Maybe you’re interested in returning to swimming, skating or working out? Or perhaps you’d like to visit the library or museum? This Love Local blog helps to boil down the information involving Penticton’s public services as they stand right now so you’ll know what to expect before even leaving your front door.
Scroll down to find your activity of choice, where you’ll find some tips as well as all the links you need to get started.
Swimming
The pools at Penticton Community Centre are available with pre-registration within designated hours. You will need to book in advance for either the main pool (for lap swimming) or the leisure pool. If you plan on entering the facility, you must have an activity time slot reserved (including caregivers). And don’t forget your mask.
Booking tip: The City’s online booking tool accepts reservations from residents for up to 48 hours in advance. Numbers are limited so you’ll have to act fast. For the best chance to nab your ideal spot, set your alarm to log on to the system just before that time comes available, two days prior.
What You'll Need to Know
- The current fee for the pool is a flat rate of $6.75 per person.
- You can book the leisure pool OR main pool for a 1 hour time slot.
- Hot tub use is complimentary with pool reservations but has limited space and time available so is not guaranteed. The steam room and sauna remain closed.
- Note that the leisure pool is shared, so swimmers must stay an appropriate distance away from others.
- Children 15 years and younger must be accompanied by an adult in the water.
- There is a maximum of 3 kids allowed for one parent/guardian.
- A registered parent/guardian may bring one child under the age of 3 without registration.
- Don’t arrive any earlier than 10 minutes before your reservation start time. Also, no late admittance will be permitted.
- Change rooms and amenities will be available on a limited basis. You’re encouraged to arrive prepared to swim, take a prompt pre-swim shower and shower/change at home wherever possible. You’re required to leave the facility no later than 10 minutes after your reservation ends.
- Read the City’s RECreation Penticton guide for details about swimming lessons.
- For the full list of requirements, read the Code of Conduct – Aquatics on the City’s Return to Recreation page.
Skating
Ice skating is available at McLaren Arena, with limited numbers, although pre-registration is required.
What You'll Need to Know
- Ice skates are available to rent but must be reserved at the time of registration.
- Bring your own helmet – they aren’t available for rent. CSA approved helmets or winter helmets aren’t mandatory but strongly recommended.
- Spectators are not permitted in the building. In other words, if you’re not skating on the ice with your kids, you won’t be able to stay in the facility. However, on-ice skate patrol staff are monitoring the ice.
- Ice skating training bars are not available for use at this time. However, visitors are able to bring their own for personal use.
- Arrive through the west door (King Street) no earlier than 15 minutes prior to the start of your activity.
- Read the City’s RECreation Penticton guide for details about the various classes and programs available to book.
- For the full list of guidelines, policies and further details, visit the McLaren Arena webpage.
Fitness Room at Penticton Community Centre
The fitness room is available for 1.25 hour timeslot reservations. Pre-registration is required, at a flat rate of $7.
What You'll Need to Know
- Change rooms are not available. Arrive wearing your fitness attire.
- Bring your pre-filled water bottle to work out. Bottle fill stations are available but water fountains are closed.
- You’re required to clean all workout equipment and other frequently touched objects before and after every use.
- For the full list of requirements, read the Code of Conduct – Fitness Room on the City’s Return to Recreation page.
Book your fitness room time slot
Registered Sports & Fitness Activities
A selection of pre-registered sports and fitness classes are available to book at the Penticton Community Centre. The best way to read about the available programs is to review Penticton’s RECreation Penticton guide. All activities are available to book online through the City’s online booking system. All code of conducts are listed on the City's Return to Recreation page.
Book a sports or fitness activity
Penticton Public Library
Yes, the library is open, with safety protocols in place. You don’t need a reservation to visit. Simply follow the directional signage, wear a mask and sanitize your hands before entering.
In addition to books, you can use your library card to borrow e-books, DVDs, audiobooks and boardgames, do some online learning and – new! – even borrow Nintendo Switch games.
Top tip: Reserve your books in advance using their online booking system. That way, you can simply breeze up to the checkout desk and snap up your items, making the process quick and with minimal contact.
What You'll Need to Know
- Return your books to the container at the entrance door of the library.
- Follow floor markings when moving throughout the facility.
- Access to the computers is available, with a 60-minute limit per day.
- Occupancy limits are set for various sections of the library.
Penticton Museum & Archives
Not only is the museum open again to the public, but they have an exciting new exhibit that you definitely won’t want to miss. Ace Academy is an immersive experience from the Canadian Aviation and Space Museum that lets you experience what it’s like to fly. It’s live now until March 13.
What You'll Need to Know
- Sanitize your hands upon entering the museum – and don’t forget your masks.
- Follow the floor markings, which direct movement of visitors and create one-directional flow.
- The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 4:30 p.m. Admission is by donation.
Art Galleries
Penticton is home to numerous art galleries, available to explore.
Read about local art galleries
We hope this list helps! Are we missing something? Or do you have a Love Local story to tell? Email us at economicdevelopment@penticton.ca.