A former tour guide has launched a free digital resource to help travelers navigate the valley. Dayton Rhodes, who was raised in Kelowna, created Okanagan Roam to provide a centralized location for regional information, addressing the difficulty of planning trips using multiple websites.

What does the guide include?

The platform currently features more than 1,400 listings located between Osoyoos and Vernon. These entries are designed to help visitors find various local attractions and services, such as:

  • Restaurants and coffee shops
  • Breweries and wineries
  • Beaches and hiking trails
  • Local events

Rhodes also included a "Build My Trip" tool, which allows users to create custom multi-day itineraries for their visits. This feature aims to reduce the burden on the person in a group responsible for organizing the day's activities.

Why was Okanagan Roam created?

Rhodes spent over a decade working as a tour guide across Asia, New Zealand, Australia, and Canada. He noted that even experienced professionals struggle with the planning process because information is often scattered or inaccurate. He said there was "no single place that brought it all together" during his own searches.

His motivation stemmed from a deep passion for tourism and hospitality. He enjoys showing people the lakes, wineries, and businesses that make the region special, but found that jumping between different websites for hours was a common frustration for travelers.

Seasonal planning and resources

While much of the site is self-serve, Rhodes will also publish seasonal guides from time to time. These are intended to provide more specific advice depending on the time of year.

He has recently posted a guide for those visiting the mountain areas. This specific resource provides information on where to eat, drink, and play at Big White and SilverStar ahead of the upcoming ski season.

FAQ

Is there a cost to use the guide?

No, Okanagan Roam is a free online guide for travelers.

Does the guide cover the entire valley?

The listings currently span the region from Vernon to Osoyoos.