Stories

Explore Local Flavour on the Vernon Passport Tour

Get a taste of the Okanagan on the Vernon Passport Tour. Visit the Vernon Farmers' Market, dine at local restaurants, and explore Vernon's unique history and cultural experiences.
5 minutes
FacebookMessengerCopy Link
Category
Date
Length
1-2 days
Distance
31km

When you’re in Vernon, kick off your adventure at the lively Vernon Farmers’ Market, where fresh local produce, handmade goodies, and friendly faces bring the community to life. But there’s so much more to discover—this charming city is filled with cozy cafés, creative restaurants, craft breweries, and hidden countryside gems. Vernon is truly a food lover’s paradise and an exciting destination for explorers. Here are some must-visit spots to enjoy during your stay.

Don’t forget to download the BC Farmers’ Market Trail app and start exploring this tour yourself! You’ll earn points for every stop you check-in at, level up, and earn rewards!

Vernon Farmers’ Market
Vernon Farmers’ Market
3445 43rd Ave., Vernon, BC

The Vernon Farmers’ Market is a cherished community tradition and one of the Okanagan’s oldest and most vibrant markets, running since 1979. Held every Monday and Thursday from April to October (8 AM–1 PM) in the Kal Tire Place parking lot, it features up to 120 vendors showcasing a diverse selection of fresh, locally grown and crafted products. You’ll find seasonal fruits and vegetables, meats, cheeses, artisan breads, baked goods, plants, flowers, crafts, and ready-to-eat meals—all set against a backdrop of live music and family-friendly activities. With a focus on community connection and sustainable agriculture, the market offers a welcoming atmosphere for both locals and visitors. Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome, and the market is easily accessible with ample parking, bike racks, transit options, and ramped entrances.

Things To Taste

EATology

EATology is a beloved downtown diner known for its commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a welcoming atmosphere.This restaurant is a staple for those seeking hearty, flavourful meals made with care. The menu features a variety of breakfast and lunch options, including classics like Eggs Benny, Chicken & Waffles, and Big Breaky, all crafted with locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant also offers a selection of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free dishes, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Most items are made in-house, reflecting the restaurant’s dedication to quality and freshness.

SilverStar Brewing

Silverstar Brewing Co. is a standout destination for craft beer enthusiasts and food lovers alike. Their dedication to quality is evident in their diverse lineup of beers, including the popular Bluevana Blueberry Vanilla Ale and the seasonal Raspberry Lemonade Sour. Each brew is crafted on-site using premium Canadian barley, signature hops, and local spring water, ensuring a rich and nuanced flavour profile.

Complementing their exceptional beers is a menu that highlights fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Dishes like house-smoked chicken and brisket, along with unique pizzas such as the Orchard Ale Brie, showcase the Okanagan’s bounty. Whether you’re enjoying a pint on their patio or participating in one of their lively events, Silverstar Brewing Co. offers an authentic taste of the areas craft beer scene.

Ratio Coffee & Pastry

Housed inside a charming old train station building, Ratio Coffee & Pastry is known for its freshly baked pastries like croissants, eclairs, and sticky buns. The coffee lineup includes pour-overs, cold brews, and classic espresso drinks crafted by skilled baristas. Guests can enjoy a warm, inviting atmosphere indoors or head outside to a sunny patio. Whether you’re grabbing a morning caffeine hit, indulging in a pastry, or sliding into a window seat with your laptop, Ratio Coffee & Pastry delivers quality and comfort on every visit.

Friesen’s Countrytyme Gardens Restaurant

Friesen’s Country Tyme Gardens Restaurant is a beloved Okanagan gem, nestled among the very farms that inspire its menu, including its own. Since 1994, this cozy eatery has been serving hearty, home-style breakfasts and lunches made from scratch with ingredients sourced close to home. House-baked breads, farm-fresh produce, locally made sausage, and in-house treats like cinnamon buns and perogies offer a true taste of the region’s rural bounty. Fruits grown right on the property like strawberries, grapes, apples, and pears are transformed into jams, jellies, juices, dried fruits, and even house-brewed vinegars. When needed, the team visits nearby farmers’ markets to fill in the gaps, like for the salsa made in-house. The adjoining farm store showcases the same local spirit, stocked with Okanagan-made products including pottery, teas, hot sauces, body rubs, and artwork from local creatives like painter Linda Hunt and wildlife photographer Janet Brown. Whether you’re enjoying the sunny garden patio or browsing the shelves for local treasures, Friesen’s Countrytyme Gardens offers a warm, authentic slice of the Okanagan.

Things To Do

Planet Bee Honey Farm and Honeymoon Meadery

Planet Bee Honey Farm and Honeymoon Meadery offer visitors an immersive experience in the world of bees and honey. The farm has educational tours that delve into beekeeping and honey production, and you can visit their store to pick up a variety of honey products and mead.

Davison Orchards

Davison Orchards is a family-run country village in Vernon that’s been delighting visitors since 1933 with a bustling farm market, bakery, petting zoo, orchard tours, homemade pies, cold-pressed apple juice, and seasonal U‑pick fun for all ages.

Grey Canal Trail

The whole family can enjoy the Grey Canal Trail, and dogs are permitted on leash. This trail follows along British Columbia’s longest decommissioned irrigation channel, and sections of the pipelines can still be seen along the trail.

The Museum & Archives of Vernon

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Okanagan history at the Museum and Archives of Vernon. Delve into the region’s past through an extensive archive chronicling its diverse heritage. Be sure to check the calendar for special events on their website.

Historic O’Keefe Ranch

Discover the rich ranching and farming legacy of the North Okanagan at Historic O’Keefe Ranch. From historic buildings to glamping sites, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy guided tours, events, and a glimpse into the past!

Kalamalka Indigenous Garden

Immerse yourself in the Kalamalka Indigenous Garden’s rich history and traditional teachings through guided tours led by knowledgeable hosts. Experience a unique blend of nature and culture while deepening your understanding of Indigenous connections to the land.

Places To Stay

Find your perfect stay in Vernon with options ranging from luxurious hotels and retreats to comfortable hotels and secluded campsites! Check out the accommodation options in Vernon at TourismVernon.com

For more planning resources visit Tourism Vernon.