Things to Do

The Summerland Ornamental Gardens

The Summerland Ornamental Gardens is an historic garden that spans over 15 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds. Established in 1916, these gardens were initially designed to showcase plants suitable for the Okanagan's dry climate.

Today, they continue to serve this purpose with features like the Xeriscape Garden, which highlights drought-tolerant species, and areas which focus on creating habitats for bees, birds, and butterflies. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll through various themed gardens, including a Shade Garden and a walk along a trail with stunning canyon views, offering views of Okanagan Lake and the Trout Creek Canyon.

The Summerland Trout Hatchery

The Summerland Trout Hatchery is the oldest continuously operating trout hatchery in British Columbia, established initially as an eyeing station in 1918 and later becoming a provincial hatchery in 1947.

This facility is unique in the province, as it relies on natural spring water rather than pumped groundwater, creating a distinct environment for raising trout and char.

Visitors can explore the hatchery's aquarium, outdoor ponds, and the trough room, where they can view live fish and learn about hatchery operations, fish conservation, and recreational fishing in the region. The hatchery also offers family-friendly activities, such as interactive exhibits and a colouring station for kids, making it an engaging stop for all ages.

The Kettle Valley Steam Railway

The Kettle Valley Steam Railway offers a nostalgic journey aboard a restored 1912 steam locomotive. This heritage railway runs on the last preserved section of the historic Kettle Valley Railway, originally built between 1910 and 1915.

The 90-minute train ride takes passengers through the picturesque Prairie Valley, passing through orchards and vineyards and over the Trout Creek Trestle Bridge. The bridge stands 238 feet above the canyon floor and offers stunning views of Trout Creek Canyon and Okanagan Lake.

In addition to the scenic ride, the railway hosts a variety of themed events throughout the year, such as the "Great Train Robbery," where passengers experience an old-west style robbery, and "Murder on the Rails," a murder mystery event set in the 1960s. These events and the regular scenic tours provide an engaging experience for visitors of all ages, blending history with entertainment.

Giant's Head Mountain

Giant's Head Mountain is a striking remnant of an ancient volcanic dome that offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic views in the Okanagan Valley. Named for the profile resembling a giant's face, this mountain provides multiple hiking trails, ranging from moderate to challenging. The most accessible route is a paved roadway that winds up the mountain, while more adventurous hikers might opt for the steeper Grind Trail or the scenic East Ridge Trail. At the summit, you will find a Canadian flag and a time capsule buried for Canada's 100th anniversary, set to be opened in 2067. The park is a popular destination for locals and tourists, offering an enriching outdoor experience combining natural beauty with a touch of history.

Nixdorf Classic Cars

Nixdorf Classic Cars is a must-visit attraction for automotive enthusiasts and history buffs!

This unique museum showcases over 70 meticulously restored classic cars, ranging from 1936 to 1970, including a special section dedicated to muscle cars. Each vehicle comes with detailed information about its history, condition, and even humorous anecdotes from the collector, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

Beyond admiring the cars, visitors can enjoy a nostalgic trip with artifacts, oldies music on a vintage jukebox, and even pick up some memorabilia. The facility spans 14,000 square feet, is fully accessible, and welcomes group tours, making it an excellent destination for car clubs or large gatherings.

Visit Bottleneck Drive Wineries

Visiting the Bottleneck Drive wineries offers a unique and memorable experience for wine lovers exploring the Okanagan region. This collection of boutique wineries is known for producing high-quality wines from the rich soils and ideal growing conditions of Summerland. Each winery on the Bottleneck Drive has its own charm, offering personalized tastings of everything from crisp whites to bold reds and innovative blends.

Visitors can tour vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and enjoy stunning views of Okanagan Lake and the surrounding landscape. With many wineries offering outdoor seating, food pairings, and events, Bottleneck Drive is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the region’s thriving wine culture.

Fun and Funky Shops

Check out Summerland's fun and funky shops, a delightful collection of unique boutiques and specialty stores that reflect the town's creative and laid-back spirit. Located primarily in the walkable downtown area, these shops offer a variety of goods, from handcrafted artisan wares and vintage collectibles to quirky gifts and local artwork.

Notable spots include SASS Boutique, which specializes in unique and comfortable women's clothing and accessories, and GeekEasy Games and Collectibles, a sanctuary for gamers and comic book enthusiasts. If you are hunting for a one-of-a-kind piece of jewellery, browsing through antiques at The Carousel Collective is for you. Summerland's shops provide a distinctive shopping experience that perfectly complements a day exploring the Okanagan Valley.

Maple Roch

Maple Roch is a charming specialty store that offers a unique range of maple syrup products and gourmet treats. This attraction is about experiencing the passion and story behind each product.

The syrup is organic, single forest Appalachian Mountains maple syrup and is harvested by the same dedicated families year after year. At Maple Roch, you can sample a variety of their signature maple syrups, along with other artisanal products such as maple granola, maple mustard, and gourmet BBQ sauce.

The store is known for its welcoming atmosphere, often providing tastings and personal stories from Roch, making each visit feel special. This dedication to quality and community makes Maple Roch a must-visit for anyone exploring Summerland, offering a sweet taste of Canadian tradition.

Summerland Sweets

Summerland Sweets is a beloved local destination offering a wide range of fruit-based products, from syrups and jams to their famous fruit candies and country gift store. Established in 1962, the company has a long tradition of using locally grown Okanagan fruits to craft high-quality products that showcase the region’s rich agricultural bounty.

Visitors can stop by their storefront to sample a variety of flavours, including black currant, apricot, pear, and berry blends, and try their fruit wines from Sleeping Giant Fruit Winery. In addition to their signature sweets, they also offer ice cream, making it a popular stop for families and tourists exploring the area. With its combination of handcrafted goods and locally sourced ingredients, Summerland Sweets provides a tasty and authentic Okanagan experience.

The World's Tallest Tripod Orchard Ladder

The World's Tallest Tripod Orchard Ladder, located at Dickinson Family Farm, is a unique roadside attraction recognized by Guinness World Records. Standing at an impressive 30 feet 2 inches tall and weighing approximately 500 pounds, this giant ladder was designed by Dwane Dickinson and built-in 2000.

Visitors can view this towering structure while exploring the beautiful orchards at Dickinson Family Farm. It is a perfect photo opportunity and a fun stop for families and anyone interested in quirky, record-breaking landmarks. The ladder symbolizes the importance of orchard farming in the Okanagan Valley and is a must-see for those touring the area.​​

Apple Barn

Apple Barn, located on the outskirts of Summerland, is a well-known stop for fresh, local produce. This family-run fruit stand specializes in a wide variety of apples, but it also offers an array of other seasonal fruits, such as cherries, peaches, and pears.

This fruit stand works on the honour system. You enter the barn and choose from the freshly harvested apples and other assorted produce, leaving the designated price behind.

The scent of apples is mouth-watering, tempting you to take home a few more apples than you came for. The stand is known for its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to quality, making it a staple in the Summerland community.

Big Apple Fruit Stand

Big Apple Fruit Stand is a popular destination off Highway 97 in Summerland, making it an easily accessible spot for travellers and locals. Known for its iconic giant red apple statue, this stand offers a diverse selection of fresh, locally-grown fruits, with a strong focus on apples, peaches, and cherries.

Beyond fresh produce, Big Apple Fruit Stand also offers Bento Boxes, rice bowls, poke bowls and snacks to order upon your arrival or online. Their commitment to quality and friendly, knowledgeable staff make it a must-visit for anyone passing through the Okanagan Valley.

Blossom Fruit and Vegetable Stand

Blossom Fruit and Vegetable Stand, located along the scenic route of Highway 97 in Summerland, is a favourite spot for those seeking farm-fresh produce. This stand is mainly known for its wide variety of vegetables and stone fruits, including apricots, plums, and peaches. They also offer freshly picked berries and a selection of leafy greens, making it a go-to place for fruits and vegetables.

What sets Blossom Fruit and Vegetable Stand apart is their commitment to sustainable farming practices and their emphasis on providing organic options. Visitors often appreciate the stand's displays and the friendly service that comes with a deep knowledge of local agriculture.

Carcajou U-Pick and Fruit Stand

Carcajou U-Pick and Fruit Stand offer a unique experience for those who enjoy picking fruit. Located a short drive from downtown Summerland, this stand is well-known for its variety of cherries visitors can hand-pick during harvest. In addition to U-pick options, Carcajou also sells pre-picked produce, including peaches, apricots, and plums.

The stand is celebrated for its family-friendly atmosphere and the opportunity it provides to connect with the local farming community. With its charming setting and hands-on approach, Carcajou U-Pick and Fruit Stand is a favourite among families and fruit enthusiasts.

Dickinson Family Farm U-Pick Cherries

Dickinson Family Farm U-Pick Cherries is a beloved destination in Summerland's agricultural landscape. This family-operated farm specializes in cherries, allowing visitors to pick their own from various cherry trees during the peak season.

The farm is known for its friendly, welcoming atmosphere, where guests can enjoy a hands-on experience and take home some of the freshest cherries in the Okanagan Valley. In addition to cherries, Dickinson Family Farm is home to the world's tallest tripod orchard ladder.

EP Orchards U-Pick and Fruit Stand

EP Orchards U-Pick and Fruit Stand, located in the fertile lands of Summerland, offers visitors a delightful mix of fresh fruit and a hands-on picking experience. The orchard specializes in apples, peaches, and plums, which can be hand-picked during their seasons. Besides the U-pick option, EP Orchards also sells a variety of pre-picked fruits at their stand, including plums and apples.

Little Acre Fruit and Vegetable Stand

Little Acre Fruit and Vegetable Stand, situated just off the main road in Summerland, is a cherished spot for fresh, locally-grown produce. This stand is known for its diverse selection of fruits and vegetables, particularly tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers, alongside popular stone fruits like peaches and cherries. Little Acre also offers a variety of homemade preserves, including pickles and salsas, made from their farm's produce.

The stand is recognized for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and commitment to supporting sustainable farming practices. Customers appreciate the high-quality, fresh produce and the opportunity to support a local, family-run operation that has become a staple in the community.

McConnell Fruit Market and Orchard Fruit Stand

McConnell Fruit Market and Orchard Fruit Stand, located along the scenic roads of Summerland, is a well-established stop for those seeking fresh, local produce. This family-run market is known for its wide variety of fruits, particularly juicy peaches, crisp apples, and sweet cherries, all grown in their orchards. The stand also offers an assortment of vegetables and homemade products like fruit pies and jams made from their farm's harvest.

What sets McConnell apart is its long-standing tradition of quality and the friendly, knowledgeable service that has made it a favourite among locals and visitors alike.