With a population of over 132,000, and nestled on 135 kilometers of Okanagan Lake in the Okanagan Valley, Kelowna is the third-largest metropolitan area and the seventh-largest city in the province. The city is surrounded by picturesque mountains, pristine lakes, deep forests, vineyards, beaches, and amenities galore. With its roots grown and recognized as Indigenous land, the first inhabitants who are now recognized as the Indigenous Syilx peoples remain on the land today and contribute greatly to the vibrant culture of Okanagan Valley.
While the city has grown tremendously in recent years, Kelowna was not always so big. In fact, many residents can still remember the days when the now tourist hot-spot was considered to be a small town. Despite the rapid growth, residents still love the small-town feel that remains within their communities. A kind greeting, smile and wave are not uncommon and deliver a sense of community that many dream of in the neighbourhood in which they reside.
There are many beaches and award-winning wineries and vineyards that serve as a highlight of the city and attract residents and tourists alike. With Kelowna being a popular destination for tourists, the service industry is an integral part of the city’s makeup, bringing over a billion dollars a year into the Okanagan economy. As a result, there are many local shops, businesses, and other amenities offering top-notch services for all to enjoy.
The slice of ever-growing Real Estate heaven that is Kelowna offers a family-friendly, accessible, and active environment that homeowners find appealing. The city attracts people from all over the country who are seeking beautiful scenery and a modern lifestyle. With amenities galore and trendy storefronts lining the streets, it is easy to see why Kelowna is sought out by so many. Kelowna has everything you need, and with the small-town feel still very much alive in this dynamic and expanding city, it is easy to see why residents here are so proud to call this place their home.
There are many neighbourhoods to choose from when looking for a home to call your own in Kelowna.
Residents of Kelowna know how to stay fit while having fun. This beautiful town provides a great backdrop and amazing weather for an active lifestyle. You can frequently find people enjoying a run, hiking, kayaking, canoeing, and engaging in many other forms of physical activity both indoors and out, all year long.
During the winter months, there are many facilities that allow residents to continue their active living routines. City-run centres such as Parkinson Recreation Centre provide a wide variety of programs catered to every age group as a means to encourage and facilitate activity among and the coming together of its residents. Additionally, with many gyms and other health centres, there are plenty of options for people to take part in various forms of activities and exercise.
The service industry contributing greatly to both the economy and the culture of Kelowna. Restaurants boast menu options made from local ingredients, created by talented, local chefs. A few noteworthy must-try eateries include Raudz Regional Table, Waterfront Wines Restaurant, Joeys Kelowna, Antico Pizza Napoletana, and Bouchons. For coffee lovers, get your caffeine fix at the Local Chemist Pop Up Barista & Coffee Service, Bright Jenny Coffee Roasters, or the Pulp Fiction Coffee House.
Wineries and Vineyards are plentiful in the area. Make an afternoon of it and be sure to enjoy tasting the delicious portfolio of wines that are offered while learning about how the grapes are grown and wines crafted.
Kelowna’s Favourite Wineries
No matter the time of year, it is easy to find an event to attend in Kelowna. The downtown core is a diverse Cultural District. There are plenty of studios, galleries, theatres, museums, and restaurants that are sure to impress you on a night out.
If sports are more your scene, Kelowna is home to many different sports teams, making it easy for Hockey, Baseball, Football, and Lacrosse fans to get their dose of live, edge of your seat, nail-biting sports game each year.
As a cultural city centre, there are many different annual events that cater to people of all ages and interests placing their mark on the calendar each year.
Here are just a few of the annual events that residents of the city look forward to:
There is never a shortage of entertainment in Kelowna. The city is rich with culture, and a great place to call home for those who enjoy getting out, having fun, and celebrating the community that they love.
Being the hot-spot that it is, Kelowna is tapped with amenities that make life in the city feel easy and accessible. The city is home to excellent schools in the public and catholic sectors for both elementary and secondary students. Additionally, Kelowna has some of the best post-secondary schools in western Canada. UBCO is the Okanagan campus of UBC, and Okanagan College is the second-largest trades training institution in British Columbia.
You can also find miles of green space and parkland dispersed throughout the city of Kelowna. Kelowna City Park, Mission Creek Regional Park and Boyce-Gyro Beach Park are just a few of the beautiful terrains for families and other active residents to explore and enjoy the outdoors. It is not uncommon to find residents partaking in boating, swimming, skiing, or biking in these areas.
Amenities are plentiful in beautiful Kelowna, with most neighbourhoods home to local businesses and specialty stores or restaurants that cater to residents, homeowners, and tourists alike. You can easily find fitness centres, hairdressers and barber shops, medical centres, dance studios, office supply stores, grocers, hardware, and big box stores nestled into each neighbourhood, making them accessible for people at all times.
In growing cities such as Kelowna, traffic and transit can sometimes feel condensed or crowded. Fortunately, City planners are working with a growth mindset to support the ever-expanding city and reduce congestion in peak hours.
Kelowna’s public transit system is an excellent solution for those looking to commute without worry stop-and-go traffic. The BC transit system has busses deployed running from downtown to the mall, east Kelowna, and to Lakeshore. Transfer routes are available to ensure residents arrive safely at their final destination.
In true fashion for Kelowna, there are also accommodating bike lanes for those who are looking for their daily dose of cardio. Kelowna’s Bike Lane Network offers 300 kilometers of bicycle lanes and 40km of paved multi-use paths, all available as an active solution to the cities transportation needs.
Royal LePage Kelowna
#1 – 1890 Cooper Road
Kelowna, BC V1Y 8B7
Phone: (250) 860-1100
Toll Free: (800) 421-3214
Fax: (250) 860-0595