The North Okanagan is more than fertile ground for orchards and vineyards—it’s a landscape where agriculture meets historical experience. From heritage sites to working farms, agri-tourism is driving both cultural interest and real estate value across the region.
O’Keefe Ranch
Take O’Keefe Ranch, for example. Established in 1867 and later gifted to the City of Vernon, this working heritage site draws thousands annually. Though its real estate market value is nominal, its cultural and tourism value is significant—sustaining local jobs, generating visitor spending, and anchoring community identity.
Meanwhile, Davison Orchards offers a different model. As a fourth-generation family farm, it has expanded into a bustling agri-tourism hub complete with bakery, café, tractor tours, and seasonal events. The result? A property that blends agricultural use with strong commercial revenue potential—an increasingly common appraisal scenario in this part of the Okanagan.
Davison Orchard in the Fall
Other notable examples include Planet Bee, a working honey farm and gift shop, and Camelot Haven, a small petting zoo and lavender farm, both demonstrating how rural land use can pivot into destination-based retail. These operations often qualify for agricultural property tax benefits while also achieving impressive site-specific commercial income.
For appraisers, these properties challenge conventional valuation models. Traditional income-based or sales comparison approaches may need adjustment to reflect intangible assets: heritage value, brand loyalty, and unique visitor experiences. Zoning flexibility, seasonal revenue, and municipal support all play into the picture.
As agri-tourism continues to evolve in the North Okanagan, it’s clear that these hybrid operations are doing more than attracting visitors—they’re redefining how we value rural land. From family-run orchards to preserved heritage ranches, the connection between culture, commerce, and agriculture is creating lasting impact. How do you see agri-tourism shaping the future of land use and investment in your community?
