art and vivid bottle labels all in 3D (glasses included for free). There's live music on summer weekends and a stage for theatre performances. The wines are mostly whites, with a couple of red blends. The WOOPS? label (a blend of several Okanagan varietals) won Best White Wine in The World 2013 at the World Wine Competition, Geneva. ( updated Nov 2015 )
• Explore: Kelowna Wine Trails

Sleep [ edit ]

If you will be staying in Kelowna between May and September, book your accommodations well in advance, especially for weekends.

• 49.8716 -119.4909 1 Kelowna International Hostel , 2343 Pandosy St , ☏ +1 250-763-6024 , [email protected] . The recommended of the two hostels in town. Interesting atmosphere, not overcrowded. There are 4-bed dorm rooms and a small number of private rooms for 1-2 people. Bedding and towels are provided and rooms have lockers for each guest. It has a limited number of beds, however, so it's easiest to book ahead. Office hours are 7AM-11PM. $25 dorm, $60 private . ( updated Nov 2015 )
• 49.886356 -119.487632 2 Kelowna Okanagan Lake Hostel , 730 Bernard Ave ( intersection of Bernard and Richter Street ), ☏ +1 250-899-3188 . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: 11AM . A comfortable hostel in downtown. Great for downtown shopping and beach strolling. Dorm rooms and some private rooms. Office hours are 8AM-9PM. $26 dorm, $49-84 private. Rates are higher May-Aug and on holidays . ( updated Nov 2015 )
• 49.8833 -119.4982 3 Samesun Backpacker's Lodge , 245 Harvey Ave , ☏ +1 250-763-9814 , toll-free: +1-877-972-6378 . Clean with good facilities and a very friendly party atmosphere. Outdoor courtyard area with DJs, BBQs and a pool in the summer. Daily activities year round. 4-8 bed dorm rooms and some private rooms. $27-29 dorm, $69-79 private . ( updated Nov 2015 )
• 49.88515 -119.42883 4 Best Western Inn Kelowna , ☏ +1 250 860-1212 . 2402 Highway 97 N.  
• 49.89394 -119.41444 5 Days Inn Kelowna , ☏ +1 250 868-3297 . 2649 Highway 97 N.  
• 49.88881 -119.42321 6 Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott , 1655 Powick Road , ☏ +1 250 763-2800 .  
• 49.95106 -119.38865 7 Four Points by Sheraton Kelowna Airport , 5505 Airport Way , toll-free: +1-855-900-5505 . The closest hotel to the airport, a walk of 700 m heading east to reach the airport. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 49.88002 -119.36318 8 The Hopeless Romantic Bed and Breakfast , 735 Lone Pine Dr , ☏ +1 250 765-5006 .  
• 49.8823 -119.439 9 Ramada Hotel & Conference Centre , 2170 Harvey Avenue , ☏ +1 250 860-9711 , toll-free: +1-800-663-9400 , fax : +1 250 860-3173 , [email protected] . Check-in: 3PM , check-out: 11AM . Across from the Okanagan's largest shopping centre; features 135 upgraded (as of 2015) 100% non-smoking guest rooms and suites. Indoor pool, hot tub and an upgraded fitness room. Complimentary Wi-Fi and guest parking. Perkin's Family Restaurant and Bakery, Mickie's Sports Pub and Summer Patio and Kelowna's only drive-through cold beer, wine and spirits store on premises. ( updated Apr 2015 )
• 49.8916 -119.4978 10 Delta Grand Okanagan Resort , 1310 Water St , ☏ +1 250-763-4500 , toll-free: +1-888-890-3222 . Check-in: 4PM , check-out: 11AM . Large hotel and conference center on Okanagan Lake. There are over 350 rooms, ranging from the standard two queen beds to suites with a whirlpool. The hotel includes a pool and fitness center. $350 and up in summer . ( updated Nov 2015 )

Stay safe [ edit ]

Kelowna is a growing city and therefore has its growing pains, with these come the following recommendations; avoid Leon & Lawrence Avenues between Water and Ellis during night time. City Park at night is patrolled, however can be somewhat dodgy after hours too. Be cautious when visiting the other local parks and beaches during the evening as well as they are known for transients and illegal activity.

As long as you keep yourself aware of your surroundings, you will be fine.

In summer, the city is also prone to forest fires, having suffered large fires in 2003, 2009, and 2023. Depending on the season, there may be campfire bans or parks may be closed.

Cope [ edit ]

Newspapers [ edit ].

• Kelowna Capital News , ☏ +1 250-763-3212 . ( updated May 2023 )

Hospital [ edit ]

Go next [ edit ].

• West Kelowna - If you're looking to round your wine experience, West Kelowna on the other side of Okanagan Lake via Hwy 97, is a good place to stop. It is home to some of the valley's best known wineries like Mission Hill, Mount Boucherie and Quail's Gate.
• Penticton - 45-60 minutes south of Kelowna is Penticton, another popular summer vacation spot with loads to do. Hang out at a beach, float down a canal, rock climbing, walking and biking trails are all within the city. There are also many wineries in the area.
• Peachland - A small community on the west side of Okanagan Lake between Kelowna and Penticton. The waterfront has a number of beaches while the hillside affords views of the lake and valley. There are also many walking trails along the waterfront, up the hillside and through Hardy Falls Regional Park.
• Vernon - About 45 minutes north of Kelowna along Hwy 97, Vernon is a smaller quieter but still popular holiday destination. Highlights include the many parks that offer swimming, walking and hiking trails, a handful of wineries, and Predator Ridge, an acclaimed golf resort.
• Big White — Ski resort and village southeast of Kelowna via Hwy 33. It lays claim to having to more ski-in ski-out accommodation than any other resort in British Columbia. Summer activities include hiking and sightseeing.

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18 Top Things to do in Kelowna, BC: A Complete Guide 2021

Kelowna is a beautiful city located right on the shores of Lake Okanagan. Surrounded by mountains, forests, orchards and vineyards, the city offers much to see and do in the surrounding valley. 

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The city offers a perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. There are plenty of hiking and bike riding trails, kayaking on the lake and thrilling activities such as zip-lining and canyoning. In the winter, Kelowna is also known for skiing. 

Even if you’re looking for a more relaxing stay, you can easily spend days checking out a city park, one of the beaches, the many nearby wineries or even a Kelowna art gallery. No matter what your interests are, you’ll find Kelowna suits a range of travellers. 

This guide to the best things to do in Kelowna BC, will help you plan the perfect trip to this lakeside destination.

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How to Get to Kelowna

Being a major city in Canada’s British Columbia province, Kelowna is quite easy to reach no matter how you prefer to travel.

Kelowna has a busy airport located 14km outside of Downtown Kelowna. Despite being labelled an international airport, Kelowna International Airport serves mostly Canada and an occasional flight from Seattle and to/from sun destinations over the winter. There are regular flights between Kelowna other major cities in Canada.

Located almost 400km northeast of Vancouver, Kelowna can easily be reached in a long four hour drive from the city. It’s also a worthwhile place to stop if you’re slowly making your way over to Banff National Park or to BC from Calgary. 

By train/bus

If you prefer to use public transport, then there is a direct bus from Vancouver to Kelowna with Ebus , as well as scheduled services connecting Kelowna to other destinations in British Columbia and Alberta.

How to get around Kelowna

Getting around Kelowna is made quite easy by public transport.  The compact downtown area can also be explored on foot.

BC Transit operates a frequent schedule around Kelowna, getting you from one side of the city to the other. All of their buses also accommodate wheelchairs, bicycles and scooters, if you need to get around the city with ease.

Best Time to Visit Kelowna

Kelowna is blessed with some pretty mild weather compared to other parts of Canada. This makes it a beautiful destination at any time of the year. However, if you’re planning on doing any outdoor activities, you might want to plan your visit around the seasons.

Summer months in Kelowna are very warm with a top temperature of around 28° Celsius and a low of 11° Celsius. This makes it perfect for any water-based activities and spending the day at the beach.

Fall is a beautiful time to visit Kelowna, with the farm-to-table scene blossoming with delicious fresh produce. The weather is also milder, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking.

Winter can be a bit more moderate than other places in BC or Alberta, but it’s still cool with a low of -6° Celsius and a high of 1° Celsius. There are still plenty of things to do in Kelowna in the winter, with snow sports in the surrounding mountains.

Spring is a nice shoulder season to visit Kelowna. The city is much quieter at this time of year, but the weather is still nice, particularly later in the season as it starts to warm up.

Top Things To Do in Kelowna 

If you’re wondering what is there to do in Kelowna, here are our favourite things to do in Kelowna, Canada, so you can ensure you don’t miss a thing on your trip!

1. See Kelowna from Above at Knox Mountain 

Knox Mountain Park is one of the highlights of any Kelowna sightseeing tour. The scenic park is the largest natural area in the city offering plenty of space for outdoor activities including hiking and mountain biking.

You can either drive, hike or bike up to the top of Knox Mountain to enjoy panoramic views across the Okanagan Valley and Downtown Kelowna. The peak rises about 300 metres above the water level of Okanagan Lake.

There are plenty of other trails as well, including the popular Paul’s Tomb trail which is around 1.5km from the base of the mountain to the northern edge of the park boundary.

The park is open from 6am to 10pm and is definitely one of the best free things to do in Kelowna.

2. Visit Myra Canyon Park 

Myra Canyon is an incredible natural feature to the south of the city and one of the most popular Kelowna tourist attractions. There are plenty of different ways to explore the area.

A popular way to see the canyon is on the restored Myra Canyon Trestles which is part of the former Kettle Valley Railway. The Myra Canyon trail takes you over 18 trestle bridges and through two tunnels, stretching for over 12km. You can either hike it or explore this area on a bike. You can also rent bikes from the car park during the summer months. The Kettle Valley trestles are just 35 minutes from Downtown Kelowna.

Another way to explore the canyon is by visiting Myra Canyon Adventure Park . It’s definitely one of the most fun things to do in Kelowna. The park offers a variety of activities that are perfect for the whole family, including zip-lining courses, segway tours and rope courses.

And lastly, the Kelowna Stables Myra Canyon Ranch offers guided horse rides for all ages through the canyon.

3. Go Wine Tasting  

The Okanagan Valley is renowned as Canada’s top wine region. There are over 200 wineries in the area and plenty within just a short drive from town, making wine tasting a great activity any time of the day.

The Okanagan Valley is known for its dry red and white varieties, although some wineries in Kelowna also have fantastic red blends. You can sample wines by visiting wineries on your own self-drive wine tour. 

Summerhill Pyramid Winery is one of the prettiest wineries to visit. All of their offerings are organic and biodynamic, plus their onsite restaurant serves local produce with some fantastic vegan options. 

Tantalus Vineyards is another very stylish place south of Downtown Kelowna, offering lake views from their tasting room. They are known for incredible Riesling. 

Mission Hill Family Estate Winery is another of our favourite places in the wine country. Located in West Kelowna, the architecture of the buildings is almost as impressive as the wine. Plus, they have a locavore restaurant and their own wine tours showcasing their cellars and vineyards.

READ NEXT: 10 Best Wineries in Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley

4. Visit Kelowna Farmers’ and Crafters’ Market

Kelowna Farmers Market, located just to the east of Downtown Kelowna, is a bustling destination all year round. Open Wednesday and Saturday mornings, it’s the best place to pick up some local food, including fresh fruit and vegetables, flowers, plants, cheeses, honey and other artisanal goodies.

Located just across from the Orchard Park Shopping Centre and near Mission Creek Regional Park, the Farmers Market is a great Saturday morning activity. There’s always a lively atmosphere and it’s an excellent spot for breakfast, with coffee, crepes and pies sold by some of the friendly stallholders.

5. Explore Kasugai Japanese Garden

Located right in the heart of the city centre, the Kasugai Japanese Gardens are a peaceful city park to take a break from the crowds. This traditionally landscaped green space features walking paths, ponds with koi fish and stone lanterns. 

It is definitely one of the most unusual Kelowna attractions. The Kasugai Garden was completed to recognize the friendship between Kelowna and its sister city, Kasugai in Japan. It’s open from 9am to 5pm every day, and until 8pm in summer.

6. Hang out at Boyce-Gyro Beach Park

While there are so many beaches in Kelowna, Boyce-Gyro Beach Park is a particular favourite because of its playground, picnic spots, volleyball courts, washrooms and snack shop along the sandy strip. It’s definitely one of the most family-friendly places to visit in Kelowna and is perfect for young kids. 

If you’re looking for a sandy beach on the shores of Okanagan Lake, head to Hot Sands Beach Kelowna which is one of the most popular in the city for soaking up the summer heat.

7. Explore Kelowna Waterfront Park

If you’re wondering what to do in Kelowna in summer, the Kelowna Waterfront Park is a popular spot to chill out. Located on the eastern shore of Lake Okanagan, it’s one of the prettiest water parks in British Columbia. The park has green landscaped gardens, a beach and swimming area and beautiful city views.

A visit to the park is one of the best things to do in Kelowna with kids! You can head down there to cool off in summer and enjoy a picnic on the grass. You can also rent kayaks, boats and other water equipment for some summer activities.

8. Visit a Farm 

Kelowna and the Okanagan Valley is a fertile fruit-growing region with the perfect climate for growing delicious produce. You’ll notice lots of farms around the city and many of them are open to visitors for farm gate sales and fruit picking.

It’s best to visit the region’s fruit orchards in mid to late summer, as this is when you can find ripe cherries, apples, plums, peaches and nectarines. Just east of Downtown Kelowna, Kempf Orchards is a popular cherry farm where you can pick your own fruit across the 14-acre farm.

9. Visit Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery 

For a relaxing afternoon while visiting Kelowna, head to Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery . Spanning over two decades of operations, this distillery is an award-winning place, named as Distillery of the Year three times in recent years. 

Known for a range of whiskies, gins and vodkas, the Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery offers tastings and a storefront. The staff are very welcoming and happy to explain the processes behind the oldest distillery in Western Canada. The distillery is open from 10am to 6pm every day of the week.

10. Sample Craft Beer 

While wine is definitely the more well-known drink around Kelowna, there are also some great craft breweries to check out as.  In the cultural district to the north of the city centre, you’ll find the popular BNA Brewing Co . This brewpub has an onsite tasting room and rustic restaurant and bar for sipping on a range of their craft beers and feasting on their sharing plates. Plus, a somewhat odd addition to the brewery is the bowling alley, which welcomes the whole family.

If you want to check out some more local breweries, you can also head to Vice & Virtue Brewing Co and Kelowna Beer Institute in the northern end of town.

11. Go Hiking 

Kelowna is surrounded by a variety of hiking trails, so it’s no wonder that one of the most popular activities to do in Kelowna is to go hiking. There are some great hikes in Kelowna that range in distances and are suitable for all levels of fitness. Take a look at some of these suggestions.

Bear Creek Loop Trail: A lovely stroll on the loop trail in Bear Creek Provincial Park north of West Kelowna is a great option for the whole family. There are also more difficult trails in the park including the Canyon Rim Trail if you want something more challenging.

Mount Boucherie: A hike up this extinct volcano offers incredible panoramic views across the entire valley and lake. There are three different trails on the mountain. The Boucherie Rush Trail is the most popular. It’s around 6 km return and offers a steep climb with stunning views as a reward.

Blue Grouse Mountain Loop: Another great hike to the north of West Kelowna is this 8km return climb up to Blue Grouse Mountain. From the top, there are stunning views over Kelowna and the Okanagan Valley. 

Angel Springs Trail: Located not far from Myra Canyon, this 11.6km round trip takes you through lush forest in the KLO Creek Park. It offers beautiful views of the canyon and natural thermal springs. It’s a slow incline and a moderately graded trail

12. Visit Waterfalls

One of the lesser-known things to see in Kelowna are the beautiful waterfalls within easy reach of the city. Here are some of the best falls to catch during your time in Kelowna.

Christie Falls: These spectacular falls are located north of the city near Fintry. It requires a 2.4km return hike to reach, but the trail is almost as beautiful as the falls themselves. It’s a moderate hike with incredible views of the forested mountains. 

Crawford Falls: A short but steep hike near Myra Canyon takes you to this peaceful spot with two falls to see. The first falls are Canyon Falls but if you continue on, you’ll also reach Crawford Falls. 

Bear Creek Falls: There is a well-maintained trail for around 1km to reach Bear Creek Falls. It can be very slippery after heavy rain though, with a steep climb but the thundering falls are worth the walk in Bear Creek Park.

13. Go Ziplining 

If you’re looking for things to do in Kelowna with kids, then look no further than Oyama Zipline Forest Adventure . This incredible zip lining experience, North of Kelowna near Oyama Lake, is a fun way to spend a few hours. 

They offer guided zipline tours and an aerial park with a high ropes course, suitable for the whole family. Their activities range from 20 minutes up to five hours with varying prices.

14. Go Canyoning

The popular adventure tour operator, Western Canyoning Adventure , offers canyoning tours in Kelowna. As one of the best things to do in the Okanagan Valley for thrill-seekers, they can take you rappelling down a waterfall with an experienced guide at hand. 

It’s one of the top Kelowna activities to join to escape the summer heat. You can find some completely untouched waterfalls and have an exciting day learning a new skill. Half-day canyoning tours are around CAD $150 per person.

15. Go Skydiving

If you want to see the best of Kelowna from the sky, a thrill-seeking skydive is a very memorable way to finish off a trip to the city. It offers an incredible opportunity to see Lake Country from a different perspective.

Okanagan Skydive offers tandem skydiving trips between Okanagan Lake and Kalamalka Lake. You’ll be able to take in most of the incredible scenery of the valley, including the Monashee Mountain range, the ski resorts of Big White, Silverstar and Sunpeaks Ski Hills and the city skyline.

16. Visit Peachland

Peachland, located South of Kelowna on the shores of Okanagan Lake, is one of the nicest places to go in Kelowna for a day trip. Similar to Kelowna, it offers plenty of outdoor activities within close proximity.

It’s also a nice town to visit if you want to check out some other wineries and farms in the surrounding region. Peachland is smaller than Kelowna and can be a nice alternative if you’re looking for a more laid-back place to explore on Okanagan lake.

17. Take a Drive to Penticton

Continue your self-drive tour farther south from Peachland to visit Penticton. It’s uniquely located between Lake Okanagan and Skaha Lake and serves as another popular destination on the Okanagan Wine trail. The city offers a  similar vibe and attractions to other places in Lake Country with wine tastings being the most popular thing to do here. 

18. Go Skiing

While the winters in Kelowna are milder, it’s still a great place to be for winter sports with plenty of things to do in Kelowna in winter. There are a few popular skiing destinations in the region, including Big White Ski Resort and Silver Star Mountain Resort . 

Even in the off-season, some of these resorts stay open to visitors offering hiking trails and biking activities.

Best Restaurants in Kelowna

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing lunch or bar hopping at night, there are plenty of good restaurants to check out.

Basil & Mint: Located in the southern part of the city on Lakeshore Road, this beautiful restaurant offers a mix of local and international dishes. The moderately priced restaurant aims to use only the best of the local produce from around British Columbia.

Sprout Bread: Located in the cultural district, this popular bakery is known for home-baked goodies, including delicious bread and pastries. It’s busiest in the early morning when people head there for a morning coffee.

Orchard Room: Located near Kelowna City Park, this stylish place lives up to the hype. Serving delicious cocktails and Mexican inspired food, it’s a top choice in Kelowna.

Terrace Restaurant: For a truly special dining experience, the Terrace Restaurant is an incredible place at Mission Hill Family Estate. Offering lake views from your table, they serve high-quality food with the perfect wine pairing.

Krafty Kitchen & Bar: This place offers an incredible farm to table experience, specialising in local cuisine and sustainable produce. With outdoor dining and a young vibe, it’s a popular place for lunch and dinner.

Salt and Brick: Focusing on artisanal small plates and sharing platters, this intimate space is perfect for a romantic dinner. Their extensive wine list also features some of the best local wines.

CRAFT Beer Market Kelowna: One of the most popular local restaurants, you can’t go wrong with a visit to CRAFT at any time of the day. With an incredible patio and rooftop area, it’s especially popular at happy hour when you can taste some of the best craft beers in the city.

Memphis Blues Barbeque House: Located in the city centre, this barbecue restaurant offers delicious comfort food, with large servings and a fun vibe all evening. Their stand-out feature is a wine selection of bourbon, whiskey and spirits.

Where to Stay in Kelowna

No matter your budget, you’ll be able to find some unique places to stay in Kelowna. Here are some of our recommendations:

Budget/Camping Accommodation in Kelowna

If you have camping equipment or travelling in a van, then Bear Creek Provincial Park is an ideal spot in West Kelowna. It’s a beautiful park with walking trails, a sandy beach located not far from some popular places to see in Kelowna.

The campground is open to the public from the end of March until mid-October. Over summer it can be extremely busy so booking ahead is essential. Camping fees are $35 per night per vehicle, with added fees for power. There are over 140 sites available, with all the facilities including hot showers, toilets, picnic areas and a playground.

Other Hotels in Kelowna

Comfort Suites Kelowna : A popular mid-range place to stay, this hotel features an indoor pool and hot tub and complimentary breakfast along with comfortable rooms. They’re a designated sustainable hotel property with outlined commitments to reducing their environmental impact.

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Kelowna : A nice mid-range accommodation option located just east of the city centre. They offer free breakfast, high-speed internet and pet-friendly rooms, within close proximity to all the attractions in Kelowna.

Myra Canyon Lodge Ranch: For a very secluded stay within the Myra Canyon, this high-end lodge and ranch offer stylish self-catering suites just 30 minutes drive from Downtown. The nature retreat also offers plenty of activities including horse riding and biking.

How Long do you Need to Spend in Kelowna

As you see from above, there are so many places to see and things to do in Kelowna BC. You could easily spend 3-5 days in and around the city.

If you have less time to explore, you can simply spend the day in the city centre, discovering the beaches, city parks and delicious foodie scene. Otherwise, if you’re into outdoor activities, then you can certainly extend your stay to longer than a week.

READ NEXT: 16 Unmissable Things to do in BC, Canada

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Oksana St. John

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West Kelowna Visitor Centre

2376 Dobbin Rd, West Kelowna

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The West Kelowna Visitor Centre is housed in the Westbank Museum. Stop by to get some information and learn about our local history all at the same time!

Our Visitor Centre Counsellors can give you some ‘locals’ tips, help you find accommodation, direct you to a restaurant and give you information on our farms, wineries and trails, or browse some local art and clothing in their store!

The Visitor Centre is open Monday to Saturday, 9am to 4pm for now through the Thanksgiving weekend.

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31 Awesome Things to do in Kelowna: The Ultimate Kelowna Travel Guide

Posted on Last updated: January 6, 2023

Looking for some incredible things to do in Kelowna during your next visit? This guide is for you!

Over the years Kelowna has quickly became one of my favourite places to visit in Canada.

I find myself wanting to spend more and more time there every year!

Beyond how absolutely stunning it is, there’s just so many fun attractions and activities to do in Kelowna.

From visiting vineyards to boating on Lake Okanagan and hiking through the mountains.

Whether you’re more of a leisurely traveler or an adventurer, there are so many awesome things to do in Kelowna.

It is sure to make you quickly fall in love with our beautiful country!

If you’re planning a trip to Kelowna sometime soon, I hope you find this guide on the best things to do in Kelowna useful!

If you’re visiting the Okanagan soon, you may also want to check out these posts:

• The Best Wineries in Kelowna – Kelowna Winery Guide
• 35 Best Things to do in Kelowna in Winter
• 7 Best Wineries for Lunch in Kelowna
• 6 wineries you need to visit in Oliver & Osoyoos
• Wineries of Lake Country – The perfect Kelowna day trip!
• 6 of the most instagrammable places in Kelowna

Table of Contents

Weather in Kelowna

Although the weather in Kelowna is some of the best you will find in Canada year round, most people tend to visit Kelowna in the summer.

Summers in Kelowna are absolutely divine!

Here the weather is nice and hot, but you don’t have the humidity that eastern cities like Toronto and Montreal are used to.

During summertime in Kelowna, you can easily expect temperatures to be in the mid twenties all the way up to the forties (celsius of course).

Dress for warm weather if you’re coming in the summer!

Spring in Kelowna is also a beautiful time to visit.

During spring you can expect temperatures from 15 degrees all the way up to the mid twenties.

Although, during El Nino years spring has been colder so be sure to bring layers and check the forecast.

Fall in Kelowna is gorgeous, and tends to be much longer than fall in other parts of Canada.

Due to the warmer weather you really get to experience a full month or even more of the leaves changing colors.

Like spring, the temperature during fall in Kelowna can vary anywhere from 10 degrees to 25 degrees or so.

Lastly, winters in Kelowna are quite mild.

Temperatures don’t often fall below zero, and although there is snow there is never a ton of it (well, at least to Alberta standards).

There is of course plenty of things to do in Kelowna even in winter !

Wineries are almost all open, and of course there are lots of outdoor winter activities to do here like skiing, snowboarding, and skating.

By the way, I have a whole guide to things to do in Kelowna in winter so be sure to check it out!

Getting Around Kelowna

It is best if you’re visiting Kelowna to have a vehicle because a lot of activities and destinations are spread out.

If you are planning on staying in downtown Kelowna you could get by without a car, however there is just so much to see outside of the downtown core.

If you will be visiting wineries during your stay in Kelowna (which is one of the best things to do in Kelowna!), you will especially want to plan to have transportation.

A lot of wineries in Kelowna are quite spread out and require driving between them.

If you don’t want to drive, one of the best and easiest ways to enjoy a day of winery hopping is to book a wine tour.

Wine tours will give you a designated driver that will take you from winery to winery meaning you won’t have to worry about how much you drink or where you’re going!

There are also a few wineries you can visit by bike, but I would highly recommend to either travel with a designated driver or book a wine tour to really get the best out of your visit.

The Kelowna or West Kelowna Afternoon Sightseeing Wine Tour is easily the highest rated wine tour in the area.

This incredible wine tour gives you the option of touring 4 of the best wineries in Kelowna, or 4 of the best wineries in West Kelowna, and it’s totally up to you to pick!

Now, onto the guide of the best things to do in Kelowna!

The Best Things to do in Kelowna

1. step back in time and taste wine at crown & thieves.

Address: 3887C Brown Rd, West Kelowna

I couldn’t help but start this post off with a winery, and Crown & Thieves is hands down the most unique winery in Kelowna.

Visiting wineries is one of my absolute favourite things to do when I’m in Kelowna.

In fact, I love it so much I wrote a full guide to the best wineries in Kelowna.

There’s just so many amazing wineries to visit in the BC region, and Kelowna alone has over 50!

Step into Crown & Thieves and you will immediately feel like you stepped back in time.

One step into Crown & Thieves and you will seriously feel like you’ve walked straight into something out of Pirates of the Carribbean!

But not only is it a stunning and unique winery, their wines are incredible too.

This is one Kelowna winery you won’t want to miss!

2. Have a drink at the Broken Hearts Club

Another thing that makes Crown & Thieves so unique, is they actually have a speakeasy bar in the basement!

Open Friday – Sunday from 12pm-9pm, The Broken Hearts Club serves great cocktails and of course Cown & Thieves wine in the coolest speakeasy bar.

They also have a happy hour Friday – Sunday from 3pm-5pm where you can get great deals on cocktails and wine.

3. Have dinner Family Style at Angel Share

Located on the rooftop at Crown & Thieves is Angel Share , Kelowna’s only fully outdoor restaurant!

Angel Share specializes in family share plates, and the menu is ever changing.

Seriously, every day the menu is different based on the availability of local seasonal ingredients.

Expect an incredibly unique menu and great dining experience!

4. Bike or Hike along the Myra Canyon / Kettle Valley Railway

Address: Kettle Valley Rail Trail, Naramata

If you’re spending a couple of days in Kelowna you absolutely have to head out to the Myra Canyon portion of the Kettle Valley Railway .

Located about a 45 minute drive from the heart of Kelowna, the Myra Canyon Trestle trail is multi-use trail made along the old Kettle Valley Railway train tracks.

The coolest part is that the train tracks are way up high in the mountains!

It is such a unique experience that there is no surprise it’s one of Kelowna’s top attractions.

It’s an incredibly scenic 22km round trip route that’s great for walking & biking for all ages.

Along the trail you’ll pass over multiple trestles and even through tunnels that the trains used to go through and get some pretty spectacular views!

You can rent a bike in the parking lot through Myra Canyon Bike Rentals (I recommend this if you want to do the full route).

It’s such an incredible way to spend the day and get a little exercise in and I love that you can rent a bike if you don’t have one!

The Myra Canyon trestle trail is a great activity for young or old so grab your fam and get ready for a great time and incredibly scenic Kelowna views!

By the way – in case you’re wondering I wore bike shorts under my skirt and slipped the skirt overtop of them for photos.

Of course I didn’t bike in this skirt I’m not that crazy.

Location details for Myra Canyon Trestle Trail here

5. Go trail riding with Kelowna Stables at Myra Canyon Ranch

Address: 4675 June Springs Rd

Another great activity to do in Myra Canyon (located just 25 drive from downtown Kelowna) beyond biking the Kettle Valley trail is horseback riding with Kelowna Stables .

Whether you’re a beginner, moderate level or expert horseback rider Kelowna Stables is the place to go.

You’ll get to experience some of the most beautiful trails, friendliest staff, and best views you’ll see all from horseback!

It’s also really easy to get both biking along the Kettle Valley trail and riding at Kelowna Stables done in one day, so if you’re making the trip out to Myra Canyon I definitely recommend doing both.

In fact, you can even rent bikes at Kelowna Stables to do the Kettle Valley Railway trail!

Make sure to reserve your bike online when booking your trail ride so you can get the most out of your visit to the area.

Kelowna Stables is located at the Myra Canyon Ranch Bed & Breakfast, located right at the entrance to Myra-Bellevue Provincial Park. Location details here!

6. Taste Wine at Quails Gate Estate Winery

Address: 3303 Boucherie Rd

Quail’s Gate Estate Winery is one of Canada’s first family owned estate wineries, and really is an institution in Kelowna because of its history.

The Stewart family who owns it has been in the viticulture business for 60 years, and Quail’s Gate has been around for 30 of those years!

We visit Quail’s Gate Estate Winery almost every time we are in Kelowna.

Quail’s Gate has one of the most beautiful views from their tasting room, you definitely don’t want to miss seeing it!

They also have numerous tasting options available , from their standard tasting to their vineyard tasting, wine and cheese tasting, and even a wine and bourbon paired tasting!

7. Have lunch (or dinner) at Old Vines Restaurant

There are a few really great wineries that have amazing restaurants for lunch in Kelowna , and Quail’s Gate is the first on this list!

After visiting their beautiful vineyard and doing a tasting in their tasting room, you have to stop for lunch at Old Vines Restaurant.

Old Vines Restaurant is a stunning restaurant with incredible views.

Not only is it beautiful, but it’s one of the original wineries in West Kelowna and is consistently top-ranked in the Okanagan.

I absolutely love having lunch at Old Vines Restaurant, and it truly is one of the best winery restaurants.

By the way, I have a whole guide on best wineries in Kelowna for lunch if you’re looking for more ideas!

8. Pick your own Cherries at a local Orchard

Picking cherries is something that had been on our list for the last few years but somehow we never got around to it.

I was so happy that we made it out cherry picking this year and I definitely recommend visiting an orchard and doing it yourself!

There are so many great cherry orchards you can go to pick cherries (and other fruits) at.

It’s the perfect activity to do while you’re in Kelowna.

We went to the small family owned Fransera Farm in Lake Country (they don’t even have a website!) and it was such a great experience.

I swear the cherries taste even sweeter when you’ve picked them yourself.

Hows that for an afternoon activity you can really sink our teeth into?

Location details to FranSera Farms here

9. Pick seasonal fruit at Paynter’s Fruit Market

Address: 3687 Paynter Rd, West Kelowna

Open mid-late June until early fall, Paynter’s Fruit Market is a fantastic farm and orchard to visit in West Kelowna.

No matter what month you arrive, they will have something fun you can pick!

It is such a fun experience to visit Paynter’s and pick fresh fruit.

We went and picked golden plums which I had never heard of, and they were so delicious!

I highly recommend visiting Paynter’s when you visit.

Here is a list of the fruits they have and when they will (approximately) be ripe for the picking:

• Apricots: July
• Peaches: End of July – early September
• Golden Plums: August
• Pears: Late August – Early October
• Apples: End September – Late October
• Italian Prune Plums: September

10. Taste some incredible wines at Black Swift Vineyards

Address: 2345 Boucherie Rd

Black Swift Vineyards opened in 2020 and is easily one of my all time favourite wineries in Kelowna.

(you can read my guide to the best wineries in Kelowna here)

The wines at Black Swift are absolutely incredible!

Black Swift is the kind of winery for people who love good wines, but like any Jason Parkes’ winery they aren’t about being wine snobs.

But just because they aren’t your typical wine snobs, doesn’t mean their wines aren’t fantastic.

Beyond having incredible wines, the views here are stunning and they have the friendliest staff that makes your tasting experience truly enjoyable.

11. Spend your Sunday at Hangover Church

If you happen to be in Kelowna on a Sunday, you have to book yourself in for Hangover Church at Black Swift Vineyards!

Hangover Church is a one seating brunch event with a breakfast feature dish, mimosa, and full wine tasting experience.

This is one unique (and fun) way to spend your Sunday!

12. Hike to the top of Mount Boucherie and take in the stunning views.

Address: E Boundary Rd, Westbank

What was once a 2000m active volcano that dates back 60 million years is now an amazing hiking trail that takes you to 360 degree views of the Okanagan Valley below.

Due to erosion the peak is now just under 800m and has some pretty spectacular views!

Mount Boucherie has 3 different trails you can go on that range from moderate to difficult level hikes.

At about 6km round trip, some areas are easy enough for the whole family while others require more experienced hikers.

Pick a trail based on your skill level and get ready to see why hiking is a big attraction in Kelowna!

Thanks to Tourism Kelowna, here are the directions for both the more difficult and easier hikes:

Regular trail: To access this trail, turn onto Bartley Road from Hwy 97. This road turns into East Boundary Rd. Follow the road approximately 1.5 km and you will see a small parking area on your left.  Click here for Google Maps location .

Easier trail: If you are a beginner hiker or if you have younger children with you, consider accessing the trails from Lakeview Cove Road at Eain Lamont Park. This option will reduce your elevation gain making it easier.  Click here for Google Maps location .

13. Visit one of Kelowna’s many public beaches

As if you were going to visit Kelowna without spending some time on the lake right?

Whether you decide to visit one of Kelowna’s beaches and spend the day laying in the sun, strolling along the downtown harbour, checking out the passing boats, or you prefer to get out on the water yourself, you absolutely must spend some time visiting Lake Okanagan.

If you’re like me then your ideal vacation activity is spending the day laying on a beach with a good book, with not a care in the world, cooler in hand, and of course plenty of snacks packed away!

Kelowna has so many great beaches to visit and these are some of the most popular (click them for the location details):

• Hot Sands Beach
• Boyce-Gyro Beach
• Rotary Beach

14. Rent a boat for the day

Who doesn’t love boating right?

Why not rent a boat through Okanagan Boat Rentals and spend the day boating on Lake Okanagan!

They have boat rentals with everything you need for tubing, wakesurfing, wakeboarding, water skiing, and knee boarding!

You can reserve a boat online on their website and they have seadoos too which are such a fun activity to do while in Kelowna.

Looking for something a little more unique?

Check out Maeg’s BBQ Boats which are quite literally boats with BBQ’s in the middle!

15. Spend the day kayaking, paddle boarding or canoeing on the lake

For an extra fun activity to do in Kelowna on the lake (that’s also a great workout) I recommend you rent a kayak, paddle board, or canoe from Okanagan Beach Rentals !

They have 5 rental locations along Lake Okanagan at some of the most popular beaches and it’s a great way to get out and enjoy the lake.

You can rent from Okanagan Beach Rentals at these locations:

• Gyro Beach Park
• Rotary Beach Park
• Tugboat Bay Beach
• Bear Creek Provincial Park
• Sun Oka Beach Provincial Park

For more details on Okanagan Beach Rentals and their locations click here!

16. Go for a Stroll along the Waterfront Boardwalk

The waterfront boardwalk is an absolutely stunning little walk along Lake Okanagan in downtown Kelowna.

On this walk you’ll get to see all sorts of wildlife, boats coming and going from the marina, and people out and about having picnics on the grass.

Stop for an ice cream along the way or head into one of the local restaurants and bars nearby for a drink after your stroll.

Parking is easily available along the streets or in one of the nearby carparks.

This is the perfect place to go for an after dinner stroll especially since it’s in close proximity to so many restaurants.

17. Take in the views from up high on a Parasailing experience

Address: 230 Queensway, Kelowna

Want to see Kelowna from a whole new perspective?

Why not see it from up high in the sky on a parasailing adventure on Lake Okanagan!

We went parasailing the summer before last and it was so much fun.

Book your parasailing adventure with Ogopogo Parasail and see why it’s such a popular attraction in Kelowna.

Ogopogo offers single, tandem and triple parasailing experiences.

Make sure to wear a bathing suit because there’s a good chance you’ll get a little dip in the water on your way down.

Ogopogo Parasail is located right at the Downtown Kelowna Waterfront in Kerry Park.

18. Head for a hipster wine tasting at The Hatch

Address: 3225 Boucherie Rd

The Hatch opened in 2015 and has some of my all time favourite wines in the region.

7 years later I can still proudly say that hasn’t changed one bit!

The Hatch prides itself in being a laid back winery that’s a far cry from the traditional “wine snob” wineries you can find in most wine regions.

They have the most artistic and fun wine labels to boot!

19. Try organic wines at Summerhill Pyramid Winery

Address: 4870 Chute Lake Rd

We’ve been visiting  Summerhill Pyramid Winery for years and you may remember it from my post on Instagrammable places in Kelowna ( which you should check out here! ).

Summerhill never fails to remain on the top of my things to do in Kelowna list.

There’s a reason why this is one of the top wedding venues in Kelowna and it’s not just because it’s beautiful.

All the wines at Summerhill are organic & biodynamic, and their bistro boasts an amazing menu of delicious local & organic fare with plenty of vegan options.

Summerhill is definitely a must visit – and besides, who doesn’t want a picture with a giant bottle of bubbly?

20. Visit the local Farmer’s Market

Address: Crn Springfield &, Dilworth Dr

You’ll find some pretty amazing locally grown fruits & vegetables in Kelowna so you’d definitely be missing out if you don’t try some while you’re there.

If buying your fruits and veggies already picked is more your jam then you can grab some at one of the many orchards or head over to the Kelowna Farmer’s and Crafter’s Market .

The market Is open every Wednesday and Saturday from 8am-1pm.

They feature a large selection of farm, food, and craft vendors from around the area.

It’s a great place to stop by to get all of your fresh fruits, veggies, meats and baked goods all in one!

Location details for Kelowna Farmer’s and Crafter’s Market here

21. Check out the Oyama Zipline & Aerial Adventure Park

Address: 5617 Oyama Lake Rd

There’s a reason why Oyama Zipline is voted one of the top Kelowna Must-Do adventure activities and attractions.

I did the Aerial Adventure Park this past summer with my sister-in-law and we had a blast!

If you think aerial adventure parks are just for kids have I got news for you.

Not only was it difficult but we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.

The entire course takes a couple of hours and is a great activity to do while visiting Kelowna.

Make sure you wear sneakers with decent grip on the bottom, leggings or athletic shorts, and bring a hoodie.

The park is shaded and it can get a little chillier than In the sun!

Oyama Zipline & Aerial Adventure Park has 4 courses of varying difficulties.

Start on the easiest one while you get your bearings and work your way up to the black diamond.

I thought I was in for an easy afternoon activity but couldn’t believe how sore I was the next day!

Location details for Oyama Zipline & Aerial Adventure Park here!

22. Try some amazing ciders and wine at The View Winery

Address: 2287 Ward Rd

The View Winery is not only a kick ass winery that has amazing wines but they also make cider too!

They have a whole lineup of amazing year-round and seasonal ciders that are some of the most flavourful and delicious ciders I’ve ever tried.

Stop by to try their cider, wines, or both!

Location details for The View Winery here

23. Go for a spirit tasting at Okanagan Spirits Kelowna

Address: 267 Bernard Ave

Prefer something a little stronger? Okanagan Spirits has you covered!

Located right in the heart of downtown Kelowna and just a short walk from the harbour, Okanagan Spirits has a great spirit lineup that includes Whiskies, Vodka, Gin, Liqueurs, Brandies and even Absinthe!

Stop the shop to try out some of their spirits and go home with a bottle or two.. you won’t regret it.

Location details for Okanagan Spirits here

24. Challenge yourself with a hike at McDougall Rim

Address: McDougall Rim Hiking Trail

McDougall Rim is not for the faint of heart or for the newbie hiker, but if you’re an adventurer that likes a challenge this is a must do!

McDougall Rim is an intense uphill hike that eventually tapers off into more level land.

Unlike the other hikes mentioned in this guide to the best things to do in Kelowna, McDougall Rim does not have clearly labeled trails and can be quite difficult to navigate.

The entire hike is over 20km and not for the faint of heart.

Make sure you bring lots of water and snacks if you plan on trying for the whole trail!

McDougall Rim is one of the top hiking attractions in Kelowna so prepare for some pretty stellar views.

To get to McDougall Rim: Going north in Westbank on Hwy 97 turn left on Bartley Rd. Follow the road straight to a gravel road, you will be on private property for 2km. Park on the right just before the cattleguard and the trail starts here.

Location details for McDougall Rim hiking trail here

25. Grab a beer flight at BNA Brewing Co. & Eatery

Address: 1250 Ellis St

BNA was voted #1 brewery in Kelowna so of course it had to be included on my list of top Kelowna attractions!

Stop by their on-site tasting room and grab a flight of your choice from their list of 9 locally made beers or head to the restaurant for a meal and a couple pints.

By the way – they also have ten pin bowling on site so it’s the perfect afternoon activity to do in Kelowna – especially if the weather isn’t cooperating!

Want to check out more of Kelowna’s amazing cideries, breweries and distilleries? Check out this post on Tourism Kelowna’s website for a whole list of them !

Location details for BNA here

26. Visit Benvoulin Heritage Church

Address: 2279 Benvoulin Rd

Visiting churches is such a thing in Europe, but who would have thought churches would be attractions here in Canada?

We drove by Benvoulin Heritage Church numerous times and every time we passed it I always said we need to stop there and shoot one day.

This year we finally made the stop and I’m so glad we did! It may not be as big or mighty as the historic churches in Europe… but this cute little church has plenty of history of its own!

Here’s a little backstory on this charming little church:

• Benvoulin was built in 1892 and formerly known as the Bethel Presbyterian Church. It was the first Protestant Church between Vernon and the US border.
• The church was built on land donated by real estate promoter George Grant MacKay, and it was built by H.W. Raymer who became Kelowna’s first mayor in 1905.
• The lumber came from the sawmill of notable pioneer Eli Lequime, and Lord & Lady Aberdeen who owned the neighbouring Guisachan ranch. They donated money and labour and the church was based off a church in their home of Aberdeen in Scotland!
• It was dedicated on September 1st of 1892 by reverend Thomas Somerville of Glasgow.
• After many changes to the building the church closed in 1964
• In 1982 the newly formed Central Okanagan Heritage Society took on the restoration of the building. It held its official reopening September 4th of 1986.
• Since then the church has become a well-used and much-loved community space in Kelowna. It’s now used for cultural events, weddings, concerts and so much more!

Location details for Benvoulin Heritage Church here

27. Visit the Okanagan Heritage Museum

Address: 470 Queensway

At the Okanagan Heritage Museum you’ll discover the natural and human history of Kelowna.

Admission is by donation (although $5 is recommended) so it’s a super affordable activity.

At the Okanagan Heritage Museum you’ll get to learn how the Okanagan valley was formed, and why it supports tremendous biodiversity.

Step into the world of the syilx/Okanagan people, and gain insights into their close connection to the land.

Learn about the arrival of traders and settlers, and peer into the windows of an original “Chinatown” shop.

Meet some individuals from Kelowna’s past and present, and be inspired by the Central Okanagan Sports Hall of Fame!

Okanagan Heritage Museum has both permanent and temporary exhibits so check the website to see what attractions are going on during your visit!

Location details for Okanagan Heritage Museum here

28. Head up to Silverstar Mountain Resort

Address: 123 Shortt St, Silver Star Mountain

Located an hour outside of Kelowna, Silverstar Mountain Resort is possibly the cutest and most colourful little Mountain Village and resort I’ve ever seen.

Silverstar Mountain Resort boasts tons of things to see and activities to do year round, so don’t let the season stop you from paying them a visit while in Kelowna!

Whether you’re looking to ski or snowboard in the winter, or you want to check out the hiking trails, the gondola, or bike during the summer months you won’t get bored at Silverstar.

There are also tons of cute shops, restaurants, bars, cafes and hotels on Silverstar if you want to make a weekend out of it.

With so many attractions and activities it would be a shame to miss visiting Silverstar while in Kelowna!

Location details for Silverstar Mountain Resort here!

29. Big White Mountain

Address: 5315 Big White Rd

Like Silverstar, Big White is another super cute and colorful Mountain destination near Kelowna with tons of activities to do year round.

In the summer they have numerous hiking and biking trails, and of course in the winter you can ski and snowboard to your heart’s content!

Big White also offers numerous shops, restaurants, bars and cafes, plus the resort has a spa for those looking to get a little self-care in.

If you’re visiting Kelowna this year don’t miss this awesome attraction!

Location details for Big White Ski Resort here!

30. Do a Day Trip to Visit the Wineries of Lake Country

If you’re planning on spending a couple of days in Kelowna I definitely recommend doing the 20 minute drive and heading out to Lake Country to visit the wineries out there.

While the wineries in Kelowna are amazing, there’s something special about the smaller, quainter wineries you’ll find in the Lake Country region.

There’s no denying these have quickly become some of my favourites, and we visit them all every time I’m in the area.

They’re all in very close proximity and it’s easy to get them all done in one day.

Head to this area and do a self drive winery tour hitting up all of my favourites that I’ve listed in my Wineries of Lake Country – The Perfect Kelowna Day Trip blog post !

31. Take a Day Trip to the Oliver & Osoyoos Wine Region

This year for the first time we decided to venture outside of Kelowna and head 2 hours south to the Oliver & Osoyoos region.

I was super excited to visit this region because the climate is much hotter (it’s a desert climate) meaning they specialize in growing big BOLD reds.

Although I never discriminate against a bottle of wine, I do love my bold reds and I was particularly excited to visit wineries in a region where the bold red grapes flourish.

The Oliver and Osoyoos region has around 24 wineries you can visit.

I listed 6 of my favourite Oliver and Osoyoos wineries that you have to check out here .

Head out to this region and spend the day visiting them all before making the drive back to Kelowna.

Just make sure you have a designated driver!

You’ll quickly see why visiting this region is a top attraction for Kelowna visitors.

Final Thoughts

As you can tell from this post there’s just so many attractions, activities, and things to do in Kelowna!

Whether you want to spend your time there visiting wineries, enjoying the lake or getting active outside Kelowna has something for everyone.

I know you’ll fall in love with Kelowna as quickly as I did.

Don’t forget to visit these other posts to plan your Kelowna visit!

• 35 Fun Things to do in Kelowna in Winter

Have you visited Kelowna yet? What are some of your favourite activities and attractions to do in Kelowna?

And if you haven’t which activities and attractions are you most excited to try when you do visit Kelowna?

Be sure to keep up with me on Instagram , Pinterest , TikTok and Facebook if you aren’t already!

Feel free to subscribe to my weekly newsletter to get my blog posts, updates, and special offers delivered right to your inbox 🙂

Sunday 26th of July 2020

I'd never heard of Kelowna so this post really peaked my interest. Looks lovely (gorgeous photos) and would love to explore the outdoors and wineries here!

What a hidden gem this location is! I am so glad I came across this and you shared it! This location looks awesome!

galatia savva

Saturday 25th of July 2020

absolutely stunning photos! The wineries and hiking are huge selling points !

Been there a couple years ago and loved the wine there! This part of France is incredible!

I loved all the places you have shared! It's so cool to see how you have explored your own backyard this year!

17 Top-Rated Attractions in Kelowna & the Okanagan

Written by Michael Law Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The Okanagan Valley is a wonderfully scenic area in southern British Columbia that has long been a go-to vacation destination for generations of Canadian families. Lakes and surrounding mountains create the perfect setting for outdoor recreation, the area's main attraction. Boating, swimming, sandy beaches, hiking, biking, downhill skiing, and great dining are just some of the things to do in this area of the BC interior.

This area is one of the warmest places in Canada in winter and has a relatively mild climate throughout Canada's colder months. Summers are dry, hot, and sunny, making the Okanagan Canada's orchard. In season, you can stop at roadside stands to buy the fresh produce of the fruit trees planted all over the valley floor and its terraced slopes.

Located on the eastern shore of Okanagan Lake (the largest in a chain of lakes), Kelowna is a beautiful lakeside community. Over the years, the city has developed into a popular resort thanks to its beaches and more than 2,000 hours of sunshine each year. In winter, the region attracts skiers, who come to experience some of Canada's best resorts.

Visitors often base themselves in Kelowna and explore the surrounding towns, like Peachland , Summerland , and Penticton, as well as the nearby resorts of Silver Star and Big White . For ideas on how to spend your time, see our list of top tourist attractions in Kelowna and the Okanagan.

1. Okanagan Lake

2. big white ski resort, 3. silver star mountain resort, 4. kettle valley rail trail in myra-bellevue provincial park, 5. city park, 6. downtown kelowna & the farmers' and crafters' market, 7. waterfront park, 8. ss sicamous okanagan heritage museum, 9. kangaroo creek farm, 10. knox mountain park, 11. kasugai gardens, 12. mission creek regional park, 13. summerland, 14. vaseux lake provincial park, 16. peachland, 17. skaha bluffs provincial park, where to stay in kelowna for sightseeing, map of attractions in kelowna & the okanagan.

The largest in a chain of ancient fjord lakes, Okanagan Lake, which you'll also hear called Lake Okanagan, touches the shorelines of most major Okanagan communities, including Vernon in the north, Kelowna in the center, and Penticton to the south.

The lake is the main recreation playground for locals and visitors alike, offering sailing, houseboating, power boating, parasailing, swimming, and sandy beaches, plus many scenic drives along its shorelines.

The lake is over 135 kilometers long and plunges to depths of 232 meters at its deepest point. Getting out on the lake is an ideal way to truly appreciate the spectacular surroundings. Tour boats ply the clear waters and offer a variety of cruise options, including afternoon and dinner/sunset trips complete with musical entertainment.

Just 60 kilometers east of Kelowna in the Monashee Mountains , Big White (2,319 meters) is one of Canada's most spectacular ski resorts . The mountain is known for its copious quantities of snow, an average of about 7.5 meters of the glorious white stuff falls each winter.

Situated at an elevation of 1,511 meters, the family-friendly Big White Ski Resort offers a range of ski runs, winter activities, accommodations, and dining. Big White has also gained the nickname "Big White Out," a reference to the fog and cloud that sometimes blankets the mountain, making conditions challenging at times.

Big White is just one of three ski resorts within easy reach of Kelowna. Silver Star Mountain Resort is a short drive north, near Vernon, and Apex Mountain Resort is just south, near Penticton. A great family ski vacation can easily be planned with trips to all three ski hills using Kelowna as your main base.

Address: 5315 Big White Road, Kelowna, British Columbia

Near Vernon, Silver Star Mountain Resort is one of BC's best family-friendly mountains . Boasting a vertical drop of 760 meters and ski-in, ski-out access to the various hotels, a trip here is easy. No commuting from your hotel to the hill and getting all your gear on. Just park the car and walk with your ski gear on right to the lifts. Need a lunch break? Grab a bite on the hill or head back to your room or condo and make your own.

Although Silver Star has a reputation for being a family-oriented mountain with a large number of easy green runs, don't get too comfortable with that description; some of the steep options will more than get your heart racing.

The pedestrian-only resort village has a pretty Victorian, almost postcard-perfect, architectural style. Restaurants, a grocery store, and several retail outlets provide everything you need.

In summer, a gondola provides access to 22 kilometers of hiking trails. In addition, a high-speed chairlift accesses the bike park. A recently added summer tubing ride is located near the top of the gondola.

Address: 123 Shortt Street, Silver Star Mountain

The Kettle Valley Rail Trail is a 650-kilometer system stretching from Hope to Castlegar. Fortunately for visitors to Kelowna, the section near town is one of the most impressive portions of the entire route.

A series of restored historic trestles and tunnels were refurbished and rebuilt over the years, and now they have become a popular trail for biking, hiking, and walking . The section through Myra Canyon crosses over 18 trestles and passes through two tunnels carved from the canyon walls.

This is a popular family outing, and the views over the surrounding landscape are quite spectacular. Access the most scenic part of the KVR by parking at either the Myra Station parking lot or the Ruth Station parking lot. If you want to do the entire distance one way, two cars are required, or you can take a tour or a shuttle from Kelowna.

The park is about 25 kilometers from downtown Kelowna , approximately a 40-minute drive, some of which is on a well-graded gravel road.

Kelowna's City Park is a leafy 32-acre park set on the waterfront. It's a perfect place for a fun family outing in summer. Wide sandy beaches, offshore swim platforms, playgrounds, and a water park are sure to keep youngsters entertained.

Walkers and joggers will enjoy the wide paved trail that winds its way along the waterfront and provides spectacular views over the lake. Just back from the water are large green spaces, ideal for a picnic or impromptu game of tag or Frisbee.

For those looking for a bit of competitive activity, tennis courts, a soccer field, lawn bowling, and sand volleyball courts are available for use.

Just steps from City Park and the waterfront, you'll find downtown Kelowna. This area hums with activity, and the area is full of restaurants and unique retail shops. You can stroll the wide sidewalks to do a bit of window shopping and then stop in at one of the many outdoor patios for a bite to eat. In the evening, head to this area to enjoy some nightlife.

Every Sunday in June, July, and August, a Farmers' and Crafters' Market takes place from 9am to 2pm on St. Paul Street. Pick up some home baking, knitting, or fresh fruit, or grab a fresh-brewed coffee and check out the scene.

This 18-acre park in Kelowna looks small from the street, but once you walk in a ways, you'll find expansive grounds and plenty of space. Waterfront Park is easy to spot-just look for the spectacular water feature of entwined white dolphins called Rhapsody across from the Convention Center.

Wonderful gardens, mature trees, and a variety of public art are found in the park. For the kids, a sandy beach and concession stand serving quick bites is available.

The boardwalk runs along the water and connects with City Park. Combining a walk along here with a diversion to the shops of downtown is a great way to spend an afternoon.

Situated on the Penticton waterfront , the SS Sicamous has been restored to her full 1914 glory and operates as a climb-aboard museum. A visit here takes you back over 100 years to the era of luxury steamboat travel.

Highlights of the interior of the ship include the mahogany Grand Staircase, the engine room with its maze of colorful piping and massive boilers, and the Gentleman's Saloon with its plush red carpeting.

Be sure to check out the scale model of the Kettle Valley Railroad, located below deck in the engine room. There are other historic vessels in the park, including the 1914 SS Naramata Tugboat and a 1907 steamship, the SS Okanagan sternwheeler.

Address: 1099 Lakeshore Drive W., Penticton, British Columbia

• Read More: Attractions & Things to Do in Penticton

One of the most enjoyable family outings in the Okanagan near Kelowna is a trip to Kangaroo Creek Farm . As the name suggests, the farm has the cutest assortment of kangaroos, wallabies, and sugar gliders that will melt your heart.

The animals here love children and are always happy to accept a pet or two and, of course, a treat. In addition to the hopping variety of animals, the park also has capybaras, potbellied pigs, goats, llamas, parrots, and emus. Strutting around freely and showing off their fancy colors are peacocks.

Kangaroo Creek Farm operates only in the spring, summer, and fall. Note that the last admission is at 2:45pm.

Address: 5932 Old Vernon Road, Kelowna, British Columbia

For the best view of Kelowna, head to the top of Knox Mountain Park. The panorama from the top pergola 300 meters above Lake Okanagan is spectacular. Fifteen trails for walking, hiking, or biking wind their way through the park, passing through different flora ranging from scrub brush to stately Douglas Fir trees.

Should you prefer an effortless way to soak up the view, just take Knox Mountain Drive to the top, but note the road does not open to vehicles on Sunday until 12 noon.

If you are wandering around downtown Kelowna and need a break from the hustle and bustle, be sure to stop in and take a time out at Kasugai Gardens. This lush garden is an oasis of calm and quiet in the heart of the city.

Beautiful flowers, ornate trees, decorative lanterns, and ponds of slow-swimming koi create the perfect atmosphere for contemplation. This free attraction in Kelowna is located behind City Hall on the eastern side. Note that the park is closed in the winter, beginning in late October or early November.

Mission Creek is a fun family attraction in Kelowna and a great place to visit to get a little exercise. Play structures, a shallow stream, and plenty of green space to picnic or play games is on offer.

Extensive walking trails through the trees and along the small stream are well-marked and level, perfect for bike riding or pushing a stroller. Mission Creek Regional Park is part of the Mission Creek Greenway, a 16.5-kilometer-long trail that follows the creek into the surrounding mountains. Depending on the time of year, you may be lucky enough to see fish spawning in the creek.

Summerland is a scenic community on terracing above Okanagan Lake, set amid fruit trees. The orchards provide the main industry in the town, with a history that dates back to the 1890s. Visitors can sample from roadside fruit vendors that line the highways in the summer, or head to Summerland Sweets for tastings.

For a beautiful view of Okanagan Lake, head to Giant's Head Park , atop Giant's Head Mountain. A road leads through the park with lookouts along the way, or you can choose to hike to the top.

Summerland is also the home of the Kettle Valley Railroad Steam Train , where you can ride the rails behind a restored locomotive from 1912 as it puffs and steams its way along a 90-minute route.

Just south of Penticton and with a small campground and provincial park, four-kilometer-long Vaseux Lake is a bird sanctuary, where Canada geese nest, and rare Trumpeter Swans make a stopover during migration. The park has well-placed viewing platforms that provide the best chance of seeing the resident wildlife.

The lake itself is home to a variety of fish, such as bass, carp, and rainbow trout, making it a popular fishing location. Other wildlife in Vaseux Lake Park include beaver, deer, muskrat, rabbit, and more. Bighorn sheep and mountain goats are frequently found among the rocks.

The campground has 12 first-come, first-served sites, some of which are near the lake. Comfort stations are pit toilets, and drinking water is available from a central tap.

Surrounded by orchards, the scenic little town of Oliver came into being after the First World War, when the Canadian government gifted returning soldiers with irrigated land.

One of the attractions worth visiting in the town is the Oliver and District Heritage Society Museum , which has rotating displays exploring the natural history of the Canadian desert, pioneer days, or the old mining town of Fairview (1887 to 1906). The museum is a good place to begin a tour of the region.

A short walk that provides a bit of history and offers nice views up and down the valley is the Golden Mile Stamp Trail . This short jaunt takes you up the valley side to the site of an old stamping mill, dating from 1895, and crosses Tinhorn Creek.

If you find yourself in Oliver in the winter, head up to Baldy Mountain Resort for some incredible skiing. This is a low-key resort due to its diminutive size, but that doesn't bother the locals. They are more than happy to have Baldy and its copious snowfall, short lift lines, and incredible glades to themselves. New in 2021, the resort is opening summer weekends with lift access providing access to the high country.

Peachland is a picturesque community of 5,000 people set on the shores of Okanagan Lake, between Kelowna and Penticton. It's a popular tourist destination, known for its thriving orchards. Stop in along the way here at one of the many fresh fruit stands for just-picked cherries, apricots, and of course, peaches.

To get a glimpse of the local history and also for the chance to see the inside of an eight-sided former church, stop in at the Peachland Museum located on Beach Avenue in town. The walk to Hardy Falls is a favorite local excursion and is wheelchair accessible.

Other things to do in this area of the Okanagan include golfing, boating, hiking, horseback riding, restaurants, and shopping.

One of the most popular provincial parks in the region, Skaha Bluffs Park is a hot spot for those who love the outdoors. The park is especially favored by those who love rock climbing for its 1,000 plus routes up the steep cliff faces.

In addition to rock climbing, the park also has a good selection of hiking and mountain biking trails that wind their way through the picturesque landscape. Skaha Bluffs is also a great place to visit for wildlife spotting. If you are lucky, you'll see the resident bighorn sheep grazing peacefully on the hillside.

Luxury Hotels:

• The massive Delta Hotels by Marriott Grand Okanagan Resort offers guests almost every amenity imaginable including both indoor and outdoor pools.
• The Hotel Eldorado has been in operation since 1926 and has a quaint and comfortable feel. Many rooms have lakefront balconies.
• The Royal Kelowna - Bellstar Hotels & Resorts is a luxury lakefront resort offering villas with gourmet kitchens, traditional décor, and a rooftop infinity pool and hot tub.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• The Best Western Plus Kelowna Hotel & Suites is pet friendly with comfortable rooms, an indoor pool and hot tub, and a free airport shuttle.
• Comfort Suites Kelowna has a contemporary décor, a pool and water slide, and a well-equipped gym.
• Within walking distance of the lake and the attractions of downtown is the Coast Capri Hotel. Breakfast is included in the room rate.

Budget Hotels:

• Located in a quiet area of town near Mission Creek Regional Park is the Super8 by Wyndham Kelowna.
• Family-run, friendly, and close to Orchard Park Mall is the Dilworth Inn .
• Also family run and in a great location near good restaurants is the Recreation Inn & Suites

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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Frank Bruni

Chris christie and bill barr have some explaining to do.

By Frank Bruni

Mr. Bruni is a contributing Opinion writer who was on the staff of The Times for more than 25 years.

I admired the vigor and even eloquence with which Chris Christie, quixotically campaigning for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, made the case against Donald Trump. And I wrote as much .

But what he warrants today isn’t praise. It’s a lesson in chemistry. It’s a tutorial on beverages.

A little more than a week ago, during a public appearance at the University of Chicago’s Institute of Politics, Christie told Leigh Ann Caldwell of The Washington Post that he would never back Trump in November but that he also couldn’t bring himself to vote for President Biden. To explain his Biden aversion, Christie used a vocabulary more appropriate for spoiled milk.

“President Biden, in my view, is past the sell-by date,” he said .

The sell-by date matters when you’re purchasing dairy and you have better, fresher alternatives. But when you’re choosing a president and the other candidate is arsenic?

That’s pretty much how Christie spent much of last year describing Trump — as a civic toxin, a poison to us all. And if drinking spoiled milk is the protection against arsenic, you drink the spoiled milk. One means a possible tummy ache. The other can lead to lesions, cancer, even death.

In 2016 and 2020, Trump was a catalyst for bizarre moral relativism and pitiable moral surrender, and it’s happening again.

Christie calculates a false equivalence between Biden, whose policies he opposes and whose years are showing, and Trump, whose character and conduct Christie professedly reviles.

Bill Barr, the former attorney general who saw up close how Trump tried to subvert the peaceful transfer of power and who said in August that Trump “shouldn’t be anywhere near the Oval Office,” now supports his return to it . Barr’s position, it seems, is that Trump’s lawlessness pales beside Biden’s liberalism and that authoritarianism is a small price to pay for keeping the woke social justice warriors at bay.

Then there’s Chris Sununu, the New Hampshire governor, who was all in for Nikki Haley until she was all out of hope. He’s now on Team Trump, as he confirmed last month during an inexpressibly depressing interview on the ABC News show “This Week” with George Stephanopoulos, who was dumbfounded, given Sununu’s past characterizations of Trump.

“You support him for president, even though you believe he contributed to an insurrection,” Stephanopoulos said, trying to make sure he understood Sununu correctly. “You support him for president, even though you believe he’s lying about the last election.”

“Yeah,” Sununu answered. “Me and 51 percent of America.”

That “51 percent” part gets to me as much as the rest of it: Trump is tolerable because many Americans (if not the “51 percent” that Sununu essentially invented) say he is. Must give the people whatever they want. I’m reminded of what our parents said to us when we argued for permission for something because all our friends were being allowed to do it: If those friends are jumping off a bridge, should you? Sununu’s answer, it seems, is yes. He’s jumping, along with all the other Republicans in moral free fall.

The conservative Daily Beast columnist Matt Lewis recently looked at a few of the most prominent of those Republicans , venting disgust over the rationalizations of not only Barr and Sununu but also Mitch McConnell, the Senate Republican leader, who once strongly denounced Trump’s part in the events of Jan. 6, 2021. Shocker of shockers: McConnell will vote for him in November.

“Keep in mind, following Trump’s second impeachment trial in 2021, McConnell said that ‘Trump’s actions preceding the riot were a disgraceful dereliction of duty’ and that ‘there is no question that President Trump is practically and morally responsible for provoking the events of that day,’” Lewis wrote. “Supporting a man McConnell has clearly deemed unfit for the office may make McConnell craven, cynical or absurd, but he’s not alone in his decision.” Far from it.

Christie at least isn’t supporting Trump. That’s something. And it’s a reason that he can hold his head higher than Sununu, Barr or McConnell can. But we’re talking inches, not yards, because his joint dismissals of Trump and Biden as similarly unsavory options gut his own appraisal, during that appearance in Chicago, of Trump as someone “wholly unfit to be president of the United States in every way you think.”

I’m not saying that Christie should be enthusiastic about Biden, that I don’t understand his qualms about the president or that I expect Christie and other longtime Republicans to have some sudden ideological conversion because their party’s nominee is such a grave threat. I’m asking Christie to remember that less than six months ago, he called Trump “a dictator.” And seemed to believe that.

But last week in Chicago he lumped Trump and Biden together: “If the American people are stupid enough to nominate these two guys, doesn’t mean I have to be stupid, too.” No, but the smart way to bar someone “wholly unfit” from the White House is to vote for that person’s opponent. That’s how elections work. “None of the above” isn’t a principled stand. It’s a moral cop-out — and its own dereliction of duty.

For the Love of Sentences

Much like Gary Shteyngart’s article on the world’s biggest cruise ship a few weeks back, Ron Charles’s appraisal in The Washington Post of Danielle Steel’s new novel, “Only the Brave,” was a start-to-finish jamboree of shining sentences: “By my count, ‘Only the Brave’ is Steel’s 152nd novel, but her publicist tells me, ‘It is closer to her 170th.’ Apparently, the actual number can only be guessed at, in the same way the total mass of dark matter in the universe is estimated by how it bends light.” Also: “In the months leading up to this week’s publication, Steel’s publicist reached out repeatedly to insist that I not mention that the author is a 76-year-old romance novelist. As always, we’re never ashamed of the right things.” (Thanks to Joan Pantsios of Chicago and William Harrison of Kelowna, British Columbia, among others, for drawing attention to Charles’s review.)

Speaking of book reviews — my Times colleague Dwight Garner weighed in memorably on both a memoir and a collection of essays by Joseph Epstein: “Epstein favors tasseled loafers and bow ties, and most of his sentences read as if they were written by a sentient tasseled loafer and edited by a sentient bow tie.” (Kevin Callahan, Forest Hills, N.Y., and Elinor Nauen, Manhattan)

Sticking with The Times, which was the source of most of your nominations over the past week — Margaret Lyons perfectly described the main character of the messy but mesmerizing “Baby Reindeer,” a new Netflix series about an aspiring stand-up comedian and his stalker: “Donny recognizes and articulates the dangers of wanting fame, how it warps his judgment but also could solve his problems. (One person knowing your darkest secret is unbearable, but a million people knowing it is stardom.) Agony and attention are bound together here — Look at me! No, not like that! — twin snakes choking the life out of their prey.” (Linda Trocki, La Quinta, Calif., and Stephen Ranger, Toronto)

And Maggie Haberman and Jonah E. Bromwich used a wide-angle lens to look at Trump’s current criminal trial. “Eventually, the case could threaten not only Mr. Trump’s freedom but also the central tenets of a lifelong ethos ever-present in the former president’s patter: a convenient disregard for the truth, the blunt denial of anything damaging and a stubborn insistence that his adversaries are always acting in bad faith,” they wrote. (Cynthia Croasdaile, Portland, Ore., and Veronica Stinson, Halifax, Nova Scotia, among others)

In The Atlantic, Thomas Chatterton Williams rued the “impersonal, tech-saturated” sameness of a new generation of cars: “Could a child ever dream about a Lucid or Rivian? These are generically good-looking, low-emissions vehicles that only a cyborg could lust over. They are songs sung through Auto-Tune, with clever and forgettable lyrics composed by ChatGPT.” (Marjorie Ivey, St. Louis)

In The Guardian, Ryan Busse pivoted from Kristi Noem to another Republican governor with animals in his sights, Greg Gianforte of Montana: “In 2021, Gianforte illegally shot and killed a collared Yellowstone wolf that had its leg caught in a steel-jawed trap. He wanted to stuff the wolf and display it in his office — presumably without its radio collar, which would have dampened the effect he was going for.” (Kurt Griffin, Sioux Falls, S.D.)

To return to The Washington Post — Michael Dirda’s review of Anne Curzan’s “Says Who? A Kinder, Funner Usage Guide for Everyone Who Cares About Words” included this rumination on writing: “Effective prose, in truth, doesn’t resemble conversation. It’s more like sculpting with clay. You start with an inchoate mass, shape it a bit, hate the result, start over, try this, try that, give up, slink away in disgust, come back, work some more and eventually end up with something that looks vaguely like a pot or an essay.” (James Martin Thompson, Washington)

Having begun with Ron Charles, I’ll also end with him. In a recent Washington Post newsletter, he marveled at the actress Judi Dench’s astonishing ability to recite most of the lines from her long-ago parts in Shakespeare plays. “Such memorization is a lost art,” he wrote, adding that when he stares at the ceiling at night, “My mind is a tangle of bits of string, and all I can come up with is something like: ‘The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. Won’t you lay me down in the tall grass and let me do my stuff?’” For those of you not fluent in Fleetwood Mac, that last sentence is a lyric from the song “ Second Hand News .” (Denise Showers, Janesville, Wis.)

To nominate favorite bits of recent writing from The Times or other publications to be mentioned in “For the Love of Sentences,” please email me here and include your name and place of residence.

What I’m Doing, Planning and Reading

I spoke about my new book, “The Age of Grievance,” which came out this week, on “The Bulwark Podcast” with Tim Miller, and The Free Press just published the latest excerpt from it , about some of the particular ways in which the modern American economy sows envy and resentment. As someone whose diminished eyesight has made him a big and grateful consumer of audiobooks, I found it meaningful to do “The Age of Grievance” narration myself; here are its first five minutes . In the coming days and weeks, I’ll be making appearances in Montclair, N.J. ; Philadelphia ; and Washington, among other cities: My full schedule is on my website, where you’ll also find a range of information about the book. Also, I just added another event near my Chapel Hill, N.C., home, at McIntyre’s Books in Fearrington Village, on May 23; more details on that here .

Two Times colleagues whom I like and respect immensely have books of their own coming out in the next few weeks. “ Chasing Hope” is Nick Kristof’s look back at his extraordinary journalism career, including his travels to places most of us have never been and will never see. “ Trippy: The Perils and Promise of Medicinal Psychedelics ” is Ernesto Londoño’s mix of candid personal reflection and deep reporting, illuminating a growing trend in mental health that many of us don’t understand.

Campus protests have riveted and divided Americans and led to bitterly tense scenes such as the arrests on Tuesday night of protesters who had barricaded themselves inside Hamilton Hall at Columbia University. How to make sense of it all? Two of the best recent takes came from George Packer in The Atlantic and Lydia Polgreen in The Times . I don’t agree with every paragraph or sentence that each of them wrote, but that’s not what I’m looking for in a piece of journalism, especially one covering such an important topic. I’m looking to be made smarter and to understand the dynamics of a situation more fully, and I’m looking for analysis that seeks to lower rather than raise the temperature. Both articles fill that bill.

On a Personal Note

I was happy to include a few lines about the Netflix series “Baby Reindeer” in this week’s For the Love of Sentences section not only because the lines in question are terrific but also because they reminded me to say a few words of my own about the show.

It’s definitely not for everyone. It’s harrowingly dark, and it’s also repetitive, revisiting or lingering on developments and details that have been amply examined. Streaming services these days seem to take the approach that any story that can be told in X number of hours or installments should be given 25 to 50 percent more time than that. Bloat is a given.

But little that I’ve watched lately gripped and haunted me the way “Baby Reindeer” did. It’s the story, based on real events, of a struggling (really, failing) comedian and his stalker, and it is so raw and so true on the subject of human neediness that it’s a gut punch. Who among us hasn’t felt some version of the desperation that these characters do? Hasn’t made awful choices just for the sake of having company, of being seen, of being admired, no matter the flaws, delusions and demands of the admirer?

“Baby Reindeer” isn’t a simple perpetrator-and-victim tale. It examines how we see and don’t see what’s right in front of us, depending on what we’re intent on believing. That’s true in politics, as the past few years have vividly demonstrated. But it’s even truer when we’re looking for love. Or hope. Or just the barest smidgen of affirmation.

Frank Bruni is a professor of journalism and public policy at Duke University, the author of the book "The Age of Grievance" and a contributing Opinion writer. He writes a weekly email newsletter .   Instagram   Threads   @ FrankBruni • Facebook

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