Things To Do
in Kamloops
Kamloops is a city located in the interior of British Columbia, Canada. It is known for its stunning natural surroundings, with rivers, lakes, and mountains offering plenty of recreational opportunities such as hiking, fishing, and skiing. The city has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cold winters.
Kamloops also has a strong cultural scene, with art galleries, museums, and annual festivals showcasing the area's history and diversity.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $75 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $120
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a relaxing walk at Riverside Park, enjoying the picturesque views of the Thompson River. Grab a coffee from a local café before heading to the Kamloops Museum and Archives to learn some history.
After lunch, visit the BC Wildlife Park to see native animals and engage in interactive exhibits. Take the scenic route back, stopping by some local artisan shops for souvenirs.
Dine at a local restaurant that offers farm-to-table options, providing a taste of Kamloops' culinary scene. After dinner, unwind with a walk along the riverbank and take in the sunset.
Start off with a hearty breakfast, then head to Kenna Cartwright Park for some early morning hiking. Explore the well-marked trails that offer sprawling views of the area.
After a refreshing hike, enjoy a packed picnic lunch at one of the scenic viewpoints. Spend your afternoon biking along the local trails, taking in the fresh air.
Wrap up your day with a visit to a local brewery for some craft beer tasting. Enjoy live music or a trivia night to connect with locals.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery including mountains and rivers
- Outdoor recreational opportunities such as hiking, biking, and skiing
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger Canadian cities
- Strong sense of community and friendly atmosphere
- Access to amenities such as shopping, dining, and healthcare
- Growing economy with diverse job opportunities
- Cold winter temperatures and snowfall may not be suitable for everyone
- Limited public transportation options
- Some may find the city lacks the vibrancy of larger urban centers
- Higher risk of wildfires in the summer months
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to bigger cities
- Potential for economic fluctuations in resource-dependent sectors
Best Activities in Kamloops
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the numerous hiking trails in and around Kamloops, such as Kenna Cartwright Park, Battle Bluff, and Lac du Bois Grasslands.
Enjoy mountain biking on the extensive network of trails, including the Kamloops Bike Ranch and Harper Mountain.
Take advantage of the world-class golf courses in Kamloops, renowned for their stunning scenery and challenging holes.
Experience excellent fishing opportunities in the rivers and lakes around Kamloops, with species like trout and steelhead.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kamloops with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kamloops
Visit one of these nice places.
This park offers stunning panoramic views of Kamloops and is a popular spot for photography.
The downtown area provides excellent opportunities for capturing urban scenes and street photography.
Situated along the Thompson River, this park offers picturesque views and is a great location for capturing waterfront images.
Food in Kamloops
Kamloops Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A local favorite, Kamloops Trout is best enjoyed grilled or pan-seared. It can be found at many restaurants and seafood eateries in Kamloops, particularly those with a focus on local cuisine.
Must-Try!
A traditional Indigenous food, bannock is a type of flatbread that can be enjoyed on its own or with various toppings. Look for it at Indigenous restaurants or cultural events in Kamloops.
Kamloops' surrounding areas are abundant with wild berries, and locals often make delicious jams and preserves from them. These can be found at local markets or specialty stores.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market is held regularly and showcases a variety of fresh produce, artisanal food products, and homemade goods. Visitors can sample local treats and interact with food vendors.
Kamloops hosts seasonal food truck festivals, featuring a diverse array of cuisines from around the world. It's a great way to experience street food and support local vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kamloops, it is important to show respect for the local Indigenous culture. This can be done by learning about the history and traditions of the First Nations peoples in the area, and by demonstrating a willingness to listen and learn from Indigenous individuals and communities.
Kamloops is known for its beautiful natural environment, and it is appreciated when visitors and residents show a commitment to environmental stewardship. This includes things like proper waste disposal, conservation of water and energy, and responsible outdoor recreational practices.
As in many Canadian communities, politeness and courtesy are valued in Kamloops. People are generally friendly and appreciate polite interactions. Saying please and thank you, holding doors open for others, and showing consideration for others are all part of respectful behavior in this city.
Safety
Tipping in Kamloops
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kamloops, Canada, it is customary to tip around 15-20% at restaurants, cafes, and bars. Tipping for other services such as hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides is also appreciated and expected.
Most businesses in Kamloops, Canada accept major credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard. Debit cards are widely used, and cash is also accepted. Mobile payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are becoming increasingly popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit if you want to see blooming flowers and mild temperatures. Outdoor activities such as hiking and biking are popular during this time.
Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. Perfect for activities like kayaking, fishing, and attending local festivals.
Known for vibrant foliage and pleasant temperatures. Visitors can enjoy hiking, exploring local wineries, and attending fall events and harvest festivals.
Great for winter sports enthusiasts with opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. The city also hosts winter festivals and events for visitors to enjoy.
Kamloops at Night
Hiking in Kamloops
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking area with numerous trails offering scenic views of Kamloops and the surrounding landscape.
This large park features a network of trails through diverse ecosystems, suitable for hiking with panoramic views of the city.
A hiking spot that provides a challenging trail leading to breathtaking views of Kamloops and the Thompson Valley.
A vast natural area with various trails that explore grasslands, wetlands, and forested regions, rich in wildlife.
This area offers multiple trails for hiking, with access to tranquil lakes and opportunities for birdwatching.
Aiports
How to reach Kamloops by plane.
Located approximately 350 kilometers west of Kamloops, YVR is the largest international airport in Canada, serving numerous destinations worldwide.
Approximately 700 kilometers east of Kamloops, YYC is a major international airport in Canada, offering many flights to and from various global locations.
Situated around 450 kilometers south of Kamloops, SEA serves the Pacific Northwest region of the United States and provides a wide range of international flights.
Approximately 800 kilometers north of Kamloops, YEG is one of the major international airports in Alberta, providing access to numerous international destinations.
Located about 400 kilometers southwest of Kamloops, YYJ is a key airport serving Vancouver Island with domestic and limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Kamloops, consisting primarily of individuals with European ancestry.
Includes First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples, representing a significant cultural and historical presence in the region.
A diverse group including individuals of Chinese, South Asian, Filipino, and other Asian backgrounds.
A smaller demographic group with roots in various Latin American countries.
A growing demographic that encompasses individuals with African descent who contribute to the multicultural fabric of the city.
Includes individuals from various other backgrounds and cultures, reflecting the diversity of the city's population.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular winter sport in Kamloops, with numerous local teams and a strong community following.
Kamloops has a rich lacrosse tradition and hosts multiple teams at various levels, including junior and senior leagues.
Soccer is widely played among youth and adults in Kamloops, with leagues and clubs available for all ages.
Summer baseball is a favored pastime in Kamloops, with local leagues for children, youth, and adults.
Basketball is a growing sport in Kamloops, with many schools and community leagues actively promoting the game.
Rugby has a dedicated following in Kamloops, with clubs for both men and women participating in local and regional competitions.
Kamloops offers various running clubs and events, taking advantage of its scenic landscapes and trails.
Cycling is popular in Kamloops, supported by its extensive biking trails and cycling events throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kamloops.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Kamloops has a growing number of restaurants and cafes that offer creative and flavorful vegetarian dishes. Many places also have vegan options or are willing to customize dishes to accommodate vegetarian diets.
While vegan options were once limited, Kamloops now caters well to the vegan community. Several establishments feature dedicated vegan menus, and others are flexible in adapting their offerings to suit a vegan diet.
Individuals with gluten intolerance can find a variety of gluten-free choices at eateries across Kamloops, including restaurants that specifically label gluten-free items on their menus.