3 Days In Kamloops Itinerary: Nature, Culture, And Foodie Stops

Kamloops? What is there even to do there?
That’s what my dentist asked when I told him I was headed there in October. And honestly? I get it.

Most people think of Kamloops as just a pit stop between Vancouver and Jasper or a base for mountain biking and breweries in the summer. But after spending three days exploring the city through art, culture, and slow-paced food stops, I’m already planning my return.

This 3-Day Kamloops itinerary is for anyone who wants to experience more than adrenaline rushes or road trip pit stops. I’ll show you what I did (and loved!), from murals and museums to vegan bakeries, Indigenous cultural sites, and easy downtown walks.

Whether you’re solo, travelling with a partner, or taking it slow with family, there’s a side of Kamloops that feels creative, welcoming, and full of character.

Note: I was hosted by Tourism Kamloops, but all opinions are my own.

View of Kamloops city with parking lots and downtown buildings in the foreground and sunlit mountains in the background under cloudy skies. — Room with a view — many DoubleTree rooms overlook Kamloops’ rugged hills and cityscape. *Photo by Tazim Damji*

Table of Contents

Quick Trip Overview

Trip length: 3 days, 2 nights
Trip type: Slow travel focused on arts, culture, local food, and walkable downtown stops
Best for: Solo travellers, couples, older families — anyone looking for a relaxed but engaging city break
Where I stayed: DoubleTree by Hilton Kamloops — centrally located and easy to walk everywhere
Trip style: Mostly on foot, with short drives to nature spots and cultural centres
Season: Fall (October), but works in spring and early summer too
Great add-on to: A road trip between Vancouver and the Rockies, or as part of a longer Thompson-Okanagan loop

A person wearing glasses and a light purple vest smiles while pointing toward dry grassland and trees on a hiking trail. Exploring the surrounding nature is one of the best ways to connect with Kamloops' wild, untamed beauty. — Stretch your legs with an easy hike through the sagebrush trails — they’re never far from town and always worth it. *Photo by Tazim Damji*

A white Modo car-share vehicle is parked near a wooden fence and dry hillside, partially hidden by pine branches. Getting around Kamloops is simple and eco-friendly with car-share options like Modo. — I took out a MODO from Vancouver for my road trip. It’s a flexible and sustainable way to get from place to place. *Photo by Tazim Damji*

Day 1: Arrival, Art, and a Relaxed Evening Downtown

After the drive from Vancouver, I needed a spot to stretch my legs, but not commit to a full-on hike. I pulled into Kenna Cartwright Nature Park, where the Lookout trailhead has a decent-sized parking lot, shaded picnic area, and views over the Thompson Valley.

You can walk a little or just sit and take it in. A good place to pause before heading into town.

Night view of the DoubleTree by Hilton Kamloops hotel exterior, lit with red and white lights and a glowing blue construction crane in the background. — The DoubleTree lights up the Kamloops skyline — centrally located with easy access to dining and downtown.
*Photo by Tazim Damji*

Neatly made king-sized bed with crisp white linens and a wooden headboard, flanked by bedside lamps and framed artwork. — The plush king bed offers a restful retreat after a day of exploring Kamloops or hitting the slopes nearby.
*Photo by Tazim Damji*

Modern walk-in shower with beige tile, mounted shampoo and body wash dispensers, a towel on a chrome bar, and glass shower door. — Clean, bright bathrooms feature walk-in showers with eco-friendly toiletries and sleek finishes.
*Photo by Tazim Damji*

Cozy sitting area with a cushioned armchair, granite-topped round side table, and warm lighting next to a bed. — Every room includes a relaxing reading nook perfect for morning coffee or winding down at night.
*Photo by Tazim Damji*

Check-in: DoubleTree by Hilton Kamloops

I stayed at the DoubleTree by Hilton in downtown Kamloops. It was quiet, comfortable, and ideally located for a car-free visit. I appreciated being able to walk to restaurants, art galleries, and parks from my hotel.
(Note: They offer a warm cookie at check-in, but it’s not vegan.)

Read my full hotel review here for accessibility notes, room comfort, and who I think it’s best for.

A flowerbed with vibrant orange and red flowers in front of a statue group and engraved sign for the TNRD Civic Building, Kamloops Public Library, and Kamloops Art Gallery. — Outside the TNRD Civic Building, art and history come together with sculptures and vibrant blooms.
*Photo by Tazim Damji*

One of the most charming bike racks you’ll ever find — this one celebrates local authors with a literary spin. — The Kamloops Art Gallery is a must for any culture lover visiting downtown — you’ll spot it just across from the civic square. *Photo by Tazim Damji*

Kamloops Art Gallery

Just a short walk away is the Kamloops Art Gallery. It’s an accessible, budget-friendly space with rotating exhibitions that include contemporary, Indigenous, and regional art.

There’s also a small shop in the gallery that sells art supplies, handmade crafts, and a few books and prints. Well worth stopping in, even if you don’t normally visit galleries. This gallery is one of my top picks for things to do in Kamloops for art lovers.

Stack of crumble-topped cookies drizzled with icing inside a clear takeout container on a bakery counter. — A small selection of the delicious vegan baked goods on offer at Brynn’s Bakery. *Photo by Tazim Damji*

Wooden shelf at Brynn’s Bakery displaying branded merch, socks, T-shirts, and locally made greeting cards and artwork. — Brynn’s Bakery keeps a well-stocked vegan selection in their fridge case—don’t miss the chocolate croissants. *Photo by Tazim Damji*

Coffee and Vegan Cookies at Brynn’s Bakery

Right down the block, I stopped at Brynn’s Bakery for a quick snack. They have clearly labelled vegan options, including the chocolate chunk and sea salt cookie, which I highly recommend it. It’s a nice little spot if you need a coffee break or something sweet before continuing your walk.

The word “Kamloops” is painted in bold yellow letters on a concrete wall at the entrance to a stairwell beside a red brick building. Street art like this marks the city with personality and pride. — Keep your camera ready — Kamloops wears its name with bold style and back-alley flair. *Photo by Tazim Damji*

A painted mural on a weathered wall depicts passengers inside a vintage train car, including a conductor, a woman with white hair, and a man dressed in black. — Street art and murals across Kamloops reflect moments of regional history and imagination, like this train scene tucked in downtown’s alleyways. *Photo by Tazim Damji*

Quick Look at Downtown Murals

Kamloops has an impressive mural collection scattered through alleyways in the downtown core. Even a short stroll around Victoria Street will reveal some of the city’s best public art.

I spotted a mix of historic, cultural, and playful designs tucked behind cafés and shops. You don’t need a map, just wander and let the colour find you. There is a full walking map if you want to tour all the murals in downtown Kamloops.

A full vegan pizza topped with vegetables and melted vegan cheese on a metal stand at Pizza Pi Kamloops. — Fresh from the oven—vegan pizza hot and ready. *Photo by Tazim Damji*

Close-up of a woman taking a bite of vegan pizza with melted cheese and vegetables inside Pizza Pi in Kamloops. — Enjoying a delicious vegan slice at Pizza Pi in downtown Kamloops. *Photo by Tazim Damji*

Dinner at Pizza Pi

I ended the day at Pizza Pi, a local favourite that makes it easy for vegans to eat out in Kamloops. Their menu is clearly marked, and they’re happy to make modifications. It’s a casual, community-friendly space that offers comfort food in a way that still feels thoughtful. I’d absolutely go back.

After dinner, I walked back to the hotel and called it a night, already surprised by how much Kamloops had to offer within just a few blocks.

Day 2: Local Culture, Markets, and Riverside Walks

Amsterdam Restaurant street sign with “Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch” in front of scenic Kamloops hills and a bright blue sky. — Easy to spot—Amsterdam Restaurant is a Kamloops classic. *Photo by Tazim Damji*

With cozy interiors and quirky Dutch decorations, this spot brings a taste of Europe to Kamloops. It’s a fun spot to enjoy a relaxed brunch. — Charming Dutch-themed décor sets the tone at Amsterdam Restaurant. *Photo by Tazim Damji*

I started the day with breakfast at Amsterdam Restaurant, which has clearly labelled vegan items on the menu. I ordered the berry pannekoek–a Dutch-style crepe–topped with coconut whipped cream.

Plate with two large crepes dusted with powdered sugar and filled with fresh strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries, served with a tall swirl of whipped cream, syrup, and a side of diced breakfast potatoes. — Amsterdam’s berry crepes are sweet, indulgent, and vegan and vegetarian-friendly. *Photo by Tazim Damji*

They also had soy milk for my coffee, which is always appreciated. It’s a casual spot and a great way to start the day before heading across the river.

A flag reading "Secwepemc Museum and Heritage Park" in front of a brick building with a green awning over the entrance. — The Secwepemc Museum and Heritage Park welcomes visitors with exhibits on Indigenous history and culture in the heart of Kamloops.
*Photo by Tazim Damji*

A display case with traditional Secwepemc garments behind glass, and illustrated brochures titled “Technology of the Shuswap” in the foreground. — Learn about traditional knowledge systems, tools, and clothing at the Secwepemc Museum’s detailed and respectful exhibits.
*Photo by Tazim Damji*

Secwépemc Museum and Residential School Site

After breakfast, I visited the Secwépemc Museum & Heritage Park, located just across the Thompson River. The museum shares the stories and traditions of the Secwépemc people, including their seasonal lifeways, language, and connection to the land.

The site also includes the former Kamloops Indian Residential School, one of the most well-known residential school sites in Canada.

Guided tours of the grounds are available if booked in advance. I didn’t do a tour myself (next time!), but I want to highlight the opportunity for those who want to better understand the history and ongoing impact of residential schools.

There are also interpretive signs outdoors, and the powwow grounds are located nearby.

This is a deeply important place to visit respectfully, and one that I recommend not rushing through.

A sidewalk sign reads “Kamloops Farmers’ Market” with a colorful rooster and barn graphic, as market tents and shoppers line the street behind it. Saturday mornings come alive with local produce, handmade goods, and community spirit. — If you’re visiting over a weekend, don’t miss the Kamloops Farmers’ Market — it’s a lively, local favourite.
*Photo by Tazim Damji*

A bin of glossy purple eggplants is surrounded by green, yellow, and red peppers at a stall in the Kamloops Farmers’ Market. Local growers offer seasonal produce in vibrant displays that reflect the region’s bounty. — From peppers to plums, the Kamloops Farmers’ Market is full of colour, flavour, and conversations with local growers.
*Photo by Tazim Damji*

Victoria Street Farmers’ Market and Local Shops

Back downtown, I went to the Wednesday Farmers’ Market on Victoria Street, which runs seasonally. There were local vendors selling produce, preserves, handmade goods, and baked items.

Afterward, I spent some time walking along Victoria Street to support local businesses in Kamloops and pick up a few gifts and souvenirs.

A rustic wooden bench leans against a light wood slatted wall with “Far & Wide” spelled out in carved letters. Even the shop’s interior feels like a nod to the natural beauty surrounding Kamloops. — Far & Wide’s aesthetic blends local pride with mountain town charm, making it more than just a place to shop.
*Photo by Tazim Damji*

A wooden display tray holds colorful vinyl stickers with phrases, animals, and artful designs inside a boutique filled with plants and crafts. It's the kind of spot where you can’t leave without picking up something small and meaningful. — Make time to pop into eclectic shops where handmade goods and quirky finds reflect the spirit of Kamloops.
*Photo by Tazim Damji*

A cozy boutique features shelves of local skincare, self-care goods, and accessories neatly arranged on white shelving and a wooden table. It's the kind of shop you stumble into on a slow morning downtown, where everything feels curated with love and intention. — Start your day exploring local gems like Crooked Crown, a beautifully curated boutique full of small business and Canadian-made goods. *Photo by Tazim Damji*

A few shops I visited and recommend:

Far + Wide – well-curated gifts and home goods
Crooked Crown – boutique clothing, accessories, and small-batch items
Ms. Wimsey’s Gift Emporium – full of handmade Canadian crafts and gifts

Lunch at The Art We Are Café

For lunch, I stopped at The Art We Are, a quirky café with vegetarian and vegan options. It’s a cozy spot with rotating local art on the walls and a creative, laid-back atmosphere. Perfect for a midday break, especially if you’ve been walking around downtown.

The front entrance of the Kamloops Museum and Archives, showing a window display for a current exhibit called “Wide Angle.” — The Kamloops Museum frequently hosts rotating exhibits like “Wide Angle,” which explore local landscapes, history, and identity. *Photo by Tazim Damji*

A carved wooden canoe on display inside the Kamloops Museum, surrounded by panels of historical text and black-and-white photos. — This hand-carved canoe is part of the Kamloops Museum’s display on Secwepemc knowledge and connection to the natural world. *Photo by Tazim Damji*

Kamloops Museum & Archives

Next up: the Kamloops Museum & Archives, located just a few blocks from the café. It’s an admission by donation, and surprisingly spacious, spread over three floors, including an elevator for accessibility.

I spent quite a bit of time in the interactive section about wildfires and fire safety, which felt especially relevant after the past few summers in BC.

There’s also a Children’s Museum in the same building, with hands-on exhibits for kids, and rotating exhibits that explore local heritage and history from multiple perspectives. This is a museum you can easily spend 90 minutes in without noticing the time pass.

A public art installation spelling out the word "HOPE" with a heart symbol at the beginning, covered in hundreds of padlocks, set against a backdrop of autumn trees. — Kamloops’ riverside HOPE sculpture is a community landmark where visitors leave padlocks as a symbol of remembrance, resilience, and love. *Photo by Tazim Damji*

Riverside Park Walk

Later in the afternoon, I headed down to Riverside Park to enjoy a quiet walk along the river. The paths here are accessible, with benches, shade, and some public art pieces along the way.

You can also walk across the footbridge to Waterfront Park, another green space with views of the river and the surrounding hills.

Wide shot of a vegan tofu teriyaki plate at Jacob’s Noodle and Cutlet, served with rice, vegetables, and salad, inside a cozy dining area with exposed brick walls. — A hearty vegan plate with tofu, rice, and vegetables served in a rustic-style restaurant with exposed brick and quilted leather seating. *Photo by Tazim Damji*

Long view of Jacob’s Noodle and Cutlet’s interior with soft lighting, open kitchen, chalkboard signage, and warm, casual decor. — Cozy view of Jacob’s Noodle and Cutlet’s dining area with an open counter, chalkboard menu, and warm lighting. *Photo by Tazim Damji*

Dinner at Jacob’s Noodle & Cutlet

For dinner, I ate at Jacob’s Noodle & Cutlet. They don’t have vegan items clearly labelled, but the staff were happy to help, and they did have options that could easily be made vegan.

The atmosphere was warm, the food was fresh, and it’s a good pick if you’re looking for something a little different in the downtown area.

If the skies are clear and you’re interested in stargazing, the Kamloops Astronomical Society sometimes hosts public viewing nights at their observatory. Check their website ahead of time to see if an event lines up with your trip.

View the video below to learn more about all the things to do in Kamloops for arts and culture lovers

Things to Do in Kamloops for Art and Culture Lovers #art #museums #kamloops

Watch this video on YouTube.

Day 3: Breakfast, Views, and a Scenic Departure

Hearty skillet breakfast with golden potatoes, bell peppers, onions, and sliced avocado served with toast and coffee inside Amsterdam Restaurant. — The veggie skillet at Amsterdam can be modified for a plant-based start to your day. *Photo by Tazim Damji*

On my last morning in Kamloops, I went back to Amsterdam Restaurant for a different breakfast option, this time the vegan tempeh skillet, which came with roasted veggies and toast.

If you’re looking to mix things up, Hello Toast on Victoria Street is another downtown option for brunch or a light breakfast. It gets busy on weekends, so going early is a good idea.

Morning Nature Stop

Before hitting the road, I wanted to take in one last view of Kamloops. If you’re staying near the downtown core or Amsterdam Restaurant, Peterson Creek Nature Park is a convenient option.

It’s just a short drive from downtown and offers quick access to trails, a waterfall, and viewpoints. Even a short stop here gives you a sense of the unique desert-meets-mountain landscape that surrounds the city.

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Fall Bonus: Pumpkin Patch or Chase Waterfalls

Since I was visiting Kamloops in the fall, I made a quick stop at Pete Murray’s Corn Farm and Pumpkin Patch in Chase, about 30 minutes from Kamloops.

It was a fun, casual fall activity, and there were lots of local families as well as a school bus full of children visiting at the same time.

If you’re not visiting in the fall, consider checking out the Chase Creek Falls trail, which is short, scenic, and easy to fit in on your way out of the region or as a day trip from Kamloops if you’re staying for a few days.

Tazim with sunglasses enjoys a sunny boat ride on Shuswap Lake near Salmon Arm, BC, with waves trailing behind and forested mountains lining the horizon. Boating on the lake is one of the most scenic and fun things to do in Salmon Arm BC, perfect for summer adventures and outdoor enthusiasts. — Mara Lake, BC *Photo by Gregory Friis West*

Heading to Salmon Arm

From there, I continued on to Salmon Arm, which makes a great next stop if you’re planning a Thompson-Okanagan road trip. You can read more in my Kamloops to Revelstoke road trip guide to help plan the next leg of your journey.

This 3-day Kamloops itinerary works whether you’re planning a weekend visit or stopping over between bigger destinations like Jasper, Banff, or Kelowna.

I travelled solo, but this trip would also be great for couples or families who enjoy a slower pace, cultural stops, and good food without the crowds.

Planning your trip to Kamloops and Beyond

Where to Stay in Kamloops

Why downtown works

Walk to cafés, galleries, murals and Riverside Park. Park once, then use your feet. Drive out only for Day 3 nature stops.

Hotel lounge area with a mix of cushioned chairs and round tables, a modern chandelier, TV above a fireplace, and large windows with curtains. — The cozy lobby lounge features soft seating and a modern fireplace — perfect for unwinding or catching up with friends. *Photo by Tazim Damji*

My Top pick

DoubleTree by Hilton Kamloops
I stayed here. Central, comfortable rooms, easy to walk everywhere.

⭐️ Read my full DoubleTree review»
✅ Check rates at DoubleTree by Hilton Kamloops

Two other downtown options

Sandman Signature Kamloops
Across from Sandman Centre and near the river path. Handy for Riverside Park strolls.

Delta Hotels Kamloops (Marriott)
On Victoria Street in the core. Short walks to cafés, shops and the riverfront.

A navy blue directional sign at Victoria Street and 5th Avenue points to local attractions like the old courthouse, Riverside Park, and the Sandman Centre. Walking the downtown core is easy thanks to these helpful markers. — With plenty of signage to guide you, downtown Kamloops is walkable and packed with points of interest in every direction. *Photo by Tazim Damji*

Getting Around Without A Car

Downtown on foot: galleries, murals, cafés, museum
Transit and rideshare: useful for farther stops
When a car helps: Day 3 nature stops and regional add-ons like a road trip to Salmon Arm or beyond.

Vegan-Friendly Food Notes

Breakfasts and coffee: Amsterdam Restaurant, Brynn’s Bakery, Hello Toast
Lunches: The Art We Are Café
Dinner: Pizza Pi, Jacob’s Noodle & Cutlet
Grocery or market tips: Use the Kamloops Farmers’ Market in season for easy picnic supplies. Sweláps Market is an Indigenous local grocery store worth stopping in for snacks and things you may need if you’re on a road trip.

Timing Your Trip

Spring to autumn: best for markets, mural walks, and riverfront time
Fall: good for stargazing events and pumpkin patches
Winter: museum and gallery-forward weekend with cozy café breaks

Practical Tips

Parking: base yourself at the hotel and walk to reduce re-parking
Market days: note the days for the Kamloops Farmers’ Market before you plan Day 2
Tours: Secwépemc Museum tours require pre-booking and a fee
Accessibility notes: compact galleries and short, level riverfront sections work well for a gentler pace
If you’re driving to Kamloops during winter (October to April), you’ll need to check the BC tire rules.

Where to go next from Kamloops

Destination	Distance	Approx drive time
Salmon Arm	~106 km (66 mi)	~1 h 15 min
Kelowna	~170 km (106 mi)	~2 h 10 min
Merritt	~87 km (54 mi)	~1 h

*Times and distances are approximate and depend on route and conditions. Check DriveBC for current updates, construction, and seasonal weather.*

A sidewalk utility box wrapped in a black-and-white historical photo of downtown Kamloops, featuring vintage cars and storefronts. These artistic boxes offer glimpses into the city’s past as you wander the modern streets. — Keep your eyes peeled for artistic details like this throwback utility box, turning Kamloops’ sidewalks into an open-air gallery. *Photo by Tazim Damji*

Frequently Asked Questions About A Visit to Kamloops, BC

Is 3 days enough in Kamloops?

Yes for a culture-forward trip with easy nature. You’ll cover galleries, museums, murals, markets, and a couple of scenic stops.

Can I explore Kamloops without a car?

Yes if you stay downtown. Add a car for regional nature stops.

What are the best free things to do in Kamloops?

Murals in the Back Alley Art Gallery network, Riverside Park, and browsing downtown shops and makers.

Is Kamloops a good stop on a BC road trip?

Strong yes. It breaks up longer drives and adds culture and vegan-friendly food without a packed schedule.

Make it yours

Rain rolls in? Stretch your time at the Kamloops Art Gallery and the Museum & Archives, then shift murals to an early-morning stroll when the alleys are quiet.
No car this trip? Anchor Days 1–2 downtown on foot. For the Secwépemc Museum & Heritage Park, plan a return rideshare so you’re not clock-watching.
Leaving the city after Day 3? Pick one nature stop, not two. Then roll straight into your next base and check in before sunset.
Lock it in: book a central hotel, pre-book any museum tours you care about, check market days, and set aside one unplanned slot to follow what catches your eye.

Graphic cover for a free digital workbook titled The Intentional Weekend Away! in bold, colourful font over a sandy beach background. The tagline “Rest that actually restores” appears in black text beside a tablet showing part of the checklist inside the workbook. A large blue button says “I’m in!”

by Tazim Damji of Celebrate Life’s Adventures

Struggling to make your weekends feel like a real break?

This free interactive workbook helps you plan slower, more restorative getaways, without overpacking your schedule.

Stops Along the Kamloops to Revelstoke Route

3 Days in Kamloops Itinerary: Nature, Culture, and Foodie Stops

Plan Your Canadian Adventure

A few trusted resources I use and recommend:

Booking.com (Hotels + Stays) – Find places to stay across Canada
Compare hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals using a handy map tool.
Discover Cars (Rental Vehicles) – Search Canadian car rentals
Easily compare prices from major rental companies for your road trip.
Busbud (Intercity Buses) – Book Canadian bus routes
Affordable bus travel between cities and small towns across Canada.
Viator (Tours & Activities) – Browse tours across Canada
From guided walks to scenic day trips, find local experiences worth booking.
Airalo (eSIM Cards) – Get a Canadian travel eSIM
Stay connected while you explore without needing a physical SIM card.
Safety Wing (Travel Insurance) – Explore travel insurance options
If you're visiting Canada from abroad, travel insurance is worth looking into. This platform helps you compare plans. (Not financial advice.)