Okanagan Heritage Museum

Okanagan Heritage Museum

Discover the natural and human history of Kelowna

Experience fascinating displays and learn how the Okanagan Valley was formed, and why it supports tremendous biodiversity. Step into the world of the syilx/Okanagan people, and gain insights into their close connection to the land. Learn about the arrival of traders and settlers, and peer into the windows of a store from Kelowna’s Chinatown. Meet some individuals from Kelowna’s past and present, and be inspired by the Central Okanagan Sports Hall of Fame.

Hours

Monday 10:00am – 5:00pm
Tuesday 10:00am - 5:00pm
Wednesday 10:00am - 5:00pm
Thursday 10:00am – 5:00pm
Friday 10:00am – 5:00pm
Saturday 10:00am – 5:00pm
Sunday 11:00am – 4:00pm

Special Hours

Monday, August 4 11:00am – 4:00pm

Location

470 Queensway Avenue
Kelowna, BC, V1Y 6S7

(250) 763-2417

Google maps link

ADMISSION

Adult - $10
Student/Senior - $8
Youth (5-17) - $7
Family - $25
5 & Under - Free
Every second Sunday of the month - pay-what-you-wish

Self-guided school visits to the OHM

$50 for 10 students, $2 per each additional student. Maximum 30 students.

Those who self-identify as Indigenous visit the Okanagan Heritage Museum free of charge.

 

Feature Exhibit
About the Museum
Programs & Services
Upcoming Events

Feature Exhibit

Ranching & Rodeos in the Okanagan

July 4 to October 13, 2025
Okanagan Heritage Museum

Explore the roots of cattle ranching in the Okanagan Valley and how it shaped the region’s agriculture. Learn about the syilx people’s deep connection with horses long before European settlers arrived and meet the early ranching families who pioneered the industry. Discover how the practice and showcase of ranching and horsemanship skills ultimately led to the Okanagan’s first exciting rodeos.

With a stunning array of images, artefacts, and stories of some true Okanagan characters, Ranching & Rodeos in the Okanagan is the perfect complement to your summer in the valley.

Museums Are Living Places

There’s always something new to discover at the  Okanagan Heritage Museum!

In recent years, the permanent gallery of the Okanagan Heritage Museum has been completely transformed. This was a major project that was informed by the vision and expertise of syilx/Okanagan Elders and knowledge carriers, historians, scientists, and members of diverse communities. In particular, we are grateful to staff from the Sncəwips Heritage Museum (Westbank First Nation) for their guidance and support. We are proud to display an Eagle Staff which symbolizes our friendship in telling a story together.
Eric Mitchell, Elder of the Okanagan Indian Band, led the design and construction of a traditional Okanagan Winter Home. These remarkable structures are sometimes referred to as pithouses or kekulis, but Eric taught us the proper name, qʷćiʔ. A highlight of a museum visit is stepping into this gorgeous space. The gallery transformation continues as we layer in new information as it becomes available to us. Visitors remark they are astonished by new insights, engaged by the provocative displays and delighted to see how much children enjoy exploring the museum.

Additional Programs & Services

Central Okanagan Sports Hall of Fame

The Central Okanagan Sports Hall of Fame celebrates the athletes, coaches, and builders whose accomplishments have made them a part of history in the Central Okanagan.

More Info

Kelowna Public Archives

The Kelowna Public Archives, located at the Okanagan Heritage Museum, is a historical resource centre where public records and historical documents are kept and preserved for informational and research use.

More Info

Ursula Surtees Regional Conservation Laboratory

A state-of-the-art Conservation Laboratory offering a variety of conservation services to the public, such as repairs, cleaning and polishing, mounting and protective enclosures.

More Info

Upcoming Events & Workshops

Click Here for Event Listings