There are many family activities and things to do in Vernon. Known for its beautiful coloured lakes, families can enjoy the beach and outdoor pools.
Families love visiting farm animals at Davison Orchards, playing games at the Boarding House Cafe, and taking in activities at the Vernon Winter Carnival, just to name a few.
Location
Vernon is located in the North Okanagan and a 50-minute drive from Kelowna.
Family Drop-In Programs
Vernon StrongStart is a free school-based early learning program offered on school days to children 0-5 years old and their parent/caregivers. The program is located at three schools in Vernon.
Alexis Park Elementary | 4205 35 Street | 250-260-4490 | 8:30am – 11:30am
Ellison Elementary | 2400 Fulton Road | 250-260-4490
Harwood Elementary | 4320 20th Street | 250-260-4490 8:30am – 11:30am
Mission Hill Elementary | 1510 – 36th Street | 250-260-4490 | 8:30am – 11:30am
Once a month, join the Vernon Public Art Gallery for their Mini-Artists program and Family Saturdays, where you can join them for a fun art activity inspired by their current exhibits.
Indoor Play
At The Boarding House Cafe in Vernon, dive into a world of fun with over 300 board game titles in a cozy cafe atmosphere. Perfect for any season, this spot combines the joy of games with the delight of homemade baked goods.
The Rock Garden Climbing Centre is an all-ages, all-ability indoor climbing gym. Drop in, attend an after-school kids camp, or book a birthday party at their climbing gym. With over 19 vertical feet in their 4000+ square foot air-conditioned facility, the kids are sure to have a great time!
Outdoor Play
Vernon is home to the most colourful and beautiful lakes for you to explore. Rent a paddleboard from Kalavida Surf Shop or at Innerspace Watersports they provide paddleboard, kayak, and canoe rentals in the Vernon and surrounding area.
Farms & Zoos
Arts & Culture
Feeling artsy? Register for a session at the Vernon Public Art Gallery where you can attend art education such as Mini Artists, and Family Saturdays, or visit an exhibit.
Book an appointment and the kids can pick from hundreds of ready-to-paint ceramics at Colour Time Ceramic Studio located in Downtown Vernon.
Express your creativity with clay, paint, glass, fibre and so much more at the Vernon Community Arts Centre. The VCAC offers art classes for all ages and abilities, spring and summer art camps, and is also the place to pick up your essential art supplies and local artisan goods.
Events & Entertainment
Catch a flick at Cineplex Galaxy Cinemas in Vernon. You can find out what’s playing now by, clicking here.
The Vernon’s Farmers’ Market is proud to offer a diverse number of foods and products all grown, made or baked by locals. Their outdoor season is from mid-April until the end of October and is located at the Kal Tire Place Back Parking Lot.
Learning & Tours
Stop into the Vernon Regional Library to take out a book, magazine, or DVD. You can register to join an online storytime or participate in a drop-in program or activity throughout the year.
Drop in from Wednesdays to Saturdays at the Vernon Museum Exhibit Space and kids can partake in a mini-scavenger hunt and a recently refurbished children’s area that captures the magic of the North Okanagan’s Natural History.