Top 10 Unique Things to do in Kamloops – For Residents and Visitors
There are lots of things to do in Kamloops, British Columbia, no matter what time of the year you visit. Whether you’re searching for a thrilling adventure, a relaxing pastime, or something to do on a rainy day, this list of things to do in Kamloops will provide you with plenty of options.
Kamloops is a city that has something for everyone. There are numerous alternatives for experiencing the local art and culture scene in the city’s downtown core, which includes a variety of stores, cafés, and restaurants.
However, if you venture beyond the city boundaries, you’ll be able to enjoy British Columbia’s stunning nature – and all the activities that come with it.
There are various ways to enjoy the natural splendor of the Kamloops area, whether you’re skiing, golfing, or horseback riding. The most difficult step may be deciding what to accomplish first. Our list of the Ten things to do in Kamloops will help you narrow down your choices.
Where is Kamloops?
Kamloops is a city in the province of British Columbia, Canada. It is located 220 miles (355 kilometers) northeast of Vancouver, at the confluence of the North and South Thompson rivers. It is also adjacent to the Kamloops Indian Reserve.
The City was founded as a trading colony by Alexander Ross of the Pacific (Astoria) Fur Company. But, the Hudson’s Bay Company bought the trading concession in 1821 and transferred its post (Fort Kamloops) across the river to what is now North Kamloops in 1862.
North Kamloops became a hamlet in 1946 and a town in 1961, and Kamloops became a city in 1893. In 1967, the two settlements merged to become the city.
Furthermore, Kamloops serves as a service center for a cattle-ranching and forestry region, with livestock selling, wood and pulp processing, and food canning.
Additional sources of revenue include government work (Kamloops is the administration center for the southern interior of British Columbia) and tourism.
Kamloops Population
According to Statistics Canada’s first report from the 2021 census, Kamloops’ population has increased by 8.4% in the last five years to 97,902. Kamloops is the 12th most populous city in British Columbia.
Cities Near Kamloops
There are three popular and historical cities near Kamloops, they include:-
Ashcroft
This historic frontier town, located on the banks of the Thompson River on Highway #97C, played an important role in the development of central British Columbia.
Aschroft was once a government hub and a vital link to the Canadian Pacific Railway. Cattle from the interior meadows would then be moved to Ashcroft and shipped south by rail.
Barriere
The North Thompson Fall Fair and Rodeo is held in Barriere, which is located 63 kilometers (38 miles) north of Kamloops in the North Thompson Valley. The many neighboring lakes and rivers give excellent fishing and camping opportunities for visitors. Barriere has a wide range of services and lodging options.
Blue River
Blue River is located in the Columbia Mountains’ North Thompson River Valley. Between the Cariboo Mountains to the northwest and the Monashee Mountains to the east, the North Thompson River runs south. Blue River is located halfway between Edmonton, Alberta, and Vancouver, British Columbia, at an elevation of 681 meters.
The located is located 230 kilometers north of Kamloops and 212 kilometers south of Jasper on BC Highway #5.
How to get to Kamloops by Air and Road?
Taking an aircraft from Kamloops to Vancouver is the quickest route, with tickets costing on average $248 USD and a trip time of 2 hours.
What is the distance between Kamloops and Vancouver? From Kamloops to Vancouver, the distance is 158 miles. The distance on the route is 219 miles.
The distance between Vancouver and Kamloops is 430 kilometers, and it takes roughly 5 hours to drive nonstop.
Things to do in Kamloops
There are numerous activities to do in Kamloops, but there are ten in particular that will make your stay more exciting and help you learn more about the city. So, as you browse through our list, have a look at these!
#1. British Columbia Wildlife Park – Get Intimate With Nature!
The BC (British Columbia) wildlife park is a fantastic place to visit in any season. The zoo covers 106 acres and is reported to feature the world’s largest owl breading facility. The park first opened its doors in 1965, and it is currently a member of CAZA. Explore this wildlife park to learn about Canada’s wildlife!
#2. Take a stroll in Riverside Park!
Riverside Park is a park located on the banks of the Thompson River, and it includes the town’s lone beach. There’s also a monument that shows the amount of water that rose throughout the three floods that hit the city. The park serves as a crossroads for river and land activities.
#3. Enjoy a Picnic Day at Kamloops Lake!
The lake is located on the western edge of Kamloops and is over 29 kilometers long. You can see the lovely view of the mountains that surround the lake, and because most of the areas that surround the lake are occupied, it’s a great place to have a picnic with your loved ones! Happiness at Kamloops Lake is free, as picnicking is one of the many free activities to do in Kamloops!
#4. Ride the Kamloops Heritage Railway!
It’s rare to see vintage steam trains in this day and age of bullet trains. In Kamloops, however, this is not the case. You may ride the vintage steam train at Kamloops Heritage Railway, which is unquestionably one of the most entertaining things to do in Kamloops! It’s noteworthy to note that the locomotive pulling the train is known as the “Spirit of Kamloops.”
#5. Sun Peaks Resort is a great place to go skiing
If you’re looking for a thrilling adventure, this ski resort in Kamloops’ northeast region has plenty to offer. The resort boasts a 16-square-meter skiable area, allowing you to enjoy skiing at its finest, and let’s face it, skiing is without a doubt one of the top winter activities in Kamloops. You can also enjoy the resort’s golf course and tubing sport!
#6. Hike at Kenna Cartwright Park!
This park was created to safeguard one of the city’s natural landscapes and is named after Kenna Cartwright, the former mayor of Kamloops. You can take a day to hike to the park and enjoy the wonderful views of valleys, hills, Douglas forest, and pineland while doing so.
#7. Play Sports at McArthur Island Park!
If you’re planning a trip to British Columbia over the summer and aren’t sure what to do in Kamloops, look no further! Baseball, soccer, and other sports such as tennis can all be played at McArthur Island Park. You may also revitalize your mind and body by taking a walk in the park or cycling!
#8. Downtown Kamloops is a great place to shop and eat!
Downtown Kamloops is a haven for shopaholics and foodies alike; not only does it offer a diverse choice of local and international cuisines, but it also has a plethora of magnificent boutiques lining the road. The area also boasts a variety of outstanding local ales, so there’s plenty to see and do here!
#9. Privato Winery and Vineyard – Indulge in Delicious Wine!
The Privato Vineyard is a place where you can sample authentic and excellent wine that has been expertly created. The vineyard proudly specializes in brewing Burgundy wine, and the land is not only stunning but also offers a lovely tiny wine tasting area.
#10. Play a Card at Cascades Casino!
Cascades Casino is one of the best venues to try your luck at gambling. The casino offers a variety of gambling games in which you can invest and potentially double your money! It’s a pleasant setting where you can have a good time while testing your luck!
What to do in Kamloops On Special Days?
Thinking of nightouts for your birthdays. Or you’re looking for things to do in Kamloops on weekends, and Sundays! You’ve come to the perfect place. Let’s walk you through some exciting things.
What to do on a weekend?
Kamloops is a Canadian city where you may have fun on weekends. Take a look at our checklist below:
- Kenna Cartwright Park is a great place to go hiking.
- Sun Peaks Resort is a great place to go skiing.
- Wildlife encounters at the British Columbia Wildlife Park
- The Cascades Casino is a great place to gamble.
- Kamloops Heritage Railways offers a steam train ride.
Things to do in Kamloops Today?
Maybe you’re bored today, or you’re stumped as to where you should take your girl. With these excellent places listed below, you’ll barely have time to take your wallet out of your backpack:
- Aberdeen Mall
- McArthur Island Park
- Riverside Park
- Lake City Casino Kamloops
Best Times to Visit Kamloops?
The best time to visit Kamloops is between the months of May and September, when the city is at its most gorgeous. However, the best skiing and snowboarding may be found at nearby Sun Peaks Resort or Harper Mountain during the winter months.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the distance between Kamloops and Vancouver?
The distance between Kamloops and Vancouver is roughly 220 miles (354 kilometers).
What are the best places to go in Kamloops?
If you have to select amongst the many attractions in Kamloops, you should go to the Kamloops Wildlife Park and the Monte Creek Ranch Winery.
What are some of Kamloops’ top outdoor activities?
Camping, swimming, and hiking in Paul Lake Provincial Park are some of the best recreational activities available. Wine tasting at Monte Creek Ranch Winery is another outdoor experience not to be missed.
What are the most popular things to do with kids in Kamloops?
There are several kid-friendly activities in Kamloops, such as making new animal friends at the Kamloops Wildlife Park, learning more about science at the BIG Little Science Centre, and touring the Paul Lake Provincial Park.
Conclusion
Kamloops is one of the best places to visit for adventure and family vacations. Throughout the year, the city offers a variety of adventurous activities, and you can enjoy some of the best things to do in Kamloops. So, what are you waiting for? Kindly reachout to us at workstudyvisa if you require any assistance. Thank you for reading!
