Some of the most unforgettable travel experiences can happen unexpectedly, like discovering a serene lake while trekking off the beaten path or stumbling into an intriguing art gallery to take refuge from the weather.
Kamloops is one of those places filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. At first glance, the second largest city in B.C.’s southern interior is a charming scenic stopping point along the route to the Canadian Rockies. Dig deeper and stay awhile, and you’ll uncover more of what this four-season destination has in store.
A trip to Kamloops is an easy way to enjoy some thrills amidst the chill of winter. Kamloops is less than a four-hour drive from central Vancouver or a quick flight from Victoria. Plus, most activities within the Kamloops area are within a close drive from one another, allowing you to make the most of your time in the region.
Whether you want to go out into nature or stay in to explore the local community, there’s plenty to see and do in Kamloops at this time of the year.
Chasing chills and thrills in the great outdoors
Winter wanderers can revel in the variety of snow sports and activities available around Kamloops at this time of the season. You can enjoy adventuring on the fresh powder while admiring the snow-covered landscapes of B.C.’s southern interior at every turn.
Sun Peaks is Canada’s second largest ski area at 4,720 acres of skiable terrain across three mountains, and the resort is a short 45 minutes north of the city. Along with the traditional downhill skiing and snowboarding, Sun Peaks offers several other excursions in the snow, such as dog-sledding and guided ice-fishing. The ski-in, ski-out Sun Peaks Village is also worth a visit for its many apres-ski delights.
Located just 20 minutes from downtown Kamloops, Harper Mountain, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, is full of rustic charm and all-ages fun. From tubing at Snow Town Tube Park to night skiing along lit runs in the evenings, the family-owned and operated ski resort offers all sorts of fun activities in the snow.
A 30-minute distance from the city, The Overlander Ski Club at Stake Lake offers 60 km of expertly groomed tree-lined trails for cross-country skiing and over 20 km of snowshoe trails.
Kamloops is a popular spot for freshwater ice fishing. You can try your hand at angling for kokanee salmon or rainbow trout at Tunkwa Lake, Monte Lake, Edith Lake, Walloper or Heffley Lake. It’s also possible to go ice skating amongst the snow-covered trees at the lakes of Kamloops, such as Inks Lake.
Seek comfort from the cold with arts and culture
Take in some memorable cultural experiences as you stay warm indoors with a visit to one of the galleries, museums, or performance venues, including the Kamloops Symphony, in Kamloops.
To experience the art scene of Kamloops up close, see the permanent collections and travelling exhibitions at the Kamloops Art Gallery. Containing one of the oldest and largest archives in the B.C. Interior, the Kamloops Museum features over 20,000 artifacts in total, allowing visitors to explore the vast history of the region.
The Western Canada Theatre is home to the largest professional theatre company in B.C.'s Interior, and it’s the place to catch engaging live entertainment in Kamloops. Upcoming performances to look forward to on the Winter 2024 schedule include Ken Ludwig's Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery, Rick Miller's one-man show Boom YZ, and BLAK: Iconic Canadian Women in Music, starring Vancouver-based musician Krystle Dos Santos.
For those who wish to take their art experience outside, embark on a self-guided tour of the free outdoor Back Alley Art Gallery, consisting of over 30 art murals painted on back alleys and buildings through downtown Kamloops.
Treat your taste buds to cozy eats
The burgeoning food and drink scene in Kamloops is bursting with flavours from the city’s local restaurants, cafes, pubs, breweries, and other establishments, serving up locally made delicacies spanning a variety of food cultures.
Hacienda Cielito Lindo, a prominent Mexican restaurant in Kamloops, is dedicated to showcasing and celebrating the rich tapestry of Mexican culture through a diverse culinary experience. Whether you're craving traditional street food delights, regional specialties, or contemporary Mexican dishes, this restaurant is committed to providing a gastronomic adventure that captures the essence of Mexico's culinary heritage.
The Kekuli Cafe is an Indigenous-owned local eatery that offers warm and cold drinks along with authentic Indigenous cuisine like flatbread and bannock. After a long day on the slopes, cozy up with a pint brewed from one of Kamloops’ local craft breweries or with a glass of chardonnay sourced from one of the award-winning wineries from the wine region.
Inspired by food halls around the world, Yew Street Food Hall brings together 10 local restaurant concepts in one centralized place. From Asian fusion to Italian pasta, you can sample a handful of different cuisines in one afternoon.
Dine Around comes to Kamloops from Jan. 17 to Feb. 11. The annual initiative, brought to you by Tourism Kamloops, encourages visitors and locals alike to sip and savour the special dinner offerings at local restaurants. This year’s participating restaurants include ATLAS Steak + Fish, Bright Eye Brewing, Cordo Resto & Bar, Match Eatery & Public House, Stills Co. Tapas & Cocktails, and more. With three-course menus this good, you’ll be itching to start mapping out your next trip to Kamloops before the dessert comes.
You can experience Kamloops like a local (and with huge savings) with the 'Loops Explorer Pass. The digital pass unlocks discounts at the best local restaurants, shops, accommodations, and attractions in town. From 20% off outdoor experiences at Sun Peaks with Mountain Man Adventures to discounts on wine at Monte Creek Winery, the pass covers all of the hot spots in town. Purchase the ‘Loops Explorer Pass before you arrive, and you’ll be all set for an incredible time!
Visit www.tourismkamloops.com/snowplace-like-kamloops to plan your Kamloops getaway today.
