Free or Low-Cost

Check out the Kids Quiet Zone at Cherry Lane Mall! This cozy play area, designed for children 42 inches and under, is located near the food court. Need something extra to keep little ones entertained? Just ask at the food court for crayons to use with the available coloring sheets!

The Book Shop in Penticton is a treasure trove of books where families can explore countless books together, featuring one of the largest selections of used books in Canada and a charming, maze-like layout.

Open to the public by donation. Take a self-guided tour of the museum, starting on the lower floor. Upstairs is the main attraction, a smaller model railroad that you can start with the press of a button. There are small step stools so the little ones can see the train in action.

Visit Penticton-Ikeda Japanese Gardens for a fun, free outing. Kids love the Koi Pond, where big fish hide and swim. It’s a great place for a peaceful walk and a sit down with family. If you wander over to Okanagan Lake Park, there are usually many ducks by the water.

Explore the Interpretive Centre at Allan Brooks Nature Centre, featuring interactive exhibits, artwork, and hands-on activities in the Habitat and Discovery Rooms. For birthdays, enjoy a themed 2-hour party with guided programming, picnic time, and free exploration.

The Dominion Radio Astrophysical Observatory (DRAO) is an exciting destination for families curious about space and science. Their seasonal guided tours will showcase powerful telescopes like CHIME, which explores the vast universe, and the observatory's role in monitoring solar activity and studying the stars.

StrongStart is a free school-based program that provides play-based early learning opportunities for children (0 to 5 years old) and their parents or caregivers. This program is located at M.V. Beattie Elementary School and follows the SD83 calendar.

StrongStart is a free school-based early learning program offered on school days. Your child will have free time to play games, read books, create a craft, participate in storytime where they will sing songs, and exercise during gym time (where applicable).

Located at Highland Park Elementary School, this free, drop-in program is for children 0-5 years old and their caregivers. The program follows the SD83 calendar and is open for drop-in.

When the weather is too cold or too hot outside, walking around the track inside the South Okanagan Events Centre can be just what the kids need to burn some energy off. Open Monday to Friday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Dogs are not permitted inside unless they are service or guide dogs. Check ahead for schedule updates, as the track may close for events.