It’s time to adventure beyond your front door, so hit the open road and burst your bubble in Kamloops.
Explore wide-open experiences this summer - free from crowds, lines, and traffic. You won’t find polish or flash in Kamloops; here, rough around the edges and real places are the norm. So, embrace spontaneity, and let curiosity be your compass.
Escape the city, head into the outdoors and choose an adventure that tickles your fancy.
Kamloops’ rugged terrain was made to test the limits on your mountain bike, hike amongst sagebrush and hoodoos, par-tee (see what we did there?) on the greens for a round or two, or reel in a Rainbow Trout at one of 100+ lakes within a one-hour drive of the city. Don’t forget to grab your shades and life jacket to cruise the waters by kayak or stand up paddleboard.
Bruker Marina on Kamloops Lake. Photo: Tourism Kamloops / Kathryn McLaren.
Seeking a softer adventure? Look up and try your hand at birdwatching. The climate and biome varies from the coast, so birders will find different species in the Interior like the Yellow-Rumped Warbler or Western Meadowlark.
Animal lovers can take a walk on the wild side at the BC Wildlife Park, a rescue and rehabilitation centre for orphaned and injured wildlife. Learn about over 60 different animal species native to BC including cougars, wolves, birds of prey, and Clover, the only Kermode Bear in human care in the world. Or giddy up for a guided trail ride with Erin Valley Riding Stables or Inspire Trails as you travel through iconic grasslands on a morning or afternoon ride.
Get caught off guard with Kamloops’ diverse arts and culture scene in the best possible way.
Pop into the Kamloops Art Gallery and Kamloops Museum & Archives before going on a self-guided scavenger hunt to see how many of the 30 art murals you can find on the Back Alley Art Gallery Tour. Or relive childhood dreams with your favourite movie snacks and a drive-in movie at the Twin Rivers Drive-In on Friday and Saturday nights.
After exploring the outdoors, gear up for après in style. Home to 4 award-winning wineries in the Thompson Valley wine region, tasting with the owners is the norm in Kamloops.
Savour the views with your front row seat while you dine al fresco on Monte Creek Winery’s patio, walk through Privato Vineyard and Winery’s luscious gardens, take in the sights of the rustic hoodoos at Harper’s Trail Winery, or the South Thompson River at Sagewood Winery - Kamloops’ first vineyard. Keep it simple and book a wine tour with one of Kamloops’ tour operators so you can enjoy bright, premium wines without worrying how you’ll get from point A to B.
Harper's Trail Estate Winery. Photo: Tourism Kamloops / Royce Sihlis.
Prefer to quench your thirst with a cold brew? With five local breweries and two distilleries, you’re sure to add a new fave craft beer or cocktail to your roster.
Tantalize your taste buds with rotating, innovative sips paired with unique eats at Bright Eye Brewing (the Brussel Sprouts are a local fave), Iron Road Brewing (hello, street tacos!), Noble Pig Brewhouse (deep-fried pickles are a must), Alchemy Brewing Company (a glorious doughnut-glazed bun burger), and Red Collar Brewing (get Korean-Fried Chicken delivered to your table).
Indulge your inner foodie for tasty bites on a patio or safe suds and grub indoors around Kamloops.
The Alley at ROMEOs Kitchen + Spirits is serving up margaritas, tacos, and Friday Flight features in their funky, Instagrammable outdoor space. Explore authentic flavours like a Jamaican Sunshine Benedict - jerked pork on Jonny Cakes - at Jamaican Kitchen. Or if you’re searching for vegan or gluten-free options, stop at the eclectic The Art We Are Cafe for breakfast, lunch, and baked goods made with fresh ingredients. Feeling a more laid-back vibe? Pick up local ingredients from the Kamloops Farmers’ Market, on Wednesdays and Saturdays in downtown Kamloops, for a nostalgic picnic in the park.
Come as you are and try something new this summer. Remember to be a responsible visitor and follow guidelines put in place to keep your bubble and the community of Kamloops safe.
Visit tourismkamloops.com to begin planning your summer retreat.
