A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Alexandria vs. Kamloops for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Alexandria 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 Alexandria 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.

Alexandria

Alexandria is a historic, charming, and quaint city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. The beauty of Alexandria is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Alexandria travel costs.

Kamloops

Kamloops is a laid-back, outdoorsy, and nature-filled city. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Kamloops travel costs.

Alexandria and Kamloops: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for its beauty
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Mount Vernon
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Alexandria or Kamloops?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Alexandria than Kamloops, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Alexandria is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Kamloops is known for its skiing and hiking. Alexandria is more touristy than Kamloops and is known for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere. It is also home to Mount Vernon. Kamloops is popular for its hiking trails, bike paths, and golf courses.

How is Alexandria different from Kamloops?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Alexandria or Kamloops Better for Skiing?

Alexandria
Kamloops

Kamloops is great for skiing. However, Alexandria is not a skiing destination.

Kamloops draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. 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.

Alexandria is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Alexandria or Kamloops?

Alexandria
Kamloops

Alexandria is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Kamloops is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Alexandria. George Washington's Mount Vernon home is an iconic destination in Alexandria. There are also many other museums in town that focus on the region's history. The Alexandria History Museum at the Lyceum and the Gadsby's Tavern Museum are both interesting. There's Gunston Hall and the Carlyle House, as well as an archeology museum and many historic landmarks around town.

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 Alexandria or Kamloops? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Alexandria
Kamloops

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

Alexandria has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The food, like the city itself, reflects the area's history. There are many southern classic dishes as well as a lot of seafood. You'll find lots of local restaurants that serve high quality dishes and a quaint atmosphere.

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 Alexandria or Kamloops Better for Nightlife?

Alexandria
Kamloops

The vibe at night is good in both Alexandria and Kamloops.

If you're looking for night time activities Alexandria has a few options to choose from. There's a great bar scene, as well as tons of restaurants that make for a relaxing night out.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Kamloops. You'll find pubs, bars, breweries and night clubs around town that range in personality and style.


Is Alexandria or Kamloops Better for its Old Town?

Alexandria
Kamloops

Alexandria is an amazing city to visit for its old town. However, Kamloops does not have a historic old town.

Alexandria offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. At the heart of the city is the historic old town. Its lined with townhomes that date back to the 18th century. There are many historic sights that have stories from the early days of the country. There are also cobblestone streets and a great waterfront.

Kamloops does not have a historic old town.

Is Alexandria or Kamloops Better for Hiking?

Alexandria
Kamloops

Kamloops is a good destination for hiking. However, Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

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.

Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Alexandria or Kamloops?

Alexandria
Kamloops

Alexandria 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.

Alexandria is well-known for its shopping. King Street is the main shopping street in town and it offers the largest concentration of independently owned boutiques in the Washington D.C. area. It's the perfectly place to spend an afternoon shopping.

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 Alexandria or Kamloops More Beautiful?

Alexandria
Kamloops

Alexandria is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Kamloops is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Alexandria is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The historic architecture and beautiful waterfront make this an iconic destination.

Kamloops is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Alexandria or Kamloops Better for Families?

Alexandria
Kamloops

Kamloops is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Kamloops. 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.

Alexandria is not the most family-friendly destination. The waterfront area is nice to walk around. You can break up the history with an ice cream shop and kids will also enjoy taking a boat tour.

Is Alexandria or Kamloops Better for Couples?

Alexandria
Kamloops

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

Alexandria makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The charm of the old town makes this a quaint and romantic destination. There's a waterfront area and many historic buildings. There are also romantic restaurants and plenty of places to grab brunch.

Kamloops is a good city 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 Alexandria or Kamloops Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Alexandria
Kamloops

Alexandria is a city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kamloops is lacking in options for backpackers.

Alexandria is a good city to visit for backpackers. There aren't any true hostels in town, but you will find some cheap motels.

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

Alexandria
Kamloops

Alexandria is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Kamloops is lacking in options for its public transit.

Public transit in Alexandria is top-notch. DASH is the local bus system, but the city is also connected into the Washington DC metro system.

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

Is Alexandria or Kamloops a more walkable city?

Alexandria
Kamloops

Alexandria is an amazing city to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Kamloops is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Alexandria. It's a very easy city to walk around, particularly in the historic heart where most tourists spend their time.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Kamloops or Alexandria?

How long in Alexandria or Kamloops?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Alexandria or Kamloops to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Alexandria than Kamloops because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Alexandria, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kamloops.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Alexandria 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 Alexandria.


  • How many days in Alexandria or Kamloops? Ideal Length of Stay
    Alexandria 2-4 
    Kamloops 1-2

One day in Alexandria or Kamloops?

The beautiful city of Alexandria offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 nature-filled 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 Alexandria or Kamloops?

Alexandria is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Alexandria, 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 Alexandria or Kamloops?

Alexandria is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. 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 Alexandria or Kamloops?

Alexandria is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city 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 Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in Canada, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Kamloops or Alexandria?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Alexandria Prices
    USA Prices
    Kamloops Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Alexandria $0.00
    Kamloops $99

The average daily cost (per person) in Alexandria is $0.00, while the average daily cost in Kamloops is $99. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Alexandria and Kamloops in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Alexandria $38
    Kamloops $44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Alexandria $76
    Kamloops $88
Compare Hotels in Alexandria and Kamloops

Looking for a hotel in Alexandria or Kamloops? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Alexandria


Hotels in Kamloops


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Alexandria Hotel Prices and Kamloops Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Alexandria -
    Kamloops $20

Is it cheaper to fly into Alexandria or Kamloops?

Prices for flights to both Kamloops and Alexandria change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Alexandria -
    Kamloops $41

Typical Food Prices in Kamloops

For Kamloops, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Pastries
    $5.83
  • Lunch for Two
    $26
  • Coffee and Gelato
    $12

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Alexandria -
    Kamloops $13

Tours and Activities in Alexandria

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Alexandria.

  • Alexandria & Mt Vernon Tour: $99
  • American Revolution Guided Walking Tour: $30
  • Full-Day Bike Tour to Mt Vernon w/ Optional Boat: $68
  • Ultimate Dead of Night Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • Old Town Southern Comfort Food & History Tour: $127
  • The Abysmal Agonies of Alexandria Ghost Tour: $27

Tours and Activities in Kamloops

For Kamloops, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • BC Wildlife Park Entry Ticket: $15
  • Scenic Kamloops Self Guided Audio Driving Tour to Lake Louise : $15
  • Skip the Line: Kamloops BC Wildlife Park Admission Ticket: $16
  • Smartphone Audio Driving Tour between Kamloops & Revelstoke: $8.21
  • Smartphone Audio Driving Tour between Kamloops and Vancouver: $8.21
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Kamloops by Zombie Scavengers: $21

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Alexandria -
    Kamloops $6.80

Sample the Local Flavors in Alexandria

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Alexandria:

  • Alexandria Ghosts: Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $30


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Alexandria and Kamloops, we can see that Kamloops is more expensive. And not only is Alexandria much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Alexandria would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Alexandria 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 Kamloops would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kamloops than you might in Alexandria.

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


Which is Bigger, Alexandria or Kamloops?

Alexandria has a larger population, and is about 85% larger than the population of Kamloops. When comparing the sizes of Alexandria 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 Alexandria 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 Alexandria or Kamloops in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Alexandria and Kamloops. Most visitors come to Alexandria for 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 July, Alexandria is generally a little warmer than Kamloops. Daily temperatures in Alexandria average around 79°F (26°C), and Kamloops fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In July, Alexandria usually receives more rain than Kamloops. Alexandria gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Alexandria 79°F (26°C) 
    Kamloops 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Alexandria or Kamloops in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Alexandria as well as Kamloops. The autumn months attract visitors to Alexandria because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Kamloops this time of year.

Alexandria is a little warmer than Kamloops in the autumn. The daily temperature in Alexandria averages around 60°F (15°C) in October, and Kamloops fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Alexandria usually gets more rain in October than Kamloops. Alexandria gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Alexandria 60°F (15°C) 
    Kamloops 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Alexandria or Kamloops in the Winter?

Both Kamloops and Alexandria are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Alexandria this time of year. Also, 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 Alexandria in the winter. In the winter, Alexandria is much warmer than Kamloops. Typically, the winter temperatures in Alexandria in January average around 35°F (1°C), and Kamloops averages at about -3°C (27°F).

In January, Alexandria usually receives more rain than Kamloops. Alexandria gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Alexandria 35°F (1°C) 
    Kamloops -3°C (27°F)

Should I visit Alexandria or Kamloops in the Spring?

Both Kamloops and Alexandria during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Alexandria for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Alexandria is generally a little warmer than Kamloops. Daily temperatures in Alexandria average around 56°F (14°C), and Kamloops fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Alexandria usually gets more rain in April than Kamloops. Alexandria gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Alexandria 56°F (14°C) 
    Kamloops 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Kamloops and Alexandria

Alexandria Kamloops
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) -3°C (27°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Feb 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 2°C (35°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Mar 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 7°C (44°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 12°C (53°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 16°C (61°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 21°C (69°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 23°C (73°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 23°C (73°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 17°C (63°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 11°C (51°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 4°C (39°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Dec 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) -1°C (30°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)