Top things to see and do in Nanaimo
This coastal community has plenty to do on and off-shore
The community of Nanaimo has year-round activities and plenty of superb things to see and do. The City of Nanaimo maintains 588 hectares of parks and its urban shoreline is among the longest and most pristine in the world.
While it's hard to pick from the hundreds of activities this coastal community offers, Chelsea Barr, the media relations representative for the City of Nanaimo, highlighted some attractions that visitors couldn't miss when on the island.
1) Swim with Seals
In the spring and summer months, seal pups are at their most curious stages and want to find out what you're all about. There are a couple dive companies in Nanaimo that take visitors to Snake Island where up to 250 seals reside. A trip typically costs $99 and includes a wet suit, snorkel, flippers, mask and a boat ride. www.sundowndiving.com
2) Morden Mine rocks
Great for history and mining buffs, the Morden Colliery Historic Provincial Park in South Wellington offers guided interpretive tours of the remnants of the Morden Mine. This coal mine tour takes visitors through the mine's coal tipple and dumping chutes, as well as a concrete archway that formed the lower section of its boiler-plant. www.mordenmine.com
3) After a couple beverages you'll be floating
Dinghy Dock Marine Pub and Bistro is Canada’s only floating pub. Located on Protection Island, this pub is open all year long and offers spectacular views of Nanaimo. While sipping on a beverage or eating some delicious pub food, one can observe the float planes and ferries in the harbour. This pub is great for kids as well, and in the summer they are welcome to fish in the floor on an outdoor float. www.dinghydockpub.com
4) Your own wonderland
Barton & Leier Gallery is a must-see when visiting Nanaimo. Complete with an art studio, a gift shop and a garden with funky installations, visitors can get lost in the artists' visions and talent. Barr describes the Barton & Leier Gallery as a truly unique garden.
"It is like walking into Alice in Wonderland," said Barr. "It is so beautiful with really quirky elements such as a hippo head poking out of the pond, palm trees and a path made up of all types of glass, beads, rocks (and) toys in a wonderful mosaic path." www.bartonandleiergallery.com
5) Nanaimo calls all food lovers
Over the years, the community of Nanaimo has embraced various recipes and alterations of their famous Nanaimo bar. For a less sweet and organic option, visit Mon Petit Choux on Commercial Street. If your looking for this delicious treat with a twist, go to Pirate Chips, also on Commercial Street for a deep-fried Nanaimo bar. Not a fan of dessert but prefer a night cap? Check out the Modern Cafe for a scrumptious Nanaimo bar martini. www.themoderncafe.ca, www.monpetitchoux.ca
