Kelowna is best known for its award-winning wineries, sun-soaked Okanagan Lake beaches, stunning mountain views, and four-season outdoor recreation. With over 40 wineries within a short drive of one another, it’s the birthplace of British Columbia’s wine scene and a veritable dream destination for wine lovers and foodies.
But did you know that you can also spend the day hanging out with kangaroos and other friendly animals?
Just a short, scenic 25-minute drive from The Royal Kelowna resort, Kangaroo Creek Farm offers visitors a unique, wholly unexpected experience you won’t find anywhere else in the region.
Here, you don't merely observe the animals the way you would in a zoo. Instead, you have the opportunity to feed them treats and pet them, sometimes even holding a baby Joey. Whether you’re an animal lover visiting Kelowna or a local looking for some different, new things to do around Kelowna with kids, Kangaroo Creek is a must-visit spot for all ages.
More Than Kangaroos
Sure, the kangaroos and wallabies are the stars of the show, but they aren’t the only animals you’ll meet at Kangaroo Creek Farm. The farm is home to a variety of friendly critters, including a pot-bellied pig, rabbits, goats, peacocks, emus, capybara, turkeys, a tortoise, parrots, and even a porcupine. Some of the more unique residents are the sugar gliders—tiny, nocturnal marsupials that the staff will let you pet under supervision. There are plenty of opportunities for up-close interactions, and many animals are happy to be fed and petted. See one of the guides wandering around the farm to grab treats for the animals, a completely free perk for guests. During high season, when temperatures are warm enough, the farm opens the reptile house, and you may get to interact with snakes or tarantulas.
The farm also has several fun photo ops, from wooden kangaroo sculptures to old-school photo booths and vintage fire trucks and wagons. You'll notice that many of these serve as shade structures and jungle gyms for the animals, too!
There's a small gift shop and in the high season, a food truck and drink cooler onsite. If you prefer a more substantial meal, you’ll find plenty of fantastic restaurants in Kelowna.
When to Visit Kangaroo Creek Farm
Timing is everything here, as Kangaroo Creek Farm is only open seasonally, from mid-March through mid-October, with limited weekend and holiday-only hours starting in September. The hours do not vary while the farm is open, regardless of the season: 10:00 am to 3:00 pm daily to ensure the animals have plenty of downtime and don't get overwhelmed by human socialization. We recommend arriving right after they open in the morning, as animals tend to be less active as the heat of the day sets in. This also gives you plenty of time the rest of the day to enjoy other things to do around Kelowna with kids.
Admission and What to Expect
Kangaroo Creek Farm charges low season rates and high season rates, ranging from $10-20 in the low season and $15-30 in the high season. Children aged four and younger always get in free, making this one of the best Kelowna attractions for families with young kids. Purchase tickets online ahead of time for convenience or simply show up as walk-ins. Notably, wheelchair users also enjoy free admission, along with an adult caretaker, if applicable. Note that walk-ins are closed each day at 2:45 pm. The farm is designed as a self-guided experience, and you can spend as much or as little time as you like wandering the grounds. Most visitors spend roughly two hours here, which includes plenty of time interacting with the animals, taking photos, and browsing the gift shop.
The farm's paths are gravel, but mostly smooth and stroller- and wheel-chair friendly, so it's easy to navigate with little ones or anyone with mobility concerns. It's the perfect multi-generational outing! You'll also find restrooms and shaded picnic tables where you can take a break. Don't be surprised to see a birthday party or other celebration—Kangaroo Creek Farm doesn't charge any extra for parties!
Make it a Day Trip
Since you can easily explore Kangaroo Creek Farm in just a couple of hours, it pairs well with other Kelowna activities. After visiting the farm, check out one of the dozens of nearby wineries, soak up the sun or simply stroll along the beach, get out on Okanagan Lake with a kayak rental or sailing charter, hit the trail with a hike, or explore charming downtown Kelowna.
Explore the Unexpected Side of Kelowna
After spending time with energetic kangaroos and exploring the area, there’s no better place to relax than The Royal Kelowna. Located downtown right on Okanagan Lake, The Royal offers spacious all-suite accommodations that make it easy to settle in and unwind. Enjoy the rooftop terrace with its infinity pool, hot tubs, fire pits, and BBQ grills, or take advantage of the fitness centre with steam showers. You can even indulge in in-room spa services including massage and facials. And if you’re feeling lucky, Playtime Casino is just steps away.
Our Stay® | Well amenities program makes it even easier to relax and enjoy Kelowna. Complimentary bicycle and beach gear rentals let you take full advantage of the lake—which, by the way, The Royal Kelowna has direct access to! Exclusive discounts with local businesses add even more perks to your stay.
So, if you thought Kelowna was all about wine and beaches, think again. A day with kangaroos is most definitely a thing in Kelowna, but it’s just one of the many unforgettable experiences waiting for you. Check out our current promotions and packages, and book your stay at The Royal today. We can't wait to host you—and hear all about your experience with the animals!
