Out of office: Not home Right now

This summer we know what you were up to. You were tirelessly entertaining grandchildren and grand dogs. You cancelled plans, replanned, and cancelled again. You put others first – over that epic hike, that fishing trip, that evening out, that new sport, and that big bucket list item. Guess what? It’s your turn!

The kids are back at school, the parents are back into their fall routine, the pets are back to doggie daycare, and the crowds are gone. And Kamloops is waiting to host you for that adventure you’ve been dreaming of.

So – starting now – you are "OUT OF OFFICE"! That’s right – no more grand kid diaper changes and snack prep on repeat. But what will you say? What will you do? We have a few ideas …

1. The Only Kids We're Watching this Weekend

An uninterrupted 18-holes? Yes please! And we’re serious … the only kids you’ll need to watch are the bighorn sheep that you might bump into while swinging.

With plenty of annual sunshine, amazing conditions, and an eight-month golf season, you are just on time to enjoy one of our favourite times to golf in the city. Kamloops is a premier destination for your next golf getaway. Whether you’re enjoying the scenic views, playing for fun, or testing your skill, Kamloops has an experience for every golfer.

With nearly a dozen courses, plan an unforgettable golf adventure where you can play a new course each day – or double up and plan to play a desert course in the morning and end the day with water-views at twilight.

2. Our Turn for Date Night

Be honest – when did you last have date night? Like a real date night – just the two of you, no disturbances, no family members, and no fuzzy slippers! Kamloops has more food and drink options than you’d expect from craft breweries, cideries, wineries, and distilleries, to fun seasonal flavours and flair - Kamloops is the place to indulge this fall.

So where do you start? Start with brunch at Jamaican Kitchen - dive into authentic Jamaican cuisine with their Sunshine Benedict and Jonny Cakes. At lunch, fuel up with a home-cooked classic meal at Scott's Inn & Restaurant before strolling down Victoria Street in downtown Kamloops with a coffee in hand. Dine into the night with mouthwatering dishes at Brownstone Restaurant - (bacon wrapped elk loaf...yum) then grab a homemade ice cream cone from Frozen Paddle for dessert.

3. Our Turn To Sleep In

Sick of early morning cartoons with the littles; we thought so. It's time for a sleep in... like really late! We know there is nothing better than the feeling of no responsibilities in the morning so relax the night before and sip at one of Kamloops' 4 wineries or 5 breweries. You won’t be sorry – and we know your kids will be jealous! Don't forget to bring your favourite new finds home to share with your friends; you’re sure to be a hit at the next family gathering when you pull out a special bottle of one of Kamloops’ award-winning wines or perhaps a growler fill - did we mention October is BC Craft Beer Month? Seems quite fitting.

For a different perspective, the Kamloops Art Gallery, the largest art gallery in the Interior of British Columbia boasting a collection of over 3,000 works of art, delivers a provocative and transformative experience at their newest exhibits starting October 2. Injustice and Identity by Jana Sasaki is a collection of early photos and text-based works that address the history of Japanese internment and the complexities of her family’s mixed-race or Hapa identity.

Film buffs will enjoy the nostalgic feel of the Paramount Theatre in downtown Kamloops. Get the biggest bag of buttery popcorn and enjoy a curated line up of feature films and fan favourites every Friday and Saturday. For an exclusive experience, consider renting out the entire theatre for a special date night and watch a flick with the theatre to yourselves. Or get blown away by the classical sounds and live music with the Kamloops Symphony's two fall productions, Sounds of Silence and Windscapes.

4. Can't be Reached (Literally)

Fall is one of the best times to explore Kamloops’ unique and rugged landscape, so soar to new heights when you're adventuring in the city. Whether you want to check out a new trail via two feet or two wheels, knock off horseback riding on your list, or maybe … just maybe … you’ll surprise the grandkids when you show them the video of you jumping out of a plane!

Hiking first on your agenda? Walk along the 4.2km round trip Tranquille River Trail, Rivers Trail through Waterfront Park, or McArthur Island Park to take in the vibrant coloured leaves this fall. The crowd-free trails bring pleasant surprises en route from panoramic city views to chiseled hoodoos and sandstone canyons (be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife along the way). Giddy up for your next adventure through forested trails and open grasslands with scenic backdrops by horseback. Your family back home will be impressed with your social media-ready photos. This is when you can tell them you “did it for the ‘gram” .. whatever that means.

5. We're Getting Fresh

We highly suggest planning a day out of your outdoor gear and explore Kamloops’ unique back alley art murals, shops, and fun interactions with a few friendly locals. Tell your friends you were busy getting fresh at a Farmers' Market. Pick up local goodies from farmers and artisans around the region at the Kamloops Regional Farmers' Market in downtown Kamloops on Wednesdays (8:00am - 1:30pm until Oct 27) and Saturdays (8:30am - 12:30pm until Oct 30).

It’s Official: You’re "Out of Office" in Kamloops
What are you waiting for? Get that OOO on ASAP and join us in Kamloops for a spontaneous adventure drenched in sunshine before winter comes.

Please make safe, informed decisions and adhere to the latest health measures implemented by the provincial health officer. For the latest health measures, travel updates, and more, visit hellobc.com.