We talk A LOT about bucket list activities to do with your kids in the summer. There are so many options and sometimes it’s difficult to choose a few favourites.
We have listed over 150 activities to try in the summer, but we wanted to narrow down the 10 MUST TRY activities with your kids…this was no easy task.
1. Kangaroo Creek Farm
This tops the list as the Kangaroo Creek Farm is a unique activity that all ages will enjoy. Not only do you see kangaroos here, but there are also wallabies, sugar gliders, pot-bellied pig, emus, parrots, peacocks, goats, fancy chickens, capybara, and Patagonian cavies.
2. Float the Penticton River Channel
Now, this is a bucket list item! Rent a tube from Coyote Cruises and float down the Penticton River Channel, or as us locals call it ‘The Channel’. What’s great about Coyote Cruises is that you can rent the tube and not worry about the hassle of bringing your own and inflating it. They pick you up by bus and bring you back to the starting launch point.
3. Kids Play at Oyama Zipline’s Monkey Play Park
Spend a morning or afternoon here as the kids climb through a circuit of obstacles. The Monkey Play Park is completely safe and helmets are provided. The best part is the mini-zipline at the end of the circuit. There is a rest area in the middle where parents can grab a seat and relax while the kids can take a break and play in their sandbox.
4. Scandia Golf & Games
Scandia Golf & Games has been operating since 1979 and it’s still going strong. They offer so many family fun activities, year-round, it’s a must on our list. Enjoy the arcade, go-karting, indoor or outdoor mini-golfing, or the batting cages. It’s fun for all ages and there is something for everyone.
5. Rattlesnake Canyon
Another adventure park that is sure to keep your family busy for at least a day if not more. Located in Osoyoos, Rattlesnake Canyon is open every day in the summer. Attractions include go-karts, mini-golf, bumper boats, an arcade, the bungee tree, Aeroball, a climbing wall, a mining station, tattoo parlour, and a few fun amusement park rides!
6. Make a splash at a Wibit Water Park
On the shores of Kelowna, Peachland, Penticton, and Osoyoos are Splash BC’s Wibit Water Parks. These are modern-day waterslides for kids ages 5 and up, where kids can bounce, jump, climb on these inflatable structures. Purchase a day pass, evening pass, or five-day pass and enjoy the water fun!
7. Okanagan Science Centre
Science, learning, and activities all in one location! Purchase a day pass or buy an annual membership so you can come back whenever you like. Families can take a self-guided tour of the Science Centre and enjoy a hands-on, interactive experience at their own pace. They even have an indoor rock climbing wall.
8. Log Barn 1912
It’s a goat load of fun…seriously. You cannot miss this location when driving through Armstrong as you will see goats and statues that will catch the kids’ attention. It’s the perfect place to stop and feed the goats, take a family photo or a chance to grab a snack or ice cream.
9. Davison’s Orchards
There is so much to explore at Davison’s Orchards, and it’s all family-friendly. Bring the kids to experience the farm at the Crazy Cow Kids Corral. It’s open daily and they can go through the haystack tunnels, climb the treehouse, play duck races and visit the farm animals. In the fall, they offer orchards tours to pick apples or you can visit their pumpkin patch and pick your very own pumpkin.
10. Kettle Valley Steam Train
Book a ticket and ride the Historic Kettle Valley Steam Train in Summerland. The train runs from Friday to Monday, with two times to choose from (morning and afternoon). Your 90-minute journey takes you along the Kettle Valley Railway to the end of the trestle (near Summerland Sweets) and back to the train station.
Related: 29 family-friendly things to do in Summerland with kids
