TRU student recreation

TRU Student Recreation on a Budget, Part 2
– from Wildlife to Film

In part 1 of our 2-part series on TRU student recreation, we looked at low-cost fitness and outdoor adventure. In part 2, we explore a mix of recreation from wildlife to music. Summit Village Residences is a great choice for TRU off-campus housing because not only is it close to TRU, it’s also close to a variety of recreational opportunities and amenities for TRU students on a budget.

Budget Recreation for TRU Students

Life should be more than knuckling down and studying. TRU students need to strike a balance and find time to enjoy much needed time to enjoy recreation and fun with friends. Here are few budget recreational opportunities that will fortify you mind and spirit.

BC Wildlife Park
Home to over 40 species, the BC Wildlife Park has been entertaining and educating visitors since 1965. Experience the Highland Valley Copper Amphitheatre’s annual Summer Birds of Prey flight demonstration or Laser Light Show. Take a ride on the Wildlife Express Miniature Train. Enjoy VIP Experiences that include the VIP Bear Experience, Guided Park Tour, and Private Animal Encounter.

General Admission Fees: $15.50 for Adults from April 1 to October 10.
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View latest rates and hours. for latest rates and hours.

Cliffside Indoor Rock Climbing Gym
For those about to rock, we salute affordable and discount indoor rock climbing! Visit Cliffside Indoor Rock Climbing Gym’s specials page to view the latest TRU student discounts. At the time of this writing, TRU students can receive a 25% discount off the $14 drop-in rate from Sunday, 4-8 p.m.

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View rates.

Kamloops Museum and Archives
Since 1937, the Kamloops Museum and Archives has been acquiring, preserving and documenting Kamloops’ rich history. The archives include documents, maps, publications, photos, film and sound recordings from the “trade era” from around 1812 to the twentieth century. Learn about Kamloops history and visit ongoing exhibits at the Kamloops Museum. Participate in a guided tour of downtown Kamloops and learn about historical building, businesses and iconic Kamloops residents. Go on a “Kamloops During the War” tour and learn about Kamloops’ military involvement in both World Wars. Visit the archive library Tuesday-Friday from 1:15 pm until 4 pm.

Best of all, it’s free, though a donation is always welcome.

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Bowling
Bowling is affordable, fun and great for a little friendly TRU student competition. Whether you’re a seasoned bowler or newbie, Falcon Lanes offers 5 and 10-pin bowling 7-days per week.  For $4 for 5-pin and $5 for 10-pin you get your money’s worth of fun and challenge. Visit on a Sunday night and bowl for $1 per person between 5 pm and 10 pm.

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Billiards and Brews
A game of pool and a beer or two with fellow TRU students is a great stress reliever. It doesn’t cost much to enjoy a game or two while sipping your favourite beer. Here’s a list of Kamloops pool rooms and lounges with billiards tables.  Many are a short bus ride or walking distance from Summit Village Residences.

Date Night
If you’re pondering where to go on a date or date-night, Tourism Kamloops has done the thinking for you. Check out the amazing list of date-night experiences including music in the park, live theatre, ice skating, and a list of Kamloops’ fantastic food trucks for an alternative to indoor dinner.

Music in the Park
Absolutely free, Music in the Park is the perfect opportunity to take in live, local music, get some fresh air and relax with friends.  No matter what kind of music you enjoy, you’ll find something at Music in the Park. This year includes: bluegrass, big band, jazz swing, soul, folk, country rock, blues, world music, and tributes to Bob Seger, Rod Stewart and Lynrd Skynrd.

From 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm each evening from July 1 to the end of August, listen to live music at the Rotary Bandshell at Riverside Park and McDonald Park (on selected evenings).

View the Riverside Park schedule.
View the McDonald Park schedule.

Film
In the spring, fall and winter, Kamloops Film Society presents a lineup of Canadian, Independent and International films as part of its ongoing film series. Films are shown every second Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Paramount Theatre at 503 Victoria Street.

Rates: $2 annual membership card and about $8 per movie with your membership.

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As you can see, there is a lot of affordable entertainment and recreation for TRU students. Whether you live in TRU student housing or an off-campus residence, you are close to low-cost exercise, outdoor activities, relaxation and fun. Enjoy!