Autumn in the North Okanagan is a beautiful sight to behold. It's the perfect season get outdoors and enjoy the scenery. There are so many things to see and do in Vernon that if you're planning a visit you may want to take note of the following:
Take to the the trails and enjoy the scenery as you hike and bike the area. There are a wide variety of trails throughout Vernon, offering everything from a vertical challenge to a leisurely stroll or ride. There are also e-bike rentals available throughout town and at local rental shops should you prefer to explore further with a minimum of effort!
There's still plenty of time to get in a few rounds of golf. With temperatures that range from 10°C to 20°C in September and 5°C to 10°C in October, you'll be able to sink that perfect putt before the snow flies. Challenge yourself with 36 holes on two of Canada's top golf courses at Predator Ridge Resort, or take on a few of Vernon's hidden gem golf courses. View a selection of popular golf packages to help you get started.
BC Culture Days returns September 23rd through October 16th, 2022, a perfect time to explore Vernon's vibrant arts and culture scene. Vernon and the Arts Council of the North Okanagan are proud to host the opening ceremony for this event at Polson Park - if you're in town come and check it out!
There are plenty of other places to check out arts, culture, and heritage in Vernon and the surrounding area. Discover the Caetani Cultural Centre or the Community Arts Centre. Take a stroll through Vernon art galleries or consider a self-guided walking tour of Vernon's historic murals. Vernon Public Art Gallery is also a fantastic spot to while away an afternoon viewing art and exhibitions from local contributors and beyond.
Enjoy theatre under the stars with the Caravan Farm Theatre or take in a play at the Performing Arts Theatres. Visit Vernon's heritage buildings and learn about their history, or head over to Historic O'Keefe Ranch to immerse yourself in days gone by and learn about the Okanagan's ranching history. The Canadian Wildlife Museum is located on your drive back to downtown Vernon, with hundreds of wildlife displays featuring over 350 mounted specimens including many local to the Okanagan.
Stop in at the K’nmalka? Senqalten (Kalamalka Indigenous Garden) overlooking Kalamalka Lake, showcasing traditional Syilx plants, medicine, foods, C’aptikwl, and ceremony through inclusive community tours and experiential learning or visit the Vernon Cadet Camp Museum.
Take the whole family out to Davison Orchards during harvest season. There's so much to see and do you might have a hard time fitting it all in to one day, including tours of the apple orchard, u-pick and enjoying fresh baked apple pie at the Farmhouse Cafe. On your way back, head down the road to Planet Bee and get the latest buzz on the valley bees and their tasty products, with a tasting of Western Canada’s largest selection of raw, pure honey or a sampling of their hand-crated mead. Fall is also the perfect time to treat yourself to an Okanagan wine tasting. See our wineries section and view tours for more information.
From September to mid-October stock up on pears, apples, pumpkins, and other fall harvest goodies. There are plenty of fall festivals and events throughout the valley. See our Harvest Time section for all the events, festivals, fairs and fun things to do in the fall.
Ideally situated in the heart of the fertile Okanagan Valley, Vernon is the place to visit for farm-to-fork freshness. Start your morning with a visit to one of Vernon's farmer's markets, buy direct from local farms and orchards, or take to the tasting trail for the unique flavours of Vernon, capped off by some local libations including craft breweries, cider made from locally-grown apples, and spirits. Of course, should you prefer a non-alcoholic night cap, Vernon's cafes are close at hand.
The cooler fall weather makes for enjoyable afternoons touring local wineries, with a host of Okanagan wine tour operators able to not only pick you up from your accommodations, but also create custom wine tour packages complete with a knowledgable guide.
Ready to plan your visit? Make planning to visit Vernon a breeze by viewing Vacations Packages, or find places to stay. If you're looking for more things to do this fall in Vernon, download the Vernon Visitors Guide.