Hotel Zed Kelowna is a funky boutique hotel in downtown Kelowna, across from City Park and a few steps from Okanagan Lake. The rooms are quirky and themed, with rotary phones, retro alarm clocks and upcycled furniture, and the public areas include a ping pong lounge with arcade-style games and board games, plus lobbies with typewriters. The hotel has a seasonal pool, a hot tub and a sauna, free parking, and free bike rentals that include tandems, roller skates and longboards. Three rooftop patios with firepits and a barbecue are open in season. Pets of any kind are welcome, and the hotel is Rainbow Registered. It is the value choice for visitors who want personality and a walkable location without a resort price.
Location and getting around
The hotel is in downtown Kelowna across from City Park, so the lake, the beaches and the restaurants are within a short walk. Big White ski resort is about an hour away by road, and many wineries are 15 to 25 minutes by car. Several wine tour pickup points are within walking distance, which makes it easy to book a tour and skip the car. The free bikes are a good way to ride along the lake and into downtown.
The rooms and the feel
The rooms are playful rather than luxurious, with a retro theme and upcycled furniture, and the shared spaces are part of the appeal, with a games lounge and rooftop patios. The pool, hot tub and sauna are seasonal, open daily in the daytime and evening, and the firepits and barbecues on the patios are best in warmer months. The hotel's page does not mention breakfast or a bar, so check directly and plan your meals downtown, where there is plenty to choose from.
Who it suits and what to know: couples, groups of friends, solo travellers and families with a sense of humour will enjoy it, and it is a strong choice for travellers on a budget who still want a good location. It is also a good base for a dog-friendly trip, since pets are welcome with no limit on number.
Rooms are not as large or as formal as those in a resort, and the retro style will not suit everyone. Check the seasonal facilities if you visit in winter, and ask about quiet rooms if you are a light sleeper.
Why stay here
- ✓Across from City Park, steps from the lake
- ✓Free bike rentals
- ✓Free parking
- ✓Seasonal pool, hot tub and sauna
- ✓Rooftop patios with firepits (seasonal)
- ✓Ping pong and games lounge
- ✓Retro themed rooms
- ✓Pets welcome
Good questions
Where is Hotel Zed Kelowna?+
It is in downtown Kelowna, across from City Park and steps from Okanagan Lake. Restaurants, beaches and several wine tour pickup points are within walking distance.
Are bikes and parking included?+
Yes, the hotel offers free bike rentals, including tandems and longboards, and free parking. Check the hotel for availability and rules.
Does it allow pets?+
Pets of all kinds are welcome with no limit on number, and each pet fee includes a small donation to the BC Humane Society. Ask the hotel for current fees.
