Kelowna and
West Kelowna
This region's craft beer scene dates back more than 25 years, and a recent surge of new breweries has given it fresh energy.
Kelowna, the largest city in the Okanagan Valley and the third largest in British Columbia, rewards every type of traveller. This lakeside city is well known for its many beaches, golf courses, and restaurants — and, of course, wine is a big deal here with more than 40 wineries within a 20-minute drive.
Craft beer lovers have many reasons to be excited, too. Historically, Tree Brewing was the trailblazer here (c. 1996), and while its original plant is gone now, the waterfront Kelowna Beer Institute grew out of the Tree brand. Plus, Tree’s legacy has led to a whole forest of new breweries sprouting in the North End Brewery District.
Like to bowl while sipping craft beer? There are actually two different breweries in Kelowna where you can try to bag a turkey (three strikes in a row): the recently renovated Freddy’s Brewpub and BNA Brewing, which is based in a gorgeous, historic building in the downtown Cultural District.
Kelowna’s craft beer revolution has spread far beyond the central city, including brewery bubbles in the northeast part of the city as you head towards the airport and down south along the lakeshore to the Mission District. Anyone can taste delicious beer at the only gluten-free brewery in the Okanagan: Grey Fox Brewing.
Check out the growing craft beer community across the floating bridge in West Kelowna. Two breweries have opened up recently in this region, including: Lakesider Brewing, which is smack dab in the middle of wine country on Boucherie Bench overlooking Okanagan Lake, and the Hatching Post, a Wild West-themed brewery with a custom-built building that looks like an old-time saloon.
West Kelowna has plenty of opportunities for hiking, beaches, swimming, golf, and even dog-friendly beaches along the shores of Okanagan Lake.
Kettle River Brewing in Kelowna, BC
Vice & Virtue Brewing in Kelowna, BC
Knox Mountain Park in Kelowna, BC
Lakesider Brewing in West Kelowna, BC
Gellatly Bay Waterfront, West Kelowna
Rustic Reel Brewing in Kelowna, BC
Partner and General Manager Chris Dedinsky at the Kettle River Brewing taps
Vice & Virtue Brewing in Kelowna, BC
BNA Brewing, in Kelowna, BC
Myra Canyon Bike Rentals
Freddy’s Brewpub in Kelowna, BC
Freddy's Brewpub in Kelowna, BC
BNA Brewing in Kelowna, BC
The Hatching Post in West Kelowna (photo: The Hatching Post)
Freddy's Brewpub in Kelowna, BC
Myra Canyon Adventure Park
Kelowna Brewing Co in Kelowna, BC (photo: Kelowna Brewing Co.)
Kelowna Brewing Company in Kelowna, BC
View from Myra Canyon
Owner Susi Foerg at the Rustic Reel taps in Kelowna, BC
Rustic Reel Brewing in Kelowna, BC
Kelowna Waterfront
Shore Line Brewing in Kelowna, BC
Public Liquor, in Kelowna BC
Shore Line Brewing in Kelowna,BC
Jackknife Brewing in Kelowna, BC
Three Lakes Brewing, Kelowna, BC
Jackknife Brewing in Kelowna, BC
The Hatching Post in West Kelowna (photo: The Hatching Post)
Lakesider Brewing in West Kelowna, BC
Lakesider Brewing in West Kelowna, BC
Smith Creek Trails, West Kelowna
Wild Ambition Barrel Room in Kelowna, BC
Grey Fox Brewing, Kelowna, BC
Wild Ambition Brewing, in Kelowna BC
Westside Farm Loop, West Kelowna
Barn Owl Brewing in Kelowna, BC
Buffalo Rouge Brewing Co in Kelowna, BC
Barn Owl Brewing in Kelowna, BC
Myra Canyon Adventure Park
Kelowna Beer Institute in Kelowna, BC
Kelowna Beer Institute in Kelowna, BC
Railside Brewing in Kelowna, BC
Railside Brewing in Kelowna, BC
Myra Canyon Bike Rentals
Copper Brewing in Kelowna, BC
Porter's Kelowna in Kelowna, BC
Copper Brewing in Kelowna, BC
Unleashed Brewing in Kelowna, BC
Unleashed Brewing in Kelowna, BC
Grey Fox Brewing in Kelowna, BC (photo: Grey Fox Brewing)
The Hatching Post in West Kelowna (photo: The Hatching Post)
Day 1
Porter's is Kelowna's newest breakfast and brunch restaurant and a sister company of Copper Brewing.
A rugged layout with quick true greens and immaculate conditions. A favourite, award-winning destination for golfers from around the world.
Located mere metres from UBC Okanagan’s campus, this lively brewpub features a whopping 24 taps of craft beer along with sweeping views from its perch atop Academy Hill. A perfect location for lunch with an extensive menu to meet all appetites.
We're passionate about hand-crafted local beer, wine, and spirits. You'll find a curated selection of artisan spirits, Okanagan wines, and BC craft beers in addition to all of the classics. Our superstar team of liquor-enthusiasts will always help you find an old favourite or a new favourite!
Three Lakes Brewing is proud to have women at the forefront of their brewing process. But, they believe that great beer is for everyone. Their passion for crafting unique flavour combinations and brewing techniques is inspired by the natural beauty and outdoor activities of the Okanagan region.
Located near the town of Winfield in Lake Country just north of Kelowna, the brewery is a venue where folks can come together to have a good time. The most important things at Lake Country Brewing are good vibes, good people, good times, and good beer.
Grey Fox is the Okanagan’s only gluten-free brewery. True, gluten-free beer is crafted by carefully sourcing ingredients and brewing in a dedicated facility to provide the full craft beer experience without the gluten content.
*Note: as of spring 2023, tasting room hours are 2pm – 6pm, Thursdays to Sundays. Make sure to plan accordingly so you don’t miss this tasty stop.
Looking for limited-release, one-of-a-kind barrel releases? This is the place to go, and now with an expanded taproom!
What craft beer would you pair with a strike, spare or split? Freddy’s offers a unique craft beer experience combined with bowling. Daily specials and a classic brewpub menu make it a great stop for dinner, followed by a friendly game or two of 10- or 5-pin bowling.
A relaxed hotel close to Okanagan Lake, outfitted with modern amenities.
Explore More
Be sure to stop in at the Kelowna Visitor Information Centre for a full list of activities and attractions to explore.
Looking for another tee time? Kelowna offers one of the longest, driest golf seasons in Canada. Vineyards, orchards, semi-desert terrain, rolling hills, and expansive lakes make the golf courses in the area some of the most picturesque in the country. Find a course that suits you at golfkelowna.com.
Biking is a great way to get around Kelowna — the Okanagan Rail Trail passes by several breweries.
Visit local farms and orchards. You want fresh? You’ve come to the right place! Kelowna is internationally renowned for its locally grown fruit and produce. Stop at a roadside fruit stand or visit a local farm or orchard.
Day 2
Pioneers of third wave coffee in Kelowna dedicated to selecting, roasting and preparing coffee that is exceptional. Enjoy goods from the in-house bakery, made from scratch everyday.
On-site bike rentals. Experience a part of the historical Kettle Valley Railway route built between 1912-1914. This well-established, interactive trail is over 18 trestles and through 2 tunnels, offering spectacular views of Myra Canyon and Okanagan Lake.
Head to this excellent location across from Gyro Beach — arguably the best beach in Kelowna — for lunch and beer. The menu serves a variety of artisan pizzas, salads and burgers.--
Launch our get-on-'n'-go' non-motorized water toys from the sandy shores of beautiful Gyro Beach Park in Kelowna's Mission Area where we invite you to get your toes in the sand and your spirit on the water. Try stand-up paddle boarding or venture out for a little kayaking or canoeing. Maybe pedal boats or water trikes are the right choice if you prefer a slow and relaxing pedal and a few giggles while getting a leg workout. They even have volleyballs and ping-pong sets for those who prefer fun with their friends on land!
Housed in a lovingly restored heritage barn, Barn Owl is a unique rustic retreat, complete with a vaulted loft that oozes bucolic charm, featuring an impressive river rock fireplace, antique furniture, shuffleboard, board games, and plenty of seating.
The Greenway is perfect for cycling, jogging, running, and walking. There are two phases of the trail. The first phase is the most used portion of the trail. While the second phase is great, there are portions of it that are not accessible by bike due to stairs, towards the end of the trail.
Copper Brewing has one goal - making genuinely good beer. After a day full of activity, grab a seat and enjoy approachable and easy-drinking craft beer, paired with a menu of gourmet hot dogs, shareables, fried chicken sandwiches, house-made donuts and more. Looking for something more adventurous? The tap list is always changing and includes more creative beers alongside the easy-drinking regulars.
Smack dab downtown! Across the street from the lake, the park, the beaches, the boardwalk, the watersports & waterpark. Use their free rollerskates or bikes to explore the region.
Explore More
Are you a breakfast person? Visit Okanagan Street Food for some fresh and flavourful options using seasonal ingredients.
If you’re visiting on a Wednesday or Saturday between April-October, be sure to stop by the Kelowna Farmers’ & Crafters’ Market on the corner of Dilworth and Springfield.
Take a cruise on beautiful Lake Okanagan with Kelowna Water Taxi & Cruises. Or just chill out on one of Kelowna’s gorgeous beaches.
Day 3
Groovy, retro coffee house attached to a rare book and antique shop! Lattes, cappuccinos, macchiatos, and americanos and an assortment of heavenly local baked goods. Spend some time browsing the shelves and maybe grab a classic to enjoy reading waterfront later on.
Rutland is home to many large-scale and vibrant murals. Participate in their scavenger hunt to discover the rich and diverse culture of Rutland, learn about the murals, and be entered to win prizes. Budget 1 -2 hours to complete the scavenger hunt. You can start anywhere; however, we recommend starting at 158 Valleyview Road, as there are three nearby murals and parking is free.
One of Kelowna’s newer breweries, Railside opened in August of 2022, located right off the Rail Trail with plenty of bike racks. The beer list is growing, and food truck Wasabi on Wheels is parked out front most days.
Ask one of our wine and beer specialists to track down a local product for you. Always here to help!
Buffalo Rouge Brewing was founded by the owners and operators of the popular vegetarian food truck The Wagon. And, as expected given the owners’ other business, the food menu is completely vegetarian, with items including “calamari” made with hearts of palm, Reuben sandwiches with seitan subbing in for the corned beef, and cauliflower wings.
Unleashed has marked their territory as Kelowna’s most dog-friendly brewery: your K9 companion can join you in the tasting room! (There is a dog-free mezzanine for those who want to avoid furry visitors). Enjoy a pint or a flight, and grab a snack from the tasting room, a nearby food truck, or bring in the takeout meal of your choice.
A beautiful location to go for a short walk and enjoy the scenery of Okanagan Lake. The trail connects to the Rotary Marshes wildlife park where it is not uncommon to see a heron, beavers, or eagles flying overhead.
This absolutely sprawling family-friendly craft brewery and tasting room in Kelowna’s North End aims to bring the backyard campfire vibe to the heart of the city with its airy, high ceilings and expansive patio. The atmosphere is comfortable and familiar—as are the easygoing and approachable classic craft beers Rustic Reel brews. And thanks to its full kitchen, there’s a wide array of delectable dishes to pair with said beer, too.
Overlooking Okanagan Lake, this sprawling conference hotel with city, lake and mountain views is steps away from great beer and the Waterfront Boardwalk.
Explore More
Looking for a quiet space to unwind downtown? Take a step away from the hustle and bustle and into Kasugai Garden Park. Created in 1987, the park features traditional elements like stone lanterns, pine trees, waterfalls and a pond stocked with koi.
If you’re more of a night owl, explore Kelowna’s nightlife and events that are sure to make any visitor feel like a local. Live music, DJs. comedy, theatre, dance clubs & karaoke – the night scene in Kelowna is a thriving mix of ultra-hip discos, laid-back lounges, friendly neighbourhood pubs, sports bars and energetic live theatre and music venues.
Day 4
Delicious foods made using real ingredients, and coffee brewed with organic locally roasted Cherry Hill beans. Enjoy Bliss’ large variety of desserts, breads and croissants, all day breakfast, or grab a delicious meal for later from the frozen foods freezer.
A 50 minute self-guided tour of the Cultural District, which includes galleries, theatres, and museums. There are also 18 pieces of public art on display created by local, national, and international artists.
Located in the heart of Kelowna's Cultural District, The Kelowna Beer Institute specializes in small batch beers, served unfiltered from tank-to-tap at their freshest state. Pair your fresh beer with hand-crafted pizzas or sandwiches from the kitchen, crafted using the brewery’s spent grains and topped with only the freshest ingredients. Each menu item is truly inspired by the beer and available to enjoy on site or to go.
More than just a pretty space, BNA serves delicious beer and gourmet food and is a big part of the local community. Award-winning Chef Justin Best’s creations can be enjoyed in both the Tasting Room and the Eatery. Both menus feature an eclectic mix of classic pub favourites and internationally-inspired dishes.
You’ll want to stick around after lunch for a while - there’s a shuffleboard table, an indoor bocce court, and even a bowling alley upstairs. The tasting room features Skee Ball, arcade videogames, and a dart board to keep you occupied while you’re sipping the delicious beers on offer.
This creative brewery is making a name for itself through experimentation and innovation.
Smack dab in the middle of the North End craft beer district, this brewery has a sleek, open-concept tasting room, and specializes in food and beer pairings. And, if you are into smoked meats, this will be a must-stop for you!
Weird beer and classic pizza abound at this ultra-cool brewery with a heavy metal twist. Known for their pizzas almost as much as their beers! A great dinner option.
Head over to West Kelowna
This upscale resort hotel overlooking Okanagan Lake is nestled among parks and farms, offering rustic luxury removed from the modern world.
Day 5
Indigenous Cuisine. A local favourite and was also featured on the Food Network on the television show "You Gotta Eat Here." The bannock is out of this world – traditional bannock as well as sweet bannock: like a donut, only better. A great place to go for breakfast, lunch or a snack.
Play amongst towering pines with moderate elevation changes; it is a true test to golfers of all abilities. The signature 8th, a long risk/reward par 4, plays alongside beautiful Shannon Lake.
Kick up your feet and relax at this West Kelowna craft brewery that’s all about #lakelife. A great stop for lunch — the menu features shared plates and small plates, street tacos, and thin-crust pizzas, with gluten-free and vegan choices available.
Dedicated to collecting, preserving, restoring and interpreting art and artefact collections that reflect the heritage and natural history of the syilx/Okanagan People.
Sanction mountain biking trails offer fast flowy descents with options for beginners and more technical routes for advanced riders.
Round up your friends and fill up the car, and explore the farms along this self-guided tour of family-owned farms in the area. Stop by the West Kelowna Visitor Centre for a map and to find out what’s in season during your visit.
Walk through the saloon doors and step back in time at this western-style brewery. The brewery features 14 taps of small-batch, carefully crafted, tank-to-tap beers — all made on-site in the brewery that is playfully located in the Mortuary according to the sign above the door — along with two cider taps and a fine selection of handcrafted cocktails. Pair that with real-deal, authentic Texas-style BBQ and you have something truly unique in the Okanagan Valley.
Explore More
Be sure to stop in at the West Kelowna Visitor Information Centre for a full list of activities and attractions to explore.
Wanna get in the water? West Kelowna has plenty of opportunities for hiking, beaches, swimming, and even dog-friendly beaches along the shores of Okanagan Lake. Check out Kalamoir Regional Park or Gellatly Bay Park for some lakeside fun.
For more hiking, explore Glen Canyon Regional Park and follow the trails to the pristine Powers Creek Waterfall. Or trek through Rose Valley Regional Park for nature hiking trails that lead you through Ponderosa Pines and Douglas Firs with views of Okanagan Lake.
Got more room in your day for a tee time? Two Eagles Golf Course and Academy features a spectacular lake view with lush fairways.
Produced In Collaboration With
Situated at the center of the picturesque Okanagan Valley is Kelowna, BC. Known for its rolling vineyards, sprawling orchards, abundant agriculture properties, and stretches of lakefront, all hugged by valley mountains. To call Kelowna idyllic is an understatement.
Beyond the scenic landscape to explore, Kelowna offers a diverse urban landscape as well. Kelowna has a vibrant and expanding downtown core set along the water, an up and coming industrial district, where you’ll find many of Kelowna’s craft brewers, and a number of growing urban villages offering boutique charm and local fare.
The Okanagan Valley’s largest city is surrounded by natural wilderness, and offers the best in outdoor adventures, wine and culinary experiences and active, urban getaways. With extensive cycling and hiking offerings, 19 golf courses, more than 40 wineries, a food and drink scene built on the locally sourced principal, and beautiful Okanagan Lake to kayak, paddleboard, sail, or simply float the day away, make your days amazing as you check out Kelowna’s Ale Trail.
West Kelowna, or The Westside (as the locals like to call it) has always been appreciated for its quiet beaches, rolling hills of orchards, and fantastic outdoor activities. The people here are proud of their rich history in agriculture, of the feisty Fur Brigade Traders and of their relationship with the Okanagan People. The small sleepy town that once was, has grown into a thriving independent municipality that has a ‘rural sophistication’ feel to it with vineyards, wineries, breweries. summer concerts, trails, agricultural pursuits, along with shops that offer the familiar comforts of home.
The sqilxʷ people have lived in the Kelowna (kiʔlawnaʔ) and Westbank (stqaʔtkʷəɬniwt) area from time immemorial. Their rich history is passed down from each generation through ancient oral stories (captikʷəɬ). As you travel around our community you will see the Okanagan language (nsyilxcen) and their culture woven into the community through signs, public art and symbols.