Store Your Luggage Around Kelowna With Bounce
Indigenous groups have lived in British Columbia long before anyone of European descent set foot in the province. The Syilx people were one of those groups. In fact, records show that they were some of the very first inhabitants of Southern British Columbia. Naturally, the Syilx people named all of the landmarks that they encountered as well as all of the settlements they built. That’s where the city of Kelowna gets its name – the Okanagan word for “grizzly bear.”
French Roman Catholic Missionaries settled in Kelowna in 1856. Not long after this event, Kelowna became an incorporated city in British Columbia. In modern times, the Syilx people still live in Kelowna. However, the city has become more ethnically and culturally diverse over the years. Kelowna is most well-known as a city of great beauty. It's a top Canadian travel destination, with views of the majestic Okanagan Lake. Provincial parks, vineyards, and a bustling downtown core are draws to this picturesque Canadian city.
Luggage Storage in Kelowna
Kelowna isn’t just a quiet town, it also has a small population size. As of 2020, Kelowna’s population is estimated to be around 142,146 citizens strong. Because the city is nestled atop the Okanagan Lake, travelers flock here for the views and more. Vineyards are just 10 minutes from downtown and mountains worth skiing bring many people here in the winter months. Festivals are held in the other seasons – Kelowna has something for everyone all year round. Store your stuff with Bounce when you arrive, take a look around, and plan your itinerary.
Kelowna City Guide
Top Things to Do
British Columbia is often heralded as one of the most naturally beautiful places in the world. B.C.’s rolling hills, glistening lakes, and verdant forests are all truly sights to behold. Incidentally, Kelowna has all of those things in spades. Visitors can look forward to seeing a plethora of amazing sights as they hike, sail, and fly around Kelowna. The city also has plenty of museums to explore and numerous restaurants to eat at. Below, we'll share some of our favorite things to do in Kelowna.
Museums
Kelowna’s culture is truly complex. One could read about the city’s history, as well as the stories of its inhabitants, for hours and still only have part of the picture. One of the best ways to learn about Kelowna’s culture is to speak with the citizens of this beautiful destination as often as possible. Following that, visiting the city’s museums, art galleries, and zoos are also great ways to learn.
- Okanagan Heritage Museum: The Okanagan Heritage Museum is a fantastic place to start learning about the history of the Syilx people and Kelowna, by extension. The museum typically hosts special events throughout the year that give visitors even greater insight into Okanagan culture. Use Bounce before visiting, as the Okanagan Heritage Museum has a strict baggage policy.
- Father Pandosy Mission: Father Charles Pandosy was the French Catholic Missionary who settled in Kelowna in 1859. The city is largely the way it is today because of his efforts. Father Pandosy’s Mission remains open to visitors who’d like to learn more about him. Father Pierre Richard and Brother Surel also played a part in starting the mission. They survived a cold winter to later flourish as leaders and educators.
- Kangaroo Creek Farm: As its name implies, Kangaroo Creek Farm cares for a menagerie of marsupials. Visitors are encouraged to meet and greet these friendly creatures any day of the week. Word has it that Kangaroo Creek Farm also cares for capybaras.
Shopping
It probably won’t come as a surprise that Kelowna has a surplus of farmers’ markets and orchards to buy produce from. After all, the city rests on a massive lake and is surrounded by greenery on all sides. However, visitors may be pleasantly surprised by Kelowna’s bookstores, art galleries, and bazaars. These are some of the best places to buy souvenirs in the entire city.
- Kelowna Farmers' and Crafters' Market: Visitors who are looking to support Kelowna’s local farmers and crafters have come to the right place. The Kelowna Farmers' and Crafters' Market sells all kinds of produce, quilts, skincare products, jewelry, and more.
- Mosaic Books: This enchanting bookstore is well worth a visit and browse. Guests will find a wide array of books, magazines, and omnibuses at Mosaic. Visitors can also pick a souvenir or two at Mosaic.
- Orchard Park Shopping Centre: Orchard Park Shopping Centre is a stand out venue for making the usual vacation purchases. They've got all the usual names and plenty of extras, too. Try on clothes, buy tasty coffee, and check out unique toys.
Dining
Wine tasting is really big in Kelowna. Visitors will find numerous wine tasting tours and vineyards in the city. Visitors will also find a myriad of organic eateries that offer vegan and vegetarian options. We’d be remiss not to mention at least one of Kelowna’s fantastic pastry shops.
- Smile Cycle Tours: Kelowna seriously has a surplus of wine tours. However, Smile Cycle Tours stands out among the rest for a few reasons; it’s innovative, allows groups of 15 people to participate, and gives visitors a street-level view of Kelowna. Visitors who are looking for a one of a kind wine tasting experience should visit Smile Cycle Tours’ main website to learn more.
- Little Hobo Soup & Sandwich Shop: The Little Hobo Soup & Sandwich Shop has great tasting food to go along with its charming name. Crystal Dougan and Steve MacDonald own this amazing eatery and treat all of their guests warmly. Bounce recommends that you put away your bags before stopping by – and that you try the Mexican Chicken Soup.
- Karat Chocolate: Visitors with a sweet tooth should high tail it over to Karat Chocolate as soon as possible. This popular pastry shop is famous for its delectable dishes as well as its cool atmosphere. Special mention goes to Karat Chocolate’s bonbons.