TRU Botanical Garden and Arboretum Kamloops
A serene oasis on the TRU campus, featuring vibrant seasonal blooms, a fun hedge maze, and picturesque settings for events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak bloom and fewer crowds
TRU Botanical Garden and Arboretum Kamloops
Best Time
Peak bloom and fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene oasis on the TRU campus, featuring vibrant seasonal blooms, a fun hedge maze, and picturesque settings for events.
"A lovely oasis on Thompson Rivers University grounds, perfect for relaxation and events."
Check Bloom Status
Visit their website or social media for current bloom reports to see what's flowering best! :iphone:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on various paths. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Seasonal Flower Displays
Throughout the gardens
Witness a stunning array of flowers and greenery that changes with the seasons, offering a colorful escape.
The Maze
Central garden area
Navigate through a charming hedge maze, a fun challenge for all ages. Note: may be affected by maintenance.
Wedding Venue Potential
Various garden locations
A picturesque backdrop for weddings, with lush greenery and floral arrangements creating romantic photo opportunities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time for Blooms
Value for Money
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Bloom Status
Visit their website or social media for current bloom reports to see what's flowering best! :iphone:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on various paths. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Insect Repellent
Especially during warmer months, mosquitoes can be present. :bug:
Consider Event Days
Look for community events or open houses for potential free entry or special activities. :calendar:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Bloom Status
Visit their website or social media for current bloom reports to see what's flowering best! :iphone:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on various paths. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Insect Repellent
Especially during warmer months, mosquitoes can be present. :bug:
Consider Event Days
Look for community events or open houses for potential free entry or special activities. :calendar:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the TRU Botanical Garden for its beautiful seasonal flowers and tranquil atmosphere, making it a lovely spot for a relaxing walk or a picturesque wedding venue. However, some reviewers feel the admission price is high, especially outside peak bloom, and have noted inconsistencies in garden maintenance.
"This is a GREAT option for a summer wedding here in Kamloops! As a wedding photographer, I love the greenery and flowers surrounding the gardens and the photo ops all around the campus. Highly recommend for a wedding venue!"
Kaeli & Co. Photo
"Take time to rest, think and relax. Peace and quite. Beautiful flowers."
J.Barry Healey
"My husband and I aren't usually ones to write a bad review.
But this was not worth $30. We went during fall, so we weren't expecting lots of flowers. Obviously not as nice, but our own fault. So that wasn't an issue. However, the upkeep was just non existent. So much over grow and many weeds. It was actually crazy we spent so much to look at a garden and there wasn't a single landscaper taking care of it. The only time we saw an employee was because a tree fell over the maze and they were there to shut it down.
Which was also a huge let down. A big attraction and we weren't able to complete it, as the tree fell literally right at the end of the maze (at the center)
We actually got to the part where the tree Fell, and it literally looked like the maze shrub was growing into the tree, so no idea how long it's been fallen.
It just felt like there was absolutely no care at all. The water was full of leaves and needles that the water falls didn't work. My husband literally cleared it for them.
Look, I'm not expecting them to have a perfect garden, it is huge. However we didn't see a single employee taking care of the area. So disappointing and worth more like $5 a person."
Hannah Dyck
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The gardens are located on the Thompson Rivers University (TRU) campus in Kamloops, BC. You can drive and find parking on campus, or take local public transit to the university. Check TRU's campus map for specific directions to the garden areas.
Yes, there is ample parking available on the Thompson Rivers University campus. Parking rates and restrictions may apply, so check campus signage or TRU's parking website for the most current information.
Yes, Kamloops public transit (BC Transit) serves the TRU campus. Several bus routes stop directly at the university, making it an accessible option for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees can vary, and some visitors have noted it might not always feel worth the cost, especially outside peak bloom. It's best to check the official TRU Botanical Garden website for current pricing and any potential discounts or special event pricing.
While not always advertised, TRU sometimes hosts community events or has specific open days where access might be free or by donation. Keep an eye on their event calendar or campus news.
The gardens are generally accessible during daylight hours, but specific sections or facilities might have set operating times. It's advisable to check the official TRU Botanical Garden website for the most up-to-date hours of operation.
Advance ticket booking is usually not required for general entry, but for special events or group visits, it's recommended to inquire with the garden administration.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Highlights include the vibrant seasonal flower displays, the hedge maze, and the peaceful ambiance. It's a lovely oasis on the TRU campus, perfect for a relaxing stroll. +1
Yes, children often enjoy exploring the maze and discovering different plants. There are open spaces for them to roam, but supervision is always recommended.
Yes, benches are available throughout the gardens, some of which are covered by trees, offering spots to relax and enjoy the scenery.
The gardens feature a diverse range of flowers, shrubs, and trees, with displays changing seasonally. You might see everything from vibrant summer blooms to autumn foliage.
Maintenance can be inconsistent, with some visitors noting areas that could use more upkeep, especially outside peak seasons.
📸 📸 Photography
The gardens offer numerous picturesque spots with colorful flowers, lush greenery, and the maze. It's a popular venue for wedding photography due to its scenic beauty.
For wedding photography and commercial shoots, it's advisable to contact TRU's event services or the garden administration to confirm any specific policies or permit requirements.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer, more appealing look.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the gardens are beautiful, it's wise to prepare for potential insect activity, especially during warmer months, so packing some child-friendly insect repellent is a good idea. The paths are generally easy to navigate, making it suitable for strollers, though some areas might be uneven.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
To capture the best shots, aim for the golden hours – early morning or late afternoon – when the light is soft and flattering. Be mindful of any event photography happening, especially weddings, and always respect the garden's rules and the privacy of other visitors.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Relaxation Seekers
The gardens offer a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle, allowing visitors to recharge. The changing floral displays ensure that even repeat visits can offer a fresh perspective. It's a place to slow down and appreciate the simple beauty of the natural world.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Seasonal Beauty and Visitor Expectations
For those planning a visit, understanding the seasonal nature of the gardens is key. While summer offers the most vibrant floral displays, fall can provide a different kind of beauty with changing leaves. Some visitors have expressed disappointment if they expected a perfectly manicured garden year-round, especially given the admission fee. It's worth checking recent visitor photos or social media posts to gauge the current condition and bloom status before your trip.
Despite occasional critiques on maintenance, many still find the gardens to be a beautiful and relaxing spot. The presence of a hedge maze adds an element of fun, and the overall ambiance is often described as tranquil. It's a place that can be enjoyed for a quiet walk, a picnic, or simply to appreciate nature's artistry.
Weddings and Special Events
Couples looking for a picturesque wedding location often consider this venue for its aesthetic appeal. The various garden sections can offer different moods and settings for different parts of the event. It's recommended for those interested in hosting an event here to contact TRU's event services well in advance to discuss availability, packages, and any specific requirements.
Beyond weddings, the gardens can also be a lovely spot for other gatherings, such as engagement photoshoots, small celebrations, or even as a serene location for university-related functions. The combination of natural beauty and campus facilities makes it a versatile choice for various occasions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit