Top 10 Things To Do In Nanaimo
1. Visit Ammonite Falls
Location: Benson Creek Falls Regional Park, Access Points at Doumont Rd & Weigles Rd
Feel the mist on your face as you take in the beauty of a cascading waterfall. Tucked away through a forested trail, Ammonite Falls is a local favourite for a reason. Recent upgrades to the 4.5km trail, including a wooden viewing platform and staircase to the falls, have greatly improved access. Make sure you remember your camera, as the photo-ops are otherworldly!
2. Indulge your sweet tooth on the Nanaimo Bar Trail
Talk about a sweet adventure. Follow this self-guided tasting trail with its 40+ stops to discover all the secret variations of the legendary Nanaimo Bar dessert. There's something for every dessert lover with ice cream variations, vegan options, cheesecakes, cupcakes, and more!
3. Stroll through the scenic Harbourfront Walkway
Location: Along the Newcastle Channel and downtown waterfront.
This paved walkway is wheelchair accessible and stretches from the Gabriola Island ferry terminal to the Brechin Boat Ramp. Along the easy 30-minute trek, you'll find fantastic views, local coffee shops, ice cream shops, and gift shops. Locals and visitors alike love soaking in all the charm the quaint oceanside spot offers.
4. WildPlay Nanaimo
Location: 35 Nanaimo River Road
Take in the Nanaimo River as you sore over it on a zipline. WildPlay keeps kids and adults alike entertained for hours with five levels of aerial Adventure Courses, dozens of Ziplines streaking through the trees, four lanes of Axe Throwing, a giant swing so fast it blurs your vision and the legendary 150ft Bungy Jump. Adrenaline lives here!
5. Discover history at the Nanaimo Museum
Location: 100 Museum Way
Uncover history while exploring vibrant exhibits at the Nanaimo Museum. Walk through a replica coal mine, learn about the local forestry industry, and see daily life in a traditional Indigenous longhouse. While visiting, be sure to stop by the gift shop on your visit where you'll find beautiful Coastal Indigenous-designed jewellery and art.
6. Download the On This Spot App
The On This Spot app takes you on guided walking tours through the history that surrounds you. At each stop on your journey, you’ll find yourself standing on the spot a historic photo was taken. You can view a then-and-now photo comparison, use the built-in camera to create your own and read about the local history of Nanaimo and how it ties into the broader human experience.
Home to the Snuneymuxw First Nations for thousands of years, the place now known as Nanaimo was one of the first places in British Columbia to see substantial European settlement. Find out more about Nanaimo by downloading the app now.
7. Take in a Whale Watching Adventure
Location: #5-90 Front Street
There's nothing quite like seeing a majestic whale breach in the wild. Learn about (and likely see) orcas, humpbacks, harbour seals, and sea lions as you enjoy ocean views and a captivating sea breeze. An excellent way to witness these extraordinary creatures is on an excursion with one of many knowledgeable tour operators at Vancouver Island Whale Watch.
8. Neck Point Park
You'll find rugged rock cliffs, pebble beaches, and winding trails through Garry Oak groves at Neck Point. The park is an excellent location to catch a sunset over the ocean or for photographers wanting to capture the essence of Nanaimo and the west coast lifestyle.
9. Nanaimo Art Gallery
Location: 150 Commercial Street
Immerse yourself in the diverse and inspired Nanaimo art scene. This downtown hub features one exhibition at a time, allowing viewers to focus on a single theme and deeply enjoy its nuances. In addition to displaying curated modern art pieces, the Nanaimo Art Gallery hosts a variety of workshops and activities that aim to connect people with art.
10. Saysutshun
Take a quick ferry ride from Maffeo-Sutton Park and island hop to Saysutshun. As you explore the trails, sunny shores, and rich culture, you'll realize why it's a local favourite. Spend an afternoon beach combing, sweat it out on one of the many hiking trails, or engage in history on a walking tour led by a Snuneymuxw knowledge keeper. The island also has several well-equipped campsites catering to all types of campers just a five-minute walk from the docks.
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