Get in the mood and ready for Valentine’s Day by planning your special winter getaway ahead of time. This time of the year is perfect to do an escapade with someone special in Kamloops so explore winter activities, and discover new experiences and flavours with your partner, family or friends.
Day One
Afternoon
Once you are settled in, start your adventure off by touring downtown and discovering the 31 murals that dot the alleyways. Have you gotten your artsy vibe going? Fulfill your craving for art (and food) by visiting Amplified Cafe for a hot cup of coffee and delectable baked goods. They often have a local art gallery display of their own or swing by the Kamloops Art Gallery in the same building to view the latest exhibitions and installations.
Evening
Activate your inner child! Visit The Fun Factor Fun Centre to travel back in time with their retro arcade games, laser tag, bumper cars, and bowling. With lots of activities to choose from, it's the ultimate game night for some healthy competition and belly laughs.
Is it time for dinner yet? Finish the day by dining at Underbelly by the Pig, one of the city's newest restaurants. Branching out from its successful predecessor - The Noble Pig Brewhouse – Underbelly is ideal for those looking for a fresh, modern and upscale food created from scratch. Start with their Prawns & Pork Belly appetizer, then order their sausage pizza, which is created in-house and baked in their forno and includes house Italian sausage, chorizo, tomato sauce, bocconcini, green olives, broccolini, chorizo oil, and basil. Don’t forget to explore their drinks menu where you will be able to find a superb selection of local wines and a wide range of signature cocktails.
Day Two
Morning
Whether you are an early bird or a late owl, Kamloops’ breakfast options will satisfy your hunger. Fuel up by making a stop at Amsterdam Restaurant for a flavourful journey to the Netherlands. Taste Dutch favourites like Pannenkoek, Dutch Crepes, and other globally inspired items all created in-house.
If you haven’t yet, you must try Hello Toast, a local-favourite restaurant with a breakfast-focused menu. If you are a first time visitor, we recommend you try their egg-benedict. Cooked in hollandaise sauce, served on toasted focaccia bread and a side of seasoned potatoes, this dish is a local favourite that can be mixed and matched. You're sure to have an egg-cellent lunch no matter which combination you choose.
Afternoon
There is no better way to explore the local trails than on two wheels. For this, you will need the right “attire” – District Bicycle Company, located in East Kamloops, offers fat bike rentals for $50/day. Don’t forget to layer up!
Ready to go? Head to Isobel Lake Winter Recreational Trails (just 40 min from Kamloops) and explore the designated, groomed fat bike trails. Trailforks can help you select the best trail for you based on difficulty, distance, and accessibility. Help us give kudos to the volunteers who groom the trails!
If you are not a biker, there are plenty of astounding and thrilling hikes as well that will make your trip unforgettable. Hike the Tower Trail and be rewarded with one of the best views of Kamloops. The walk begins in Kenna Cartwright Nature Park and climbs steadily for 1.8 kilometers. During the winter, take a walk around downtown along Waterfront Park, where public art is on exhibit. Make a stop at the pier to see where the North and South Thompson Rivers meet.
Evening
This is how we brew it! Pick one of the 5 microbreweries spread across the city and immerse yourself into the local brew culture.
Located on the North Shore, Bright Eye Brewing serves ever-changing innovative craft beers poured directly from the tanks. Hint: their “crispy brussel sprouts” are delectable. Iron Road Brewing is the perfect option to bring out the Mexican in you. Order yourself a plate of street nachos and a glass (or flight) of their exotic craft beers.
Finally, head downtown for a quick tour of Kamloops’ other 3 breweries. Visit Alchemy Brewing and try their newly released honey almond lager - “Honey Nut Cheers” for a bee-licious experience. If you appreciate dry beers with powerful aromatics, visit Noble Pig Brewhouse and try their newest brew – “Napoleon’s Rebellion Farmhouse Ale”. Surround yourself with a fun and pet-friendly atmosphere with access to a wide variety of brews that cater to everyone’s tastes at Red Collar Brewing, we recommend you try a flight of beers to find the right brew for you.
If you want a more extensive tour with breweries, and wineries, we recommend booking a Wine + Brew Tour.
Day Three
Morning
Before you go, don’t forget to do some shopping. Downtown offers a wide variety of cozy locally-owned boutiques for you to find that perfect outfit, gift, or accessory for your home. If you need help choosing the store you want to visit, click here.
Grab one last bite for the trip back home. Surround yourself with more local artwork and good vibes at The Art We Are Cafe while savouring a warm cup of hot chocolate or perhaps you would like to try their French Press. This local gem will not disappoint.
Travel Deals
If you haven’t already, take a look at our travel deals. Enjoy a stay at a local Award-Winning Eco-Friendly Hotel, maybe you prefer an Urban Centered Hotel with modern amenities, or perhaps you are an old soul who enjoys experiencing the Heritage Charm and convenient accessibility to the city. You can save up to 40% of your stay in Kamloops!
Be Prepared
Please stay safe, informed and adhere to the latest guidelines in place. Remember to be a responsible visitor, follow guidelines in place at each business, and be kind and patient. For the latest road closures, up to date travel restrictions, health measures and more, visit our Know Before You Go page.