Is a weekend in Kelowna enough time to explore this lakeside city? I think so! At the very least, it’s enough time to realize why you’ll be back soon! From beautiful walks to incredible food, this two-day Kelowna itinerary is full of local spots, fun adventures, and places you’ll definitely want to come back to.

Whether you're here for the first time or squeezing in a little Okanagan getaway, here’s exactly how I’d spend 48 hours in Kelowna.

 

Day One of Your Kelowna Itinerary 

Morning: Coffee, Crepes & Kelowna Views

Kick off your Kelowna 2-day trip with a stop at Craft 42 Roasters for your morning coffee. It’s a little off the beaten path near the Brewery District, but that’s part of its charm. Their specialty coffees are roasted in-house, and you can do a coffee tasting to try different brews.

Afterward, head over to Empire Crepe for breakfast. This Parisian-style creperie is a must-try in Kelowna and they have delicious sweet and savoury crepes with gluten-free options.

Once you’re fed and caffeinated, head up to Dilworth Mountain Park for one of the best low-effort hikes in the Okanagan. The trail is easy, but the views over Kelowna and Okanagan Lake are top-notch. In late spring and early summer, the hillside turns bright yellow with blooming Arrowleaf Balsamroot (Kelowna’s wildflower). 

 

Afternoon: Kelowna Summers are for Paddling & Picnics

Summer days in Kelowna are made for being on the water! What’s a weekend summer trip without this quintessential Okanagan activity? 

Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard from one of Okanagan Beach Rental's three locations, the Downtown Marina, or Kelowna Paddle Centre, and explore the shoreline of Okanagan Lake. You can even follow the 27 km Kelowna Paddle Trail that stretches all the way from Bertram Creek Park to McKinley Beach – not that I recommend paddling the whole thing for your 2-day trip!

When you’re hungry, keep an eye out for food trucks along the beaches. Surfside California at Rotary Beach is a personal favourite, Konz Pizza is right by the Paddle Centre, and The Apple Stand at Boyce-Gyro Beach is perfect for a quick snack. Over at Hot Sands Beach in downtown Kelowna, there’s usually a whole row of food trucks to choose from.

 

Evening: Wind Down with Local Craft Beer, Pizza & Live Music

After a fun afternoon on Okanagan Lake, it’s time to wind down with a laid-back dinner at a craft brewery. No need to dress up!

Red Bird Brewing is always one of my top picks. It’s relaxed, their patio is dog-friendly, and their pizza always hits the spot after a busy day. You can often catch live music too, from acoustic sets to full summer shows.

If you’re in the mood for something a little different, check out Jackknife Brewing. Their sourdough pizzas are award-winning and their beer’s very unique. Their live music is punk, metal, and emo and has a very different vibe than most Kelowna breweries, which is why locals love it.

 

Day Two: More Kelowna Adventures

Morning: Best Way to Spend a Morning in Kelowna

If your 2-day trip to Kelowna includes a Wednesday or Saturday, start your second morning at the Kelowna Farmers’ and Crafters’ Market. You’ll find everything from handmade goods to farm-fresh produce and tasty breakfast treats. It’s one of the biggest markets in the Okanagan and a great way to experience the local culture!

If the market’s not on, head over to the Bohemian Café in downtown Kelowna instead. This longtime gem is a local favourite for big breakfasts, homemade meats, bread, and jam, and a cozy, slightly hippy vibe. Their eggs benny are always my go-to.

Afternoon: Must-Do Kelowna Adventures

No Kelowna itinerary is complete without a visit to the Myra Canyon Trestles! This scenic trail follows a section of the historic Kettle Valley Railway and winds across dramatic wooden trestles high above the canyon.

I recommend starting from Myra Station for the best views right out of the gate. You can rent bikes from Myra Canyon Bicycle Rentals + Tours at the trailhead in the summer or take it slow with a walk—it’s beautiful either way. 

The full trail is 12 km one way and not a loop, so unless you’re up for a full 24 km return trip or have someone picking you up at the far end, it’s best to turn around at the halfway point. That’ll bring you to the biggest and most iconic trestle anyway.

If you have a bit of time on your way back to Kelowna, swing by Soma Craft Cidery for a quick tasting and say hi to the alpacas. Their cider is some of my favourite in town! 

 

Evening: Enjoy Dinner at a Winery in Kelowna

Wrap up your two-day trip to Kelowna with dinner at a winery—the Okanagan’s famous for its wine, after all! Here are a few of the best spots to end your weekend trip on a high note:

  • Home Block at CedarCreek Estate Winery: Seasonal, wine-inspired dishes cooked over a wood-fired grill with local ingredients and vineyard views. It’s one of the most beautiful dining spots in the Okanagan!

  • The Terrace Restaurant at Mission Hill Family Estate Winery: If you’re going all out, this is the place. Upscale dining in one of the most iconic wineries in Kelowna.

  • Crown & Thieves Winery: A castle-like building with theatrical flair and a dining experience that feels straight out of a fairytale.

 

Kelowna in 2 Days: A Local’s Weekend Guide

I’ve lived in the Okanagan my whole life and this two-day Kelowna itinerary is exactly how I’d spend a weekend showing off the city to friends. It’s packed with some of the best things to do in Kelowna– a little adventure, a lot of great food, and all the things that make this city so special.

Whether you’re planning a quick summer getaway or adding Kelowna to a longer BC road trip, this 48-hour Kelowna itinerary is a great place to start. With so many things to do in Kelowna, especially in the spring and summer, you’ll have no trouble filling two days with unforgettable experiences!