Hwy 97 · Vernon
The stop between Calgary and Kelowna
If you're driving between Calgary and Kelowna, Vernon is where the road wants you to stop — about four hours from Calgary, forty minutes short of Kelowna, right where Hwy 97 runs through town. KALA sits on it: a European-style bakery with hand-laminated croissants, built-to-order bagel sandwiches, and espresso pulled to order.
The trick seasoned drivers know: order ahead about twenty minutes out. Your coffee is hot and the bag is packed when you pull in — five minutes door to door, and the croissant is still warm past Oyama.
Morning run? Croissants, donuts, and coffee are at their peak from open. Afternoon leg? Bagel sandwiches from 11 AM travel well and don't leave your car smelling like a drive-thru. Kalamalka Lake is ten minutes south if the day has room in it — the lake the bakery is named for.
Coming from the Coquihalla or the Trans-Canada through Kamloops, same story: Hwy 97 through Vernon, 3507 32nd Street, easy in and out.
From today's menu
Butter Croissant$4.25laminated by handAlmond Croissant$5.25frangipane, toasted almondsButtermilk Donut$3.50old-fashioned, glazedSmoked Salmon Bagel$11.00cream cheese, capers, red onionGarden Bagel$8.00egg, havarti, greens, tomatoGood questions
Where should I stop on the drive from Calgary to Kelowna?
Vernon, BC — about four hours from Calgary and 40 minutes before Kelowna on Hwy 97. KALA Bakery + Coffee is right on the highway at 3507 32nd Street: fresh croissants, bagel sandwiches, and espresso, with online order-ahead so it's ready when you arrive.
Can I order ahead so it's ready when I drive through?
Yes — order at kalavernon.ca/menu about 20 minutes before you reach Vernon and pick a pickup time. It's the fastest food stop on the route.
What's good for the road?
Mornings: butter croissants, donuts, and coffee. After 11 AM: bagel sandwiches — built to order and they travel well. Everything is baked in-house the same day.
How far is Vernon from Kelowna?
About 40 minutes north on Hwy 97. KALA is on the highway as it passes through Vernon, so it works as the coffee stop in either direction.
3507 32nd Street, Vernon, BC — on Hwy 97 · hours & directions