Discover Kamloops: A Guide to Top Activities and Attractions
Kamloops, British Columbia, is a city that offers a diverse range of activities for visitors throughout the year. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, Kamloops has something for everyone. The city's downtown area is bustling with shops, cafés, and restaurants, while the surrounding wilderness provides a playground for nature enthusiasts.
Choosing from the myriad of activities in Kamloops can be challenging, but our guide to the top things to do in Kamloops will help you plan your visit.
1. Enjoy Riverside Park
![Riverside Park, Kamloops](/media/canada-british-columbia-top-things-to-do-stroll-riverside-park.jpg)
Riverside Park, located along the Thompson River, is an urban oasis with trails, a beach, and picnic areas. It's a family-friendly spot with a water park, playground, and sports facilities. Don't miss the summer evening concerts with the Music in the Park program.
2. Hit the Slopes at Sun Peaks Resort
![Skier and snow-covered trees at Sun Peaks Resort](/media/canada-british-columbia-kamloops-top-things-to-do-ski-sun-peaks-resort.jpg)
Sun Peaks Resort, a short drive from Kamloops, offers a vast terrain for skiing and snowboarding. With 13 chairlifts and 137 trails, it's a winter sports haven. The resort also features summer activities like biking and hiking. Rent a car to explore Sun Peaks at your leisure.
Official site: https://www.sunpeaksresort.com
3. Explore Kenna Cartwright Park
![View from Kenna Cartwright Park](/media/canada-british-columbia-kamloops-top-things-to-do-hike-bike-kenna-cartwright-park.jpg)
Kenna Cartwright Park is British Columbia's largest municipal park, offering 40 kilometers of trails for hiking and biking. Trails like the Tower Trail and Sunset Trail offer stunning views of the city and surrounding landscape.
4. Meet Wildlife at the BC Wildlife Park
![Kermode bear relaxing at the BC Wildlife Park](/media/canada-british-columbia-kamloops-top-things-to-do-learn-animals-bc-wildlife-park.jpg)
The BC Wildlife Park is home to over 60 species of local wildlife and a rehabilitation facility for injured animals. Visitors can enjoy VIP Wildlife Experiences for close encounters with the animals.
Official site: https://www.bcwildlife.org
5. Golf at Premier Courses
![Golf course near Kamloops](/media/canada-british-columbia-kamloops-top-things-to-do-golf.jpg)
Kamloops is a golfer's paradise with seven world-class courses like Tobiano Golf Course and Talking Rock Golf Resort. The region's diverse landscapes provide a stunning backdrop for golfers of all levels.
6. Horseback Riding Adventures
![Horse grazing in Kamloops](/media/canada-british-columbia-kamloops-top-things-to-do-experience-southern-interior-by-horseback.jpg)
Experience Kamloops' southern interior on horseback with local ranches like Campbell Hills Guest Ranch and Jandana Ranch. These ranches offer a range of horseback riding experiences, from beginner trails to overnight stays.
7. Discover Downtown Kamloops
![Downtown Kamloops](/media/canada-british-columbia-kamloops-top-things-to-do-explore-downtown-kamloops.jpg)
Downtown Kamloops is the heart of the city with nearly 100 retail shops, diverse dining options, and cultural attractions. The Taste of Downtown Festival in late July is a culinary highlight.
8. Paddle on Kamloops Lake
![View of Kamloops Lake](/media/canada-british-columbia-kamloops-top-things-to-do-paddle-kamloops-lake.jpg)
Kamloops Lake is ideal for canoeing, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding. Explore the lake's scenic shoreline and enjoy the tranquility of the water.
9. Ride the Kamloops Heritage Railway
![Kamloops Heritage Railway](/media/canada-british-columbia-kamloops-top-things-to-do-steam-train-kamloops-heritage-railway.jpg)
The Kamloops Heritage Railway offers nostalgic train rides on the restored steam locomotive "2141." Book early for special events like the Halloween and holiday trains.
Official site: https://www.kamrail.com
10. Go Fishing Kamloops Style
![Rainbow trout](/media/canada-british-columbia-kamloops-top-things-to-do-go-fish-kamloops-style.jpg)
Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy year-round angling in Kamloops, with spring and fall being prime seasons. Try ice fishing at Monte Lake in the winter for a unique experience.
11. Visit the Kamloops Art Gallery
![Public art piece in Kamloops](/media/canada-british-columbia-kamloops-top-things-to-do-visit-kamloops-art-gallery.jpg)
The Kamloops Art Gallery showcases contemporary and historical art in a 20,853 square foot space. It's a cultural gem worth visiting for art lovers.
Official site: https://www.kag.bc.ca
Where to Stay in Kamloops for Sightseeing
Kamloops offers a range of mid-range and budget accommodations, with options like the South Thompson Inn & Conference Center, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Kamloops, Coast Kamloops Hotel & Conference Center, and Wingate by Wyndham Kamloops. Budget-friendly choices include Scott's Inn and Restaurant, Grandview Motel, and the Ranchland Inn.
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