Many visitors flock to Kelowna in the summer to enjoy the beautiful Okanagan Lake, but that’s not the only form of outdoor excitement that the bustling city has to offer! While the lake is starting to recede and many swimmers and boaters are enjoying the water despite the higher-than-normal water levels, why not consider trying some of these fun, water-free activities in Kelowna this summer.
Take a hike
If you haven’t hiked in Kelowna yet, this is a ‘must’ to add to your list! There are several trails to choose from that are just a short distance from downtown. The difficulties of the trails vary, but the views are always breathtaking.
Right next to downtown Kelowna is Knox Mountain, a popular spot for hiking, biking and dog-walking. Challenge yourself on the “Knock your Sox Off” grind to the top, or take a scenic stroll along the Paul’s Tomb Trail.
Bike the Myra Canyon Trestles
Another great way to experience the outdoors in Kelowna this summer is to bike along Myra Canyon, which passes 18 trestles along a section of the Kettle Valley Railway. The path is relatively flat and the views are incredible. The entire loop is about 24 kilometres and takes roughly four hours, but feel free to do a shorter ride if you would like.
No bike? No problem! There are bikes available for the public to rent at the beginning of the trail. There are even tours available that will bring you to and from your accommodation, but make sure to book at least two days in advance.
Take a wine tour
If there is one thing that Kelowna is known for, it’s the amazing wine that is made here. Enjoy lunch and tastings at one of the many beautiful wineries in the area, or book a tour to get the full experience!
Take a drive up to the Mission to visit some of Kelowna’s most famous wineries like CedarCreek and Summerhill. Alternatively, spend the day exploring the Wine Trail on the Westside to visit wineries of all kinds; new and old, big and small, and vineyards as far as the eye can see. For an extra dose of the outdoors, rent a bike and ride from vineyard to vineyard, enjoying tasting and appies along the way. Just make sure to ride responsibly!
Try outdoor yoga
If you’ve never tried yoga before, it might be time to give it a try. Somehow, practicing yoga is both relaxing and invigorating, and if you have tried it before, why not add something new to your routine by taking it outdoors?
There are often outdoor yoga classes being offered in various areas of the city. The Amplified Collective in Kelowna offers a hike-in yoga class in a new spot every Sunday morning, for just a small $5 drop in fee.
Rent a scooter
Why not shake things up a little and head out on the open road this summer? Try renting a scooter and exploring all that Kelowna has to offer! You’ll enjoy beautiful views of orchards, vineyards and mountains, and maybe discover a new favourite restaurant or coffee shop!
Visit the Kangaroo Creek Farm
The Kangaroo Creek Farm, located in Lake Country, is a great place to take your little ones for a couple of hours of entertainment, but it’s just as much fun for animal-loving adults, too!
The farm not only has kangaroos, but wallabies, wallaroos, goats, pigs, sugar gliders, emus, parrots, capybaras and more! You may enjoy the company of these animals to your heart’s content, and even let them eat right out of your hands.
Go golfing
We’ve already talked about how Kelowna is best known for its wine, but golf must be the second thing on the list. Spend a day outdoors at one of the many courses in the area, or practice your swing at the driving range. Oh, and don’t forget about the amazing apres-golf meals offered at many of the clubhouses!
Patio hopping
If you’re looking for a bit more of a relaxed experience, try patio hopping at the many restaurants and bars that Kelowna has to offer. Try out different appies and specials while enjoying the warm Kelowna sun. Some downtown Kelowna favourites include Earl’s On Top, Rose’s Waterfront Pub, and Kelly’s O’Bryan’s new rooftop patio.
Live music
Another relaxing way to enjoy the outdoors is to catch a live outdoor concert. Parks Alive! is an organization that runs different outdoor live music events at various locations in Kelowna throughout the summer months. Music in the Park is another group which hosts live music at the Memorial Park in West Kelowna on Friday evenings during most of July and August.
There are also various wineries and restaurants which offer the chance to see different performers while enjoying your meal. You’re likely to experience a mix of skilled local musicians and even some well-known artists at these events, while supporting the arts scene in Kelowna.
Pick some fresh fruit
Kelowna is abundant with orchards, producing all types of fresh fruit during the summer including peaches, nectarines, apricots, blueberries, grapes, and cherries!
It’s not uncommon to drive past endearing little fruit stands at the side of the road, or to see hand-painted “U PICK” signs near the orchards. Spend a day exploring beautiful orchards and load up a basket of fresh, local fruit to enjoy later on!
Take a day trip
Already checked off most of this list? Why not spend the day exploring some of the neighbouring towns to see what they have to offer! Pack your camera, hop in your car, and get lost in the beautiful Okanagan Valley. Head to Penticton and walk along some great little shops and restaurants, or stop at Kalamalka Lake, the “lake of many colours”, on your way out to Vernon. I know we said this was a lake-free list, but the beautiful, blue-green water is worth checking out!
Just a short drive from Kelowna, you will see that the surrounding areas also offer plenty of orchards, wineries, golf courses, hiking trails and other fun activities that are just waiting to be explored!
And for your home page, stay at the Prestige Beach House in Kelowna. With its central location to downtown’s shops and restaurants, as well as parks and attractions, it’s the ideal hotel for all your Kelowna adventures.