Located in the heart of the city, Kamloops Museum and Archives focuses on Kamloops' history and culture. Explore the educational and interesting exhibits, including historical garments, old agriculture and industrial equipment, artifacts from the gold rush era and a lot more. If you want to learn even more about the city then check out the archives that house a wide range of local historical documents.
See wildlife up close at this 106 acres (43 hectares) zoo! The British Columbia Wildlife Park, also called BC Wildlife Park, is fun for the whole family. Stop by the zoo's Education Centre to explore interactive educational exhibits then head to the Home Hardware Corral to pet farm animals. In the summer don't miss out on the animal shows at the Highland Valley Copper Amphitheatre or hop aboard the Wildlife Express Miniature Train to see the zoo in a whole new way. And of course, you can't miss seeing the wildlife! From Arctic wolves to rattlesnakes to great horned owls, this zoo has a wide variety of animals. The British Columbia Wildlife Park is also a member of the Canadian Association of Zoos and Aquariums and supports wildlife conservation.
McArthur Island Park is a beautiful park located on the shores of the Thompson River. The park is huge with baseball, hockey and soccer fields in the center and east, an Olympic rink on the western side and a golf course running through all of these. A walking track surrounds all of these fields and allows you to watch the various sporting activities or enjoy the beauty of the Thompson River. The park also boasts a skating rink and a lawn bowling alley. The park is one of a kind recreational facility in the city and is definitely worth a visit.
Kamloops Heritage Railway is located along the banks of the South Thompson River. The Steam train was built in the early 20th century and was recently restored and now offers hour-long tours on the original train cars pulled along by the 2141 Steam engine. This attraction is a must-visit for history lovers and children alike especially on holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas where they have holiday themes and the engine and cars are all lit up. The staff is extremely friendly and accommodating and also provide light snacks and refreshments during the hour-long ride.
Opened in 1978, the Kamloops Art Gallery showcases stunning contemporary art. This art gallery primarily focuses on Canadian artists, including local artwork. The Kamloops Art Gallery changes its exhibits often, ensuring that you'll always see something new. After browsing the collections, make sure you stop by the gift store that's filled with delightful creative and artistic merchandise. The gallery also hosts events, including lectures and family days.
Nestled between the Thompson River and Lansdowne Street, Riverside Park offers a tranquil place to get away from the bustle of the city. This park was once a refuge for a group of Chinese Canadians who worked for the Canadian Pacific Railway in the late 19th Century. From a camp site, this place has been beautifully transformed into a city park. Visitors can enjoy a nice picnic, walk along the river, go for a swim, or indulge in beach side games. A children's playground is also here.
Harper's Trail Estate Winery is a beautiful winery located on the banks of the South Thompson River. The building has a quaint air to it and is designed to give you a rustic Italian feel. The wines that they sell are produced with grapes that are grown on site and one of their varietals to watch out for is the award winning Estate Cabernet Franc. They have a good selection of white and red wine and a patio and garden to picnic and enjoy a view of the river with a glass of fine wine in hand. The staff at the winery is extremely helpful, polite and friendly.
If you dream of a wedding that's straight out of the pages of a fairytale, then St. Andrews on the Square is your wish come true. Built in the year 1887, this historic building serves as a unique events hall that hosts a number of cultural and private events. From concerts to art sales, weddings to seminars, the beautiful setting and grandeur of St. Andrews make each event memorable. For more information and rentals, call ahead or check out their website.