British Columbia is known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and abundant outdoor activities. Among its most popular destinations are Kelowna and Kamloops, each offering unique experiences for travellers. Whether you’re a wine lover, outdoor enthusiast, or on a budget, this guide will help you decide which city suits your travel style best.
Things to Do in Kamloops
Kamloops is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, offering a range of activities against the backdrop of its diverse landscape. With a setting shaped by the North and South Thompson Rivers, the city is rich in natural beauty and adventure.
Outdoor Activities: For hikers, Kenna Cartwright Park features over 40 kilometres of trails ranging from easy to moderate, offering breathtaking views of the city and surrounding hills. In winter, Sun Peaks Resort—the second-largest ski area in Canada—caters to all skill levels with its vast terrain, making it a top destination for skiers and snowboarders. In summer, the resort transforms into a hub for mountain biking and paddleboarding along Kamloops Lake, ideal for those seeking adventure.
Cultural Events: History buffs can explore the Kamloops Museum and Archives, where the city’s rich indigenous and settler history is displayed. Each August, the Kamloopa Powwow—one of Western Canada's largest indigenous gatherings—showcases First Nations culture through song, dance, and traditional arts.
Wildlife and Nature: A visit to the BC Wildlife Park allows you to observe over 60 native species, including the iconic Grizzly Bear and Grey Wolf, in a conservation-focused setting. Meanwhile, Riverside Park offers scenic walks along the Thompson River, where you can take in river and city views while enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.
Is It Worth Going to Kamloops?
Kamloops is ideal for people who enjoy the outdoors and a more toned-down atmosphere. With the range of activities set in the great outdoors, it would be highly appealing to hikers, mountain bikers, and skiers. Simultaneously, Kamloops may be too toned down for those looking for 'happening' night-time or a downtown center.
Pros:
Wide range of outdoor activities.
Affordable accommodations and dining.
Fewer crowds than in major cities like Vancouver or Victoria.
Cons:
Limited nightlife and upscale dining options compared to Kelowna.
Less cultural diversity in attractions.
Kamloops often serves as less of a destination for people on a Canadian holiday than a broader metropolis; however, it serves well for a quiet retreat into the natural landscape.
Is Kamloops Cheaper than Kelowna?
One of the most attractive traits about Kamloops is that it is cheaper, thus a fantastic option for budget-conscious travellers.
Accommodation: Mid-range hotels and motels in Kamloops are typically 10-15% cheaper than in Kelowna, especially during peak tourism seasons. Kamloops Tourism offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly motels to charming bed-and-breakfasts, giving you more value for your money.
Food & Dining: Kamloops may not boast Kelowna's upscale dining scene, but its locally sourced, casual eateries offer excellent value. Many restaurants feature farm-to-table dishes at a fraction of Kelowna’s gourmet prices. A casual meal in Kamloops averages around $15-20 per person, compared to $25-30 in Kelowna for a comparable dining experience (Numbeo).
Entertainment: The affordability of outdoor activities in Kamloops is a significant draw. Many top attractions, such as hiking and visiting local parks, are free, while Sun Peaks Resort offers reasonably priced day passes in winter and summer.
Overall, Kamloops is more affordable than Kelowna, especially considering the lower cost of lodging, dining, and outdoor activities.
Is Kelowna Worth Visiting?
The lively and prospering city of Kelowna is located right in the heart of the Okanagan Valley. With its stunning lake views, famous wineries, and an upbeat downtown, Kelowna gives travellers a more posh experience.
Wine and Food Experiences: Kelowna has some of Canada's best wineries, including Mission Hill and Quails' Gate. Wine lovers can enjoy vineyard tours, sample local wines, and gourmet meals with spectacular views.
Waterfront Fun: From swimming, boating, and even paddleboarding, Okanagan Lake is the focus of Kelowna's life. You'll find several sandy beaches where you can relax, including Gyro Beach and City Park.
Vibrant Downtown: Restaurants, cafes, and shops abound in downtown Kelowna. Bernard Avenue offers a mix of trendy eateries and boutiques, while the Kelowna Art Gallery showcases local talent.
Things to Do in Kelowna
Kelowna is a dream destination for wine lovers, beachgoers, and anyone who loves nature and a social lifestyle.
Wine and Food Experiences: Kelowna is one of Canada’s premier wine regions, with over 40 wineries, including the award-winning Mission Hill and Quails' Gate. These wineries offer vineyard tours, tastings, and gourmet dining experiences set against the stunning backdrop of Okanagan Lake. Whether you’re a wine novice or connoisseur, a wine tour here is a must-do.
Waterfront Fun: Okanagan Lake is central to life in Kelowna, offering activities like swimming, boating, and paddleboarding. Famous beaches like Gyro Beach and City Park provide plenty of space to relax and enjoy the sun. For those seeking adventure, renting a paddleboard or kayak is an excellent way to explore the lake’s expansive shoreline.
Vibrant Downtown: Kelowna’s downtown core, particularly along Bernard Avenue, is a hotspot for trendy cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops. Local art is on display at the Kelowna Art Gallery, while food enthusiasts will enjoy the seasonal farmers' markets featuring fresh, locally grown produce.
What is Kamloops Best Known For?
Kamloops boasts natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Outdoor Recreation: From desert-like hills to forested mountains, Kamloops offers varied landscapes, making it the main destination for those seeking to go outdoors. Fans of winter sports swarm to Sun Peaks Resort during winter, while bikers and hikers use the big systems of trails within and outside the boundaries of this city.
Lesser-Known Attractions: Kamloops’ Lac du Bois Grasslands and Painted Bluffs provide stunning, off-the-beaten-path views that nature lovers will appreciate.
Why is Kelowna So Popular?
Kelowna’s popularity stems from its unique combination of wine tourism, outdoor activities, and vibrant downtown atmosphere. Tourism Kelowna says the city consistently ranks as one of British Columbia’s top vacation destinations, with nearly 2 million annual visitors.
Wine and Food Culture: Kelowna is a dream for wine enthusiasts, with over 40 wineries offering world-class tastings and dining experiences. The city’s thriving culinary scene, supported by local farms and vineyards, has made it a food and wine tourism hub in Canada. The Okanagan Wine Festival is a key event that draws food and wine lovers worldwide annually.
Lake Activities: From summer fun on Okanagan Lake to ice fishing in winter, Kelowna’s waterfront offers year-round activities that appeal to visitors of all types. The city’s lakeside parks and extensive hiking trails make it a top choice for nature lovers looking to combine relaxation with adventure.
Conclusion: Which City Should You Visit?
Ultimately, whether you choose Kamloops or Kelowna depends on your travel preferences. For budget-conscious travellers, Kamloops offers affordable accommodations, free outdoor activities, and a more laid-back atmosphere. Wine lovers and foodies will find paradise in Kelowna, where vineyard tours and gourmet experiences abound. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the best of both worlds, with Kamloops offering rugged mountain landscapes and Kelowna providing lakeside relaxation paired with stunning valley views.
Both cities have a unique charm, and you can't go wrong with either destination.
Looking for the Perfect Stay in Kelowna?
Experience the best of Kelowna with our curated selection of accommodations. Whether you’re here for the vineyards, lakeside fun, or to enjoy the vibrant downtown, we have the ideal spot for you. Contact us today to find your perfect Kelowna getaway!
Comments