Free or Low-Cost

The Penticton-Ikeda Japanese Garden is a peaceful hidden gem nestled beside the Penticton Art Gallery and just steps from Okanagan Lake. This tranquil spot is perfect for a quiet family outing, with winding paths, traditional Japanese landscaping, and a serene koi pond that’s always a hit with kids. Benches throughout the garden invite visitors to slow down and enjoy the calm. While there are no on-site washrooms, public facilities are close by at Okanagan Lake Park.

StrongStart is a free, drop-in early learning program for children ages 0–5 and their caregivers, running weekdays from 8:00–11:00am (mid-September to end of June) at Highland Park Elementary in Room 38. Enjoy a morning of playtime, circle time, dance parties, gym time, snacks, and more—all aligned with the School District 83 calendar.

The Osoyoos Elementary StrongStart Centre is a free, drop-in early learning program for children ages 0 to 5 and their caregivers. Open Monday to Friday from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m., families are welcome to join at any time during the three-hour session. Each day features a variety of hands-on activities designed to support early learning and development, including painting, water play, puzzles, crafts, music, dramatic play, reading, and sensory exploration. Circle time and nutritious snacks are also part of the daily routine. Calendars are available to help families plan ahead for special outings and activities. Drop in when it works for you—no registration required!

Just 4 Fun is a treasure trove for kids, packed with fun toys, games, and collectibles, from plushies and puzzles to Pokémon cards and fidget toys. Kids will love browsing the colorful displays, picking out their favorite items, and enjoying a free lollipop too! They even offer a play area so bring some friends and come enjoy playing any of their 500 board games for free! 

The McDonald’s on Gellatly Road in West Kelowna is a convenient and kid-friendly stop, especially for families on the go. It features an indoor PlayPlace with two small slides built right into the structure—perfect for younger kids to burn off some energy. There’s ample seating just outside the play zone, so parents can relax, sip a coffee, and keep an eye on the action while little ones play and snack.

The Salmon Arm Wharf is a must-visit spot for families, offering a scenic walk along the longest curved inland wharf in North America. With beautiful lake views, chances to spot wildlife, and nearby park amenities, it's a great place to explore with the kids. At the end of the wharf, you’ll find a seasonal café where you can grab ice cream, coffee, or a bite to eat—perfect for a treat to enjoy at one of the picnic tables.

On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 10:00 am to Noon, walk indoors at Hassen Arena. Bring your indoor shoes and walk the loop where approximately 6.25 times around equals 1 kilometre.

The KF Centre for Excellence in Kelowna is a 60,000-square-foot aviation exhibit that offers an exciting and interactive experience for families. Located near Kelowna International Airport, this family-friendly destination features a historic aircraft collection, hands-on exhibits, and flight simulators that allow visitors to step into the world of aviation. The facility is wheelchair accessible and open year-round, Tuesday to Saturday. Please be sure to check their website before visiting for special event exceptions to these hours.

Walk along the Kettle Valley Rail Trail to see Alice the T-Rex, a massive metal dinosaur sculpture located on private property. The sculpture is viewable from the trail. To see Alice, you can access the KVR trail at the end of Vancouver Place in Penticton. Walk along the trail (approximately 7-10 minutes) until you see the dinosaur.

The Penticton Cycling Pump Track is a great spot for kids with some shaded areas, picnic tables, and easy access to the KVR trail—perfect for little riders and both small and larger bikes.