Must-Visit Attractions to Visit in Osoyoos, BC
For those visiting Osoyoos looking to add more to the itinerary apart from beach days and winery-hopping, here’s a few fun ideas!
For those wanting to get to know Osoyoos beyond its claim to fame as a summer beach destination, there are a few different ways to do so.
Add a little spice to your Osoyoos holiday by indulging in cultural attractions, or fun excursions away from the beach. Osoyoos may be famous for fabulous days spent at the lake, but there’s much more to the destination than beach life!
Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre
Discover the fascinating culture and history of the Okanagan First Nations. The Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre is a fantastic activity for the whole family!
This beautiful cultural centre features informative and interesting films played repeatedly in the theatre as well as dozens of native artifacts on display. For those who are intrigued by snakes, head to the live show on rattlesnakes. This is a unique opportunity to see a rattlesnake up close and learn about this creature’s habits from a very knowledgeable presenter. Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre conducts research on the endangered western rattlesnake. This presentation is entertaining and interesting for all ages.
Outside of the centre, you can explore 50 acres of peaceful trails to learn about Nk’Mip desert’s endangered ecosystems. These self-guided and interpretive trails meander through sage grasslands, ponderosa pine forests and endangered antelope brush ecosystem. From these trails, you can enjoy gorgeous views of Osoyoos Lake and the surrounding cliffs.
Details
- Buy tickets at the entrance.
- Open from early March to mid-November
Location
100 Rancher Creek Road (Spirit Ridge Resort)
1-250-495-7901
www.nkmipdesert.com
Osoyoos Desert Centre
The Osoyoos Desert Centre is a 67-acre interpretive facility that has one of the largest concentrations of endangered plants and animals.
Visit the centre to learn about the conservation of endangered ecosystems in the South Okanagan. Take the guided or self-guided tour on the 1.5km boardwalk and discover how plants and animals adapt and thrive in the arid, desert conditions. This is a fantastic area for bird watching and wildlife viewing too. The visitor centre is run by solar power and has interesting exhibits. The volunteers and staff are extremely knowledgeable and are happy to share the unique story of this region.
Details
- Open from late April to early October.
- Hours: 10am-2pm (April 22–May 14 and Sept 16-early October)
- Hours: 9:30am-4:30pm (May 15-Sept 15)
Location
14580-146th Avenue, Osoyoos
1-877-899-0897
www.desert.org
Rattlesnake Canyon Amusement Park
Rattlesnake Canyon is a fun amusement park that we love. Nothing makes kids happier than jumping on the rides at an amusement park.
Get your race-car fix and test your driving skills on the bumper boats or go karts. Practice your concentration and aim by playing a round of the 18-hole mini golf. For the thrill-seeking and courageous kids (and adults), try the Bungee Tree, Tumbler Whirl or Tornado rides. The Ice Cream Parlour at the Windmill is a must, with over 48 interesting flavours to choose from. Admission to Rattlesnake Canyon is free, but you will need to buy tickets for individual rides.
Details
- Free admission (must buy tickets for individual rides and games)
Location
5502 Main Street, Osoyoos
1-250-495-3544
www.rattlesnakecanyon.ca
PLANNING A TRIP TO OSOYOOS?
We have a variety of Osoyoos vacation rentals with lake or mountain views. Call our highly knowledgeable Destination Experts at 1.877.902.1616 who can answer any questions you may have about attractions in Osoyoos, or our fabulous selection of accommodations. They’re available 7 days a week!