50 Things to Do with Kids in the Okanagan Valley

Adult travellers may think that the Okanagan Valley is just for wine lovers or outdoor adventure seekers, but in reality, the area is an excellent destination for families with children of all ages. There are so many wonderful places to be explored that are kid friendly that you should be able to spend many days or even weeks in the area with no problems of finding activities to keep them occupied. At the very least, the lovely beaches will be a big hit, at most your kids will enjoy every single moment spent in the area.

• Things to Do in Kelowna with Kids

Hot Sands Beach

Right next to City Park, this is a popular beach area that has miles of sand to enjoy. Relax and get some sun or combine time at the beach with the next-door park. Get your kids a day pass to Wibit, a huge inflatable water park floating right off the beach where they will easily pass the day smiling. Take a walk, play some games, read a book, swim. A full day here is guaranteed fun for your kids.
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Moo-Lix Ice Cream

You kids will appreciate a stop by the best ice cream shop in Kelowna, so head on over to Moo-Lix. With 40 flavours to choose from and homemade waffle cones, your family will love a sweet treat from here. Celebrating more than 20 years in business, this shop is definitely a popular place to stop, and while there may be a lineup, it will definitely be worth the wait.
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Gyro Beach

This beach is rated as one of the best in the Kelowna area, so it is a perfect destination for a nice day. Kids will have time to enjoy the playground and picnic areas, and along the beach they will discover volleyball courts and plenty of places to play in the sand. There are canoes, kayaks and paddleboards available for rent right at the beach, so there are many things to keep your family busy all day long.
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JUMP2IT

This is not a playground just for kids, so the adults in the family can enjoy the fun as well. Parents are allowed to join their kids through the amazing three-story structure made up of bouncy castles, climbing structures, slides and obstacle courses. There are different areas for a variety of age groups, so toddlers and babies can be separated from the big kids. For adults who don’t want to play, there is a comfortable sitting area, and even coffee available for purchase.
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Scandia Golf and Games

An easy place to spend a half a day or a full day exploring the different activities available here. Your kids can try their hands at mini golf on the outdoor course, drive crazy on the Go-Karts, or take a swing at the batting cages. For some indoor fun on rainy or cool days, there is also an indoor jungle themed min-golf course complete with waterfalls, a huge arcade and a shooting gallery. Win tickets from games and trade them in for fun prizes!
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Energy Plex

An amazing plethora of activities to keep kids of all ages busy are available at this facility. Home to the only aerial park in Kelowna, kids will have a lot of fun stretching themselves to the limit of their gymnastic abilities. Four stories of fun in this huge facility include laser tag, cube climbing, rock walls, rope swings, foam pits, trampolines and more. Adults are welcome to come play with their kids, although children twelve years and older can enter with a signed parent waiver.
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H2O Adventure and Fitness Center

This is the largest water park facility in the Okanagan, so kids who love the water will enjoy every moment here. A wave pool, surf wave simulator, river run, water slides, and a spray zone create an atmosphere of fun. If you like, check out the gym area as well.
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19 Greens Putt and Play

Two golfing experiences are waiting for you, so plan to spend at least a half a day here. You can start with the 18-hole mini golf course and work your way up to the beautiful 18-hole putting green. This has been a top attraction in this area for many years, and kids will be bound to have fun no matter which course you choose. There is also a night golfing experience that will entertain your family for an evening out.
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Axe Monkeys

The unique art of axe throwing isn’t for everyone and certainly not an activity for young kids, but it will appeal to some members of your family that are seven years or older. If your child has any interest in learning how to throw axes, then this is the destination to check out. There are nine indoor axe throwing lanes, and instruction is available from the onsite Trainers. Get your kids throwing arms prepared and have some fun!
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Wildplay Kelowna

For adventurous, outdoor kids this is a great play to stretch their abilities and help them access new physical challenges. There are several opportunities for both adults and children to survive suspended obstacle courses, zip lines, giant swings and more. There is a course specifically designed for kids age 5 to 12, and others available for children 5 and above. The swings only allow kids aged 12 and above, and there are height and weight requirements for all activities, so check those out before going.
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Big White Ski Resort

This popular winter destination has runs and fun that kids of all skiing or boarding abilities will love. You can easy access the hill staying locally and enjoying the mild winter evenings in the city, or at the resort itself, which has all the amenities that you may need. With an amazing 15 lifts and 118 runs available, this site will keep your kids busy for days. Ski and snowboard rentals are available, and group or private lessons can be booked for any level or age.
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Myra Canyon Trestles

The trestles and tunnels are part of a very scenic portion of the Kettle Valley Railway, and a once in a lifetime experience for visitors to the province. You can take advantage of the bike rentals nearby at Myra Canyon Bike Rentals, hike the path, or take a guided tour with Monashee Adventure Tours or Cheers! Okanagan Tours. Plan to spend at least half a day here, depending on your activity and the biking or walking level of your children. Pack your camera, there are plenty of photo ops along the path!
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Myra Canyon Adventure Park

Parents can join their kids on this exciting adventure as kids explore the challenging rope courses, netted climbing course, disc golf, zip lines, balance boards and swings. Children as young as three years old can enjoy the activities here on a variety of different leveled courses. All the equipment is supplied and the courses are supervised by knowledgeable staff members.
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Kelowna Stables

Located just outside of Kelowna and right underneath the Kettle Valley Railway trestles, this ranch is the best destination for horseback riding in the area. Trail rides are available year-round for all ability levels, no experience necessary. Kids will love the chance to get to know the horses and take an incredible ride around the area. Children of eight years and older will be allowed to ride on their own, kids aged two to seven years will be on horses with lead ropes.
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Beyond the Crux Climbing Gym

Take your kids on an indoor climbing adventure that doesn’t require you to own any equipment or have any experience. You can drop in any time if you know how to belay or take your kids during certain times of the week for them to have a professional belayer. If you are in the area for awhile or if you live here and want your children to learn to climb, there are lessons available.
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Hoof Prints Barnyard Petting Zoo

A petting zoo that is really an animal rescue facility, this is home to an incredible number of animals, more than 70 at last count. Easily accessible from Kelowna, it’s a great place to let kids get acquainted with some new animal friends. This farm runs on donations only, so they ask for a minimum of $5.00 per person for children over the age of 3, and each adult accompanying them.
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Hydrofly Kelowna

If you want, check out the daily performances before committing to your child flying high with this incredible experience. This is one of the hottest new sports available and run by professionals, which gives your family a safe environment to try it in. No experience is necessary but there may be height or weight conditions, please check their website for more information.
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Safari Ridge Adventure Park

Suitable for children who are ten years of age and above, there are eight themed adventure fields available for some paintball, laser tag and archery fun here. Make sure your children are dressed appropriately for weather and outdoor conditions, otherwise all equipment necessary is available at the site.
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Arlo’s Honey Farm

The name says it all, and for kids who want to learn more about bees and what they do, this is the place to visit. There is an interpretation center for your enjoyment if you are just dropping in, and of course, a visit to the shop with its many products is in order. There are even chances to taste the honey. For group tours, book in advance through their website, so this is a great choice if multiple families are spending time together.
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McMillan Farm

A fall destination that will have your kids squealing with joy, on this farm you will find the largest corn maze in the Kelowna area, along with hayrides that take your family through the 110 acres to see the farm, wildlife and creek area. The hay maze is an excellent activity for younger kids. Children can try their hands at the giant slingshot to see if they can hit targets or spend some time in the petting area, to enjoy time with the goats, bunnies, horses and donkeys. A completely fun fall day out for all ages.
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Ogopogo Parasail

This is not the most economical family option for an activity but certainly an unforgettable one. Yu can fly high above the waters of the lakes with this incredible parasailing experience. Harness sizes are available for ages four and up, so even your younger kids can enjoy this. With an experienced captain and high-quality equipment, this is a completely safe activity for all.
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Planet Lazer

High stakes hide and seek at its best, this two-level laser tag arena can pit up to thirty-two players against each other at any given time. Games run every twenty minutes and are appropriate for all ages. Players get to move through obstacles, fog, black lights and graphics, so there is a constantly changing experience. Parents or accompanying adults can have fun and join in, or let kids loose on their own to tag.
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The Penticton River Channel

One of the top things to do in the area during the hot summer months, this much-loved activity will provide your family with hours of relaxation and entertainment. Sit back on a tube or a floatie and float leisurely down the river. If you don’t have your own, you can rent one from the launch site. The 7-kilometer ride will be a great way to spend a lazy day enjoying the sun and water, just don’t forget your sunscreen. If you don’t have two vehicles (one to leave at each end), you can hop the shuttle to come back to the start for a small fee.
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The O’Keefe Ranch

Right near Vernon, you will find the historic site of the O’Keefe Ranch. The ranch is dedicated to preserving historic ranching items along with the history of the O’Keefe family in the area. The O’Keefe family settled on the farm in 1867, when it was considered the end of the wagon trail, and at one point was a town in itself, with a post office, blacksmith shop, mill and church. There are heritage buildings and museum exhibits to explore, farm animals to visit and much more to keep your family busy all day.
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The Osoyoos Desert Centre

Dedicated to the conservation of the endangered ecosystem, this 67-acre desert is an interpretive nature center where you can learn about the unique ecology here. You should plan to spend up to two hours exploring the 1.5-kilometer wooden boardwalk area with a guided or self guided tour. Fun, hands on exhibits and a native plant display complete the experience. Take a picnic and enjoy the spectacular views as your family explores the area.
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The Starlight Drive-in Theatre

In Enderby you will find one of the last remaining drive in theatres in the country. This is one of the best family experiences that you can have in the area. The theatre shows all the newest movies and, as usual with drive ins, you can enjoy a double feature. Check the schedule for the opening dates and movie times.
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Davison Orchards Country Village

A family destination that will have your kids asking to return again and again, this farm gives children and parents an opportunity to get out into the orchards, check out antique farm equipment and have some fun with farm animals. There are tours available, lots of activities for kids, a gift shop featuring homemade preserves, pies and more. The café on site will allow visitors to feast on some incredible food made from fresh ingredients right from the farm.
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The Caravan Farm Theatre

A one of a kind outdoor experience that will knock your families socks off, this theater is set on an 80-acre farm near Armstrong. Run by a not for profit society, this theatre puts on a variety of live plays and events throughout the year, so there will definitely be something on that your whole family can enjoy. Check out their shows and dress appropriately, it can be cool at night during the winter months!
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Kettle Valley Steam Railway

Winter, spring, summer or fall, there is always something going on with the fantastic steam train! Ten miles of preserved railway track provides an opportunity to ride the historic Kettle Valley Steam Railway that was built between 1910 and 1915. The ride will take you through the beautiful scenery of the area, like orchards and vineyards, and allow you to have sweeping views of the lake region while giving your family an unforgettable experience.
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The Vaseux Lake Bird Sanctuary

Located just south of Penticton, this is a migratory bird sanctuary where your family can spend some time walking the boardwalk through a protected marsh to view the birds and wildlife. This is an excellent spot to learn about some of the migratory birds, some of which only come to this area, as it is the most northern spot on their route. There are interpretive signs available to help your kids identify those that you may see.
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Nk’Mp Desert Cultural Center

If you are in Osoyoos you should stop to visit the cultural center here. It will give your children the chance to understand and learn about the First Nations of the area and their culture and history. The theatre experiences, variety of exhibits and the reconstructed village here will take you into the culture of the Osoyoos Indian Band.
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DeMilles Giant Corn Maze

DeMilles Farm Market in Salmon Arm will be the perfect fall destination for your families. The giant corn maze here will delight kids of all ages, along with opportunities to get up close and personal with the farm animals. The eclectic collection of antique farm equipment will be of interest to both parents and children and families can spend some time in the market enjoying fresh produce, deli products, yummy ice cream and home baked goodies. Make sure they try out the pumpkin cannon! If you live in the area you can even get your Christmas tree here.
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Atlantis Waterslides / Splashdown Vernon

Previously known as Atlantis Waterslides, on a warm summer day, this is a day well spend swishing down the ten slides available. Just five kilometers outside of Vernon, this is an easy access site that all ages will enjoy. There are some height and weight restrictions for some of the slides, but parents are able to accompany small children on most of them. You are allowed to bring a homemade picnic in to snack on through your day, or take advantage of the onsite concession.
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Tickleberries Ice Cream

What is more welcome than a nice creamy ice cream on a hot day? (Or a cold day, either way is good.) This local shop is a favourite place to visit in Okanagan Falls, but is not just about the ice cream, there is good homemade fudge, along with all sorts of local crafts and other goodies. There is so much to choose from your kids may be asking to come back every day to keep trying new goodies.
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Parrot Island Bird Sanctuary

Located in Peachland, this unique sanctuary is the perfect place for your family members to learn about exotic birds and their care. You can visit daily between 10 am and 4 pm during summer months, or during the winter by phone appointment. Created to protect abandoned and abused birds of an exotic nature, this facility depends on your donations, so if you plan to visit, please make a donation.
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Apex Mountain Ski Resort

Just west of Penticton, this ski resort is great for spend a day or two on the slopes. The mild winters in the Okanagan Valley make it a fantastic place for kids to learn how to enjoy the snow sports. The best thing about this four-lift resort is that, although it has fantastic snow conditions and runs, is not as popular or well known as the bigger resorts in the area, which means there are a lot less people. The 79+ marked trails and numerous unmarked trails mean that there are a variety of levels of slopes available and lessons for all ages. The small village here also does not have a lot of partying or bars, so perfect for families!
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Allan Brooks Nature Centre

Just five minutes south of Vernon you will encounter some incredible birds and animals here. Kids will enjoy the up-close visits and interactive displays as they learn about the wildlife in the area. You can even take a virtual tour of the Okanagan, explore the discovery room and check out the pond learning center.
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Skaha Beach Park

Smaller than the popular Okanagan beach, this park area has plenty of easy access parking and one of the best beaches in the area. The half-mile long beach is a cool reddish color and a bit coarser, but there are lots of slides located along the beach for kids to enjoy splashing down into the water. There is a large playground and a splash park, walking paths and bathroom facilities.
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LocoLanding Adventure Park

A plethora of activities await your family at this Penticton attraction. From rope courses to go karts, bumper boats to mini golf, there is something for everyone here. You can choose to pay by activity or purchase a day pass that will allow kids to experience every single thing in the park. Adults will enjoy the beautiful gardens on the site as well.
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Skate Park in Penticton

This may not be an activity for kids of all ages but certainly for those who have a love of skateboarding, or who are learning to board, this may be a good place to spend some time. This newer skate park is one of the best in the Okanagan Valley, with multiple ledges, rails and more to have some fun on. Right next to it you can find some go-karts and bumper boats, so if you have children of various ages you may find something to keep them all occupied.
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Rattlesnake Canyon

This is a cool little amusement park located in Osoyoos that has nothing sinister about it other than its name. Your kids will love the chance to putt the 18-hole mini golf course, ride the bumper boats or go-karts, climb on the rock wall, pan for gems, hang out on the bungee tree, ride the tilt-a-whirl, play in the huge arcade, or eat one of the 48 available flavours of ice cream. Plan to spend at least half a day here as the family explores each activity.
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Penticton Speedway

For the family that loves speed and excitement, a visit to the Penticton Speedway is just the activity! With a quarter mile long track, this oval racecourse features six classes of racing, along with a driving school and other interesting shows such as bull-riding. Check their website for event days and times.
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SilverStar Mountain Resort

This is a resort village and ski hill that has a cool, easy going vibe that is appropriate for all ages. Located near Silver Star Provincial Park in the Monashee Mountains, this resort has perfect conditions for snow sports but is also accessible during summer months for hiking and biking. A variety of lifts and slopes are available and unskilled skiers or snowboards have the opportunity to take lessons.
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Tube the Shuswap River

You need to do a bit of planning if you are going to enjoy this summer activity with your kids. There is no shuttle service or tube rental available here, so you need to be sure to park a vehicle at each end in order to get back to the start and provide your own equipment. Make sure you read all the recommendations about tubing in the area and be careful to preserve this fragile environment.
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Paddle Echo Lake

On a summer day you may want to choose to spend some time on the water with your family, so why not head to Echo Lake, near Lumby, to spend an enjoyable day paddling. At Echo Lake Resort you can rent paddleboards, canoes, kayaks, power boats and paddleboats, so there is something for every desire and skill level. Enjoy the tranquility and scenery as you make your way over the waters. If you want to ramp up your family experience, you can also go fishing here.
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Rock Garden Indoor Climbing Centre

As the only indoor climbing center in the area, this is a good place in Vernon for a cloudy or cold day activity or to introduce your children to the fun of climbing. There is 19 vertical feet to explore and many routes available for both skilled and novice climbers.
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Zipzone Peachland

Listed as Canada’s highest freestyle zipline adventure, this park is more than just the ziplines, although they are the main attraction. The lines are the highest, longest and fastest freestyle ones in the country, so perfect for those who are looking for some high-flying excitement. Along with these, families can experience the fun of climbing on a moving wall as well as other exciting adventure activities. Little travellers can experience the ziplines as a tandem with a professional in order for every member of the family to have fun.
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Kangaroo Creek Farm

This is one place that is completely unexpected to see in this region but is tons of fun for kids of all ages. Near Kelowna, this farm is easy to access and appropriate for all family members. An opportunity to learn about these animals as well as get up close and personal, kids will love that they can pet and hold kangaroos, wallabies and more.
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Covert Farms

The entire Okanagan Valley region is a great place for children to spend time on farms and in orchards learning about where fruits and vegetables come from and how they are grown and harvested. This is a perfect farm to do that in, as they offer u-pick opportunities, along with farm tours. The Hands on Harvest tours last from an hour to an hour and a half and all family members will be sure to enjoy the experience. For the adults in the group this farm is also a winery.
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Osoyoos Desert Model Railroad

This very well might be the best museum in the entire province, especially for those who love model trains or miniatures. With more than 1900 houses and over 19,000 hand painted little people this is the country’s largest Marklin lay-out, with up to 45 computer-controlled trains running through very detailed landscaping with European style towns and houses. So much fun is to be bad as your kids view the miniatures and varied landscapes.
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