Free or Low-Cost

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.

The McDonald’s on Gellatly Road in West Kelowna features an indoor PlayPlace with two small slides built into the structure. There’s plenty of seating just outside the play area, making it easy for parents to relax and keep an eye out while kids go back and forth between playing and eating.

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.

If you're looking for a peaceful little escape right in the heart of Penticton, the Ikeda Japanese Garden is a hidden gem worth exploring with the family. Tucked beside the Penticton Art Gallery and just steps from the lake, this garden offers a quiet, calming space that's perfect for a slower-paced outing.

Davison Orchards is a fun family destination with farm-fresh produce, a bakery, and plenty to do. Kids can play at the Crazy Cow Kids Corral, feed friendly farm animals, and explore vintage tractors. The Farmhouse Café serves homemade meals and fresh apple juice, while The Old Brick Press offers real fruit ice cream. Visitors can shop for local treats at the Country Village gift shop or take a tractor-pulled Johnny Popper Farm Tour through the orchards.

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 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.

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.

The Vernon branch of the Okanagan Regional Library offers a range of programs for children, youth, and families. Younger kids can enjoy Story Time, Baby Time, PJ Story Time, and French Story Time, while older kids and teens can participate in activities like Lego drop-ins, 3D crafting, and Coding Club. Families new to Canada benefit from programs like the Niteo Family Reading Program and homework support. The library also hosts seasonal events, making it a vibrant space for learning, creativity, and connection.