3 MIN READ


Whether you’re new in town or have lived in Kelowna your whole life, there’s something about travelling by bus to really get to know the place you’re in.

Discover new places, restaurants to eat at, or just wander the outdoors by hopping on the route 8 University/OK College in the Kelowna Regional Transit System and explore the city a little more.

Route 8 is quite popular in Kelowna, as it provides service to approximately 3,400 passengers on a typical weekday. It runs over a hundred trips a day, so you can catch a ride all day long. Read on for some trip ideas and places to visit along route 8 in Kelowna.

First things first, let’s grab our mask and our #BusPass, then let’s hop on board the bus at the UBCO Exchange and make our way across town.

Make your way to Rutland Centennial Park to relax, have a bubble hangout, or just get a little fresh air. If you need a little bit more exercise, check out Gneiss Climbing to fulfill all of your childhood dreams of recreating scenes from Cliffhanger. It’s just a short stop away from the park along the route.

Before you go, review the climbing safety toolkit provided by Gneiss for all the information you need to enjoy a safe climb. Be sure to also wander the beautiful trails at Mission Creek Regional Park, located nearby.

A good walk needs to be followed up by a tasty treat or beverage. Head straight for one of these fine establishments to get your grub on along the route!

Grab a craft brew at Copper Brewing Company – they’ve got over a dozen taps to choose from and even some beer inspired cocktails! Beer not your thing? Grab a coffee at Third Space Cafe to get your caffeine fix, but don’t forget to order a pastry or two.

Head over to Kinsmen Park with your coffee and treats to check out the beautiful view of Okanagan Lake. If a little self-care is what you’re after instead, Orah Spa + Salon on Richter Street is currently open for business and following all recommended safety protocols.

Hop back on the route and make your way to the final destination at OK College Exchange. If you forgot to pick up some something, don’t worry. Lakeview Market is along the final stretch of the route.

There’s so much more to discover by transit in Kelowna, and these are just a few options on one route, but we’ll leave the exploring up to you. Find what you like along the route or just sit back, relax and let us do the driving.

You can also take your transit trip to the next level with one of our BC-themed Spotify playlists along the way – just don’t forget to wear your mask!


Explore Route 8

Erin Kenny
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