Located right in the heart of British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, Kelowna offers a multitude of outdoor adventure, dramatic landscapes, and vibrant culture. Be it a nature enthusiast, foodie, or simply someone seeking rest and relaxation, this Kelowna offers a bit of everything. Therefore, here is your ultimate guide on how to spend 2 Days in Kelowna and around this beautiful city, featuring some top places such as Kangaroo Creek Farm and Myra Canyon Adventure Park, among other iconic locations.
Best Travel Tips for 2 Days in Kelowna
Planning your 2 Days in Kelowna will require not just what to see and do but also some practical planning to be sure everything runs smoothly. Here we will go through some of the essential details: when to visit, getting to Kelowna, getting around Kelowna, where to stay, and how you can stay safe.
What is the Best Time to Visit Kelowna?
Kelowna is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your interests and what you want to experience during your 2 Days in Kelowna.
Spring (March to May)
With orchards and vineyards springing into bloom, spring comes bearing the beauty of Kelowna. The temperatures are quite mild and subsequently are great for hiking, biking, and wine tasting outdoors. Spring is much less crowded compared to the summer months, so you will be in a position to enjoy the attractions without the hustle and bustle.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is the height of time in Kelowna, having warm temperatures, long days, and plenty of sun. It will be an excellent season to dive deep in water activities on Okanagan Lake, wander beaches, and local wineries. On the other hand, this is the busiest time of the year, so prices will be higher and crowds larger.
Fall (September to November)
Fall is another wonderful time to visit Kelowna, especially if you’re a wine taster. This is the harvest time when the vineyards seem to begin infused with a lot more energy, while the fall foliage provides a great backdrop to your outdoorsy activities. The weather is still pleasant, with crowds thinned out; thus, it’s more relaxed.
Winter (December to February)
Kelowna in the winter approaches quietness, but might be perfect for snow bums. Nearby Big White Resort offers great alpine skiing and snowboarding fun, and the city is itself a host of several winter festivals. Winter, therefore, is a great time to plan your trip if you want to have a lazy escape with fewer tourists.
How to Travel to Kelowna?
Kelowna is easily accessible by various modes of transportation, making it a convenient destination for your weekend getaway.
By Air
Starting with Kelowna International Airport (YLW), it receives flights from most major centers across Canada and the U.S. Because of this, the fastest way to get directly to Kelowna is by flying. Once off the plane, you can reach downtown Kelowna from the airport within 15 minutes. Taxis, ride-shares, and rental cars are all readily available at the arrival gate.
By Car
And, remember how the trip looks to you, a little bit hesitant—you can get to Kelowna overland from the picturesque city of Vancouver, driving the Coquihalla Highway (Highway 5); it only takes 4 to 5 hours in. The course into the region is punctuated with mountains, and the drive itself will be quite the experience. If you’re touching down in Calgary or Edmonton, the drive down on the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) will take around 8 to 10 hours.
By Bus
Those who would not like to drive can also use one of several bus companies, including Ebus and Rider Express, offering services to Kelowna from Vancouver and other major centers in the province of British Columbia. The ride by bus takes only a bit longer than driving but is a very cheap option and one friendly to the environment.
How to Travel within Kelowna?
Getting around Kelowna during your 2 Days in Kelowna is straightforward, with several options to choose from depending on your preferences and itinerary.
By Car
The most practical and convenient way to explore Kelowna would be by renting a car, since most of the attractions are wineries and Myra Canyon, located well out of the city’s hub. There are several rental agencies operating in Kelowna, and it is usually easy to find a place to park, except maybe during peak season.
By Bike
With a mix of trails and bike paths, Kelowna truly is a city friendly to bicycles. A rental bike is perfect for touring downtown, taking in the waterfront, and exploring other nearby parks. Several bike rental shops around the city offer daily and hourly rentals, with e-bikes also available if one would like a little help from hills.
By Public Transit
BC Transit is Kelowna Transit’s governing body, which provides bus services around the city and to outlying communities. While it isn’t as quick as driving, it is very budget-friendly to get around town and see some of the nearby attractions like the waterfront and cultural district.
By Taxi/Rideshare
You can also get around Kelowna using taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft. This would be a hassle-free way to get around, not having to worry about finding a parking spot. This is quite a good option in case you are planning to enjoy wine tasting or you just don’t want to drive.
Where to Stay in Kelowna?
Kelowna offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. Here are some options for where to stay during your 2 Days in Kelowna.
Best Hotel
Delta Hotels by Marriott Grand Okanagan Resort: This waterfront hotel offers luxurious accommodation with a view of the famous Okanagan Lake, with a full-service spa and an outdoor pool steps from the Kelowna downtown area attractions.
Hotel Eldorado at Eldorado Resort: This heritage hotel harmoniously fuses old-world charm with new conveniences, while sitting right on the shores of Okanagan Lake. Close to a marina, fine dining, and a serene lakeside setting.
Best Resort
The Cove Lakeside Resort: This West Kelowna resort offers sizeable suites with full kitchens, a private beach area, and outdoor pools—ideal for families or people looking to spend a few days relaxing but still be able to get around easily to the famous wineries and outdoor activities.
Sparkling Hill Resort & Spa: This luxury wellness resort is located near Vernon, about 30 minutes from Kelowna, and is recognized for its jaw-dropping architecture and class act in regards to spa facilities. It brings with it an astonishing view of Okanagan Lake, thus forming the perfect destination for a romantic getaway or wellness retreat.
Budget-Friendly
Samesun Kelowna: Great budget traveller option—clean and comfortable accommodation in the heart of downtown, a stone’s throw away from the beach, in a really friendly, social hostel.
Accent Inns Kelowna: This low-cost hotel provides comfortable rooms with all modern amenities that one may need, free parking, and good access to the main attractions of the city. It is an excellent option for those tourists who want to save on accommodation without giving up comfort.
Luxury
The Royal Kelowna – Bellstar Hotels & Resorts: The suites are large, fitted with fully-equipped kitchens, allowing the interiors to flow into a private balcony and onto an infinity rooftop pool with views of the downtown lake location.
The Prestige Beach House: Located right across from Kelowna City Park, this luxury hotel offers stylish rooms, an on-site restaurant, and a superior location right by the water. This is an excellent choice for the highest quality while experiencing all central destination attractions.
Mid-Budget
Coast Capri Hotel: This mid-range hotel offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor heated swimming pool, and a central location close to shopping and dining, making this an excellent choice for travelers looking for the perfect blend of comfort and price.
Manteo at Eldorado Resort: Manteo is an ideal blend of both a hotel room and villa residence, providing a resort’s facility features in private beaches, pools, and dining areas. It’s a nice midrange choice, and a bit of a luxury option to boot.
Tips for Staying Safe
Although Kelowna is fairly safe, there are still a number of precautions that one can take in order to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Discussed below are some tips which will ensure your safety and avoid fraudulent activities for these 2 days in Kelowna.
Be Cautious with Your Belongings: As with any other tourist destination, one should always be aware of their surroundings and watch their belongings, especially in the heavy-traffic areas like downtown and waterfront areas.
Stay Aware of Your Surroundings:Â Kelowna is considered a safe city, but it’s always a good idea to continue being aware of your surroundings, especially if you’re out late at night. Stick with well-lit, busy areas, and don’t walk alone in unfamiliar neighborhoods.
Stay Informed About Local Conditions:Â Check local news and weather reports prior to your visit for any events or conditions that could impact your travel. Kelowna has wildfires in the summer months, so checking for advisories and air quality alerts is a good idea.
Respect the Environment:Â Probably the greatest Kelowna attraction has to do with its natural beauty; therefore, show respect towards the environment during your visit by staying on marked trails, depositing your trash into properly identifiable disposal areas, and never disturbing the wildlife. By doing this, you will not only be helping the preservation of this area, but also keeping yourself safe while checking these outdoor attractions.
With these practical tips, you’re good to go and plan your unforgettable 2 Days in Kelowna. Whether you want adventure, relaxation, or a little of everything, this guide will help you make the most out of your time in this beautiful Okanagan city. Safe travels!
Kelowna Travel Guide for 2 Days Vacation
Day 1: Exploring Kelowna’s Natural Wonders
Next comes 2 Days in Kelowna, with this first one full of nature, adventure, and endless memories. If you want to squeeze everything in, the best bet would be waking up early so that your weekend is full of both adventure and relaxation.
Kangaroo Creek Farm
Begin your day with a different experience at Kangaroo Creek Farm, an Okanagan lifetime attraction. Only a short drive from the center of Kelowna, this farm allows for getting up close and personal with kangaroos and wallabies, plus other exotic animals.
Wander through the farm in the morning and make some friendly bounding marsupials part of your day. Families especially love the farm, but it is enjoyed equally by solo travellers or couples looking for a little something different. Don’t forget to get that shot with the kangaroos—it’s a memory you’ll want to hang onto long after you’ve completed your 2 Days in Kelowna.
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Ancient Hill Estate Winery
After you have visited the Kangaroo Creek Farm, drop by the Ancient Hill Estate Winery, only a short drive away. The small boutique winery offers a view over the valley and a quiet atmosphere, which is highly pre-disposed to wine tasting. Taste some of their European-style wines and enjoy the scenery around you.
It is located on an historic site dating back to the early 1900s, thus making this one of the oldest vineyards in the region. The concentration of the estate lies on European-style wines that would best bring out its terroir from the Okanagan. The wine tasting experience at Ancient Hill is serene and can even be called intimate since it offers an ambience amidst lush vineyards with a panoramic view of the valley.
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Myra Canyon
Just a short drive from Kelowna, Myra Canyon is part of the most beautiful and historically significant areas in the entire Okanagan Valley. There are eighteen wooden railway trestles within this area, along with two tunnels, which made up the Kettle Valley Railway in the past and which are now the Myra Canyon Trestles. These trestles offer spectacular views of the canyon with lush woods and towering mountains crowning the landscape.
The trail is relatively flat and very well maintained, so literally any kind of rider can come out here and have a fun time. While you go over the trestles, the gigantic vistas beneath your feet unfold: rough land, dense forests, and far-away deep valleys. Natural beauty and historical beauty give Myra Canyon some uniqueness when you are 2 Days in Kelowna.
Tantalus Vineyards
Sustainability and both Riesling and Pinot Noir are strong suits for Tantalus Vineyards in Kelowna. Based in Southeast Kelowna, Tantalus is located within some of the oldest continually producing vineyards in the province of British Columbia—an area with vines dating back to 1927.
It is perched on a hillside that provides great views of Okanagan Lake and the surrounding mountains, giving a beautiful backdrop to wine tastings. Itself a modern, LEED-certified building, this wine-tasting room spoke to the winery’s core belief in environmental stewardship. Visitors can sample a thoughtfully curated selection of wines, each showcasing the unique terroir of the Okanagan Valley. This winery offers a perspective on the Okanagan’s winemaking traditions, making this part of your 2 Days in Kelowna a truly memorable experience.
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Downtown Kelowna
Downtown Kelowna is like the city’s beating heart and serves with a dynamic mix of urban charm and natural beauty. This would be a lively area with a picturesque waterfront where one may stroll along the boardwalk, having views across the stunning Okanagan Lake. The streets are varied, and there are shops, coffeehouses, and art galleries, which would make it the ideal place for residents and visitors alike.
From the many one-of-a-kind boutiques to relishing the ever-increasing diversity of food and indulging in art and culture, Downtown Kelowna finds the perfect middle ground between relaxation and activities. It represents the fine line between the modernity of today’s facilities and the serenity of living beside a lake, hence warm and welcoming to all visitors.
Day 2: Nature, Culture, and More Wine
Waterfront Park
Located right in the heart of the city, Waterfront Park is both lively and serene, offering just the right blend of nature and urbanity to its visitors. The park follows the shores of Okanagan Lake and gives out excellent views onto the water, mountains, and the cityscape. Along your stroll down the boardwalk, you will find beautiful gardens, serene lagoons, and several public art spots reflecting the local culture of the park.
The park serves as an outdoor activity hub, containing broad expanses suitable for picnicking and sunbathing, as well as leisure walks. It is one of the sought-after places for any community events and live performances; therefore, visitors are assured of a lively and engaging experience. Whether you are looking to relax next to the lake, get some culture in at the local art scene, or just enjoy a breath of fresh air, Waterfront Park is not to be missed while staying in Kelowna.
Knox Mountain Park
Knox Mountain Park, located just north of downtown Kelowna, is truly a gem of natural beauty that makes for outstanding outdoor activities among nature lovers and hikers. The most striking feature in the park would have to be Knox Mountain itself, which rises to give some of the most spectacular panoramic views of Kelowna and Okanagan Lake.
From breezy strolls to tougher treks, Knox Mountain Park has something for every flavor of outdoorsman or outdoorswoman. Its most famous path, the Knox Mountain Summit Trail, rises through varied landscapes—bouldery outcroppings, forested trails—to top out high at a viewpoint.
Quails’ Gate Winery
Right in the heart of West Kelowna lies one of the jewels of Okanagan Valley: the Quails’ Gate Winery. Having won various awards on varietals, particularly its outstanding Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, this winery offers an intense wine-tasting experience, which is even more breathtaking with the beautiful vistas of Okanagan Lake and the vineyard. The Quails’ Gate Winery, founded in 1956, exquisitely combines tradition and innovation.
A commitment to sustainable viticulture shows through their operations. There’s the beautiful tasting room with large windows or, really, open views of surroundings that make for a scenic background; a cozy outdoor patio; and a highly-rated restaurant offering farm-to-table cuisine.
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Mission Hill Family Estate
Mission Hill Family Estate is one of the most renowned wineries of the Okanagan Valley, recognized not only for its beautiful architecture but also for the wines. Perched against a hillside in West Kelowna, the estate is recognizable by a huge castle-like building topped by a neat bell tower and extended terraces overlooking the surrounding vineyards and Okanagan Lake; there is a breathtaking panoramic view from the site.
This winery specializes in producing fine wines, with special passion for its iconic vintages of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Guests get the opportunity to take a guided tour of their cutting-edge, ultra-modern wine-making facilities and partake in tastings of their award-winning wines. The beautifully landscaped grounds feature such niceties as a fine wine cellar and an amphitheater.
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Myra Canyon Adventure Park
Myra Canyon Adventure Park is not to be left out in the Kelowna exploration for adventure and thrill seekers. This adventure park, located right along the beautiful Myra Canyon, offers an exciting array of outdoor activities suitable for any age.
Visitors can test their strength by completing a ropes course composed of a series of suspended obstacles with a shot of adrenaline rush through the addition of ziplines while having panoramic views of the canyon. For the more terrestrial types of adventure, there are climbing walls and areas of interactive play that are excellent for families. Because of its unique location and the activities available, it is an ideal stop to add some excitement to your 2 Days in Kelowna.
Okanagan Lake
Round off your 2 Days in Kelowna in serene, picture-postcard fashion by watching the sunset over Okanagan Lake. This beautiful 135 km-long lake holds some of the most breathtaking vistas in the region, especially once the sun begins dipping down toward the horizon. Either lounge on one of Kelowna’s welcoming beaches, such as City Park or Gyro Beach, and feel your toes within the heated sand as the breeze gently blows in off the lake, or seek out a secluded spot along the waterfront or on a lakeside bench and become engrossed in the serenity.
As the sky is set aflame with colors of fiery oranges, deep purples, and soft pinks, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to reflect on your weekend adventures and appreciate the natural beauty around you. With tranquil Okanagan Lake in front and a backdrop of rolling hills and vineyards, it creates a peaceful scenery that encapsulates Kelowna’s appeal and ends your getaway in style.
Conclusion
Mix outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and world-class wineries—Kelowna is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. With this planned itinerary, you’re going to be able to experience the best of Kelowna within 2 days. From encounters with kangaroos and scenic trails to fine wines, your 2 Days in Kelowna shall be nothing but amazing.
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