Historic O’Keefe Ranch

Photo Credit: O'Keefe Ranch

Take a short drive out of the city to step back in time – 150 years to be exact. Around Vernon, everyone knows who the O’Keefe’s were, and visiting this beautiful heritage site is a great way to get to know the family that represents the very beginnings of white settlement in the Okanagan Valley. The historic ranch, and now “ghost town,” was founded by Irish cattleman Cornelius O'Keefe in 1867, and his legacy lives on today at the popular tourist attraction. From the original mansion, rumoured to be haunted, to friendly farm animals, to watching the town’s blacksmith in action, there’s something here for all ages. You’ll find delicious candy at the General Store, and an old schoolhouse where kids can get a short lesson on life before technology. 

Valley Vagabonds Inside Tip

The Ranch hosts lots of events, day and night, so be sure to check out their website if you’re passing by.