Summer temperatures are officially here in Penticton, with sunny skies and temperatures in the 30s. But as the mercury rises, here are some ways to beat the heat.
1. Beaches and Lakes
The water is cool and refreshing, and you can seek shade under the park trees. Choose from Skaha or Okanagan Lakes, with more details at penticton.ca/beaches. If your water bottle is quickly draining, a list of public water stations is available here. And let's not forget our furry friends! Here's a list of three local beaches with sections specially cordoned off for dogs.
2. Community Centre
This modern facility includes a 25-metre lap pool as well as a leisure pool with a lazy river, spray features and waterslide, so there’s plenty to do for all ages. Visit their webpage for schedule information.
3. Theatres
Escape the sun entirely for some indoor entertainment, whether it’s to watch a live theatre production or a movie. See what's playing at the following:
4. Penticton Museum & Library
The Penticton Museum & Archives is packed full with interesting items to explore, as well as fascinating exhibits and interactive learning spaces. It’s a great place to while away a couple of hours, learning about the history and culture of Penticton and the South Okanagan. Also pay a visit to the Penticton Public Library, which does so much more than lend out books!
5. Art Galleries
Here in Penticton, we may be small in size, but our appreciation of art is mighty. Many of these galleries are located within walking distance of each other. Check out this list of galleries compiled by the Penticton & District Community Arts Council.
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6. Splash Pads
Got kids? Slap on the sunscreen, grab some buckets and take them to either of the two splash pads at:
- Rotary Playworld (at Skaha Park, corner of Cypress Street and Elm Avenue)
- Lakawanna Park, located across from Okanagan Beach, at 796 Lakeshore Drive West (pictured below)
7. Do some Shopping
Explore the cute boutiques and renowned second-hand book shop in downtown Penticton, the shops of Cherry Lane Shopping Centre, and then the businesses and entertainment options at the Cannery Trade Centre (pictured below; view this blog to learn more).
8. Indoor Walking Track
Take a walk around the South Okanagan Events Centre’s (SOEC) concourse. Each lap of this indoor track is .27 km and provides a safe, free and cool location to stretch your legs. Also check out the BC Hockey Hall of Fame, open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
9. Float the Channel
This iconic local activity is a summertime favourite. Take a ride with Coyote Cruises down this 7 km channel connecting Okanagan and Skaha Lake, or bring your own floatie for a DIY experience. Don’t forget to pack lots of water and sunscreen.
10. Tasting Rooms
With more than 40 wineries, breweries, cideries and distilleries in Penticton alone, it could take days – no, weeks – to explore them all. In fact, Penticton is home to 8 craft breweries and stakes its claim as the craft beer capital of Canada, according to travel guide Lonely Planet. For a map of all the locations, view the City's Tasting Rooms map.
Did we miss your favourite way to cool off? Email us at economic.development@penticton.ca and we’ll add your suggestion to the list!