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 Closed
Wednesday Closed
Thursday 10:00am – 5:00pm
Friday 10:00am – 5:00pm
Saturday 10:00am – 5:00pm
Sunday 11:00am – 4:00pm

Special Hours

Friday, March 29 11:00am – 4:00pm
Monday, April 1 11:00am – 4:00pm

 

Location

470 Queensway Avenue
Kelowna, BC, V1Y 6S7

(250) 763-2417

Google maps link

ADMISSION

Admission is by donation.

Suggested donation $10 per person/$25 per family

Feature Exhibit

Spring Fashion: From Collections to the Catwalk

 

March 7, 2024 to May 26, 2024
Okanagan Heritage Museum

Strut on down and check out some of our favourite spring fashions!

The Kelowna Museums Society has a vast textile collection that has largely gone unseen – until now.

 

Join us for the Opening Celebration on March 14.
Click here for all the details.

Our newest exhibition provides an exciting opportunity to showcase some of our 2,500 pieces of clothing, as well as shoes, hats, handbags and other accessories. The exhibition also highlights the role the museum plays in collecting objects that help tell the story of our community. 

Join us in celebrating the rich colours and patterns of spring fashion from decades past. Critique the catwalk outfits, peek behind the scenes of a fashion show and see if you can change clothes as quickly as a model — then strike a pose!

Be inspired by the fashions of the past!

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.

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.

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.

Upcoming Events & Workshops