Penticton is an iconic destination that all types of visitors have been exploring for generations and creating traditions that are carried on for years to come. With our city’s deep roots of agriculture, craft and Indigenous culture and outdoor recreation, Penticton is one of the best places to visit in BC, and a destination that needs to be experienced multiple times throughout the year.
What we’re known for is our endless list of things to do in Penticton! From beaches and lakes and the channel float, markets and orchards, and an incredible culinary scene, to arts and culture, family fun, cycling and mountain biking, and limitless outdoor recreation opportunities. And don’t forget our craft breweries, distilleries and cideries and the over 80 nearby wineries. Penticton is a year-round travel destination – check out all the things to do below.
Now over 100 years since the city was incorporated, Penticton continues to grow and also continues to be a popular destination for all types of visitors. By showcasing and celebrating the unique experiences, diverse landscape and product sectors that make up the identity of the City of Penticton.
In Penticton, the best things in life are possible because they’re free from the constraints and dependence on fuel. The freedom from fuel brings freedom to explore, to discover, to indulge.
Pursue the culinary trails of the locals where the reward is bound to be tasty. Follow the local recommendations of where to go for breakfast, lunch, dinner, snack or a beverage.
The Kettle Valley Rail (KVR) Trail is one of the most iconic attractions in Penticton. The KVR Trail is a family friendly trail that is very well maintained and ideal for riders and walkers of any ability.
Each experience is authentic and intimate; often you will find the proprietor or winemaker behind the tasting bar regaling guests with tales of the grapes' journey to the glass. Many South Okanagan wineries have added a culinary offering to entice you to stay and drink in the views.
Penticton is the Craft Beer Capital of Canada! Home to seven amazing craft breweries, more per capita than any other Canadian city!
From mountain biking to rock climbing to kayaking, Penticton is an outdoor adventure mecca, offering some of the purest adventure pursuits within the Okanagan Valley.
Imagine cycling above and through vineyards with rugged mountains as the backdrop and sparkling lakes and beaches within the vista.
Skaha Bluffs Provincial Park is one of the top climbing destinations in Canada. With the South Okanagan’s seasonally dry and warm weather between March and October, Penticton offers the longest climbing season in the country.
Your visit to Penticton will likely be based around competition or training for your sport of choice. Penticton is an active city and we offer amazing indoor and open air venues.
Saturdays from April to October, 8:30am to 1:00pm on the 100 block of Main Street. Vendors proudly make, bake or grow everything they bring to the market. Find farm fresh fruits and veggies, eggs, honey, baking, preserves and handmade crafts plus a selection of local liquor vendors each week for tasting and purchasing.
Beach and lakeside living is part of the summer culture here in Penticton. Dive in like a local and get wet then throw down a towel, dry off and top up your tan on one of several sandy sun-drenched beaches.
On a hot summer day, lie back on a giant rubber floatie and let the lazy river carry your stress away.
Family fun is what Penticton is all about, especially during the summer months filled with sunshine, warm sand and cool lake waters.
Try downhill skiing, snowboarding, glide the 1 km skating loop, tubing or join a pick-up hockey game on the rink at Apex Mountain Resort. Experience world-class cross country skiing, skate skiing or snowshoeing at Nickel Plate Nordic Centre.
Penticton has a rich diverse history, waiting to be explored. Our rugged landscapes, verdant orchards and diverse local wildlife offer a wealth of potential for aspiring and professional artisans.
Located in the heart of wine country, Penticton is the perfect hub for a variety of short, medium and full-day rides. From paved road rides through scenic vineyards to well maintained dual sport dirt roads that follow historic railway routes.