I was writing an article on Kelowna, for a different project, touting it as being a great place to bring the family for a visit, but really, what I should have been writing is that it is a great place for a family to live.

Despite the high (and ever-increasing) price of real estate (and rent), and the rising cost of groceries and gas, and despite the perceived 'sunshine tax' on local wages, and that all the 'fun' things in Kelowna seem to close (Mariner's Reef waterslides, Planet Spacewalkers, etc.), the quality of life here really is high. When I was married, my dad told us that we could 'live on love', and I find the same is true for living in Kelowna. For families, who may find that their dollar does not stretch as far, at least there is an abundance of fun recreational activities at our doorstep. From the parks, to the beaches, to the hiking and biking trails, there really is a lot to enjoy.

Let's celebrate the family-friendly activities that live in Kelowna and maybe we can encourage others to join in on the fun! Perched along the lake, keeping one eye out for the legendary Ogopogo, sits our vibrant city of Kelowna. The following are some of the great, some well-known, some perhaps not, things for our families to do in our city.

Fun Stuff

Big White & Crystal Mountain - though it is sunny today, in the winter, a trip up to Big White to ski, board, tube, or skate makes for an unforgettable family day out.

Ogopogo - Whether by boat, or on land, why not find your way to the lake and keep your eyes peeled for Ogopogo. It's fun for the kids. You can get some kid's books devoted to Ogopogo, share the tale, and make a fun learning experience out of the search for the legendary lake monster!

Gyro Beach - A fun beach for the kids. Sure it may be busy, but parents' can people watch, and the kids can enjoy the soft sand, the playground that stretches into the water, and shallow water that stretches out pretty far!

KLO Lands and Orchards Farm Tour - A tractor tour of a working orchard is educational and the kids will enjoy some fresh apple juice. And with a petting zoo and gift shop, it makes a great way to spend the day.

Kelowna Art Gallery Family Sundays - Every Sunday at 1:00, bring your entire family to the Kelowna Art Gallery to make an art project. A family that crafts together, plays together!

Croc Talk - There are still so many families that haven't experienced a live crocodile, but at Croc Talk, they can! Not only can they see a crocodile in person, but Croc Talk is an excellent educational resource as well.

Kelowna Springs Golf Course - It's hard to miss Scandia Golf & Games, the castle along the Highway, so instead, why not try the putting course at Kelowna Springs Golf Course. While it may not be 'mini golf', it is still fun, and maybe more appealing to the wannabe Tiger Woods.

Where to Eat or Have a Treat

Moo-Lics Ice Cream - Take a walk along the downtown waterfront, with a yummy ice cream in your hand. Moo-Lics is a summer time staple in Kelowna.

Memphis Blues - While it doesn't have a kid's menu, this casual barbecue house is a great place to take the entire family. The atmosphere is great, the food is yummy, and it is a perfect dining option for the entire family! Their French Fries are the best in Kelowna!

Gorgeous George's Burgers - Perhaps the best burgers in town! Located downtown on Bernard, this new take-out burger joint is the perfect place to stop to pick up your picnic fare.

Olympia Greek Taverna - Bring the family to Olympia on a Saturday where the whole family will enjoy the delicious food, the belly-dancing, and the plate breaking!

For more fun things to do in Kelowna visit:

Kelowna Family Events and Resources