If you have a little one between 1 and 3 years old, some activities may be a bit too old for them to try. With that in mind, we have created a list of things to do with toddlers in the Okanagan.
This includes drop-in programs, indoor play, farms and petting zoos, museums, and more!
Drop in at StrongStart
Dive into the excitement with your little one, aged 0-5, through engaging play-based early learning activities. Think stories, music, and art. This free drop-in program was a game changer for me on maternity leave. It offers a social setting for parents and caregivers and sets your child up for a smooth transition into Kindergarten. With 8 StrongStart Centres across the Central Okanagan Public School District, they’re open during the school year. Some locations welcome walk-ins, while others might ask you to pre-register.
Visit a Park or Playground
Visit one of the many playgrounds near you. This is a free activity and our family enjoys exploring new locations near us.
Enjoy storytime and family programs at an Okanagan Regional Library branch near you
With locations spanning from the North to South Okanagan, local Okanagan Regional Libraries are a cozy spot for families, offering loads of fun activities and resources. At each library, you’ll find a variety of drop-in programs perfect for little ones, including storytime and toddler time. To see what’s happening at your nearest branch, you can peek at the Library Event Calendars and Youth Events through the links provided below.
- Armstrong Library | 1-3305 Smith Drive, Armstrong | Website
- Cherryville Library | 1114 Highway 6, Cherryville | Website
- Enderby Library | 514 Cliff Avenue, Enderby | Website
- Kaleden Library | 101 Linden Avenue, Kaleden | Website
- Kelowna Downtown Library | 1380 Ellis Street, Kelowna | Website
- Kelowna Mission Library | 4105 Gordon Drive, Kelowna | Website
- Kelowna Rutland Library | 20-301 Highway 33 West, Kelowna | Website
- Keremeos Library | 638-7th Avenue, Keremeos | Website
- Lake Country Library | 2-10150 Bottom Wood Lake Road, Lake Country | Website
- Mission Branch Library | 4105 Gordon Drive, Kelowna | Website
- Naramata Library | 3580 Third Street, Naramata | Website
- Okanagan Falls Library | 101-850 Railway Lane, Okanagan Falls | Website
- Oliver Library | 1400-5955 Main Street, Oliver | Website
- Osoyoos Library | 8505 68th Avenue, Osoyoos | Website
- Peachland Library | 40-5500 Clements Crescent, Peachland | Website
- Penticton Public Library | 785 Main Street, Penticton | Website
- Salmon Arm Library | 285-1151 10th Avenue, Salmon Arm | Website
- Summerland Library | 9533 Main Street, Summerland | Website
- Vernon Library | 2800 30th Avenue, Vernon | Website
- Westbank Library | Unit 31-2484 Main Street, West Kelowna | Website
- Westside Learning Lab | Unit 216-525 Highway 97 South, West Kelowna | Website
Visit a new Drop-In Program.
Drop-in programs are a lifesaver for parents and caregivers looking to choose a last-minute activity to enjoy with their kids. Most don’t require you to sign up, but it’s always best to check ahead just to be sure. Whether it’s a sunny Tuesday or a rainy Saturday, finding the perfect activity is easy. Our website sorts these activities by location and days of the week, helping you maximize your family time without the need for advanced planning.
Explore a Museum or Art Gallery
Dive into the fascinating world of the Okanagan with family-friendly visits to museums and art galleries. Many museums boast interactive exhibits like model railways that will dazzle the kids, and some even offer scavenger hunts to make learning fun and engaging. Meanwhile, art galleries are not just for adults; they often have special programs designed for children, turning a family outing into an adventure of discovery and creativity.
Visit an Animal Farm or Petting Zoo
Take your little ones on a fun-filled outing to an animal farm or petting zoo in the Okanagan. They’ll have a blast meeting and petting a variety of animals, and learning about farm life firsthand. You can also book a tour to explore more or even host a memorable birthday party at some locations.
Explore the Toddler Zone at the Energyplex
The EnergyPlex in Kelowna is great for kids of all ages. For younger kids, there is an enclosed area for toddlers to enjoy. Admission also includes access to Ballistix, where children can collect balls and load them into a machine. A concession is available to purchase snacks and washrooms are available with change tables.
Make a Splash at H20 Adventure & Fitness Centre
Drop in at H20 Adventure and Fitness Centre for access to everything! Use their Olympic-size pool, river run, waterslides, and more. Children aged 0-2 can access the pool for free.
Have fun at the Toddler Zone at Wild Kidz Indoor Play Centre.
Created for toddlers three and under, this fully padded play area offers a safe space to explore with a slide, ball pit, climbing structures, and blocks. Nearby, little ones can enjoy even more fun with a bouncy castle, bouncy slide, and a thrilling four-level play structure for those ready for adventure.
Visit Play Area Kelowna
Check out the new indoor play space in Kelowna.
Explore the Discovery Zone at Okanagan Science Centre
There are many areas at Okanagan Science Centre that toddlers will love. Their Discovery Zone is suitable for ages 0-5 years, with hands-on activities. Upstairs, children will love the Light and Sound Room and the Space Ball Wall.
Cool down and visit a Water Park in the Summer.
Not only is visiting a water park a great way to cool down in the hot summer months, but it’s also completely free!
