Osoyoos: Museums, Exhibitions & Discounts

Osoyoos is a town located in the southern Okanagan Valley of British Columbia, Canada, near the border with the United States. Situated in Canada's only desert environment, the town is known for its unique ecosystem and warm climate. The area has deep Indigenous roots as the traditional territory of the Okanagan (Syilx) People, whose cultural presence remains strong in the region today. The name "Osoyoos" derives from the Indigenous word "sẁiẁs" (pronounced "su-yoos"), referring to a narrowing of the lake waters.

The town sits on the shores of Osoyoos Lake, the warmest freshwater lake in Canada, and is surrounded by vineyards, orchards, and desert landscapes. The area's cultural heritage is reflected in various sites and institutions that preserve both its Indigenous history and its more recent agricultural development. The region's unique geography and climate have made it an important center for both agriculture and tourism, contributing to its distinct cultural identity within British Columbia.