A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Blue Ridge vs. Kamloops for Food, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Blue Ridge or Kamloops?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Blue Ridge and Kamloops. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Blue Ridge

Blue Ridge is a quaint, charming, and outdoorsy town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Blue Ridge is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and shopping. See Blue Ridge travel costs.

Kamloops

Kamloops is a outdoorsy, nature-filled, and laid-back city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking. See Kamloops travel costs.

Blue Ridge and Kamloops: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Blue Ridge or Kamloops?

Both Kamloops and Blue Ridge have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Blue Ridge is very popular for its food, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Kamloops attracts visitors for its skiing. Blue Ridge is more touristy than Kamloops and is known for its beautiful mountain setting, miles of hiking trails, and small town atmosphere. Kamloops is famous for its hiking trails, bike paths, and golf courses.

How is Blue Ridge different from Kamloops?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Kamloops and Blue Ridge. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Blue Ridge or Kamloops Better for Skiing?

Kamloops is a very popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Blue Ridge is not a skiing destination.

Kamloops offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. There's a long ski season that runs from mid-November to mid-April. The region has two major ski resorts - Sun Peaks Resorts and Harper Mountain.

Blue Ridge is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Blue Ridge or Kamloops?

Spend time exploring the reasonable sights and museums in either Blue Ridge or Kamloops.

While most people don't head to Blue Ridge specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While you don't immediately think of museums in the area, there are a couple. The Dahlonega Gold Museum gives information on the gold rush and mining industry in town. In nearby Tennessee, Ducktown Basin Museum is a historic mine site that is open for tours.

Kamloops offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums in the area that highlight the local culture and the region's heritage.

Is the Food Better in Blue Ridge or Kamloops? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Blue Ridge is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Blue Ridge has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You'll find plenty of small town restaurants serving local dishes like barbecue, trout, and biscuits with gravy. Southern food is popular, but you'll also find plenty of breweries and wineries in the area. Head downtown for an assortment of options that include southern, vegan, and even international flavors.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Kamloops area. You'll find restaurants that range from casual to fine dining. There are also international options like Jamaican, Indian, or Chinese.

Is Blue Ridge or Kamloops Better for Nightlife?

The nice nightlife scene is relatively similar in Blue Ridge and Kamloops.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Blue Ridge. Head downtown for a mix of breweries, bars, and clubs where you'll find live music and a casual meal.

Kamloops has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find pubs, bars, breweries and night clubs around town that range in personality and style.

Is Blue Ridge or Kamloops Better for Hiking?

Blue Ridge is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Blue Ridge. There are miles of hiking trails in the area that take you to waterfalls and viewpoints. The starting point of the Appalachian Trail is also nearby, and another popular trail is the Benton MacKaye Trail. Options range from beginner to expert with everything in between.

Kamloops offers some nice hiking trails. The area is filled with hiking trails that pass through grasslands, desert landscapes, and pine forests. There is something for every skill level.

Is the Shopping Better in Blue Ridge or Kamloops?

Blue Ridge is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Blue Ridge is well-known for its shopping. You'll find artisan shops, art galleries, and boutique clothing vendors. Many places are concentrated in the charming downtown area, which is fun to explore for a day or two.

Many visitors go to Kamloops to go shopping. Downtown you'll find local boutiques and eclectic shops. You could also head to Aberdeen Mall for all of the major brands and recognizable stores.

Is Blue Ridge or Kamloops More Beautiful?

Blue Ridge is a town with good options for its scenery and beauty. However, Kamloops is not a destination known for its beauty.

Blue Ridge is a beautiful place to visit, too. There are plenty of hikes to waterfalls and scenic viewpoints. There's also a scenic railroad as well as places to kayak or go horseback riding.

Kamloops is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Blue Ridge or Kamloops Better for Families?

Both Blue Ridge and Kamloops are very good family-friendly destinations.

Blue Ridge is a very family-friendly destination. Kids who enjoy hiking and playing outdoors will have fun here. There are waterfall hikes, fruit picking farms, and plenty of playgrounds. There's also a scenic railway and lots of places to sample treats.

Kamloops is a very kid-friendly town. There are great parks and outdoor spaces for kids as well as the Deep Creek Tool Museum, Westsyde Centennial Park and Petting Zoo, and Hells Gate Air Tram. You can also take a ride on the Kettle Valley Railway Steam Engine. Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to either Kamloops Wildlife Park or Kangaroo Creek Farm.

Is Blue Ridge or Kamloops Better for Couples?

Blue Ridge is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Blue Ridge makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. If you're looking for a cozy retreat where you can relax in a cabin, take long walks through nature, and enjoy local food, then this is your place. There are plenty of bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, and rustic cabins with fireplaces and simple pleasures. If you want to escape it all then the mountains are the place to be.

Kamloops is a good town for couples to visit. The area is filled with great hikes and nice parks. There are also great restaurants that make for a good date night.

Is Blue Ridge or Kamloops Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Blue Ridge is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kamloops is lacking in options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Blue Ridge. There are a number of campgrounds in the area as well as plenty of hikes that backpackers will enjoy. Nearby you'll also find the start of the famed Appalachian Trail.

Kamloops is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's often overlooked by backpackers, but there is a hostel in town.

Is Blue Ridge or Kamloops Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kamloops is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Blue Ridge is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kamloops. There is a bus system through the city.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Blue Ridge. There's no real public transportation system in the area.

Is Blue Ridge or Kamloops a more walkable city?

Blue Ridge is a town with good options for its high level of walkability. However, Kamloops is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

Blue Ridge is a somewhat walkable place. While the downtown area is relatively walkable, if you want to hike and get out in nature, you'll need to have a car.

Kamloops is generally not very walkable. The downtown is the most walkable part of town.

For even more information, also check out Is Blue Ridge Worth Visiting? and Is Kamloops Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kamloops or Blue Ridge?

How long in Blue Ridge or Kamloops?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Blue Ridge or Kamloops to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Blue Ridge than Kamloops because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Blue Ridge, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kamloops.

Families should spend more time in Blue Ridge than Kamloops. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Blue Ridge, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Blue Ridge than Kamloops. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Blue Ridge that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Blue Ridge than Kamloops if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Blue Ridge.

One day in Blue Ridge or Kamloops?

Blue Ridge is a small town where visitors enjoy the nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

With shopping and skiing around the laid-back city of Kamloops, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kamloops, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Blue Ridge or Kamloops?

Blue Ridge is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Blue Ridge, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With skiing and nightlife around the destination of Kamloops, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Blue Ridge or Kamloops?

Blue Ridge is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Blue Ridge, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Kamloops, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Blue Ridge or Kamloops?

Blue Ridge is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Kamloops is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in Canada, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Blue Ridge and Kamloops, we can see that Blue Ridge is more expensive. And not only is Kamloops much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Kamloops would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kamloops and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Blue Ridge would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Blue Ridge than you might in Kamloops.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Blue Ridge Expensive? and Is Kamloops Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Blue Ridge or Kamloops?

Kamloops has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Blue Ridge. When comparing the sizes of Blue Ridge and Kamloops, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Blue Ridge or Kamloops?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Blue Ridge or Kamloops in the Summer?

Both Kamloops and Blue Ridge are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Blue Ridge for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Kamloops because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Blue Ridge is a little warmer than Kamloops. Typically, the summer temperatures in Blue Ridge in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Kamloops averages at about 23°C (73°F).

It's quite rainy in Blue Ridge. In July, Blue Ridge usually receives more rain than Kamloops. Blue Ridge gets 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Blue Ridge or Kamloops in the Autumn?

Both Kamloops and Blue Ridge during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Blue Ridge because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Kamloops this time of year.

In October, Blue Ridge is generally much warmer than Kamloops. Daily temperatures in Blue Ridge average around 63°F (17°C), and Kamloops fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Blue Ridge usually gets more rain in October than Kamloops. Blue Ridge gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Blue Ridge or Kamloops in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Blue Ridge and Kamloops. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Blue Ridge this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Kamloops for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Kamloops. It's quite cold in Blue Ridge in the winter. Blue Ridge is much warmer than Kamloops in the winter. The daily temperature in Blue Ridge averages around 40°F (5°C) in January, and Kamloops fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

Blue Ridge gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Blue Ridge usually receives more rain than Kamloops. Blue Ridge gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Blue Ridge or Kamloops in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Blue Ridge as well as Kamloops. Many travelers come to Blue Ridge for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Blue Ridge is a little warmer than Kamloops. Typically, the spring temperatures in Blue Ridge in April average around 62°F (17°C), and Kamloops averages at about 12°C (53°F).

Blue Ridge receives a lot of rain in the spring. Blue Ridge usually gets more rain in April than Kamloops. Blue Ridge gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kamloops and Blue Ridge