Truth be told, mural walking tours aren’t usually the first thing that springs to mind when you’re new to a city. They certainly weren’t for me!
However, when I first moved to the Okanagan, specifically Vernon, in the summer of 2017, and without a car, these murals caught my eye and sparked some curiosity. Since then, I have been learning about these amazing artworks and have been casually working on the idea of building an itinerary around these murals.
These vibrant murals transform the city streets into an open-air gallery, each brushstroke a window into the community’s rich past and present. Imagine a day spent wandering picturesque avenues, uncovering hidden artistic gems, and soaking in local stories—all without breaking the bank.
History of the Murals
The Vernon Mural Project began in 1998, a multi-year collaborative effort that not only beautified downtown but also served as a youth employment and revitalization initiative. With twenty-seven amazing murals, some as large as 85 meters long and 15 meters high, this grand-scale undertaking truly transformed the city. Led by artist Michelle Loughery, many of these monumental artworks were painted with the help of local youth, turning blank walls into a vivid visual history book. Each piece, often inspired by historic photographs from local archives, vividly portrays the people, moments, culture, scenery, and folklore that have shaped Vernon, creating one of Canada’s largest and most captivating collections of outdoor public art.
How to Best Explore Vernon’s Murals
Ready to embark on your art and history quest? While you could simply wander and discover, we highly recommend utilising the interactive Vernon Mural Tour map to enhance your journey. This digital guide, easily accessible on your smartphone pinpoints each mural’s location and offers fascinating historical context for every artwork. It’s the perfect companion for a self-guided walking tour, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Don’t forget your walking shoes, a camera to capture your favourite art, and maybe even a refillable water bottle or a travel mug for those inevitable coffee stops we’ll be recommending later!
Fueling Your Artistic Journey: Coffee & Bites
Walking tours are fun, but they definitely can work up an appetite! Luckily, downtown Vernon is brimming with cozy cafes and delicious eateries perfect for a quick pick-me-up or a satisfying meal, all within easy reach of the mural route. These local favourites offer a fantastic opportunity to relax, recharge, and soak in the local atmosphere without straying far from your artistic adventure.
Coffee & Sweet Treats
- Ratio Coffee & Pastry: A local favourite known for its artisanal coffee and freshly baked pastries. It’s a great spot to grab a gourmet coffee and a sweet treat before or during your mural walk. (Location: 3103 30th Ave)
- Triumph Coffee: Offering a modern, airy space and expertly crafted coffee beverages, Triumph is ideal for a quick caffeine boost. They also have light snacks available. (Location: 3419 30th Ave)
- Boarding House Cafe: More than just coffee, this spot offers a relaxed vibe, great sandwiches, and a selection of local art on display – a perfect pairing for your mural tour. (Location: 3105 30th Ave)
Lunch & Quick Bites
- Masiero Pizzeria: For a hearty and satisfying lunch, Masiero offers wildly popular and incredibly delicious Neapolitan-style pizzas made in their wood oven from Napoli, Italy.(Location: 105-3301 30th Ave)
- The Fig: A popular choice for healthy and fresh options, including gourmet sandwiches, salads, and soups. Perfect for a lighter, yet flavorful, lunch. (Location: 3407 30th Ave)
- Eatology: Step into this stylish and welcoming space for a diverse menu of classic international and health-conscious breakfast and lunch dishes. It’s a go-to for fresh, vibrant meals that cater to every taste. (Location: 3100 30th St)
Where to Stay
Planning to extend your mural exploration into a charming Vernon getaway? Finding comfortable and convenient accommodation is key. For those seeking a reliable and well-located option that aligns with a budget-conscious travel style, the Quality Inn & Suites Vernon comes highly recommended. Situated conveniently with easy access to downtown and other local attractions, it offers comfortable rooms and amenities, ensuring a restful stay after a day of art and adventure.
As your art-filled journey through downtown Vernon concludes, you’ll carry more than just memories of vibrant murals. You’ll have connected with the heart of this community, witnessed its history come alive on brick walls, and perhaps even discovered a new favourite coffee spot or a delicious lunch gem.
This affordable and enriching experience truly offers a unique lens through which to see Vernon. So, what are you waiting for? Grab that mural map, lace up your shoes, and let the captivating stories of Vernon’s past guide your next great adventure.
