Looking for fun things to do with your kids in the Columbia Valley this winter? Look no further.
Here are 11 things to do on your next family trip to Invermere, B.C..

1. Explore the Lake Windermere Whiteway
Skating is easiest and most popular way to enjoy the Lake Windermere Whiteway, there is a reason it is number one on our list of things to do in Invermere. The maintained ice-skating path spans the length of the Lake Windermere from Athalmere, to Kinsmen Beach, all the way down to Windermere. Pros can challenge themselves to skate the entire loop, or beginners can choose to skate down and back along the shores of Lake Windermere with no obligation to fulfill a km goal. Buy your trail passes and check trail conditions here.
2. Spend a day on the slopes
The Columbia Valley has TWO ski resorts to shred this winter – Fairmont Hot Spring Ski Resort, and Panorama Mountain Resort.
3. Book a lane at the Valley Alley
A local family favourite! Book a lane at the Valley Alley Bowling Centre in Windermere, BC for some fun 5 pin bowling! Plan your visit on a Saturday when the lights are dimmed for glow bowling, and the juke box is ready to play your favourite hits. Be sure to book in advance!
4. Get creative
This is one of the most memorable ways to spend quality family time and get a special piece of art to take home as a memory. Book an art class for the kiddos or the whole family at Black Star Studios, or drop into Carm Haven Studios pottery painting for some creative fun with the clan.
5. Test your skill at an Escape Room
Try your luck at the ever-changing Columbia Valley Escape Rooms in Radium Hot Springs. This real-life puzzle brings the family together to work towards one goal: escape the locked door using your wits and skill to find clues and solve puzzles. This is a fun experience for small groups of families or friends looking for a challenge.
6. Try a new winter sport
Fatbiking, xc skiing, and snowshoeing are three must try winter sports in the Columbia Valley. The best part is you can find rentals in Invermere at Columbia Cycle and Ski, Inside Edge Boutique and Sports, and the Panorama Nordic Centre, and from Far out Adventure Hub in Radium Hot Springs. Renting gear for the day is a fun way to try a new sport without the commitment of buying all the gear.
Try it, you might like it!
7. Shop in Downtown Invermere
A family vacation is not complete without a stroll down historic downtown Invermere to the toy store Fun & Games. This is not your average toy store! The staff select specialty board games, collectable trading cards, puzzles, toys, crafts, and claim to have “all the best geek supplies”. When you’re all shopped out head across the street to Invermere’s 1000 Peaks Candyland to try a specialty coffee, handmade chocolates, and made-to-order frozen yogurt.
8. Visit the giant pretzel and pick a pastry from Invermere Bakery
The Invermere Bakery is one of oldest establishments in Downtown Invermere known for homemade pretzels, gluten free delights, and hot coffee. You’re sure to find a treat for after family dinner, or before – we won’t tell.
9. Check out a Rockies Hockey game
The local KIJHL hockey team – the Columbia Valley Rockies host hockey games and events at the Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena in Invermere. Feel the community spirit as our local boys hit the ice in the fierce game of Hockey.
10. Find a community event
Upgrade your family vacation in Radium Hot Springs, Invermere, Panorama, Windermere, or Fairmont Hot Springs with local events and festivals.
Click here for upcoming events in the Columbia Valley.
11. Visit a Hot Spring. We have two!
You can’t visit the Columbia Valley without a visit to at least one of the local Hot Springs. This is one of the all time favourite activities for kids on vacation!
Visit the Radium Hot Springs in Kootenay National Park for an authentic Parks Canada experience. Rent your retro bathing suits, dip in the cold plunge, and soak in the minerals that the Radium Hot Springs are famous for.
Visit the Fairmont Hot Springs pool at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort (general public welcome). Hike the hoodoos, take a soak in the Fairmont Hot Springs, and end it all with a treat from the local Fairmont Pizza & Ice Cream Parlour. Make a day of it! There’s always something to discover in the Community of Fairmont Hot Springs.
Looking for more experiences in the Columbia Valley? From Radium Hot Springs, Invermere, & Panorama, to Fairmont Hot Springs find fun experiences and places to stay in every community.