Underrated Travel Destinations | Kelowna, British Columbia

Whether you’ve already explored the breathtaking beauty of British Columbia’s wine country, or this will be your first time – one thing is for sure; the region always makes for a vacation of a lifetime. Despite the territory’s popularity, you can still find one of the most underrated travel destinations in North America. Within the Okanagan Valley lies the amazing city of Kelowna, British Columbia. 

If you’re looking for inspiration for your next family-friendly vacation or even a romantic getaway, Kelowna, British Columbia, is packed with culture and year-round adventures. Stop what you’re doing and start packing your bags as we head to the slopes of Kelowna’s Big White ski mountain, the shores of Okanagan Lake, and embark on an exploration of the countless wineries that Kelowna has to offer. 

Kelowna, British Columbia, Home to Adventure 

Renowned for its year-round appeal to outdoor enthusiasts, Kelowna City offers a range of activities that allow you to immerse yourself in the flawless scenery of the Okanagan Valley. The best known is the Big White ski mountain area on Kelowna’s doorstep, which draws skiers and snowboards from around the world during the winter months. Blessed with over 295 inches of snow each season and over 119 designated trails, Big White skiing is perfect for skiers and boarders of every age and ability. 

During the warmer months, the surrounding mountains become a fantastic landscape for hiking and biking tourism. However, Kelowna, British Columbia, isn’t just for the alpine enthusiasts, as Okanagan Lake, Kelowna, provides hours of fun on the water, too. Okanagan Lake is Kelowna’s water-based playground where you can choose to parasail,water ski, or if you’re daring enough, try hydro-flying with the team at Hydrofly Kelowna for some water-powered, jetpack action. 

If you’re looking for a more sedate activity, you can also visit one of Kelowna, Canada’s top championship golf courses. Black Mountain Golf Club is an excellent example of this, with a challenging 18-hole, par-71 golf course. Kelowna’s impressive mountainous backdrops surround the entire course – but the highlight must be the visually stunning yet challenging hole 5, island green. 

Eat, Drink, and Be Merry in Kelowna, Canada  

Kelowna, British Columbia, is also known for its world-famous wineries and vineyards – which is not surprising as it sits in the heart of British Columbia’s wine country. Of all the Kelowna wineries available, visit the Quails’ Gate Winery in West Kelowna for the most spectacular panoramic views of Okanagan Lake. This 160-acre vineyard is fourth-generation owned and produces one of British Columbia’s wine country’s best red and rose wines in the region. 

Not to be outdone by the vast collection of vineyards in the area, Kelowna City is also home to several award-winning breweries. Visitors to Kelowna can spend an afternoon visiting the remarkable array of breweries, distilleries, and cideries that capitalize on the clean, crisp waters of the Okanagan Valley. However, our favorite must be the Kettle River Brewing taproom in Kelowna’s North End. 

After an afternoon exploring the exquisite delights of Kelowna, British Columbia’s fine wines and craft beers – you’re going to want to eat. So, head down to the shores of Okanagan Lake for fine dining at the Waterfront Restaurant & Wine Bar for a fabulous meal to round off the perfect day in Kelowna. 

Family-friendly Kelowna cultural attractions 

We couldn’t visit Kelowna, British Columbia, without exploring its deep cultural roots and exhibits honoring its Syilx (Okanagan) First Nation Indigenous people’s history. Operating on the unceded traditional territory of the Okanagan people, the Kelowna Museums, notably the Heritage Museum, offers a fascinating insight into the Syilx people’s close connection to the land.  

Located in Kelowna’s Cultural District in downtown Kelowna, our next stop pays tribute to Okanagan Valley’s regional artists at the Kelowna Art Gallery. Here, visitors can enjoy artist lectures and discussions about Kelowna’s contemporary and historical artworks on display in the art gallery. 

After an educational exploration of the cultural history of Kelowna, British Columbia, why not take a trip to the shores of Okanagan Lake at Waterfront Park to take in the outstanding views. Located in downtown Kelowna City, you can enjoy an afternoon in the sun on the park’s pristine sandy beach or take a stroll or a bike ride around the numerous walkways before catching a fantastic sunset over the lake. 

Kelowna, British Columbia’s Four Seasons of Fun 

Whatever time of year you visit the city of Kelowna, you’ll always receive a warm welcome from the Okanagan Valley locals. Wintertime guests can enjoy skiing and snowboarding before heading to a winery for a glass of fine wine in front of a roaring fireplace. Alternatively, take to the water in the summer for an adventure on Okanagan Lake. 

After all, Kelowna, Canada, makes for the perfect  vacation enhanced by the charismatic beauty of the region. While you’re visiting the city, make the most of your stay by booking a room at the inviting Best Western Plus Kelowna Hotel & Suites, and enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep every night of your stay in Kelowna, British Columbia.