The last of the fire-hued leaves are falling, the air is getting brisk, and the days are noticeably shorter. It won’t be long until the snow is falling, but until then there are some fun activities to take part in around BC while you can still see the ground! Here are a few ideas:
1. Visit a Winery or Brewery
With the beautiful fall foliage all around us, going for a scenic drive and visiting a winery or two is a lovely way to spend an afternoon. BC is peppered with world-class establishments (Kelowna has over 40 wineries alone!) where you can sample some fabulous reds or whites from a broad selection of grape varietals. Plus, it’s almost ice wine season! There are also dozens of microbreweries to choose from if the hops are what appeals to you. The Smithers Brewing Company has several beers on tap, including Hudson Bay ISA and a Bootlegger Brown Ale, and the BC Ale Trail through the Kootenay Rockies is a must-do.
Vernon has an incredible craft distillery, Okanagan Spirits, where they create and sample everything from vodka and gin to liqueurs and absinthe.
2. Take a Hike!
Kootenay National Park
From leisurely walks to demanding terrain, BC features exceptional hiking virtually anywhere you go. For a relaxing walk or bike ride, consider the Okanagan’s newly christened Rail Trail. Beautiful lakes, creeks and a variety of natural habitats await your discovery as you stroll, bike or run along a 50 km trail stretching from downtown Kelowna all the way to Lake Country and Vernon! If you’re up for something a little more challenging with the added bonus of breathtaking scenery, make your way out to the Kootenays and explore Idaho Peak or the Rockwall Trail in Kootenay National Park.
Prestige Hotels and Resorts has you covered should you decide to stay a few days with 6 locations in the area – including Golden, Radium, Cranbrook, Nelson Resort, Nelson Inn, and Rossland
3. Enjoy Some Comfort Food
The chilly weather accompanying this time of year makes it extra satisfying to cozy-up to some comfort food. If you have a weak spot for pasta, you must try Gabriella’s in charming Rossland. If seafood is what gives you the warm and fuzzies, the West Coast Grill in Sooke is located right on the ocean – which means the seafood is always fresh and expertly prepared.
If you happen to be out in Northern BC, Prince George‘s Grand Trunk Tavern‘s specialty is fresh oysters! Ready for dessert? One word: PIE. The Shuswap Pie Company in Salmon Arm makes everything from scratch and you’ll be tempted to try them all!
4. Learn Something New
If you have kids in tow, the Exploration Place Museum and Science Centre in Prince George features interactive displays and activities for children, along with live reptile and fish exhibits.
The North Pacific Cannery National Historic Site in Prince Rupert has guided tours where you can explore the old salmon-canning factory and learn all about an industry that played an integral role in BC’s history. Also in Prince Rupert is the Museum of Northern BC – housed in a traditional cedar wood longhouse and holds an amazing collection of cultural and historical items from the indigenous people of the Pacific Northwest.
The Prestige Prince Rupert Hotel is a lovely and comfortable base of operations for exploring these culturally significant sites.
Suite at Prestige Prince Rupert Hotel
5. See a Show
The Kelowna Actor’s Studio (Kelowna’s only licensed dinner theater!) produces exhilarating presentations of the world’s most beloved Broadway productions utilizing talented local actors and spectacular production values. Go ahead, dress up and get fancy – you’ll be thrilled with an evening of fine cuisine and live performance of an ever-changing selection of musical favorites. The Prestige Beach House Kelowna is a hop and skip away from the venue if you happen to be coming in from out of town.
The Vernon & District Performing Arts Centre is a non-profit organization devoted to fostering live entertainment in all its forms. They feature a wide variety of performances, promising a memorable experience for audiences of any age. Why not make a night of it and stay at the Prestige Hotel or Prestige Vernon Lodge?
Atrium at Prestige Vernon Lodge