Seven Hidden Gems In and Around Kamloops

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Think you know Kamloops? There's always something new to discover here! With spring in the air, now's the ideal time to take another look at Kamloops and get a fresh perspective on the city. From new exhibitions to quirky ways to see the sights, here are seven hidden gems to uncover.

Discover new wineries

One of BC's newer and most northern wine regions is also one of Kamloops brightest hidden gems. Sitting a "little north of normal" when it comes to wine region latitudes, the Thompson Valley is leading the way in cooler climate viticulture by growing premium grapes above the 50th parallel. Blessed with warm days, cool nights, and low rainfall, the rugged Thompson Valley also has unique latitude and glacial soils that conspire to yield a dramatic landscape producing intense, vibrant and well-balanced fruit. With today's changing climate and the world getting warmer, this unique 'north-of-normal' wine gem location is a game changer, as the need to grow the sustainable boundaries for premium BC wine continues.

Home to Privato, Harper’s Trail, and Monte Creek Wineries, the Kamloops Wine Trail showcases this exciting wine destination with its family-owned wineries, warm hospitality, and relaxed charm through events from outdoor picnics to patio lunches, vineyard tours and guided tastings. 

Hunt for sweet treats at the BC Wildlife Park

Swap hidden gems for hidden eggs, and head to the annual Easter Eggcitement Event at BC Wildlife Park during the Easter weekend (April 7-10). Take the whole gang to visit the family farm, enjoy animal encounters, listen to feed talks, meet Uncle Chris the Clown, and take part in Easter egg hunts for a sweet treat. The BC Wildlife Park will be hosting their first sensory friendly Easter experience on April 10 from 9am-12pm, too. 

Go behind-the-scenes of local mountain biking

It's no secret that Kamloops is a desirable destination for mountain biking, but right now you can discover more about the historic and contemporary presence of mountain biking in Kamloops at the Mountain Bike Mecca exhibition at the Kamloops Museum and Archives (on now until June 10, 2023).

Having given rise to some of the best riders in the world, Kamloops is often considered a foundational place for freeride mountain biking. Through photographs, videos, and stories, the show explores mountain biking’s history and relation to landscape in this region. With the aim of helping form a lasting record of this phenomenon, the exhibition invites visitors, and especially local riders, to share their knowledge and experiences of mountain biking in Kamloops!

See the city on two wheels

Leave the car at home and see the city on two wheels by buying an e-bike from Kamloops E Ride to help you along! You can take your e-bike anywhere a 'normal' bike can go, with the added benefit of extra power dealing with hills, headwinds, and heat! Explore from Peterson Creek to Sahali on a trail called the Xget’tem Trail and stop at the top of the hill and view the waterfall, which is fantastic on a hot day. You can do that all with ease with an e-bike without breaking a sweat. 

Stop for a game of golf

Golf in the city? Why not! At Mt Paul Golf you'll find a nine hole executive course, double tier driving range, and lessons for all levels. Head here early for a pre-game breakfast at the cafe to fuel you up for your day. 

A Cherished a family favourite

Scotts Inn & Restaurant has been a cherished secret for 40 years, renowned for its genuine comfort, delectable cuisine, and unbeatable value. This establishment offers an array of delightful amenities, such as a rooftop sundeck and a hot tub, making it the perfect destination for relaxation. Previously owned by Al Patel & his wife Bina Patel, the Inn has been a family-run business, and their personal touch can be seen in every aspect. This diner is famous for its homestyle lean burgers with fresh-cut fries, beer-battered cord fish & chips, loaded omelettes, and much more, and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily from 7am to 9pm. Recently, the Inn has come under new ownership by Invictus Properties, who will continue to uphold Scott’s Inn & Restaurant’s long-standing traditions of excellence and warmth.

Try new tastes

Spice up your usual order and discover a new dish at Moon Wok! Order the Chilli Mayo Chicken and you’ll get lightly battered chunks of chicken breast with housemade chilli mayo, making it a little sweet, a little spicy, and a little creamy. It’s served over prawn crackers for some added crunch.

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Whether you want to revisit some old favourite eateries or discover new places to have a tipple, Kamloops is full of gems to enjoy. There's also an abundance of activities to experience to see Kamloops on foot, bike, or my car and get a new perspective on the city.