Merritt is well-known throughout the Nicola Valley as a great convenient place to grab a bite to eat. The Nicola Valley culinary scene is a tasty part of your next trip to #ExploreMerritt. Guests looking for a local café can stop by for a coffee and snack with more than 40 options of restaurants and cafes in town.
Here are 5 suggestions for you to enjoy during your next trip to Merritt.
Brambles Bakery & Café
Photo: Pint Size Pilot, Lilly C, Kristoff D (TripAdvisor) – Photos were taken prior to 2020
Brambles Bakery & Café is proudly highlighted as one of the top cafés to visit in town on TripAdvisor. Famous for their specialty coffees and fresh homemade syrups that every customer instantly falls in love with. You have not experienced Merritt without tasting cowboy coffee from this lovely café in the heart of downtown. Much of their menu is made from scratch and was recently awarded 1st place in Merritt’s “People’s Choice” for the Best Café and Soups award. The welcoming décor of the café will perfectly complement your time in the community. Moreover, Brambles Bakery & Café stocks local products at their venue and has a gallery right next door for you to explore.
Location: 2151 Quilchena Avenue, Merritt, BC
Hours: Tuesday – Friday 7.30 AM – 4.30 PM, Saturday 10 AM – 3 PM, Closed on Sunday and Monday
Price: $3-$15
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5 – Certificate of Excellence 2016 – 2019 Winner
Kekuli Café Merritt Coffee & Bannock
Photo: @mason_music.life and @thegumguy
If you are looking for an authentic experience with local Indigenous culinary, Kekuli Café Merritt Coffee & Bannock is a must-go place in downtown Merritt. With more than 5 years of proudly serving guests from all over the world, no one can deny the signature high-quality, mouth-watering bannock they have to offer. Kekuli Cafe was humbly featured on the Nations: Indigenous Lifestyle Magazine from Indigenous Tourism Canada in 2020 for their unique and authentic culinary. People are in love with Kekuli Café not only because of the excellent food and beverage at a reasonable price but also their friendly and warm welcome services.
Location: 2051 Voght St, Merritt, BC
Hours: 6 AM – 5 PM
Price: $3-$15
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5 – Certificate of Excellence 2016 – 2019 Winner
Mandolin’s Bagel & Coffee House
Photo: SJW (TripAdvisor), @fishaginge
Mandolin’s Bagel & Coffee House is another perfect option if you are searching for a great local café. This lovely local coffee shop offers you a variety of homemade snacks and beverages that are worth a try. Mandolin’s Bagel & Coffee House was proudly awarded the Best Coffee in the Merritt’s “People’s Choice” award in 2019. Both locals and tourists stop by not only for a coffee and delicious sandwiches but also for a great relaxed atmosphere.
Location: 114 -1700 Garcia Street, Merritt, BC
Hours: Monday - Friday 6.30 AM – 4.30 PM, Saturday 8 AM – 2 PM, Closed on Sunday
Price: $3-$15
TripAdvisor Rating: 4/5
Starbucks and Tim Hortons
Photo: @paws0810 (TripAdvisor)
If you prefer more familiar options, Starbucks and Tim Hortons are also available in town close to Highway 5 (Coquihalla). Not only visitors but locals often visit these locations to meet up with friends for a meal, or a spacious work spot with a cup of hot coffee and some treats. Here you can find some of your favourite freshly made coffee and baked goodies. With two locations in Merritt, Tim Hortons DeWolf Way is more than happy to serve you from 7 am – 11 pm while its other location at River Road has a 24-hour drive-thru service. Make sure to drop by often because their options vary throughout the year and the seasonal menu is always available to sweeten your holidays!
Locations:
Tim Hortons #1: 3340 River Ranch Road, Merritt
Tim Hortons #2: 3683 DeWolf Way, Merritt
Starbucks: 3623 DeWolf Way, Merritt
Hours:
Starbucks: 6 AM – 9 PM
Tim Hortons #1: Open 24 hours
Tim Hortons #2: 7 AM – 11 PM
Price: Vary
TripAdvisor Rating: Starbucks: 4/5 and Tim Hortons: 3.4/5
We invite you to visit these amazing local cafés yourself and let us know on social media which one is your favourite using the hashtag #ExploreMerritt. More information is available on the Tourism Merritt website at www.tourismmerritt.ca/where-to-eat. There are many other cafés and restaurants in town you can explore on your next trip. Hope to see you around soon!
If you define yourself as a cultural explorer or authentic experiencer, the walking tour to #ExploreMerritt with 27+ historical sites in town will satisfy your curiosity and offer you a valuable local experience. A few heritage properties to visit include the Baillie House, Adelphi Hotel, Armstrong Department Store, Merritt Post Office, and the Coldwater Hotel.
The Merritt Visitor Center at the Baillie House is well-known as a friendly Visitor Centre that offers a public washroom, ice-cream, and picnic area. While here pick up one of many FREE visitor guides, interact with their amazing staff, and purchase some distinctive Nicola Valley souvenirs and local products. As one of the top places to visit while in the area, the Baillie House is one of the oldest properties in the Nicola Valley. On TripAdvisor, tourists frequently comment that the Merritt Visitor Centre deserves 5+ stars for the exceptional service that exceeds their expectations. Whether you are new to town or have been before, the Baillie House is a perfect place to start another exciting trip to explore the hidden gems in Merritt.
Location: 2250 Voght Street
Year: 1908
You will be pleased to come across this historical hotel located in the heart of downtown Merritt. This hotel proudly showcasing the unique architecture since before the incorporation of Merritt as a town. The Coldwater Hotel offers a comfortable sitting area, good food and a convenient location in the downtown core. What could be more authentic than having a meal at a heritage attraction while learning more about the local history?
Location: 1999 Quilchena Avenue
Year: 1910
3. Armstrong Department Store
The Armstrong Department Store is a must-see for any country music fan travelling through the Nicola Valley. This is home to the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame displaying the country music scene in Merritt since the days of the Merritt Mountain Music Festival and now with the Rockin River Music Festival. Let yourself into the world of country music, cowboy life and learn about the other country music attractions in town including the Walks of Stars and Country Music Legend Murals. Here you will find a piece of Canadian Country Music history!
Location: 2025 Quilchena Avenue
Year: 1910
4. Adelphi Hotel
Photo Courtesy of the Nicola Valley Museum & Archives
Truly immerse yourself in the history of Merritt and the Nicola Valley at Adelphi Hotel. Strongly standing for over 100 years, the Adelphi Hotel is one of the top-visited heritage sites for residents and visitors, located right in downtown Merritt. If you are into culture, history and architecture, the original fireplace, old-fashioned fixtures and luxurious ground floor at the Adelphi Hotel will satisfy your cravings. Visit their Facebook Page to stay updated with the Adelphi Hotel and the new businesses in this historic building.
Location: 2101 Quilchena Ave
Year: 1912
5. Merritt Post Office
Photo Courtesy of Bonnie Pryce
Although the Merritt Post Office is a more recent heritage stop, in comparison with some of the other mentioned properties, it is so worth a visit and a picture thanks to its unique structure. Located in downtown Merritt, the Post Office has enticed plenty of visitors to stop and spend more time exploring the heritage attractions and the narrative behind each historic site.
Location: 2040 Voght Street
Year: 1940
For more information on the 27+ historical sites in Merritt visit www.tourismmerritt.ca or visit the Merritt Visitor Centre at the Baillie House to pick up your own Heritage Walking Tour Map. You will be amazed by how the heritage buildings have been preserved since 1906. We love to share this important part of our community, the new uses some of these heritage buildings have and the other historical buildings throughout the Nicola Valley. Don’t forget to share your Merritt moments with us on social media by using #ExploreMerritt for a chance to be featured.
With a variety of activities to enjoy this beautiful landscape, the fun is endless when you spend time with your lovely puppies in the Nicola Valley. The City of Merritt offers facilities and accessibility from city parks to hiking trails to ensure quality time with your travel besties. Here are some visitor-favourite city parks and trails in the Nicola Valley to help you #ExploreMerritt!
The Too Much Info Trail ranks the first stop among 120+ trails in Merritt on Trailforks, for not only several outdoor activities but also as a great route to enjoy with your dog. The hike is a lot more fun when you have your hiking friends. This hike will take about 3 hours to the top of Iron Mountain but only about an hour is needed to make your way to the lookouts. If you are seeking a quick hike and rewarding views along the trail, the Too Much Info Trail is a perfect choice!
Photo: @westcoasthairgal
In search of a pet-friendly trail for the whole family? The Tom Lacey Memorial Trail is a must-do on your Nicola Valley trail list. Located a short distance from the city center and connected to many other trails along the way, this trail is an easy walk with rewarding views. The Tom Lacey Memorial Trail has become a favourite due to the breath-taking scenery along the way. This trail can take approximately 3 hours to the top of Swakum Mountain for the best viewpoints.
Photo: @havebiscuitswilltravel
Can’t decide between mountains and lakes? How about taking a hike starting from Lundbom Lake for a perfect view of Merritt and the beautiful Nicola Valley? An average of 3 hours is suggested to complete this hike, but your furry friends will be excited about being on the trail with you. Sugarloaf Mountain features plenty of amazing views along the way and on top of the mountain.
Photo: @tharythary
If you love a little bit more challenging hike to exercise with your dog, Kane Valley is a great option. With over 50 km of trails, Kane Valley is both a Summer and Winter wonderland for everyone to explore the beautiful Nicola Valley. The trail will take approximately 4 hours and the incredible lakes, pine and aspen trees will not disappoint. Give it a try while you can make your way down through connecting trails along the way.
Photo: @Travis Fehr
Kentucky-Alleyne Provincial Park is considered as one of the most popular and frequently visited areas to visit. There are plenty of outdoor activities here including fishing, paddle boarding, camping, and hiking you can have fun with your pets. It is an easy hike within an hour to complete while circling the lake with a dreamlike turquoise colour often photographed. Please keep in mind that pets must be on-leash in Kentucky-Alleyne Provincial Park. There is a great Explore Trails in Merritt BC video on the Kentucky-Alleyne Provincial Park to inspire you pre-trip.
Photo: @lokistagram
If you are looking for an option for your furry friends to enjoy leash off, the local Merritt Dog Park is your place to be. Located near the City of Merritt Public Works yard, this designated fenced park is a great space to start or end your walking tour of Merritt with your dogs. This wide-open space allows your puppies to get out some energy and play with other pets.
Photo: @zmnixon
You miss out a lot if you have not utilized Claybanks RV Park and visiting the Coldwater River Trail locating within a short distance from Merritt city center. Located along the Coldwater River, this pet-friendly, handicap-accessible campground and RV Park is filled with trees and spacious sites. The trail curves with the winding of the Coldwater River and is a pleasure to stroll no matter the time of year. Please keep in mind that pets must be on-leash during your visit. To see the trail before your visit there is an Explore Trails in Merritt BC video on the Coldwater River Trail.
Merritt is a puppy-friendly city with a variety of facilities and accessibility available to enjoy. We highly encourage you to visit Tourism Merritt or drop by the Merritt Visitor Center at the Baillie House to chat with the amazing team to learn about the best spot for you and your fur friends to explore.
The City of Merritt is well-known for the moto “Flourish under the Sun” with the abundant amount of sunshine throughout the year. In addition to the variety of popular outdoor festivals and events, Merritt has many indoor leisure activities at locations such as the Merritt Lawn Bowling Clubhouse, Nicola Valley Aquatic Center, Nicola Valley Memorial Arena, Merritt Civic Center, and the Merritt Curling Centre. These recreation sites offer a variety of options for locals and visitors to #ExploreMerritt and enjoy the community throughout the year.
We invite you to discover some of the outstanding indoor activities here in Merritt BC!
Curling
Curling is one of the unique indoor activities Merritt has to offer. Make sure to stop by the Merritt Curling Club and give it a try. This family-friendly activity is easy, fun and relaxing for all you need is a pair of clean shoes. The curling center is open year-round to meet the popular demand of local community members and tourists. Keep an eye on the Merritt Curling Club and Tourism Merritt for special occasions you not want to miss!
Location: Merritt Curling Club
Photo: Merritt Curling Club Facebook Page
Skating
Who does not love FREE public skating? Warming up your body with an easy exercise sounds like a great idea during the cold season. For only $2, you will have no problem finding your skate rentals from size child to adult at the door. Skate sharpening is also available with various options. The ice rink opens several days throughout the winter but be sure to check exact dates and times before you drop by. Come check it out yourself!
Location: Nicola Valley Memorial Arena
Photo: Nicola Valley Skating Club
Swimming
Who says you can only go swimming in the summer? Love swimming all year round? We have got your back! The Nicola Valley Aquatic Center provides a safe and friendly aquatic world for you to dive into throughout the year. You can spend your whole day here with endless fun activities to do. Thinking about a birthday indoor pool party? Contact the Aquatic Center for the best rate to book the pool for unforgettable time with your friends and family!
Location: Nicola Valley Aquatic Center
Bowling
Another favourite indoor activity in Merritt is bowling! A bowling competition with friends and some snacks is a great way to relax. Bowling is easy, entertaining and open for all ages. This is one of the best go-to place for any kinds of group offering a comfortable atmosphere for everyone to enjoy the indoors and relax.
Location: Merritt Bowling Centre
Tour of Arts Gallery and Museum
If you are interested in some easy and chill indoor activities, the Arts Gallery and Museum both are your destinations. All you need is to wander around the Courthouse Arts Gallery and Museum with enough time to absorb what Merritt has to offer. You can enjoy learning about not only Merritt but also about the beautiful region of Nicola Valley. Exploring the hidden gems of both these great locations.
Location: Courthouse Arts Gallery and Nicola Valley Museum & Archives
Photo: Nicola Valley Museum & Archives Facebook Page
These activities are considered some top-rated indoor leisure activities in town from perspectives of both the locals and visitors. It’s now your chance to experience them with your family and friends! We invite you to share your fun-filled indoor activities in Merritt on social media using #ExploreMerritt. For more information on other indoor fun, visit www.tourismmerritt.ca or stop by the Visitor Center for the latest Activity Guide to find out what is best for you.
We can’t wait to see you during your next trip to Merritt!
Got questions? Contact us by phone, or by email using our contact form.
Merritt Visitor Centre: 250-378-0349
Tourism Manager: 250-378-8619
Email: Contact Form