GET OUTSIDE AND EXPLORE
Hiking fans will be in awe at the lush landscape Vancouver Island has to explore. Ammonite Falls is an authentic West Coast experience with a forest trail leading to a cascading waterfall that flows in winter and spring; the steady roar of water against the towering fir backdrop is unforgettable.

For a more leisurely hike with views just as beautiful, check out Neck Point Park. Make sure to watch for sea lions offshore and bald eagles roosting in trees along the shoreline.

For the ultimate afternoon spent making memories together in the fresh air, head to WildPlay and play among the treetops on one of their adventure courses or river canyon zipline.

THE SNUNEYMUXW FIRST NATIONS CULTURAL DISPLAY AT NANAIMO MUSEUM
THE SNUNEYMUXW FIRST NATIONS CULTURAL DISPLAY AT NANAIMO MUSEUM. | MIKE ANDERSON

HISTORY AND CULTURE THRIVE HERE
In Nanaimo, from shops to museums and shows, there is something for everyone. Shopping lovers can spend hours browsing the quaint boutiques along Commercial Street and in the Old City Quarter before strolling past the historic Bastion and along the harbourfront walkway. Watch seaplanes take off against spectacular views of the Gulf Islands and Coastal Mountains.

History buffs will love the Nanaimo Museum, where you can sit on a Nanaimo Bar, walk through a replica coal mine, or imagine what daily life was like in a traditional Snuneymuxw First Nation longhouse.

MORDEN COLLIERY HISTORIC PROVINCIAL PARK
MORDEN COLLIERY HISTORIC PROVINCIAL PARK | JORDAN GEISBRECHT

Morden Colliery Historic Provincial Park is another must-see stop containing the only remaining coal tipple on Vancouver Island. This unique piece of Nanaimo’s history operated primarily from 1914 to 1921 and went through a historical conservation process that was completed in 2021.

If it’s nightlife you crave, the Queen’s nightclub and the aptly named Nanaimo Bar are perfect places to enjoy some live music and dancing.

NANAIMO BARS AT WHITE RABBIT CAFE
NANAIMO BARS AT WHITE RABBIT CAFE | JORDAN GEISBRECHT

SIP, SAVOUR, AND ENJOY
Fuel up after or in-between adventures anywhere in Nanaimo, and you’ll be in for a treat. Anyone looking for a casual meal with good food and company will enjoy Gabriel’s Cafe, a local favourite brunch spot with farm-to-fork fare. Other great options downtown include Melange, Top Notch Burgers, or enjoy a more upscale meal at the View Oceanside Grill.

A popular stop on the BC Ale Trail is White Sails Brewing where you can sample a flight of local craft beers. Or, try something sweet like the legendary Nanaimo Bar from White Rabbit Café or Bocca Cafe or a Nanaimo Bar cupcake from A Wee Cupcakery.

Nanaimo is the perfect spot for a staycation. With biking, hiking, whale watching, shopping, ziplining, and more to explore, you will love every minute!

Start planning your Nanaimo getaway today | tourismnanaimo.com/StartHere

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Jessica Kirby

Jessica Kirby