Kamloops Travel Guide
City City in British Columbia, known for outdoor activities
Two Thompson Rivers meet in Kamloops; outdoorsy visitors come for river paddling, mountain biking, ranch stays, wineries and winter skiing a short drive away.
Why Visit Kamloops? #
Set at the meeting of two rivers, this inland city is popular for outdoor recreation and a relaxed, sun-soaked atmosphere. The Thompson River offers fishing, rafting and riverside trails, and nearby Sun Peaks provides skiing and mountain biking year-round. Wineries on the Thompson Valley Wine Trail and a selection of gastropubs showcase local produce, making it a destination that pairs active days on water or slopes with approachable food and wine experiences.
Who's Kamloops For?
Kamloops is a playground for outdoor types: mountain biking on the riverside trail network, whitewater rafting on the Thompson, rock climbing at nearby bluffs and skiing at Sun Peaks in winter. Guided outfitters and rental shops are widely available downtown.
The dry, sunny Interior setting offers desert-like badlands, riparian corridors and provincial parks: Kenna Cartwright Park has extensive trails; Lac du Bois and Juniper Beach are good for birdwatching and short hikes. Expect open vistas and warm summer days.
Kamloops is family-friendly with riverfront parks, playgrounds and the BC Wildlife Park. The downtown has kid-friendly museums and seasonal festivals; family accommodation ranges from budget motels to riverside resorts suitable for summer water activities.
Interior wine country and craft breweries put Kamloops on the food map: farmers’ markets, smokehouses and farm-to-table restaurants spotlight local lamb and peaches. Expect casual gastropubs and tasting rooms within easy driving distance of city neighbourhoods.
Top Things to Do in Kamloops
All Attractions ›
- B.C. Wildlife Park - Conservation-focused park featuring rescued native wildlife, interactive exhibits, and daily raptor demonstrations.
- Riverside Park - Large riverfront park with playgrounds, seasonal farmers' market, bandshell, and festival space.
- Kamloops Museum and Archives - Local history exhibits covering fur trade, railway heritage, and Thompson River communities.
- Secwepemc Museum and Heritage Park - Displays, reconstructed villages, and cultural programs interpreting Secwepemc history and traditions.
- Kamloops Art Gallery - Contemporary Canadian art exhibitions plus rotating regional shows and community programs.
- Kenna Cartwright Nature Park - Expansive trail network on Kamloops' west hill offering skyline views and quiet singletrack.
- McArthur Island Park and Sports Complex - Island green space with walking paths, sports fields, arena, and seasonal concerts.
- Kamloops Farmers' Market (Riverside Park) - Saturday market showcasing local produce, crafts, baked goods, and lively community atmosphere.
- Sagebrush Theatre - Intimate performing-arts venue hosting local theatre, music, and touring productions year-round.
- Sun Peaks Resort - Alpine resort about forty-five minutes away, offering skiing, mountain biking, and village dining.
- Wells Gray Provincial Park (Helmcken Falls) - Drive roughly two and a half hours to see waterfalls, hiking trails, and volcanic terrain.
- Lac Le Jeune Provincial Park - Trout-filled lake thirty-five minutes from Kamloops with easy hikes and picnic spots.
- Salmon Arm - R.J. Haney Heritage Village & Museum - Historic waterfront village museum, pier, and seasonal events about ninety minutes away.
- Chase and Little Shuswap Lake - Warm-water beaches, fishing and boat launches around an hour northeast of Kamloops.
Where to Go in Kamloops #
Downtown
Kamloops’ downtown sits on the river with cliffs rising behind it - an easy area to explore on foot. There are cafés, independent shops and several decent evening spots clustered together. It’s the most convenient place to stay for first-time visitors who want access to tours and day trips.
Top Spots
- Riverside Park - Large park with river access and events.
- Kamloops Art Gallery - Regional exhibitions and rotating shows.
- Downtown bars & restaurants - Concentrated cluster for evenings out.
- Ranchero Shopping - Local shops and services.
North Shore
Across the river, the North Shore blends residential neighbourhoods with mall-style shopping and recreational trails. It’s a good mix of convenience and outdoor access, especially for hikers and families who want space without being far from downtown.
Top Spots
- Riverside & Thompson River trails - Scenic walking and cycling routes.
- Aberdeen Mall - Regional shopping and eateries.
- Sahali viewpoints - Lookouts over the valley.
Sahali / Aberdeen
Sahali and the Aberdeen area are residential neighbourhoods with easy access to shops and transport links to outdoor adventures. Expect chains, family restaurants and practical lodging; use this area if you’re planning day trips into the hills or longer outdoor excursions.
Top Spots
- Sun Peaks day trips - Easy access to shuttle services for mountain activities.
- Local grocery & chain restaurants - Practical dining and supplies.
- Viewpoints over Kamloops - Good sunrise/sunset spots.
Plan Your Visit to Kamloops #
Best Time to Visit Kamloops #
Visit Kamloops from late spring through early fall for warm, dry weather that's perfect for hiking, biking, golfing and river activities. Winters are short and chilly-good for nearby skiing but bring layers for icy mornings.
Best Time to Visit Kamloops #
Kamloops's climate is classified as Cold Semi-Arid - Cold Semi-Arid climate with warm summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -9°C to 28°C. Semi-arid with limited rainfall.
January
January is the coldest month with highs of -2°C and lows of -9°C. Light rainfall and mostly overcast skies.
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February
February is freezing with highs of 3°C and lows of -5°C. The driest month with just 14 mm and mostly overcast skies.
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March
March is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of -2°C. The driest month with just 14 mm and mostly overcast skies.
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April
April is cold with highs of 16°C and lows of 2°C. Light rainfall and mostly overcast skies.
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May
May is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 6°C. Light rainfall and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is cool with highs of 24°C and lows of 10°C. The wettest month with 41 mm of rain and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is the warmest month with highs of 28°C and lows of 12°C. Moderate rainfall (35 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 12°C. Moderate rainfall (30 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 7°C. Light rainfall and partly cloudy skies.
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October
October is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 2°C. Light rainfall and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of -3°C. Light rainfall and mostly overcast skies.
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December
December is freezing with highs of -1°C and lows of -8°C. Moderate rainfall (32 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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How to Get to Kamloops
Kamloops is easiest reached by flying into the local Kamloops Airport (YKA) or by coach/road from larger hubs such as Vancouver. Rail service exists but is infrequent; most visitors use regional buses, rental cars or local transit to get into and around the city.
Kamloops Airport (YKA): The regional Kamloops Airport is the closest option for most visitors; taxis to downtown take about 15-20 minutes and cost roughly CAD 25-35. Several national and local car-rental companies operate at the terminal; some hotels offer a pre-arranged shuttle so check ahead if you need one.
Vancouver International Airport (YVR): YVR is the major international gateway for the region. If you fly into Vancouver you can rent a car (drive time to Kamloops ~3.5-4.5 hours) or take an intercity coach (see bus info below) - expect roughly CAD 25-55 and about 4.5-5.5 hours on a scheduled coach service depending on route and stops.
Train: Kamloops is served by Via Rail’s long‑distance service (The Canadian) at the Kamloops stop. Train service is infrequent and aimed at long‑distance travel rather than local commuting; travel times and fares vary widely, so check Via Rail for current schedules and prices before planning.
Bus: Intercity coach operators (notably Ebus and other regional carriers) run regular services linking Kamloops with Vancouver, Kelowna and other Interior communities. Typical one‑way fares range from about CAD 20-55 depending on distance and how far ahead you book; Vancouver-Kamloops is roughly a 4.5-5.5 hour trip, Kelowna-Kamloops about 2-2.5 hours. Coaches arrive/depart at downtown Kamloops stops or the regional bus terminal.
How to Get Around Kamloops
Kamloops is best navigated with a car if you want to explore the region; for inner‑city travel the BC Transit network and taxis are practical and affordable. Intercity coaches provide reliable links to Vancouver and the Okanagan, while Via Rail is available only as an infrequent long‑distance option.
- Driving / Car rental (CAD 40-120 per day) - A car is the most flexible way to explore Kamloops and the surrounding Thompson and nearby Okanagan region - recommended if you want to visit provincial parks, wineries or outlying valleys. Major rental agencies operate at Kamloops Airport and downtown; expect seasonal price swings. Parking downtown is generally available but read signage for paid zones and time limits.
- BC Transit (local bus) (CAD 2.50-3.00 single fare) - Kamloops is served by BC Transit local routes that cover downtown, residential neighbourhoods and major commercial areas. Buses run regularly on main corridors though frequencies drop evenings and Sundays, so check schedules for the route you need. Using the bus is the cheapest way to get around town for routine trips; bring exact change or a stored‑value pass where applicable.
- Intercity coach (Ebus / regional carriers) (CAD 20-55) - Ebus and other regional coach companies connect Kamloops with Vancouver, Kelowna, Penticton and other communities. Coaches are comfortable, have luggage space and are the best option if you don't want to drive; book in advance for the best fares. Travel time to Vancouver is around 4.5-5.5 hours; Kelowna is roughly 2-2.5 hours away.
- Taxi / Private transfer (CAD 10-40) - Taxis are available from the airport and around downtown; a short trip within the city typically costs under CAD 30. Private airport transfers can be arranged in advance for fixed fares, which is handy if you have lots of luggage or arrive late. Rideshare availability is limited compared with larger Canadian cities, so plan accordingly.
- Bicycle (CAD 15-40 per day) - Kamloops is a friendly cycling city with bike lanes on several arterial streets and many recreational trails nearby. Local shops rent bikes seasonally and sell maps for popular routes like those along the river and into the hills. If you plan on trail riding, bring or rent a proper mountain bike - some routes are fairly technical.
- Walking - Downtown Kamloops is compact and very walkable; you can cover most shops, restaurants and riverfront attractions on foot. Walking is the easiest way to explore the core neighbourhoods, but distances to regional parks and lookouts usually require a car or bike.
Where to Stay in Kamloops #
- Coast Kamloops Hotel & Conference Centre - Affordable rooms, central location.
- Sandman Kamloops - Budget-friendly chain with amenities.
- Prestige Kamloops Hotel - Comfortable rooms and river views.
- Coast Kamloops Hotel - Good location for exploring the city.
- Sandman Signature Kamloops - Higher-end rooms, modern facilities.
- Prestige Kamloops Hotel - Comfortable suites and balconies.
- Prestige Kamloops Hotel - Central and easy to navigate.
- Coast Kamloops Hotel - Good base for sightseeing.
- Prestige Kamloops Hotel - Family rooms and easy parking.
- Coast Kamloops Hotel - Suites and nearby family activities.
- Prestige Kamloops Hotel - Stable Wi‑Fi and quiet rooms.
- Coast Kamloops Hotel - Work-friendly common areas.
Where to Eat in Kamloops #
Kamloops cooks from the outdoors in: breakfast and brunch culture is strong, local farmers supply produce and meat, and grills and steakhouses reflect interior B.C. tastes. The farmers’ market is the place to sample local cheeses, berries and smoked goods.
The city also supports good international options - ramen, Korean BBQ and Italian - and plenty of cafés offering hearty vegetarian bowls.
- Hello Toast - Creative breakfast and brunch plates, local toast toppings
- Brownstone Restaurant - Comfortable steaks and classic West Coast mains
- Kamloops Farmers' Market stalls - Seasonal produce, cheeses and smoked goods
- Nudo House Ramen - Handmade noodles and brothy ramen bowls
- Korean BBQ spots - Grilled meats and shared plates in casual settings
- Italian trattorias - Pizzas and pasta with regional ingredients
- Forage Kitchen - Seasonal vegetarian bowls and plant-forward choices
- Hello Toast (vegetarian options) - Veggie breakfast plates and creative toasts available
- Local cafés and juice bars - Smoothie bowls and salads with local produce
Breakdown of cuisine types found across Kamloops's restaurants and food venues, based on OpenStreetMap data.
Nightlife in Kamloops #
Kamloops has a lively small-city nightlife anchored in its downtown on Victoria Street and near Aberdeen. The city mixes craft breweries, pub-grub joints, live-music venues and late-night lounges - good for relaxed beer crawls or a proper night out when the university calendar is active. Outdoor patios and river views make summer evenings especially pleasant. Practical tips: many pubs and bars are within walking distance downtown and often stay open until midnight or later on weekends. If you plan to pub-hop, use designated drivers or local ride services; check brewery hours, as taprooms can close earlier on weekdays.
Best Bets
- Downtown Kamloops (Victoria Street) - Main strip for bars, pubs and live-music venues.
- Kamloops breweries & taprooms - Local craft beer scene with seasonal outdoor patios.
- Brewery district and tasting rooms - Good for casual tastings and evening meetups.
- Aberdeen and North Shore dining - Restaurants and bars with relaxed, local crowds.
- Riverside walk and patio bars - Pleasant summer patios and after-dinner strolls.
- Local live-music venues - Check listings for indie shows and touring acts.
Shopping in Kamloops #
Kamloops blends practical shopping with a compact downtown that’s easy to explore on foot. Aberdeen Mall and a handful of strip plazas handle most mall‑style needs, while downtown’s independent retailers, used bookstores and coffee shops make for pleasant browsing. Seasonal farmers’ markets and regional food producers are the best places to pick up Okanagan fruit, preserves and local wine.
Best Bets
- Aberdeen Mall - Kamloops' main shopping mall with national stores and services.
- Kamloops Farmers' Market (Riverside Park) - Local produce, artisan foods and seasonal stalls.
- Downtown Kamloops (shops & boutiques) - Independent retailers, gift shops and specialty stores.
- Independent book, gift and vintage shops - Smaller specialty shops clustered near the riverfront.
- Home goods & outlet stores - Discount homewares and bargain decor in larger plazas.
- Big‑box anchors (Walmart, Canadian Tire) - One‑stop shopping for tools, groceries and outdoor gear.
