Kamloops Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Kamloops with this comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, hiking & biking trails, food & drink scene, transportation options, and more.


Kamloops is a charming city located in the Thompson-Nicola region of British Columbia, Canada. This city is located in the heart of nature and is known for its stunning landscapes, high-quality outdoor recreation opportunities, and cultural attractions. Whether you are an adventure enthusiast or a history buff, Kamloops offers something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide to Kamloops, we’ll provide you with ideas on what to do and see, where to stay, eat, and how to get around.

Introduction to Kamloops

The name Kamloops comes from the Secwépemc word “Tk’emlúps”, meaning the place where the rivers meet. Kamloops is located where the North and South Thompson rivers converge. Kamloops is a year-round destination with hot summers and snowy winters, and an ideal gateway to the Thompson-Okanagan region and surrounding areas. The city is home to over 90,280 residents that stretch over 299 square kilometers.

List of Places to Visit in Kamloops

Kamloops offers a host of attractions, from cultural landmarks to natural wonders. Here are some of the top places to visit in Kamloops:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kamloops Museum and Archives - an excellent place to learn about the history, culture, and geography of Kamloops and the surrounding area.
  • Secwepemc Museum and Heritage Park - a place to learn about the history and traditions of the indigenous Secwépemc people.
  • St. Andrews on the Square - a historic church building that has been converted into an arts and culture center for the community.
  • Fort Kamloops - a historic fur trading post founded by the Hudson’s Bay Company in 1812.

Natural Attractions of Kamloops: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Riverside Park - a beautiful park located on the south bank of the Thompson River, where you can enjoy walking, running, fishing, and picnicking.
  • Kenna Cartwright Park - a 800-hectare park located on the south slope of Mount Dufferin, offering hiking and mountain biking trails and spectacular views of Kamloops.
  • Kamloops Bike Ranch - a popular destination for mountain biking enthusiasts with a variety of trails catering to all skill levels.
  • Sun Peaks Resort - one of the largest ski resorts in British Columbia, offering world-class skiing and snowboarding in winter and alpine hiking and mountain biking in the summer.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kamloops

Kamloops offers a plethora of outdoor recreational activities with hiking and biking being the most popular.

  • Lac du Bois Grasslands Protected Area - a 17,500-hectare protected area, offering a variety of hiking trails with panoramic views of Kamloops and the surrounding landscape.
  • Pioneer Park Trail - a 2.5-kilometer trail that follows the North Thompson River, perfect for an afternoon walk or bike ride.
  • Peterson Creek Nature Park - a 423-hectare park located in the heart of Kamloops with over 30 kilometers of hiking trails.
  • Kenna Cartwright Park - a 800-hectare park offering over 40 kilometers of hiking and biking trails.

Best Things to Do in Kamloops: Activities and Tours

Kamloops offers an array of activities and tours for visitors of all ages. Whether you are an adventure enthusiast, a history buff, or a culture vulture, Kamloops has something for everyone. Here are some things to do in Kamloops:

  • Rafting or kayaking in the Thompson River
  • Wine tasting tours at nearby wineries in the Thompson-Okanagan region
  • Golfing at Tobiano Golf Course
  • Watching sports games at the Sandman Centre
  • Shopping and dining at the Kamloops Farmers Market

Week-Long Itinerary for Kamloops

A week would give you adequate time to visit all major tourist attractions and perhaps have time to check some of our other recommendations:

  • Day 1 - Explore the city center and its landmarks
  • Day 2 - Visit local museums, such as the Kamloops Museum and Archives and the Secwepemc Museum and Heritage Park
  • Day 3 - Take a day trip to Sun Peaks Resort and enjoy outdoor activities in the stunning resort
  • Day 4 - Explore the natural beauty of Kamloops by visiting Kenna Cartwright Park and Peterson Creek Nature Park
  • Day 5 - Spend a day in Lac du Bois Grasslands Protected Area and partake in hiking and nature-watching
  • Day 6 - Enjoy a day learning about indigenous culture by attending a performance or workshop at Tsútswecw Provincial Park
  • Day 7 - Experience Small Town Living and marvel at the beauty of the Savona Caves

Food and Drink Scene of Kamloops

Kamloops has a diverse dining scene with restaurants and cafes that cater to every budget and taste. Here are must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bison burgers at Terra Restaurant
  • Craft beer and gourmet sausages at Red Collar Brewing Company
  • Local trout at The Noble Pig Brewhouse
  • Delicious wines and charcuterie boards at Monte Creek Ranch Winery

Local Beverages

  • Kamloops-based wineries like Monte Creek Ranch Winery, Harper’s Trail Winery, and Privato Vineyard & Winery.
  • The craft beer scene is thriving in Kamloops; visit Red Collar Brewing Company or Iron Road Brewing.

Where to Stay in Kamloops: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kamloops offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to high-end resort properties. Here are some of the best places to stay in Kamloops:

  • Hotel 540 - a contemporary hotel located in downtown Kamloops.
  • Thompson Hotel and Conference Centre - a budget-friendly hotel with excellent amenities and a central location.
  • Delta Hotels by Marriott Kamloops - a high-end hotel located in the heart of Kamloops.

What to Buy in Kamloops: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Kamloops offers a range of locally crafted products that make great souvenirs. Some of the local products that you can purchase include hand-crafted pottery and ceramics, locally made wines and spirits, artisanal soaps and body products, and woolen goods.

Local Culture and Customs of Kamloops

The indigenous Secwépemc people have a deep cultural and historical connection to the Kamloops area. It’s essential to respect the land and the people. Visitors should familiarize themselves with the culture and customs of the local First Nations people and follow the rules and regulations set out by the local authorities.

Best Time to Visit Kamloops

The best time to visit Kamloops is from May to September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and outdoor recreational activities are abundant. Winter sports enthusiasts should visit Kamloops from December to March.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kamloops

Do:

  • Respect the unique ecological and cultural significance of Kamloops.
  • Take the time to visit and learn about the local First Nations people.
  • Enjoy outdoor recreational activities in Kamloops’ pristine backcountry.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the surrounding area’s natural environment.
  • Disrespect local culture or customs.
  • Pledge allegiance to Vancouver, BC, or Edmonton; locals pledge allegiance to Kamloops!

Safety and Health

Safety in Kamloops

Kamloops is a relatively safe city. However, it is always important to follow basic travel safety precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings, locking up valuables, and avoiding unlit or dim-lit areas at night.

Health in Kamloops

Kamloops has excellent medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics, that provide quality care to residents and visitors. It’s always essential to purchase medical travel insurance when traveling to Kamloops.

Getting to Kamloops: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kamloops

Kamloops Airport (YKA) is located just 7 kilometers from downtown Kamloops and is serviced by two airlines, Air Canada and WestJet.

Bus Stations Near Kamloops

Kamloops is connected to several neighboring cities and towns by a network of bus services, including Greyhound and BC Transit.

Other Options

Visitors can also take the train, drive, or even cycle to Kamloops. BC Ferries is another option for those arriving from Vancouver Island and the lower mainland.

How to Get Around Kamloops

Kamloops is a compact city that is easy to navigate on foot, bike, or by public transportation. Kamloops has an extensive bus system, including a downtown shuttle service. Visitors can also rent a car or bike from several local rental agencies.

Where to Go Next from Kamloops: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several other exciting destinations near Kamloops that make a great day trip or weekend excursion, including:

  • Chase
  • Merritt
  • Tunkwa Provincial Park
  • McGuire Lake

Conclusion

Kamloops is a diverse and charming city that offers something for everyone. From natural attractions and outdoor recreational activities, historical landmarks, delicious local food and drink, to a rich cultural heritage, Kamloops is undoubtedly a destination worth visiting. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your trip and make the most out of your Kamloops adventure.

Old Kamloops Courthouse Old Kamloops Courthouse St. Joseph's Church St. Joseph's Church Kamloops Lake Kamloops Lake Riverside Park Riverside Park