Surrounded by breathtaking lakes and mountains, Vernon is a year-round destination offering a wide range of activities and attractions. Discover the top 5 things to do in this vibrant city below. Your adventure awaits!
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1. Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park
It wouldn’t be a trip to Vernon without visiting the stunning Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park. A vast, 3,200-hectare space adorned with Douglas-fir groves and ponderosa pine, along with stunning views of Kalamalka Lake and surrounding mountains. The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering some of the region’s best hiking trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging routes that lead to breathtaking viewpoints.
Mountain biking is another popular sport here, with trails suitable for all levels of riders through diverse terrain like grasslands, forests, and rocky outcroppings. “Kal Park” also provides great access to swimming, with three main beaches that are the perfect place to spend a hot summer day.
2. Davison Orchards Country Village
Nestled in the heart of Vernon, Davison Orchards Country Village is a must-visit for anyone looking for a wholesome, family-friendly day. This sustainable, family-owned farm has been producing fresh, delicious fruits and vegetables since 1933, and offers a range of fun activities for visitors of all ages. Kids will love exploring the Crazy Cow Kids Corral and visiting the farm animals, while the Johnny Popper Farm Tours provide an interactive way to learn about where our food comes from.
With a commitment to sustainable farming, Davison Orchards uses its own produce to create delicious baked goods and preserves at the Farmhouse Bakery & Cafe. For those who want to experience the freshest produce straight from the farm, the U-pick experience is not to be missed. Whether you’re picking apples in September or pumpkins in October, you’ll love the farm-to-table experience at Davison Orchards.
3. SilverStar Mountain Resort
SilverStar Mountain Resort is a year-round outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, located just 30 minutes from Vernon. With world-class skiing, mountain biking, and plenty of family-friendly outdoor activities, this sought-after destination is perfect for visitors of all ages. In the winter you can enjoy world-class skiing & snowboarding, as well as snowshoeing, ice skating, and Nordic skiing. When summertime rolls around, mountain biking, hiking, and breathtaking views await.
The charming Victorian-era style village offers a wide variety of dining and shopping options, as well as an abundance of comfortable hotels, condos, and chalets. No matter what time of year you visit, SilverStar Mountain Resort is a must-see when you’re in the North Okanagan.
4. Historic O’Keefe Ranch
If you’re looking for a taste of Okanagan history, O’Keefe Ranch is the perfect place to explore. Representing the European settlement into the Okanagan Valley, this ranch has been around since 1867 and serves as a memorial to the farmers, ranchers, and cowboys who migrated from around the world to make a new life for themselves. Today, it’s one of the most popular attractions in Vernon, bringing visitors from all over to experience a variety of different unique buildings, farm animals, and events.
Take a guided tour of the O’Keefe Mansion, Log House, and St. Anne’s Church – a few of the many rustic and historic buildings here. Seasonal events and festivals are also hosted on a regular basis, and if you can’t get enough of it, the ranch offers camping as well! Whether you’re interested in the history of our region or simply looking for a day of family fun, O’Keefe Ranch is well worth a visit.
5. Okanagan Science Centre
Discover the excitement of science at the Okanagan Science Centre, a must-visit destination for the whole family. As a non-profit and charitable organization, the Science Centre offers a wide range of interactive exhibits that are constantly evolving, so there’s always something new to learn. Immerse yourself in the Animal Area, explore the Discovery Zone, or let the kids’ creativity run wild at the Lego Exhibit. Don’t miss the chance to blast off to space in the Space Exhibit or meet Vern, the Ankylosaurus.
The Science Centre also hosts exciting events and programs throughout the year, including immersive Planetarium shows and Meet & Geek events that highlight unique scientific information about the Okanagan. This is a popular destination on rainy days, it’s a great way to keep the kids both entertained and educated!
Time For Fun!
As you can see, Vernon is a hub of exciting activities that cater to all interests and ages.. From skiing at Silverstar Mountain Resort to picking your own apples at Davison Orchards, you’re guaranteed to have a memorable time with friends and family. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Vernon and get ready to create unforgettable memories in the lovely Okanagan.