From Peachland to Kamloops: A Road Trip into the Thompson Okanagan

Top Experiences in Kamloops

Kamloops B.C. Ale Trail

Kamloops, British Columbia, stands as a prominent destination on the BC Ale Trail, offering a vibrant craft beer scene that reflects the city's dynamic community spirit. With five microbreweries, each establishment brings its unique flair to the brewing landscape.

• The Noble Pig Brewhouse combines inventive house-made beers with a diverse menu, all set within a historic downtown building. Its patio, once an outdoor pool, offers a distinctive setting for patrons.

• Red Collar Brewing Co., founded by craft beer pioneer David Beardsell, serves as a gathering place for beer enthusiasts, featuring an outdoor patio and a range of creative brews.

• Iron Road Brewing, established by two geologists, offers a family-friendly taproom near Thompson Rivers University. Known for its award-winning beers and exceptional Mexican cuisine.

• Bright Eye Brewing stands out with its vibrant tasting room and innovative beers, such as the haskap berry-infused Belgian-style Wit. Their offerings pair well with a menu that includes standout dishes like crème brûlée.

• Alchemy Brewing adds to the city's diverse beer offerings, contributing to Kamloops' reputation as a hub for craft beer aficionados.

Riverside Park

Riverside Park in Kamloops, British Columbia, is a cornerstone of the city's outdoor life, offering a blend of natural beauty and recreational amenities. Situated along the Thompson River and adjacent to downtown, the park provides easy access to various activities. Visitors can enjoy a sandy beach, a roped-off swimming area, and a splash park, making it ideal for families during the warmer months. The park also features tennis and pickleball courts, a lawn bowling club, and the Rotary Bandshell, which hosts the "Music in the Park" series with free live concerts every evening throughout the summer. With its combination of leisure, culture, and community events, Riverside Park stands out as a must-visit destination in Kamloops.

BC Wildlife Park

The BC Wildlife Park in Kamloops is a 106-acre non-profit sanctuary dedicated to conserving and rehabilitating British Columbia's native wildlife. Home to nearly 200 animals across 65 species—including cougars, wolves, birds of prey, and the rare Kermode "spirit bear" named Clover—the park focuses on education, ethical care, and environmental stewardship. Over 60% of its residents are rescued or orphaned animals that cannot return to the wild. The park also operates the Fawcett Family Wildlife Health Centre, the only full-service wildlife rehabilitation facility in the Southern Interior, treating over 600 animals annually.

Visitors can explore the Discovery Centre, which houses the Eco Gallery, Reptile Exhibit, and Wildlife Education Centre, or enjoy seasonal attractions like the Wildlife Express train, splash park, and playground. Through interactive exhibits, animal encounters, and conservation programs, the BC Wildlife Park offers an engaging experience that connects people to the province's diverse ecosystems and wildlife.

Outdoor Recreation

Mountain Biking

Kamloops, British Columbia, is a premier destination for mountain biking, offering a diverse array of trails that cater to all skill levels. With over 270 trails spanning cross-country zones and downhill areas, the city's trail network provides ample opportunities for riders to explore varied terrains. The Kamloops Bike Ranch, Canada's largest municipal bike park, features professionally crafted jump lines and progressive trails suitable for all jump skill levels. For those seeking scenic rides, Kenna Cartwright Park offers accessible trails with spectacular views of Kamloops and the Thompson foothills. Pineview Valley boasts over 50 km of forested single track trails, ideal for beginners and seasoned riders. Kamloops' semi-arid climate allows year-round riding, making it a haven for mountain biking enthusiasts.

Sun Peaks Resort

Just a 45-minute drive northeast of Kamloops, Sun Peaks Resort offers a year-round mountain escape that combines alpine adventure with village charm. It boasts Canada's second-largest skiable terrain in winter, with over 4,270 acres across three mountains, catering to all skill levels. Beyond skiing, visitors can enjoy snowshoeing, dog sledding, and an outdoor skating rink.

Summer transforms Sun Peaks into a hiking, mountain biking, and golfing hub. The resort features a world-class bike park and an 18-hole golf course—the highest elevation course in British Columbia. The pedestrian village is filled with restaurants, cafés, and shops, making it easy to relax after a day of adventure.

The Kamloops Arts and Culture Scene

Kamloops Art Gallery

The Kamloops Art Gallery (KAG) is the most extensive public art gallery in British Columbia's Interior, offering over 12 exhibitions annually that showcase a diverse range of local, national, and international artists. With a permanent collection exceeding 3,100 works, the gallery emphasizes contemporary and Indigenous art, fostering dialogue and reflection on pressing social and cultural themes. Situated in downtown Kamloops on the traditional territory of the Secwépemc people, the gallery is committed to accessibility, offering free admission every Thursday and ensuring facilities are inclusive for all visitors. Its role as a cultural hub enriches the local arts scene and contributes to the broader Canadian art landscape.

Secwépemc Museum & Heritage Park

The Secwépemc Museum & Heritage Park in Kamloops offers an immersive exploration of the Secwépemc Nation's rich cultural heritage. The museum features four galleries showcasing artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that delve into the community's history, art, language, and spirituality. Adjacent to the museum, the 5-hectare Heritage Park includes trails leading to archaeological remains of a 2,000-year-old winter village, complete with reconstructed pit-houses and an ethnobotanical garden highlighting traditional plants used by the Secwépemc people. The site also provides educational programs and tours, including insights into the history of the Kamloops Indian Residential School, fostering a deeper understanding of Indigenous experiences and resilience.

Culinary Delights in Kamloops

Kamloops offers a diverse culinary scene that caters to various tastes and occasions. For an upscale dining experience, Brownstone Restaurant stands out with its elegant setting and a menu featuring dishes like dry-rubbed New York steak and elk meatloaf. Mittz Kitchen combines casual comfort with upscale elegance, serving Canadian cuisine with global influences, including panko-crusted sablefish and braised short ribs.

Breakfast enthusiasts should consider Hello Toast, a downtown favourite known for its creative dishes such as the Ironman Benny and Strawberry Shortcake Stuffed Toast. Another notable option is Amsterdam Restaurant, offering European-inspired breakfast and brunch items like the Amsterdam Eggs Benedict and traditional Dutch pancakes.

For international flavours, Tiger Ramen provides authentic Japanese ramen with options like the signature Tiger Ramen and Vegan Curry Ramen. Jacob's Noodle & Cutlet combines Japanese and Korean dishes, including pork cutlet combos and fresh sushi. Peter's Pasta, a family-run establishment since 1986, serves homemade Italian dishes such as seafood alfredo and pork tenderloin.

For a casual dining experience with a wide selection of beers and ciders, Red Beard Café offers dishes like cornflake potato croquettes and Crazy Macaroni Alfredo.

Final Thoughts

Kamloops reflects British Columbia's diverse landscapes and cultures. From the thrill of outdoor adventures to the richness of its cultural tapestry, Kamloops offers a grounding and exhilarating journey. Whether you're seeking solitude in nature or the camaraderie of community events, this city welcomes you with open arms and endless possibilities.