Stuart Park

Stuart Park is a modern public square and scenic park located in the heart of Kelowna on the shores of the majestic Lake Okanagan. This cultural and civic hub in Canada has become a favorite meeting spot for both locals and travelers from around the world.

As the primary waterfront space, the park offers a unique blend of open plazas and cozy corners for relaxation. The square's modern architecture harmonizes with the natural beauty of British Columbia, creating a perfect space where urban life meets the coolness of the lake.

This site functions year-round, constantly changing its appearance with the seasons. Stuart Park is considered a symbol of the waterfront and a key point for experiencing the spirit of Kelowna, offering visitors incredible panoramic views and a relaxing atmosphere.

For more information about special events or infrastructure inquiries, you can contact city services. These contact details will help you quickly find the park and reach its administration.

Below is detailed contact information and the exact location address:

During the summer months, the park comes alive with the sounds of music and laughter, regularly hosting cultural events and open-air performances. You can take a leisurely stroll along the wide Okanagan Lake promenade, which is great for tourists of all ages and pet owners.

When the cold sets in, Stuart Park transforms into a true winter wonderland. A large public outdoor ice rink opens here, with skates available for rent. To warm up, visitors gather around cozy fire pits or buy hot drinks from nearby food trucks.

Be sure to check out the famous "Bear Spirit" sculpture—a massive blue bear that has become the park's unofficial mascot. Additionally, it's a great spot for active recreation: in summer, skateboarders and rollerbladers are often seen in the square, while winter brings graceful ice skaters.

Stuart Park is located at 1430 Water Street, making it one of the most accessible spots in the city center. Thanks to its central location along the Okanagan Lake waterfront, it is easy to find even for first-time visitors.

The park can be reached by private car or by taking a taxi from any part of the city. If you are already downtown, a pleasant walk is the best way to get there while enjoying the city's architecture.

For those who prefer public transportation, major bus routes pass nearby, connecting various parts of the city to the waterfront. The park is within walking distance of Kelowna's main transport hubs.

Stuart Park holds significant historical importance for the city. The waterfront area where it sits was the heart of Kelowna for a long time, as Lake Okanagan served as the primary transport artery before the arrival of railways, connecting the settlement to the rest of the world.

The park's development was part of a major project to transform the shoreline into a cultural and civic hub. The square's modern layout is harmoniously integrated into the historical landscape, preserving the memory of the region's past.

One of the most notable features of the park is the blue bear sculpture. This is not just a piece of art but an important symbol reflecting the region's deep connection to Indigenous history and their rich cultural heritage.

Visitors usually need about 1 to 2 hours to fully enjoy the atmosphere of this place. If your plans include just a quick introductory walk along the waterfront with panoramic lake views, 30–45 minutes will be quite enough.

If you plan to take part in seasonal activities—such as skating on the public rink in winter or attending a summer concert in the square—you should set aside at least half a day for your visit.

Stuart Park is warmly open to visitors every day. You can come here for an early morning walk or enjoy the city's evening lights, as the official operating hours are from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM Monday through Sunday.

Please note that while the park itself is accessible year-round, seasonal facilities like the ice rink or equipment rentals operate on a specific schedule depending on weather conditions and the time of year.

Exploring the surroundings of Stuart Park will allow you to dive deeper into the city's atmosphere and see many interesting places. The Kelowna waterfront is literally dotted with attractions just a few minutes' walk away.

You can visit historical buildings or spend time in active recreation areas. Here is a list of nearby sites: