Things to Do
Historical Tours
As the oldest community in the Okanagan, when you stroll through Vernon you can’t help but sense its rich history. Reminders of its past dot the town, adding to the character of this unique and wonderful place.
From the days of its first indigenous peoples of the syilx/Okanagan Nation, to the cattle ranchers of the 1800’s, on to the industrialists, miners, fruit farmers, and adventurers who came after, Vernon has been a land of plenty for the many. Indulge your inner-history buff on one of our historic tours.
Caetani Centre
Are you a lover of the arts and of a good mystery? Caetani Centre offers both guided and self-led heritage tours of the house and grounds leading you through 125+ years of intrigue, rumours, and secrets that have plagued the home. The former residence of Sveva Caetani, the house was divided into four self-contained apartments in the 1960’s and remain as artist residency suites still today.
Historic O'Keefe Ranch
Immerse yourself in days-gone-by as you wander through more than a dozen historic buildings at the O’Keefe Ranch. Founded in 1867 and sitting at the end of the first wagon road into the Okanagan, the ranch has many stories to tell. Mosey along at your own pace and visit the Schubert house, the general store, the museum, and a miniature railway display.
Mackie Lake House
Considered one of the finest homes in the Okanagan when it was built in 1910 and still to this day, the Mackie Lake House is perched on the shores of beautiful Kalamalka Lake. At one time a boarding school, the house is incredibly preserved and today hosts historical tours, concerts, and afternoon teas.
The Kalamalka Indigenous Garden
Step back and learn more about the Okanagan’s deepest roots on a visit to the Kalamalka Indigenous Garden overlooking the beautiful Kalamalka Lake. The garden showcases traditional Syilx plants, medicine, foods, C’aptikwl, and ceremony through inclusive community tours and experiential learning. Leave the garden with a deeper knowledge and understanding of the Syilx people and their connection to the land.
Historic Downtown Mural Tours
Downtown Vernon is adorned with 28 amazing murals that beautifully depict the history, culture, scenery, and folklore that have led Vernon to become what it is today. Take a free guided walking mural tour or download their mural map and take it all in at your own pace.
