Museums & Libraries

The Okanagan Falls Heritage Museum, located beside Tickleberry’s Ice Cream and the Thrift Shoppe, offers a step back into the everyday life of early settlers in the South Okanagan. Through carefully preserved rooms, vintage furnishings, and local artifacts, visitors can see how families lived, worked, and relaxed over a century ago.

The Westbank Museum in West Kelowna is a great spot for families to explore local history together. Take a self-guided tour through pioneer homes, a vintage classroom, and farming displays, then let the kids enjoy the Beaver and Bear Hunt scavenger game. Open year-round with admission by donation.

The Summerland Museum and Archives is a family-friendly spot where you can explore the town’s history at your own pace. Admission is by donation, and kids love the highlight upstairs, a working model railway they can start with the push of a button, complete with step stools so even the smallest visitors get a great view.

Experience fascinating displays and learn how the Okanagan valley was formed, and why it supports tremendous biodiversity.

The Okanagan Military Museum is devoted to the preservation and greater awareness of Okanagan military heritage, and reveals how locals contributed to events on the world stage.

At the Enderby and District Museum & Archives, there is a reference room for those interested in looking at photographs and newspapers or researching local events and family histories.

The Summerland Library is a bright, family-friendly spot with free Wi-Fi, cozy reading areas, a fun kids' section, and a dedicated teen zone. It’s a great place to read, play, study, or just unwind.

The Enderby Library is a great community spot with fun events like Retro Teen Nights and engaging programs for kids and teens. It’s fully accessible with automatic doors, public computers, and free Wi-Fi—perfect for a quick stop or a quiet break during your day.

The Penticton Public Library serves as a vibrant community hub with a wide array of resources and programs for all ages. Families can enjoy access to books, audiobooks, magazines, and movies, alongside engaging activities. Young children can participate in programs like Baby Songs and Rhymes, Toddlertime, and Preschool Storytime, while older kids will love after-school activities such as Lego Club. For teens, the library offers creative outlets like CraftQuest and STEAM-powered sessions.

If your family is looking for things to do in Oliver with kids, the Oliver & District Museum is a great stop. This 1920s heritage building, once the town’s police station, is filled with exhibits on South Okanagan history, from Indigenous heritage to farming, irrigation, and the gold-rush days. Kids can explore the original Fairview jail cell, then head outside to try gold panning and enjoy the peaceful Heritage Garden. Admission is free, making it an easy and affordable outing.