From mountains, lakes, wineries and shopping, British Columbia’s Thompson Okanagan is a must-visit Canadian destination for 2SLGBTQIA+ travelers
Nestled in the interior of British Columbia, the Thompson Okanagan is one of the best kept secrets when it comes to 2SLGBTQIA+-friendly travel in Canada. Friendly and safe, the region—composed of the communities of Kamloops, Vernon, Kelowna, Penticton and Osoyoos—is full of welcoming experiences waiting to be had no matter what letter of the acronym you identify with. Best yet, this corner of southern B.C. is marked by its mild climates, mountain ranges, stunning lakes, welcoming wineries and vibrant cities. Here is why you need to explore the Thompson Okanagan on your next vacation.
Kamloops
Kamloops blends rugged desert landscapes with a vibrant urban pulse, offering the best of outdoor adventure and city charm. From sagebrush-covered hills to a thriving arts and food scene, there’s plenty of room to roam.
Start your journey by exploring the great outdoors. Kamloops is located on the ancestral territory of the Tk‘emlúpsemc, or “people of the confluence,” where the North and South Thompson rivers meet. The city’s name comes from the Secwepemc word T’kemlups, meaning “where the rivers meet.” These waters flow into the stunning Kamloops Lake—perfect for canoeing, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding against a dramatic desert backdrop.
Lace up for a scenic hike in Peterson Creek Nature Park or Dallas-Barnhartvale Nature Park, or tee off at world-renowned courses like Tobiano Golf and Talking Rock Golf Course. When winter rolls in, hit the slopes for skiing, snowboarding, tubing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing at Harper Mountain, Overlander Ski Club, or Sun Peaks Resort. Every February, Sun Peaks lights up with Peak Pride, a weekend of skiing, drag brunches, and vibrant celebrations.
After a day of adventure, refuel at Yew Street Food Hall, home to 10 locally owned eateries, or stop by The Art We Are Café for vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. Shop stylish finds at Jardine’s Domain & Jardine’s Home, a fashion-forward boutique selling men’s and ladieswear, accessories and giftware, or discover unique goods from LGBTQ2S+, BIPOC, and women-owned brands at Far + Wide. When it’s time to rest, check into the Rainbow Registered Accent Inns Kamloops for a cozy, inclusive stay.
From outdoor thrills to cultural gems, Kamloops is calling.
Vernon
Set against a landscape of intense blue- and green-hued lakes, sweeping valleys and shaded forest groves, Vernon is a low-key, chilled out paradise.
For your stay, check into one of the area’s resorts or hotels, where you will find relaxed comfort steps from the best outdoor experiences you can have. At Predator Ridge Resort, you can choose to either stay in its main lodge or rent your own vacation home. Either way you can enjoy its two championship golf courses, fitness centre, and 1,300-acre backyard full of hiking and biking trails.
Another welcoming option is Sparkling Hill Resort, a luxury four-diamond resort nestled atop a granite ridge overlooking Okanagan Lake. All elements of the resort are designed to inspire tranquility and bliss—including its restaurants, spa, and design elements (like the 3.5 million Swarovski crystals incorporated into the architecture. That is some serious bling). Or opt for Outback Lakeside Vacation Homes, a 60-acre secluded paradise on the pine-filled shores of Okanagan Lake. The property is home to swimming pools, hot tubs, waterfront boardwalks and kilometres of hiking and biking trails in adjacent Ellison Provincial Park.
After a day spent on the trails, enjoying the area’s lakes or just lounging by the water, head to Cambium Cider Co. to indulge in farm-to-table dishes—such as its fried buttermilk chicken sandwich or lamb burger with cabbage-carrot slaw—and one of its orchard-to-bottle apple ciders. Another great option is Ratio’s new Juicy Burger evening dining experience with locally sourced meat and seasonal produce on the mouth-watering menu.
Kelowna
Situated in the picturesque Okanagan Valley on Okanagan Lake, Kelowna is a diverse and inclusive city with plenty to offer 2SLGBTQIA+ visitors. Explore vineyards, go boating on the lake, hike its scenic trails or take in its vibrant arts scene, this destination is a blend of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences.
Start your visit at the Kelowna Art Gallery, located in the heart of city’s Cultural District, that features four different exhibition spaces which showcase the works of contemporary artists from across the Okanagan and Canada. After, go on a wine tour of the region. Several companies offer guided excursions of the vineyards in the Okanagan, with full- and half-day tours that showcase some of Canada’s best viticulture. Or, for a more active experience, rent a bike and explore the 300 kilometres of bike lanes around the city or drive into the mountains to the scenic Myra Canyon Trestles where a decommissioned rail line is now a flat trail that will take you through two tunnels and over 18 trestle bridges.
Kelowna is home to an impressive selection of bars and restaurants that celebrate diversity, including the only fully 2SLGBTQIA+ bar and lounge in the Okanagan, Friends of Dorothy. Sit back and sip a signature cocktail, sample one of their upscale dishes or just enjoy the entertainment as you take in the Louis the XIV-meets-punk chic decor. Other great options include local favourite Jackknife Brewing and BNA Brewing Co, & Eatery, which features a full bowling alley upstairs from the restaurant.
When it is time to rest, check into the Delta Hotels by Marriott Grand Okanagan Resort on the Kelowna waterfront that offers 260 stylish guestrooms, vacation homes, and condominiums set on over seven acres that includes a fitness centre and outdoor pool with bar. Also worth a stay are the Coast Capri Hotel that is pet friendly and features an outdoor pool, and Hotel Zed, which stands out as a colourfully painted, retro-chic sanctuary complete with rooftop patio, ping pong lounge, pool, hot tub and sauna.
Penticton
Located on the southern tip of Okanagan Lake (and also on the shores of Skaha Lake) in the heart of wine country, Penticton is a blend of cultural attractions, urban chic businesses and outdoor adventures set against a backdrop of stunning mountain views.
Begin at the Penticton Art Gallery, a Rainbow Registered business whose mission is to build and sustain an active, engaged art community. Along with its exhibits, it also hosts events and education programs. The gallery is located next to the Ikeda Japanese Gardens, a traditional and relaxing garden that features a huge koi pond. Be sure to see if any performances are being staged at Tempest Theatre, a black box theatre that emphasizes original content along with classical and contemporary texts.
At Rainbow Registered GottaGoat Farm, visitors can immerse themselves in unique experiences like interactive goat encounters and wellness-focused goat yoga classes, offering both education and entertainment.
For a culinary experience, indulge your tastebuds at Socialē Enoteca Ristorante, where Italian cuisine meets lakeside bliss with delicious pasta dishes, or at Orolo Restaurant + Cocktail Bar, a local favourite for casual dining with a menu highlighting seasonal ingredients.
The Hub on Martin serves as downtown Penticton’s vibrant entertainment cornerstone, combining pub-style comfort food with healthier options and a dynamic entertainment schedule. This welcoming venue hosts live music from the Okanagan’s best cover bands every Friday and Saturday night, making it a perfect spot for celebrations and group gatherings. Just outside the city, District Wine Village offers an immersive wine country experience with 13 boutique wineries, a craft brewery, an artisanal distillery, and a farm-to-table eatery. The village’s 610-person amphitheater and on-site vineyard create an enchanting backdrop for events and tastings.
Make Kettle Valley Beach Resort your home base for exploring Penticton’s attractions, including renowned wineries like Painted Rock Estate Winery and Blasted Church Vineyards. This lakefront property combines convenience with comfort, offering easy walking access to local nightlife, dining, and beaches, plus the added luxury of on-site dining at Socialē. Alternatively, Four Points by Sheraton provides well-appointed guest rooms and amenities including an indoor pool for year-round enjoyment.
Osoyoos
Located just north of the Canada-U.S. border, Osoyoos is a vibrant destination known for its beautiful wineries and orchards, warm waters, sandy beaches, and the unique landscape of Canada’s only desert. This friendly, inclusive community offers something for everyone, from delicious dining and local attractions to relaxing outdoor adventures.
You’ll find a wide range of welcoming accommodations, from luxurious resorts to cozy beachfront suites. Many offer easy access to the lake, with amenities like private beaches, gardens, orchards, and water sports equipment such as canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards. Whether you’re looking for condo-style suites with modern conveniences or peaceful spots surrounded by nature, there’s a perfect place for you to unwind and feel at home.
When you’re ready to explore, head to the lake for some fun on the water with rentals like wakeboarding boats, pontoons, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards. For a leisurely day on land, browse through charming local boutiques offering unique finds like vintage treasures, artwork, and handcrafted jewelry. To relax and recharge, indulge in spa treatments that incorporate locally sourced ingredients for a true farm-to-spa experience.
Osoyoos also offers a vibrant food and drink scene. Enjoy generous portions and locally inspired menus featuring fresh B.C. produce, meats, and regional wines at one of the many restaurants in town. Craft beer enthusiasts can sample a variety of handcrafted brews, from crisp lagers to rich ales, at Backroads Brewing Co. And no visit to Osoyoos would be complete without a visit to Nk’Mip Cellars Winery—the first Indigenous-owned winery in North America, where you can savor internationally acclaimed wines while taking in stunning views.
Whether you’re here to relax, explore, or indulge, Osoyoos welcomes you with open arms and unforgettable experiences.
To discover all the amazing things waiting to be discovered and enjoyed by 2SLGBTQIA+ visitors in the welcoming Thompson Okanagan region, visit travellingout.ca.
