About
Kelowna sits in the heart of the Okanagan Valley in British Columbia, Canada, on the shore of Okanagan Lake. It is a city that suits both slow days and active ones, with the lake, the surrounding hills and the valley's vineyards close at hand.
What draws visitors
- Wineries. The valley is known for its wineries, and wine tours are a natural way to see the countryside around the city.
- Okanagan Lake. The lake is central to life here, with beaches and water activities through the warmer months.
- Outdoor recreation. Hiking and other trail activities are available in summer, and the area is a year-round destination for people who like being outside.
- Winter skiing. Big White and Silver Star are the ski areas nearby, and they draw skiers and snowboarders in the colder months.
Downtown and the cultural scene
The downtown core has a lively cultural district with galleries, restaurants and festivals that celebrate the region. It is an easy place to spend an afternoon or an evening between outings, and it gives a sense of the city beyond the lake and the trails.
Because the city combines lake, vineyard, mountain and town, a visit can be shaped to suit the season and your own pace. Whether you come for the water in summer, the slopes in winter, or the wine and galleries at any time of year, Kelowna offers a varied base for exploring the Okanagan.
