How to Get Around Kelowna Using Public Transit

Planning a visit and wondering how to get around Kelowna efficiently and affordably? BC Transit operates Kelowna’s public bus network, making it easy and convenient for visitors and residents to navigate key neighbourhoods without a car. Frequent routes and accessible buses serve downtown, shopping centres, and nearby communities, offering wheelchair, scooter, and bike access. This affordable transit system is ideal for exploring city highlights, local shops, or even wineries. Check out these travel tips to ensure you’re travelling like a local, with confidence and ease.

How Kelowna’s Transit System Works

Kelowna’s bus service provides local routes, as well as the RapidBus 97, which connects major hubs like UBC Okanagan, Downtown, and Westbank. For example, a visitor can hop off at the Queensway Exchange, Kelowna’s downtown transit hub, walk to Bernard Avenue to explore the art scene, and then take Route 97 to Orchard Park to shop.

To make it even easier for riders, advanced amenities include electronic payment (Umo or Interac tap pilot), accessible vehicles, and frequent service, with main RapidBus departures every 15-30 minutes across most of the day. Service spans from early morning to late evening.

Fares & Pass Options

Kelowna’s public transit fares as of October 2025 are as follows:

Single ride: $3.00 (children 12 and under ride free)
DayPASS: $6.00 for unlimited travel in one day
Monthly adult pass: $80; student/senior pass: $55
30-day post-secondary pass: $65; U-PASS: $208 per semester for eligible students

Discounted rates are available for students and seniors with a valid ID. While you can purchase passes or tickets onboard or at select retailers, the Umo payment app (with a prepaid balance) is a preferred option by many. The BC Bus Passes offer annual savings for eligible low-income riders.

Main Transit Hubs & RapidBus Stops

Here’s a quick snapshot of Kelowna’s main exchanges and RapidBus 97 stops:

Queensway Exchange (major hub in Downtown Kelowna, central point for many routes)
Midtown/Orchard Park Exchange (major hub and central point for many routes)
Mission Recreation Exchange (connects to the southern parts of Kelowna)
Rutland Exchange (connects Rutland to northern and eastern Kelowna)
Kelowna Airport Transit Station (direct access to and from Kelowna Airport and other key transit stops)

For a clearer sense of how these routes connect across the city, take a look at the BC Transit map.

Using Transit to Explore Kelowna

Public transit is your ticket to exploring Kelowna’s top attractions. Major routes you’ll frequently use include Route 97, which connects Orchard Park Mall to downtown Kelowna, and Route 1, which is a great option if you’re looking to explore local markets or discover charming cafés. The Rapid 97 not only lets you make swift trips to UBCO, Downtown, or Orchard Park Mall, but it also follows the highway, leaving your hands free to snap pics of the surrounding valley, vineyards, and mountains.

Those coming from the airport will want to familiarize themselves with Route 23, which offers a connection to Route 97 at UBC Okanagan. Visitors can ride to regional hiking trails, visit wineries, and more, without the hassle of parking. Travelling off-peak hours ensures a comfortable journey, and all buses offer real-time arrival updates.

Ready to plan your next adventure? For up-to-date schedules, download the Transit App or check route info on the BC Transit website.