The City of Kelowna has a population of 115,000 (as of 2011), making it the largest city in BC's Okanagan Valley. Its popularity as a destination for visitors and as a retirement spot has surged since the 1980s and 90s and Kelowna is doing its best to keep up with both visitors and residents.
The urban centre betrays a city that grew too quickly. Wide streets built to accommodate multiple lanes of cars and host big-box stores and parking lots dominate the core. The exception is the pleasant waterside community where you will find a variety of restaurants and shops.
Kelowna nevertheless is a perfect base from which to explore the region. It has a range of hotels, an airport and other services not to mention a beautiful natural backdrop and waterside location to accommodate and please visitors.
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