Vernon, British Columbia

Vernon

Okanagan lakes, orchards and Silver Star

Province
British Columbia
Best For
Families, lake-goers & skiers
Best Time to Visit
June–September for lakes; December–March for skiing
Recommended Stay
2 days
Best Season
summer
Destination Guide

Swim Kalamalka's turquoise water, ski Silver Star, tour orchards and wineries, and cycle the Okanagan Rail Trail.

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Things to Do

Swim Kalamalka's turquoise water, ski Silver Star, tour orchards and wineries, and cycle the Okanagan Rail Trail.

Where to Stay

Lakeside resorts and motels cluster around Okanagan and Kalamalka Lakes; Silver Star village offers ski-in/ski-out lodging in winter.

Best Time to Visit

How Many Days

2 days

Best for

Families, lake-goers & skiers

Where to Stay

Where to stay in Vernon

Browse all hotels

Vernon offers a range of lodging from budget to luxury. For the most convenient base, stay in the central area close to top attractions and dining. Families will appreciate quieter neighborhoods or resorts with pools, while couples may prefer boutique hotels in the historic or waterfront districts.

Hotels & Lodging

Where to stay in Vernon

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Prestige Inn Vernon

Mid-range

Lakefront hotel near Polson Park and downtown Vernon with a pool.

LakefrontDowntown$$

Sparkling Hill Resort

Resort

Europe-style wellness resort on a granite peak above Okanagan Lake with a sauna village and infinity pool.

WellnessLakeviewSpa$$$

SilverStar Mountain Resorts

Lodge

Ski-in/ski-out alpine village lodging at Silver Star in winter and a mountain-bike base in summer.

Ski-in/ski-outAlpine$$$
Things to Do

Best things to do in Vernon

Book tours

Okanagan Rail Trail

Cycle the lakeside rail trail from Vernon to Coldstream.

Half dayFree

Davidson's Orchards

Family fruit farm with u-pick, a market and a playground.

1–2 hours$

Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park

Swim and paddle the turquoise 'lake of many colours' on its sandy beaches.

2–3 hoursFree

Silver Star Mountain Resort

Ski or mountain-bike the alpine village above Vernon.

Full day$$
Quick Answers

Vernon FAQ

Yes β€” Vernon is worth visiting for families, lake-goers & skiers. Okanagan lakes, orchards and Silver Star Swim Kalamalka's turquoise water, ski Silver Star, tour orchards and wineries, and cycle the Okanagan Rail Trail.

Most travelers spend 2 days in Vernon. That gives you enough time to see the main attractions, enjoy swim kalamalka's turquoise water, and explore at a comfortable pace. If you want a slower trip with day excursions to nearby areas, add an extra day or two.

Vernon is known for swim kalamalka's turquoise water, ski silver star, tour orchards and wineries, and cycle the okanagan rail trail.. Okanagan lakes, orchards and Silver Star

The best time to visit is year-round, depending on your interests. For summer activities in particular, plan your trip during that season. Shoulder seasons usually offer fewer crowds and better lodging rates.

Costs in Vernon vary by season and travel style. Lodging is the biggest expense β€” book early and consider staying just outside the center. Many top attractions and outdoor activities are free or low-cost.

A car is helpful but not essential in Vernon. Downtown is walkable, but a car gives you the freedom to reach nearby attractions and scenic areas.

Yes, Vernon works well for families. Look for lodging with pools or suites, plan a mix of attractions and outdoor time, and take advantage of parks and free activities. Family-friendly areas tend to be a bit outside the busiest core.

Yes, Vernon is a lovely destination for couples. Stay in a boutique hotel or cozy inn, plan scenic walks and good dinners, and enjoy the quieter side of the destination for a romantic trip.

Don't miss: swim kalamalka's turquoise water, ski silver star, tour orchards and wineries, and cycle the okanagan rail trail.. It's especially great if you love families, lake-goers & skiers. Also leave time to wander and discover local cafΓ©s, neighborhoods and views that aren't in every guidebook.

Lakeside resorts and motels cluster around Okanagan and Kalamalka Lakes; Silver Star village offers ski-in/ski-out lodging in winter. See our full guide to the best hotels in Vernon for area-by-area recommendations.

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Written by the Canadiana Lodging Travel TeamΒ·Last updated September 2, 2026