Take a Kelowna museum tour
Visit one of these top museums in Kelowna, to get a true taste of Okanagan heritage
Kelowna is known for its fruit and wine production, cultural attractions and rich heritage. The best way to take it all in, is to plan an entire tour of the various local museums. The history of this vibrant community can be seen in every nook and cranny.
The B.C. Wine Museum
Now in redevelopment, the B.C. Wine Museum is located in the Laurel Packinghouse, at 1304 Ellis Street. In February 2016, the first phase of the revamped facility was completed, and guests were treated to a grand opening with multiple new exhibits and displays to peruse. Here you can learn about the vast history of Okanagan wine-making, and visit the oldest and largest packinghouse in B.C.
Hours:
Tuesday to Saturday - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday - 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Monday - closed
The Central Okanagan Sports Hall of Fame
On a completely different note, the Central Okanagan Sports Hall of Fame is another place to visit if you enjoy sports history. Here you will find photos, records, videos and memorabilia from some of the Okanagan's finest pro athletes.
Hours:
Monday to Saturday - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday - closed
The Okanagan Heritage Museum
Housing a number of collections (and also home to the Central Okanagan Sports Hall of Fame, the Kelowna Public Archives and the Ursula Surtees Regional Conservation Laboratory), the Okanagan Heritage Museum hosts travelling exhibits from all across the globe. It is located at 470 Queensway Avenue.
While you're there, you can take a peek at the oldest log cabin in Kelowna, and look inside the windows of an original Chinatown storefront.
Hours:
Monday to Saturday - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday - closed
The Okanagan Military Museum
Another important site to visit, is the Okanagan Military Museum. This facility pays homage to the legacy of Okanagan Valley residents who served in the Canadian or allied armed forces.
Hours:
Summer (first Tuesday in May to Labour Day):
Tuesday to Saturday - 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Winter (from the day after Labour Day to the first Tuesday in May):
Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday - 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
