Spring is peeking around the corner, whispering the promise of new adventures and inviting families to step into the blooming outdoors of Kamloops. It's time to dust off the winter blues and dive headfirst into a season bursting with activities that promise to drain the energy tanks of the most spirited young adventurers and fill the family album with memories to last a lifetime.
This spring, Kamloops is your go-to destination, offering a treasure trove of family fun without the trouble of endless planning. We've curated the ultimate guide, blending local secrets with must-do experiences to ensure your spring break is as hassle-free as it is unforgettable.
Make the most out of spring with our family-friendly guide to spring break in Kamloops.
From the thrill of exploring the great outdoors on scenic hikes to the excitement of unique local attractions, spring into action with one of the many family-friendly activities in Kamloops.
Experience the wild side of Kamloops at the BC Wildlife Park, a sanctuary for rescued or orphaned animals, showcasing nearly 200 animals across 65 species native to British Columbia. Dive into the world of majestic bears, elusive bobcats, and arctic wolves, or discover their scaly wildlife at the reptile exhibit.
Give your feet a rest and hop aboard the Wildlife Express miniature train, opening March 16th, 2024, for a journey through the park. Finally, be sure to stop by the Home Hardware Family Farm to interact with their furry farm animals and get the chance to meet llamas, goats, miniature donkeys, and sheep.
Hike to New Views with Family-Friendly Hikes
Exploring Kamloops with kids unveils a realm of natural wonders and memorable hikes suitable for young explorers. Highlights include the scenic McArthur Island Park loop, offering wildlife viewing opportunities and free activities like mini-golf; the tranquil Isobel Lake trail, perfect for an accessible stroll and beginner fishermen; and the view-rich Panorama Trail in Kenna Cartwright Park. For those seeking a bit more challenge, Gibraltar Rock provides rewarding views for little hikers.
Each trail offers unique experiences, from wildlife spotting to interactive learning, ensuring memorable outdoor adventures for the whole family. See our family-friendly hiking blog for more details to start planning your route.
Hunt for Hidden Treasure with Kamloops GeoCaching
Love a good treasure hunt? Geocaching is a global outdoor activity where participants use a dedicated smartphone app to seek out hidden treasures, known as Geocaches. Kamloops is dotted with these hidden gems, offering you the choice to explore nearby or embark on a road trip adventure. Track down the Geocache by following the GPS and clues provided, and see what secrets lie within—ranging from logbooks to swappable trinkets. This modern treasure hunt weaves together technology, navigation, and a sense of adventure, making it a perfect match for puzzle enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Unleash New Potential at the BIG Little Science Centre
The BIG Little Science Centre is where curiosity sparks discovery. Engage with hands-on science experiments and activities that make learning about the wonders of the world entertaining and engaging. Dedicated to sharing their passion for science, the BIG Little Science Centre is a must-see for any budding scientist. Join their Spring Science Camp for more experiments and scientific discovery!
The Spring Science Camp, for ages 6 to 10, offers a week of fun and educational activities from March 18 to 22 and March 25 to 28, 2024, featuring experiments, physics demonstrations, and creative projects that blend science with art. It's designed to spark curiosity and a love for science, with registration available on the BIG Little Science Centre's website.
Explore and Create with the Kamloops Art Gallery & Kamloops Art Party
Dive into the cultural and artistic richness at the Kamloops Art Gallery with three captivating exhibitions running until April, 2024. Experience Bluto's Cave: Allegory of the Man Cave by Patrick Lundeen, reimagining the man-cave space and masculinity through mixed media. Explore Sleeping in Skins: Life in Inuit Nunangat, showcasing Inuit artistry with prints and a beaded front-piece. Next, delve into ᑕᑯᒃᓴᐅᔪᒻᒪᕆᒃ Double Vision, which celebrates the legacy of Jessie Oonark and her daughters, a testament to influential Inuit textile artist. A visit to the Kamloops Art Gallery promises an immersive journey through diverse narratives and cultural expressions that are sure to spark your own artistic inspiration.
This spring break in Kamloops, children aged 5 to 12 can unleash their creativity at the Kamloops Art Gallery Art Camp (March 18-22nd and 25-28th, 2024) or dive into mixed media at the Spring Break Kids Camp (March 18-22nd and 25-29th, 2024) with Kamloops Art Party, both offering a rich artistic journey with online registration.
Play Away the Day at Zaaz Eatery & Play
Zaaz Eatery & Play is a top pick for families, offering indoor fun with mazes and obstacle courses alongside a health-conscious menu for kids big and small. With different zones to explore including baby, toddler, and theme spaces like campground, construction, and supermarket, it's a place where playtime never gets old. Located at 425 Mount Paul Way, Zaaz is the perfect spot for those less-than-sunny days.
Local Tip: Be sure to grab the 'Loops Explorer Pass for 50% off at the eatery or indoor play village!
Score High at the Fun Factor Fun Centre
Get ready for non-stop excitement at The Fun Factor Fun Centre, the ultimate destination for fun-seekers of all ages. From the whirling fun of Bumper Cars to the competitive thrill of Arcade Games, and the heart-pumping action of Laser Tag, entertainment knows no bounds. It's an ideal playground for families craving adventure and couples in search of a fun-filled date. Gather your crew, strategize your games, and embark on a quest to collect all the tickets for a shot at the grand prize!
Bounce into Fun at the Apex Trampoline Park
Spring into action at the Apex Trampoline Park, home to Canada’s first Trampoline Obstacle Course. Watch as your kids defy gravity, bouncing and flipping in a safe, exhilarating environment that promises to zap all their pent-up energy. Don't miss out on the fun—tickets are available to book online.
Experience Local Culture at The Kamloops Museum and Archives
Discover Kamloops' rich cultural heritage at the Kamloops Museum and Archives. Nestled in the heart of downtown, this family-friendly venue captivates visitors with its riverpeoplenationstatepeople exhibition showcasing indigenous stories of the Secwépemc experience and culture.
Visit the Children’s Museum for interactive experiences that bring local history to life for children of all ages. On March 15, 2024, the Children’s Museum also hosts My Historic Book Club from 10:00 to 11:30am. Free to attend, they explore both historical fiction and non-fiction works. Visit the KMA website for more details and registration.
With plenty of kid-friendly restaurants in Kamloops to crush those cravings, you’ve got your pick of places to refuel for the next adventure.
The Columbia Diner
At The Columbia Diner, families are invited into a world where comfort food reigns supreme. It's a place where the charm of yesteryears melds with the flair of modern cuisine and artisan milkshakes. Adventurous enough to try their Cheesy KitKat shake? Perfect for both travellers and locals, this diner promises a welcoming atmosphere for all ages to enjoy a taste of nostalgia with a twist.
Kekuli Cafe
Situated along Columbia Street, the Kekuli Cafe serves authentic Indigenous cuisine, featuring fresh, handcrafted bannock. The traditional frybread is available in classic flavours or available as both breakfast or lunch Bannock-wiches. Their Pow Wow Frybread Tipi Tacos are also a must-try for any taco enthusiast. Visit the Kekuli Cafe and discover the mouth-watering goodness of local fresh baked bannock!
Bright Eye Brewing
Nestled on the North Shore, Bright Eye Brewing offers a perfect setting for a family-friendly dining. On Mondays, the venue becomes a gamer's paradise with unlimited access to their in-house arcade games. Known for its delightful brunch and cozy evening ambiance, this spot is a family favourite for both its delicious meals and arcade fun. Who knows? You might even set a new high score during your visit!
See our Restaurant Page for more delicious dining venues to visit during your stay in Kamloops.
Kamloops offers a diverse selection of warm and inviting accommodations, equipped with all the amenities you're looking for to ensure a comfortable and fun stay as a family.
Coast Kamloops Hotel & Conference Centre
Find your family’s home away from home at the Coast Kamloops Hotel, where comfort meets convenience. Situated in the tropical plant atrium, their indoor saltwater pool ensures the whole family can dive into fun, no matter the weather.
The Thompson Hotel
Conveniently located in the heart of downtown Kamloops, The Thompson Hotel boasts an array of family-friendly amenities for an unforgettable stay. From a fully-equipped arcade and an in-house theatre room to an inviting indoor pool and hot tub, the possibilities for entertainment are endless.
Local Tip: take a peek at our Hotel Deals to save on your stay.
Start Planning your Spring Break Vacation
As the days grow longer and spring fills the air, Kamloops stands ready to welcome your family to discover new adventures. From the wild encounters at the BC Wildlife Park to the artistic journeys at the Kamloops Art Gallery, there are endless possibilities of things to do in Kamloops with kids.
Dive into the heart of spring and make every moment in Kamloops a cherished part of your family's spring adventure. Embrace the opportunity to explore, create, and play in a city that offers boundless adventures for the young and the young at heart. Start planning your spring break to shake away the winter chill and set off to new experiences waiting to be discovered.
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Keep us in the loop! Share your top picks from our Spring Break Guide to Kamloops, tag us on social @tourismkamloops and use the hashtag #ExploreKamloops – we want to hear about your spring break adventures!
Author: Tianna Dilley
Tianna is the Content Specialist at Tourism Kamloops, a passionate digital storyteller and avid explorer of the Thompson Valley's natural beauty. Join her as she shares Kamloops' captivating stories and insider tips to enhance your trip.
