Humble Beginnings...

Founded in 1867, O'Keefe Ranch was once one of the largest cattle ranches in British Columbia, spanning over 20,000 acres of prime Okanagan land. From their humble beginnings, the O'Keefe family built up a small settlement consisting of a general store - with the first post office in the Okanagan Valley, a blacksmith shop, St. Anne's Church built in 1889 (and still a popular wedding location) plus many other necessary ranch buildings.

...to Historic Landmark

Today, O'Keefe Ranch is a designated BC Heritage Site and an important tourist attraction in the Okanagan Valley. Here you'll discover some of the oldest remaining structures in the Vernon area, all carefully preserved or restored, each with its own unique and fascinating exhibit. A guided tour of the grand Victorian style O'Keefe Mansion offers a more personal insight into the lifestyle of the Victorian era.

Experience the History

There's something at Historic O'Keefe Ranch for the whole family - relax in the peaceful park-like setting, see our collection of vintage farm machinery, visit our museum and the fascinating historic buildings. Pan for gold, enjoy the huge model railway display and discover our collection of rare breed farm animals. Take a guided tour of the elegant O?Keefe Mansion. Come to Artisan Row and experience for yourself arts historic and modern. Other features include the restaurant, winery, gift shop, and wine garden. This year there are many exciting special events and festivals taking place throughout the season. Come and explore the history of the Okanagan and the preservation of this significant historic landmark.

O'Keefe Ranch a Major Player in Establishing the North Okanagan

The O'Keefe Ranch was established in 1867 and operated by the O'Keefe family for the next 110 years. In its earliest days, the ranch was at the end of the wagon road into the Okanagan Valley and the site of the stage coach depot for the Okanagan Post Office, the first in the valley. The O'Keefe Ranch played a major role in the history of the North Okanagan.

The O'Keefe Family Makes History

But more than anything, the O'Keefe Ranch was the home of the O'Keefe family. For over ninety years, the family lived in the beautiful O'Keefe House. During times of plenty, additions or changes were made to the house and new furnishings added. And in times of hardship, the buildings and furnishings were lovingly cared for. Even receipts, documents and photographs were preserved. As a result, we have been left with a legacy of one family's material history unmatched anywhere in Western Canada.

An Experience to Remember

Now the Historic O'Keefe Ranch is a museum/heritage site, run by a non-profit organization, The Interior Heritage Society, with an active Board of Directors overseeing the operations. Thanks to the efforts of these dedicated people, including the staff and volunteers at O’Keefe Ranch, you now have an opportunity to glimpse into the past and experience what once was.