10 Best Things to Do in Vernon, B.C.: Fun-Filled Adventures in the Okanagan Valley

Vernon, B.C. is a bustling city in the Okanagan Valley, north of Kelowna and south of Highway 1 (Trans-Canada). Despite growing up in B.C. and visiting the Okanagan many times, for some reason we never ventured further north than Kelowna (and Penticton was the favourite).

I was amazed at how large it was and quickly realized I had not budgeted enough time here. Here is a collection of things to do in Vernon, some of which we visited, and some I have put on my “to see next time” list.

1) Kal Beach

Kal Beach in Vernon, B.C. boasts a beautiful sandy beach along the northern edge of Kalamalka Lake, with great views of the surrounding hills and clear and colorful waters.

The beach is perfect for swimming and sunbathing during the hot summer months. You can also walk out along the pier if you prefer to stay dry.

For those who prefer more active activities, Kal Beach is great for paddleboarding, kayaking, and other water sports. You can renting equipment right near the beach to explore the lake.

There are picnic areas and grassy spaces nearby, making it an ideal spot for a family outing or a relaxing day by the water.

Kalamalka Lake is a gem I recommend visiting. Its striking blue-green waters change color throughout the year, earning it the nickname “Lake of a Thousand Colors.”

2) Okanagan Rail Trail

The Okanagan Rail Trail is a wide, gravel path that runs alongside Kalamalka Lake near Vernon, British Columbia. This trail offers picturesque views of the lake and surrounding hillsides.

The trail stretches for approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) in total, connecting Vernon to Kelowna. It follows the path of a former railway line, providing a relatively flat and easy route for users of all ages and abilities.

The section along Kalamalka Lake is particularly stunning, offering views of the lake’s famous color-changing waters that will have you stopping to snap a photo every few minutes.

For those looking to explore the trail by bike, there are several rental options available nearby. Bikes can be rented at the very beginning of the Kalamalka Lake section in Vernon. One popular rental spot is the KalaVida Surf Shop at Kalamalka Lake Beach, where visitors can easily pick up bikes and start their journey along the trail or paddleboards or kayaks to explore the lake from the water.

We chose to go on foot and since it was about 85F (29 C) chose to walk about a mile along the lake and then back. There is limited parking near the trailhead (across from the Kalamalka Country Club).

The history of the Okanagan Rail Trail dates back to the early 20th century when it was part of the Canadian National Railway. The rail line was decommissioned in 2013, and the idea to convert it into a multi-use recreational trail quickly gained support. Through collaborative efforts between local governments, First Nations, and community organizations, the trail was developed and officially opened to the public in September 2018. Today, it is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

2) Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park

On the opposite side of the lake from the Rail Trail is Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park. It’s a large (i.e. nearly 8000 acres) natural oasis just outside Vernon. The park’s crown jewel is the beautiful Kalamalka Lake, known for its unique color-changing waters.

Here visitors can hike through diverse landscapes, from ponderosa pine forests to grasslands. The views from the bluffs overlooking the lake are breathtaking and perfect for photos.

Wildlife enthusiasts will be in heaven at Kalamalka Lake Park where you may spot deer, foxes, and even the occasional bear. Birdwatchers can keep an eye out for rare species like the canyon wren and Western screech owl. Watch out for rattlesnakes.

3) Ellison Provincial Park

Vernon lies near two lakes, the second being Okanagan Lake. Okanagan lake extends south all the way down to Penticton.

Ellison Provincial Park is a beautiful spot on Okanagan Lake with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

The park offers 71 vehicle-accessible campsites nestled among mature Douglas fir and Ponderosa pine trees.

For daytime fun swim or soak in the sun at the park’s sandy beach. There are also hiking trails with scenic lake vistas. Boating and fishing are popular activities too, with a boat launch available for easy water access.

4) Okanagan Science Centre

Learn about science through hands-on exhibits and interactive displays a the Okanagan Science Centre in Vernon.

The centre offers a wide range of engaging experiences from AI Playground and Robotics Lab, where you can experiment with cutting-edge technology and robotics, to Critter Corner, and exhibits on a little of every kind of science (paleontology, geology, chemistry, light, sound and more).

There is also a planetarium and the Okanagan Science Centre also hosts special events and camps for kids. If you are traveling with kids and need some indoor time, this is a great option.

5) Davison Orchards Country Village

I absolutely loved visiting Davison Orchards Country Village! The orchard offers a unique blend of family-friendly entertainment like tractor train rides, petting area, and playground with more adult friendly activities like shopping the farm stand.

Their farmhouse bakery is a treat with freshly baked goods made with ingredients straight from the fields. We went a little crazy on jams and sauces. It all sounded so good we couldn’t decide. Now that we’re home and getting to enjoy our purchases, it’s hard to pick a favourite.

6) Polson Park

Polson Park is an expansive green space near the heart of the city, offering a mix of natural beauty and recreational facilities.

The park’s centerpiece is the really cool Floral Clock. Installed in 1958, it makes for a perfect photo opportunity.

Other popular features incldued the Japanese Garden and Chinese Pagoda. These cultural additions, donated by the local Japanese and Chinese communities, add a peaceful vibe to the landscape.

The park’s two ponds are attractive to waterfowl, making it a nice spot for a little bird watching. If you want to burn off a little steam (no matter your age) various recreational facilities are available including tennis courts, a skateboard park, and a playground.

8) Historic O’Keefe Ranch

Step back in time at Historic O’Keefe Ranch, and catch a glimpse into the early days of the Okanagan Valley. Founded in 1867, this ranch was once the end of the wagon road and home to a stagecoach depot.

The ranch preserves a slice of BC’s ranching history, with many original buildings still standing. Explore the blacksmith shop, grist mill, and even a charming church with its own cemetery. If you have any model train enthusiasts in your group, be sure to check out the display in the Greenhow museum onsite.

Located at the head of Okanagan Lake, O’Keefe Ranch is just a short drive from Vernon and close to Silver Star Mountain.

Learn about the early ranching era and how this self-contained community operated. The ranch does an excellent job of preserving this important piece of cultural heritage for future generations to experience and enjoy.

9) Planet Bee Honey Farm and Honeymoon Meadery

I’ve discovered a sweet spot in Vernon that’s truly buzzworthy! Bad puns aside, Planet Bee Honey Farm and Meadery offers a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

Outside, check out their bee-friendly gardens, then watch the bee tunnel where bees can enter the building and get to the hive.

This hive exhibit indoors gives you a chance to witness honey bees up close. I watched in fascination as they worked tirelessly in their on-site hives. The farm also offers free honey and mead tastings, which I thoroughly enjoyed.

I was impressed by their extensive selection of raw, pure honey. They bottle and label everything by hand right in their Vernon storefront. It’s a great place to pick up some local honey or try their unique propolis products. This was another place where it was hard to decide what to come home with.

10) Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery

I stumbled upon a true gem in Vernon – Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery. This place has been crafting exceptional spirits since 2004.

They distill an impressive array of award-winning spirits from smooth whiskies to crisp vodkas, aromatic gins to fruity liqueurs. I was particularly intrigued by their authentic absinthe, a rare find in Canada.

The distillery offers tasting experiences and one of the staff (possibly the owner) came and offered us some information about the large stills on the premises and how they worked. Even if you’re short on time, you can pop in for a quick tasting without a reservation.

other things to Do

The main draw of the Okanagan, besides it’s food and wine, are the outdoor spaces that showcase the region’s dry landscapes and amazing recreational opportunities. This is what draws summer visitors from the wetter and cooler greater Vancouver area to the Okanagan. Meanwhile, winter time brings skiers to Silver Star mountain.

For visitors wanting to dive deeper into Vernon’s past, head to the Vernon Museum & Archives. The museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts and documents that tell the story of the North Okanagan, including its Indigenous history, which gives insight into the area’s original inhabitants. The museum’s displays on early settlers, agriculture, and industry paint a picture of Vernon’s development over time.

Vernon is a golfer’s paradise. Predator Ridge Resort, boasts two 18-hole championship courses, with views of Okanagan Lake from the fairways. The Vernon Golf & Country Club offers a challenging course with tree-lined fairways. It’s been a local favorite since 1913. Or, for a more casual roundtry the Rise Golf Course. It features dramatic elevation changes and panoramic lake views. The course design takes full advantage of the natural landscape.

A short drive from Vernon is Armstrong, best known for its cheese. While the main cheese plant isn’t open to the public, other area creameries are including the Village Cheese Company with its variety of artisan cheeses.

Okanagan is also wine country, although the majority of wineries lie a bit south of Vernon they can make for an easy day trip. While I generally love smaller wineries, for visiting one of my favourites is Mission Hill in West Kelowna. One look at the beautiful grounds and architecture will tell you why.

How Long Should You Plan to Stay in Vernon?

This really depends on the type of traveler you are.

If you like to set up in one spot and relax, do a few activities, swim or hike, then I would allow 3-5 days in Vernon. This gives you plenty of time to relax yet take in several sights.

If you like to “see” a place but aren’t big on sitting by the beach, then 2-3 days should give you plenty of time to explore the area.

If you are on a road trip, I would plan 2 nights in Vernon.