There’s something magical about road tripping through the Okanagan Valley British Columbia. Maybe it’s the way the vineyards roll down the hillsides into glittering lakes, or the fact that you can pair wine with everything from farm-to-table dining to hiking trails that start right behind the tasting room. Even though the Okanagan Valley, British Columbiais best known for its world-class wine, this three-day itinerary is a mix of both wine experiences and beyond-the-wine adventures—think orchards, kangaroo farms, boardwalks, murals, and distilleries.

👉 If your trip is all about the wine, check out my dedicated blog post: Wineries in Okanagan Valley British Columbia: Wine Tasting Adventure for a deep dive into the region’s best vineyards and tasting experiences.

Either way, three days here is enough to taste, explore, and soak in just enough of the good life to make you start planning your next trip before you’ve even left. Here’s how I’d spend 3 perfect days in the Okanagan Valley British Columbia:

Day 1: Vernon — The Northern Gateway

Vernon is often overlooked, but it’s the perfect place to ease into the Okanagan vibe. Think orchards, cider, quirky art, and the valley’s farm-to-flask spirit. Nestled in the northern part of the Okanagan Valley, Vernon is a charming town where the pace is a little slower, the people are a lot friendlier, and the experiences are as diverse as the landscape. So, let’s kick things off with a laid-back but memorable start to your Okanagan adventure.

Morning: Start with Fresh Air and Fruits

Kick off your day with a visit to Davison Orchards, a local gem that’s equal parts orchard, country market, and playground. This is where the real Okanagan vibe begins. If you’re lucky enough to visit during apple season, grab a basket and pick your own—there’s nothing quite like biting into an apple you’ve just plucked from the tree.

Not into picking fruit? No worries—savor a freshly squeezed glass of apple juice or indulge in a warm slice of homemade apple pie from the bakery (you won’t regret it). It’s the perfect spot to take a breath, stretch your legs, and dive into the region’s agricultural roots.

Late Morning: A Stroll Through Downtown Vernon

Now that you’re fueled up, it’s time to hit the streets. Downtown Vernon is the perfect place to wander and take in some art and local culture. Over 25 vibrant murals decorate the walls of buildings throughout the town, each telling a story of Vernon’s history, people, and diverse culture. It’s like a free open-air art gallery! You can spend a good hour just strolling the streets, snapping photos, and getting lost in the colorful scenes. It’s the kind of place where you can feel the personality of a town without even trying.

Afternoon: Farm-to-Flask Adventure

Ready for something a little different? Pop over to Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery, Canada’s original craft distillery. If you’ve been indulging in wine so far, this is a fun and unique pivot. Their “farm-to-flask” approach means everything is sourced locally—from the grains to the fruit that make their spirits so special. Whether you’re into whisky, gin, or fruit liqueurs, there’s something to tickle your taste buds.

Don’t miss the chance to try a few small-batch creations—think of it as the perfect contrast to the wine you’ll be sipping later in the day. Bonus: It’s a fantastic spot to chat with local distillers and hear stories about how they craft each batch.

Lunch: Tacos at Mi Taqueria – Mexican Cantina

When the clock strikes lunchtime, make your way to Mi Taqueria – Mexican Cantina in downtown Vernon for a fresh and flavorful break. This local hotspot food truck serves up some of the best Mexican food you’ll find in the Okanagan. The casual, vibrant atmosphere here makes it the perfect spot to relax and refuel before your next adventure. Make sure to check the location of the food truck ahead of the time.

Late Afternoon: Wine Stops on the Scenic Drive

After lunch, it’s time to get back on the road! As you head south towards Kelowna, make a pit stop in Lake Country—just a short detour and well worth it. Here, you’ll find a couple of wineries that are perfect for breaking up the drive and getting a taste of what the Okanagan is known for.

Gray Monk Estate Winery: This winery is a true pioneer in the valley, known for its knockout Pinot Gris. The tasting room offers a cozy spot to sip and take in the breathtaking views from their terrace, overlooking Okanagan Lake. It’s the kind of place where you can sip slowly and let the beauty of the lake wash over you.

Arrowleaf Cellars: Known for its laid-back atmosphere, this winery is a favorite for a casual, fun experience. Pairing wine with snacks is their thing—whether it’s cheese, chips, or something a little more adventurous, it’s a creative way to enjoy your wine tasting. The relaxed picnic vibe makes it a great spot to take a deep breath and enjoy the scenery.

Important tip: If you’re planning to do wine tasting, don’t forget to have a designated driver or consider joining a wine tour. It’s the safest (and most relaxing) way to enjoy the fantastic wines without the worry of driving.

Evening: Settle Into Kelowna

Continue your drive to Kelowna, your base for the night. If you’re more in the mood for a cozy, low-key evening, grab a table at one of Kelowna’s lakeside restaurants. Enjoy a delicious dinner, sip on a local wine, and just take it all in. You’ve had a full day, and tomorrow promises even more adventures.

When it’s time to settle in, Kelowna offers stays for every kind of traveler:

• Delta Hotels by Marriott Grand Okanagan Resort – A lakeside gem with gorgeous views, a private marina, and a spa that’s perfect for unwinding after a long day on the road.
• Hyatt Place Kelowna – Modern, spacious, and relaxed. Great for travelers who like sleek design and a solid breakfast before hitting the road again.
• Coast Capri Hotel – Central, comfortable, and laid-back. The kind of place that feels like a familiar favorite—even if it’s your first time in town.

👉 Have more time in Vernon? If you’d like to swap in different stops or add extra adventures, check out my detailed Vernon Travel Guide for more winery picks, outdoor activities, and foodie finds to round out your trip.

Day 2: Kelowna — The Beating Heart of the Okanagan

Kelowna is where the Okanagan wine scene truly bursts into life—but don’t be fooled, it’s much more than vineyards and tasting rooms. This city pulses with lakeside charm, quirky wildlife, local culture, and enough variety to keep even the most seasoned traveler grinning ear to ear. Whether you’re here for the wine, the views, or the vibe, today’s adventure promises a little bit of everything.

Morning Adventure: Say G’day to Kangaroos (and Friends!)

Your morning kicks off with a fun, unexpected treat at Kangaroo Creek Farm. I know—kangaroos in Canada? It sounds crazy, but trust me, it’s a delightful little slice of the outback right here in the Okanagan. Walking among these friendly animals is a quirky way to start the day, and if you’re traveling with kids (or just young-at-heart adults), it’s a guaranteed smile generator.

But it’s not just kangaroos—wallabies hop around, sugar gliders zip overhead, and you can even meet capybaras, the world’s largest rodents who somehow manage to look utterly adorable. The farm’s laid-back vibe makes it easy to linger, snap plenty of photos, and maybe even feed a few animals. It’s a refreshing, playful detour before your wine tasting kicks in.

Late Morning Stroll: Lakeside Bliss on the Waterfront Boardwalk

Once you’ve said your goodbyes to the kangaroos, head back into Kelowna for a stroll on the Waterfront Boardwalk. This isn’t just any lakeside walk—it’s a vibrant tapestry of parks, marinas, and art installations stretching along the shimmering waters of Okanagan Lake. Take your time here; maybe stop for a coffee or an ice cream at a local café.

Keep an eye out for the lively community around you—people biking, paddleboarding, or just soaking up the sunshine on a bench. The public art pieces scattered along the path tell stories of the valley’s rich history and creative spirit. This is the kind of place where you feel connected to the city’s heartbeat without even needing to say a word.

Afternoon Wine and Lunch Stop: Beach Vibes at Frind Estate Winery

Now, it’s time to embrace the wine side of Kelowna at Frind Estate Winery, the world’s only beachfront winery. Here, sipping crisp whites or rosés literally means feeling the sand beneath your feet. The lakeside patio buzzes with a relaxed summer energy—think picnic blankets, laughter, and plenty of clinking glasses.

Grab a pizza fresh out of their wood-fired oven—simple, delicious, and the perfect companion to your wine tasting. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or a casual sipper, the views combined with the quality of the wine make this stop unforgettable.

Late Afternoon: Culture, History and Hidden Gems

After soaking up the sun and wine, it’s time to dive a bit deeper into the local story. Kelowna’s not just a pretty face—it’s a place with roots and stories worth knowing.

Visit the Okanagan Heritage Museum to get a glimpse of the valley’s past, from First Nations culture to pioneering settlers and everything in between. The exhibits are thoughtfully curated and surprisingly engaging—you might find yourself lingering longer than planned.

For a more specialized sip of knowledge, the Wine Museum of BC offers a fascinating look at the valley’s winemaking evolution. It’s a niche museum but packed with interesting tidbits that make you appreciate every glass a little more.

Evening: Culinary Fusion and Wine at Little Straw Vineyards

Next, head over to Little Straw Vineyards, a charming, family-run winery with a cozy atmosphere and welcoming—no pretentious tasting room vibes, just genuine passion for good wine and good company. It’s the kind of place where you can ask all your curious questions and actually get thoughtful answers.

Stick around Little Straw Vineyards for dinner at Tula, their Indian-inspired restaurant that’s unlike anything else in the Okanagan. This isn’t your average winery meal—here, the chefs have created a carefully curated four-course menu, with each dish thoughtfully paired with the vineyard’s wines.

Expect bold flavors, vibrant spices, and unexpected pairings that somehow just work. The setting is intimate and the views from the patio overlook vineyards rolling into the twilight—an utterly magical backdrop for your meal. Whether you’re a fan of Indian food or new to the cuisine, this dinner is a true highlight and a delicious way to end the day.

👉 Planning to linger in Kelowna? Kelowna has way more to offer than what fit into this itinerary. Explore my full Kelowna Travel Guide for bonus winery stops, dining spots, and fun beyond the vineyards.

Day 3: Oliver — Canada’s Wine Capital

If Kelowna is the heart of Okanagan wine country, Oliver is its soul. This little town proudly calls itself Canada’s Wine Capital—and it’s not just marketing fluff. Nearly half of all BC wine flows from these sun-soaked vineyards, and if you love bold reds, this is where they truly shine.

Morning Drive Through Desert Hills & Orchards

The 90-minute drive from Kelowna to Oliver is half the fun. The landscape shifts as you head south—lush orchards give way to sagebrush hills, desert cliffs, and shimmering lakes. It almost feels like you’ve left Canada and slipped into California wine country. Roll down your windows, crank up your playlist, and keep your camera handy—those dusty golden hills are ridiculously photogenic.

Late Morning: Sip & Stroll at the District Wine Village

First stop? The District Wine Village, a brilliant idea brought to life: 10+ boutique wineries, plus a brewery, distillery, and even an eatery, all gathered in one stylish, pedestrian-friendly hub. It’s like speed-dating but for wine—you can wander from door to door, discovering everything from experimental natural wines to polished Bordeaux-style blends.

Don’t rush it. Chat with the winemakers (most of them are right there pouring your glass), and you’ll quickly realize this isn’t a mass-production scene. It’s small, passionate, and personal—the kind of place where you leave with both bottles and stories.

Refuel Before the Next Pour

Once the palate starts begging for a reset, fuel up at the Village’s food hall. Think wood-fired pizzas, gourmet sandwiches, or if you’re smart, a picnic assembled from local cheeses, cured meats, and fresh fruit you’ve picked up along the way. Pair it with your favorite sip from the morning and suddenly you’ve got yourself the kind of lunch that makes you wonder why life can’t always be this easy.

Afternoon: Wineries, Patios, or Pure Relaxation

If you’ve still got tasting stamina (and hopefully a designated driver), dive deeper into Oliver’s star wineries like Burrowing Owl Estate Winery  or Tinhorn Creek Vineyards. Not in the mood for another winery stop? No problem. You can just linger at the District Wine Village, grab a patio seat, and let the afternoon drift by. Between the food hall, the brewery, and the live music that often pops up on weekends, it’s an easy place to soak in the atmosphere without rushing anywhere. Sometimes the best move is simply to sit back, sip slowly, and savor the desert sunshine.

Evening Journey: From Vineyards to Fruit Stands

If your road trip is taking you all the way back to Vancouver, the drive west is every bit as rewarding as the tastings you’ve just wrapped up. As you roll through the Similkameen Valley, make sure to swing by Keremeos—proudly known as the Fruit Stand Capital of Canada.

This little village is lined with roadside stalls overflowing with whatever’s freshest that week: peaches so juicy you’ll need extra napkins, baskets of cherries, crisp apples, and even heirloom tomatoes that taste like summer sunshine. Stock up for the drive or grab a bag to bring home—nothing beats the feeling of unloading wine bottles and crates of farm-fresh produce at the end of a trip.

It’s the perfect palate cleanser after a day of indulgence: simple, honest flavors straight from the valley. Plus, supporting these family-run stands feels like giving back to the region that’s just given you such a memorable day.

By the time you hit the highway toward Vancouver, the sun will likely be setting over the mountains—a fitting curtain call for your Okanagan adventure. Windows down, fruit in the back seat, and a trunk full of wine… that’s how road trips are supposed to end.

Final Sip: Three Days, A Thousand Memories

Three days in the Okanagan Valley isn’t nearly enough to see (or sip) it all, but it’s a perfect introduction. From Vernon’s farm-fresh charm, to Kelowna’s kangaroos-meets-wineries energy, to Oliver’s powerhouse reds, you’ll leave with your heart full—and maybe your trunk full of bottles too.

Pin this guide for later so you’ll have it handy when you’re ready to sip, swirl, and road trip your way back through BC’s wine country.