Kelowna is a popular destination for travellers who love nature, wine and adventure, but beyond the well-known attractions, there are also some hidden gems and quirky activities that will make your visit more memorable. Here are 10 offbeat experiences you can have in Kelowna.
Hang out with kangaroos at Kangaroo Creek Farm
If you’ve ever dreamed of cuddling a baby kangaroo, this is your chance. Kangaroo Creek Farm is home to over 50 kangaroos and wallabies, as well as other exotic animals like capybaras, emus, and parrots. You can roam around the farm and interact with the friendly creatures, or join a guided tour to learn more about them.
Ride along the lake on a BBQ boat
Why settle for a regular boat ride when you can have a BBQ on board? Kelowna’s Maeg’s BBQ Boat offers a unique way to enjoy the Okanagan Lake with your friends or family. You can rent a round boat that fits up to 10 people and comes with a gas grill, a cooler, and a Bluetooth speaker. You can bring your own food and drinks, or order from their catering menu.
Explore the trestles at Myra Canyon
For a scenic and historic hike or bike ride, head to Myra Canyon and marvel at the impressive engineering feat of the Kettle Valley Railway. You can follow the 12-kilometre trail that crosses 18 wooden trestles and two tunnels, and enjoy the panoramic views of the canyon and the lake. You can also learn about the history of the railway and the restoration efforts after the 2003 wildfire.
Stop and smell the lavender at Okanagan Lavender & Herb Farm
If you’re looking for a relaxing and aromatic experience, visit the Okanagan Lavender & Herb Farm and immerse yourself in the purple fields. You can stroll through the gardens and discover different varieties of lavender and herbs, or join a workshop to make your own products. You can also shop for handmade lavender products at the gift shop, or enjoy a lavender-infused treat at the café.
Get wet and wild at Wibit
For some fun in the sun, head to Wibit and challenge yourself on the inflatable water park. You can bounce, slide, climb, and splash on the giant obstacle course that floats on the lake. Wibit is suitable for all ages and skill levels, and you can choose from different sessions and packages.
Taste all of the wine in the Okanagan wineries
Kelowna is famous for its wine industry, and there are over 40 wineries in the area to choose from. You can sample award-winning wines, tour the vineyards, and learn about the winemaking process. Some of the wineries also have restaurants, patios, and picnic areas where you can enjoy the food and the views.
Take a group bicycle tour with Smile Cycle Tours
If you want to see the city in a fun and eco-friendly way, hop on a group bicycle with Smile Cycle Tours. You can pedal along with up to 14 people on a custom-made bike that has a sound system and a cooler. You can choose from different tours that will take you to breweries, wineries, cideries, distilleries, or downtown attractions.
Visit the Kelowna Art Gallery
If you’re into art and culture, don’t miss the Kelowna Art Gallery. This contemporary art gallery showcases local, national, and international artists in four exhibition spaces. You can also join guided tours, workshops, lectures, and events to enhance your appreciation of art.
Cruise out to Peachland
For a change of scenery, take a short drive to Peachland, a charming town on the west side of Okanagan Lake. You can enjoy the waterfront promenade, the boutique shops, and the cozy cafés. You can also visit some attractions like Hardy Falls, ZipZone Adventure Park, or Parrot Island Sanctuary.
Hit the slopes at Big White Ski Resort
If you’re visiting Kelowna in the winter, you can’t miss the opportunity to ski or snowboard at Big White Ski Resort. This resort is one of the best in Canada, with over 100 trails, 16 lifts, and an average of 750 centimetres of snowfall per year. You can also enjoy other winter activities like tubing, ice skating, snowshoeing, and sleigh rides.
