Discover Vernon, BC: An Idyllic Family Destination For Summer Adventures

Heading north along Highway 97, our family of four took in the breathtaking aqua hues glittering off Kalamalka Lake as we drove into Vernon, BC, for a weekend of reconnection and adventure. On our left we passed hills of lush, green vineyards, and on the right the gorgeous waterfront views so common to the area. The gentle curving road almost made me feel like gliding along the water—it’s the Okanagan equivalent of driving to Tofino.

Ready for a three day vacation, I chose Vernon because of its blend of picturesque landscapes, warm community, and a plethora of activities all within walking or short driving distances. It sounded like the perfect weekend getaway—and I was right. This editorial travelogue is based on my firsthand experiences with my husband and our two teenage boys while we explored all that makes Vernon a top contender for every family’s travel list this summer. 

 

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

The journey into Vernon is worth the trip itself thanks to Kalamalka’s vibrant hues. Known locally as the lake of many colours, the waters shift from turquoise to cobalt and all the way to teal, depending on how the light hits. The rolling mountain backdrop added the final touch to an idyllic welcome as we arrived. 

We chose to stay at the Best Western Premier Hotel, Vernon’s newest addition, because it offers modern and spacious guest rooms, excellent amenities including their terrace restaurant, and incredibly friendly staff. It turned out to be the perfect spot for our home base as we set out for exploration. 

After we unpacked, we drove downtown to The Fig Bistro, where the cozy atmosphere was complemented by warm winds and an unexpected summer rainshower. Known for its exceptional sandwiches and soups like their Chorizo Breakfast Wrap, The Fig impressed us all with its fresh, veggie-packed dishes and extensive drinks menu. The Chocolate Dipped Cappuccino Shortbread Cookie is a definite must-try, perfect for a takeaway treat as we hit the road for more fun.

For our next stop we visited Davison Orchards, a serene escape ideal for all ages located on the western edge of the city. While many activities cater to younger children, the peaceful ambiance and adorable animals, especially the goats, captivated even my stoic teenage boys. A great stop for sunshine, fresh air, stunning views of Vernon, and farm-fresh products, Davison Orchards should be high on your list of must-do’s. And don’t leave without trying their renowned 100% pure apple juice! 

Just down the street, Planet Bee Honey Farm offered an educational and delicious stop full of buzz-worthy activities. We learned about the farm’s origins, sampled various honey flavours like the Orange Blossom and Okanagan Gold, and gained insights into the importance of bees on our ecosystems. The farm also has one of Canada’s largest honey selections—offering both local and international options—as well as plenty of up-close bee boxes. This stop provided a fascinating glimpse into the world of beekeeping, and a sweet pick-me-up.

We concluded our first day with a meal at The Italian Kitchen Company back in downtown Vernon. The restaurant’s inviting family atmosphere, complete with large wooden tables and soft exposed brick, reminded everyone of warm, extended family dinners. The homemade comfort food, rich in flavour—not to mention big portions perfect for two growing boys—provided the perfect end to our first day in Vernon. It’s also a great spot to get a slice of Tiramisu. 

 

Day 2: Downtown Discoveries and Lake Adventures

The second day was dedicated to exploring downtown Vernon and its many unique shops. We decided to curate our own picnic lunch with freshly baked artisan baguettes from Hot Bread Shoppe, known for its clean ingredients and mouth watering desserts, and a super fresh charcuterie box from Wedge Cheesery, celebrated for its impressive cheese selection and beautiful presentation. Both businesses impressed me with their commitment to quality ingredients and a welcoming environment. 

Ready to get into that turquoise water, we then headed south to Kalavida Surf Shop on Kalamalka Lake, renting paddle boards and kayaks for a morning on the water. Our aquatics got cut short when dark clouds rolled in, but it added a touch of adventure to the day. On the beach, we set up our delightful picnic and enjoyed lunch surrounded by stunning views of the Okanagan Highlands and the Monashee Mountain Range.

Dinner later that evening at the Phoenix Steakhouse and Bar exceeded expectations with its impressive building, elegant decor, gentle ambiance, and meticulously curated menu.

Previously an old bank, the restaurant offers a variety of dishes as well as typical 10’ pizzas for the more picky-eaters. However, we were delighted by a surprise dish brought out by our server—the maple-glazed bacon appetizer—and savoured every bite. I thoroughly appreciated the restaurant’s dedication to culinary excellence and exceptional service, and highly recommend a stop.

 

Day 3: Final Adventures

We checked out of our hotel and began our final day with a hearty breakfast at Eatology, a popular spot known for its fresh, home-style meals and 90% in-house made products.

Despite the long lines, the efficient service and welcoming atmosphere made the wait worthwhile, especially for their huge portions. The all-you-can-eat waffles came in handy to fill up a teenage belly, while the pulled-pork and slaw Benny was 100% approved by my husband. This might have even been his favourite stop of the entire trip.  

Before leaving Vernon, we decided to explore Ellison Provincial Park on the south-western edge of the city. This stunning area, perfect for hiking and biking, offered a beautiful blend of shaded trails as well as views of the Okanagan Lake. We enjoyed a few hours of hiking, marvelling at the hidden bike trails and serene surroundings, and ended our weekend away in perfect tranquillity before driving home. 

 

After our weekend getaway, I can confidently say Vernon is a hidden gem in the North Okanagan perfect for family vacations. With its combination of natural beauty, diverse outdoor activities, warm sunshine, and an outstanding culinary scene, Vernon promises an unforgettable experience for families of all ages. Whether you’re exploring downtown shops, paddling on Kalamalka Lake, or hiking in Ellison Provincial Park, Vernon offers something for everyone.

 

CREATED BY BC LIVING AND TOURISM VERNON