If you’re looking for an adventure, a secret narrative, or a place to make memories, a trip to Vernon, British Columbia, is like entering a magical realm. Situated in the breathtaking Okanagan Valley near Kelowna, Vernon is more than simply a city; it’s a living masterpiece adorned with the hues of culture, history, and nature. It’s a spot where the mountains and lakes meet, where history and moder life tango, and where adventure thrives. Designed to pique your interest and motivate you to explore, this guide will serve as your ticket to Vernon’s enchantment.
Every season brings its own unique set of wonders to the city of Vernon, making it a veritable treasure trove of experiences. Valleys teem with orchards and wildflowers in the spring and summer, while sun-kissed lakes beckon intrepid explorers to jump into their refreshing waters. The city becomes a kaleidoscope of flaming colours as fall unfolds, setting the scene for picturesque outdoor adventures. For winter sports enthusiasts who relish in the fresh mountain air and the exhilaration of the slopes, Vernon becomes a snowy wonderland. This article explores the many things to do in Vernon BC, revealing the best attractions that are sure to leave an impression on both residents and tourists.
8 Popular Things to do in Vernon BC
Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park—A Natural Gem
Located in the picturesque Okanagan Valley, Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park is a sight to behold, inspiring wonder and tranquilly. Thanks to the lake’s distinctive calcite crystals, which reflect light in fascinating ways, this natural marvel is famous for its spectacular color-changing phenomena, which is a lively show of greens and blues that shimmer beneath the sun. The park is a haven for adventurers and ecotourists spread out over a large area.
A wide variety of activities are available at the park due to its varied terrain. Swimming in the crystal-clear, turquoise waters of Kalamalka Lake is like diving into a warm embrace; it’s a paradise for water babies. Discover the tranquil coves and beautiful shoreline of the lake by kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. The lake is home to a variety of species, so anglers may relax on peaceful mornings and look forward to a productive day on the water.
From land, visitors can explore the park’s vast trail system, which provides a variety of vantage points across the lake and valley. Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park welcomes hikers of all abilities, whether they’re looking for a relaxing stroll through meadows dotted with wildflowers or an exhilarating ascent to a sweeping vantage point. Grasslands Trail and Cosens Bay Trail are two of the most popular routes, leading hikers through fragrant pine forests and providing breathtaking views of the lake’s multicoloured waters. Mule deer, red-tailed hawks, and even the rare coyote are all part of the diverse species that calls this area home. Keep an eye out for them as you go.
If you’re looking for a place to stay in British Columbia that truly captures the richness and beauty of nature, go no further than Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park. Every time you go there, you’ll find a different hue, a different story, and a hidden mystery.
A Winter Wonderland at SilverStar Mountain Resort
As a guiding light for families and winter sports fans in search of a snowy getaway, SilverStar Mountain Resort sits high in the sky where the air is crisp and the world appears blanketed in a blanket of perfect white. Not content to limit itself to its world-famous ski slopes, this mountain haven is a veritable winter wonderland with an abundance of attractions for guests to enjoy both on and off the slopes.
An idyllic resort town will greet you as you make your way up the mountain. The multi-colored structures sparkle like jewels in the snow, conveying a promise of warmth and hospitality. From boutiques brimming with one-of-a-kind wares to quaint cafés serving mugs of hot cocoa by the fire, every nook and cranny here embodies the winter atmosphere.
But the varied terrain that SilverStar offers is what really makes it special for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. The mountain offers a wide range of slopes, from easy ones that even first-timers may enjoy to thrilling black diamonds that test the mettle of experienced skiers and snowboarders. The resort has a variety of exciting activities for guests to enjoy, such as nordic skiing through picturesque landscapes, snow tubing through peaceful forests, and snowshoeing through quiet forests covered with snow.
There is a winter-loving community at SilverStar Mountain Resort beyond the slopes. The experience is further enhanced by the regular events, such as torchlight parades and snow sculpture competitions. The ice skating pond provides a beautiful backdrop for making memories, while the small snowmobiles and magic carpet offer limitless entertainment for kids and adults alike.
Going to SilverStar is more than just seeing a place; it’s like on a magical winter adventure. The Okanagan Valley is at its most picturesque when covered in snow, where the mountain is beckoned not just to be conquered but also to be treasured; and every day concludes with rosy cheeks and tales to share. Whether you’re gliding down a slope beneath a brilliant blue sky or just taking in the ambiance of the mountains at sunset, SilverStar Mountain Resort guarantees an unforgettable winter experience.
Fruit Adventures at Davison Orchards Country Village
More than simply an orchard, Davison Orchards Country Village in Vernon, British Columbia is a thriving tribute to farming, family, and life’s little joys. Set against a background of undulating hills and blue skies, this popular resort welcomes guests with open arms and a bounty of farm-fresh goods, transporting them to the centre of rural America. The place is bursting with the delicious aroma of ripe fruits, and around every bend you might find something new to explore.
As soon as you step foot in Davison Orchards, the Country Market will enliven you with its vivacious colours and lively atmosphere. Here you can find the most recent harvest, plucked from the trees of the orchard, displayed on the shelves. From jars of preserves that capture the flavour of the season to the world-famous apple pies, baked daily with a golden crust and a heart of delicate, spiced apples, the market is a veritable treasure trove of handmade items. The café offers filling farm-style meals that are both healthy and tasty, while the bakery entices with a variety of breads and pastries.
The dedication to providing guests with an authentic farming experience, however, is at the very core of Davison Orchards. One may get a close look at the natural cycles and the labour that goes into farming on the Johnny Popper train, which is a wonderful excursion through the orchards. Accompanied by well-informed natives, you will gain insight into the many fruit kinds, the changing seasons, and the sustainable farming methods that will prolong the land’s fertility. A great farm for families, the petting zoo and play area let little ones get dirty while learning about farm life and the importance of playing outside.
From pumpkin patches in the fall to peach festivals in the summer, the orchard holds activities all year round to honour the land’s richness. Every event at Davison Orchards is a chance to meet new people, listen to great music, and take part in the fun that makes this venue so special.
A trip to Davison Orchards Country Village is more like an immersive experience. You can enjoy the warmth of the sun on your skin as you meander through the orchards, savour the delicacy of the fruit you just selected, listen to the joyous sounds of youngsters playing and exploring, and bring home more than just food—you can bring home memories. Here at Davison Orchards, we want to encourage you to take it easy, appreciate the present, and rediscover the bountiful gifts of nature in this hectic world.
An Escape to Summertime Fun at Splashdown Vernon Waterslides
Vernon is home to the breathtaking Splashdown Vernon Waterslides formally known as Atlantis Waterslides, an aquatic paradise that offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to beat the summer heat. At this expansive waterpark, guests of all ages may enjoy a one-of-a-kind combination of thrills and relaxation while taking in breathtaking views of the local hills and valleys. Under the warm Okanagan sun, it’s more than simply a spot to cool down; it’s an exciting summer adventure that welcomes thrill-seekers, families, and friends.
Laughter and the sound of water splashing greet you as you enter Splashdown Vernon, transporting you to a place where summertime memories are built. A dizzying collection of slides, each engineered to provide an unprecedented degree of exhilaration, dot the park. With a wide range of thrilling attractions, including the heart-pounding “Tornado” tube slide that sends riders hurtling into a whirling vortex and the mild “Family Slide,” which is ideal for a shared journey, the park offers something for every thrill seeker. An adrenaline rush like no other is waiting for the brave on the “Vertical Velocity” slide, which promises a terrifying plunge.
There are many of other water attractions at Splashdown Vernon Waterslides besides the slides. The park’s main attraction is the enormous wave pool, which recreates the ocean’s ebb and flow so that guests can ride mild waves or brave more intense ones. Inviting visitors to float serenely down its winding path, soaking in the warmth of the sun, the lazy river encircles the park, providing a more tranquil experience.
But thrills aren’t the only thing you’ll find at these waterslides; you can also unwind and have fun with the family here. For younger guests, there is a large kiddie pool and a separate water play area where they may splash around in safety and enjoy water attractions made specifically for them. A carefree day for everybody is guaranteed by the park’s large reclining spaces, where parents can unwind while keeping an eye on the excitement.
Splashdown offers everything you need for a fantastic day at the park, which only enhances the experience. You may easily spend the whole day enjoying the summer atmosphere thanks to the locker rentals, concession stands selling delicious summer goodies, and picnic spots where you can bring your own snacks.
An oasis of summer fun, Splashdown Vernon Waterslides is a site where the beauty of the surroundings is equal to, if not greater than, the exhilaration of the slides. You are invited to splash around, loosen up, and create summer memories that will be remembered for a long time at this destination. Atlantis Waterslides is your pass to a summer of pure delight, whether you’re whizzing down a slide, riding the waves, or just taking it easy with loved ones while laughing and enjoying the water’s magical effects.
A Community and Creativity Canvas – Vernon Public Art Gallery
The Vernon Public Art Gallery is a cultural landmark in the city centre that welcomes art enthusiasts and those just interested in art. This haven for the arts is more than just a collection of artworks; it’s a lively centre for discussion, ideas, and expression. Situated in the picturesque Okanagan Valley, the gallery reflects the vibrant local and national art communities, drawing in visitors who want to experience art’s transformational effect firsthand.
Various shows spanning a wide spectrum of artistic mediums greet guests as they enter the gallery. The exhibitions range from traditional art forms to cutting-edge digital media and beyond, all with the aim of stimulating thinking and discussion. As a venue for artists at various phases of their careers, the gallery is proud to feature both well-known and up-and-coming artists’ works. The welcoming atmosphere fosters a dynamic exchange of ideas, where every object has a story to tell and every stroke of the brush starts a discourse.
Education and community involvement are two of the gallery’s strongest points. The Vernon Public Art Gallery enables the public to delve deeper into the creative process and demystifies the art world through an extensive programme of seminars, artist presentations, and interactive tours. All ages and abilities are welcome in these programmes, which aim to encourage creativity and a sense of community. The gallery is a great spot for all kinds of learning and exploration, from art history classes taught by seasoned experts to family creative sessions prompted by the newest show.
In addition, the gallery’s influence goes well beyond its physical location. Art becomes a part of everyone’s daily life through partnerships with local schools, community groups, and public initiatives, making it accessible to everyone. Vernon is known for its rich artistic legacy and exciting creative future; the city becomes an outdoor gallery for special events like the Art Walk every year.
Rather than merely seeing artwork, guests are encouraged to immerse themselves in it at the Vernon Public Art Gallery, which serves as a symbol of inventiveness. The visual storytelling of various artists come together in this place, which encourages conversation, new ideas, and cultural enrichment for the community. Art here is dynamic, ever-changing, and eagerly awaiting the discovery of all who enter. Visits to the Vernon Public Art Gallery are like taking a personal journey through a kaleidoscope of human expression; whether you’re an art lover or just interested in the creative process, you’ll leave with a new understanding of art’s essence.
Exploring Delicious Nector at Planet Bee Honey Farm
Located in the lush Vernon, British Columbia, setting, Planet Bee Honey Farm provides an interesting and instructive journey inside the hive mind of bees. The importance of bees to our ecology is brought to light in this kid-friendly attraction, which goes beyond simple displays of hives and honey. In this interactive exhibit, guests may follow the honey-making process from bloom to jar, learning about the fascinating lives of bees along the way.
The soft buzz of bees in action fills the air as you enter Planet Bee Honey Farm. You can learn about the intricate hive culture on one of the guided tours offered by the farm. Wearing special beekeeper outfits, visitors can get a close look at the bees as they go about their day and watch the dance they do to communicate. These excursions do more than just teach people about the animals; they have a profound effect on people, making them think about and respect these small but important beings.
At Planet Bee, the Honey Boutique is where all the delicious treats are made from the bees’ honey. From unflavored raw honey to flavoured versions enhanced with natural components like cinnamon or lavender, the boutique has it all when it comes to honey. Indulge in a variety of flavours that showcase the rich flora of the Okanagan Valley during a tasting session. The store features a variety of bee-related items, including royal jelly, propolis tinctures, beeswax candles, and honey, to demonstrate the usefulness and adaptability of bee products.
Planet Bee Honey Farm is an environmental and conservation nonprofit whose goal is to get the word out about how vital bees are to our food and habitat. Bees confront many threats, such as habitat loss and climate change, which are explained in the farm’s interactive exhibits and informative signs. Many visitors are moved to become bee activists after witnessing the farm’s commitment to protecting and supporting bee populations.
Planet Bee Honey Farm is an educational and fascinating place to visit since it shows how important bees are to our environment. There, visitors of all ages are captivated by the natural world and are inspired to forge a stronger bond with it. Guests depart with a deeper understanding of the beekeepers’ role in our environment and a poignant reminder of the precarious equilibrium that allows life to persist on Earth. If you have an interest in food, the environment, or are just plain interested about bees, you will adore a visit to Planet Bee Honey Farm.
A Doorway to the Pioneer Spirit at Historic O’Keefe Ranch
Immerse yourself in the past at Historic O’Keefe Ranch, a place that celebrates and preserves the pioneering days of British Columbia and the Old West. This living history museum provides an enthralling look into the lives of early Okanagan Valley settlers and ranchers, located in the picturesque splendour of Vernon. Cornelius O’Keefe, one of the earliest European immigrants in the area, founded the ranch in 1867. It is a reminder of the pioneers’ tenacity, creativity, and camaraderie that helped shape the frontier.
Strolling around Historic O’Keefe Ranch’s grounds is like stepping into a time machine—back when the West was more rugged and unspoiled. There are a number of historically significant structures on the ranch that have been painstakingly repaired. At the ranch’s core is the O’Keefe Mansion, which provides a glimpse into the O’Keefe family’s domestic life through its collection of antique furniture and artefacts.
To be sure, there are many structures on the ranch, but it’s also a vibrant community where the past is present. Stagecoach rides, guided tours, and blacksmithing demonstrations put guests in the shoes of a 19th-century rancher and put them in touch with the trades, responsibilities, and difficulties of ranch life. Volunteers and employees at the ranch, clothed historically, tell stories of overcoming adversity and building a home in the wilderness, paying tribute to the pioneers’ lasting impact.
Those curious about the Indigenous peoples of the Okanagan can learn more about the mutually beneficial relationship between the first settlers and the Syilx (Okanagan) people at the ranch. All of the local communities were able to thrive and survive because of this part of the ranch’s history—the sharing of information, traditions, and products.
From ghost tours and Christmas markets to cowboy festivals and heritage fairs, Historic O’Keefe Ranch serves as the site of many community activities that honour the history of the area. Not only do these gatherings highlight long-gone customs, but they also unite individuals of all generations in the wonder of new knowledge and the comfort of shared history.
As you enter Historic O’Keefe Ranch, you’ll hear the tinkling of blacksmith tools and the sound of hoofbeats, transporting you to a bygone era. Offering a one-of-a-kind combination of education, entertainment, and exploration, it is a location where history is not merely remembered but experienced. Those seeking a deeper understanding of the Okanagan Valley’s history and a connection to its pioneer past will find what they’re searching for on the ranch.
Discover Vernon’s Community Heartbeat at Local Markets
The local markets of Vernon are like living, breathing tapestries, stitched together with the very essence of the people who live there. Rather than being just locations to buy stuff, these hives of activity also provide exciting events that showcase the local arts, crafts, cuisine, and culture. Every sound, sight, and taste that you encounter as you stroll through the stalls of the Vernon Farmers’ Market and other local bazaars will transport you to the Okanagan Valley.
The fruits and vegetables sold at these markets are a reflection of the long history of farming in the area. Farmers proudly show off their harvests, their hands showing the same amount of wear and tear as the land they work. Here, tomatoes come in a rainbow of colours, from bright yellow to dark green, and each variety has its own unique flavour tale to tell. When you buy fruits like peaches, apples, cherries, and pears at their ripest, you get a flavour of the local soil that you won’t find in a supermarket. Supporting local farmers and their products puts you in harmony with nature’s rhythms and the land’s harvest.
However, there is much more to see and do in the markets than meets the eye. From beautifully woven baskets to earthenware that retains the essence of the land in its glaze, artisans and craftspeople display their skills through a diverse range of handcrafted objects. With every stitch and stroke of the artist’s brush, these objects become more than just objects for sale; they are narratives in and of themselves. Treasures abound, including jewellery crafted from native stones, carvings from trees in the valley, and textiles dyed using natural dyes.
The market’s food vendors and food trucks enhance its appeal by offering a diverse range of cuisines that mirror Vernon’s multicultural fabric. Explore new flavours and reminisce about old favourites on a gastronomic adventure at the markets, where you can find anything from traditional bannock and farm-to-table specialties to foreign meals with a local spin.
People in the neighbourhood gather in the markets not just to buy things but also to meet one another. The air is filled with the swaying music of guitars and fiddles, while the laughing of children flits from stall to stall, adding a vibrant thread to the market’s colourful tapestry. Every visit is special because of the workshops, culinary demos, and other events that create a community and encourage learning by doing.
You can feel like you’re part of the community as you peruse the local markets in Vernon. Indulge in the vibrant flavours, vibrant colours, and mouth-watering textures of the Okanagan while supporting local farmers, craftsmen, and businesses. The markets welcome both long-term residents and passing tourists with open arms, allowing them to experience the authentic Vernon.
11 Additonal Things to do in Vernon BC
- Allan Brooks Nature Centre: Explore the natural beauty of the Okanagan Valley through interactive exhibits and walking trails with stunning views.
- Okanagan Science Centre: A place where curious minds of all ages can engage with interactive exhibits and hands-on science experiments.
- Polson Park: Enjoy leisurely walks, picnics, and playground fun in this expansive, beautifully landscaped urban park in the heart of Vernon.
- BX Falls: Take a short hike to this hidden gem, where you can enjoy the serene beauty of cascading waterfalls nestled in the forest.
- Vernon Golf & Country Club: Tee off at this picturesque golf course that offers a challenging layout for golfers of all skill levels amid scenic views.
- Kin Beach: Relax on the sandy shores of Okanagan Lake, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and volleyball during the summer months.
- The Vernon Murals: Discover Vernon’s history and culture through a self-guided mural tour showcasing vibrant artworks adorning buildings throughout downtown.
- Starlight Drive-In Theatre: Experience one of Canada’s last remaining drive-in theaters for a nostalgic movie night under the stars.
- Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery: Tour this award-winning distillery to learn about the art of making spirits and enjoy tastings of locally produced vodka, gin, whiskey, and liqueurs.
- Predator Ridge Golf Resort: Challenge yourself at this premier golf destination, known for its two world-class courses set amidst the stunning Okanagan landscape.
- Lake City Casino Vernon: Try your luck and enjoy a night of entertainment at this popular casino, featuring a variety of games, dining, and live performances.
Content creator and writer for multiple websites including All About Glamping, Fit Living Lifestyle, and Live Dream Discover. A full-time traveler who has spoken at various travel conferences around the world.
