Tourism Guide - 101 Things to See and Do 2019

101

THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN NANAIMO 2019

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101 things to see and do in nanaimo

101

THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN

INSIDE:

4. BATHTUB RACING

NANAIMO 101 is just a number - there are endless opportunities to experience excitement, adventure, culture and art in the City of Nanaimo.

Located on the shores of the Salish Sea, on traditional territory of the Snuneymuxw First Nation, Nanaimo’s rich history and culture, as well as natural amenities, make it an attractive destination for vacationers. Consider exploring this guide, choosing your favourites from our suggestions, and finding more that we can add to the list in future editions. Share your adventures with us on social media, using the hashtag #ExploreNanaimo.

52. down by the bay

67. mural selfies

cover photo by ben giesbrecht

101 Things to See and Do in Nanaimo 2019 is an advertising feature published by Black Press Media in partnership with Tourism Nanaimo and the Nanaimo Hospitality Association.

Phone: 250-753-3707 E-mail: editor@nanaimobulletin.com

Restore your spirit with an adventure on Saysutshun – a special place of natural wonders with a rich cultural history.

Check out our website and plan your trip today! www.newcastleisland.ca

· 22 kilometers of trails · Saysutshun Interpretive Walking Tours, Traditional Salmon Barbeques and more · Saysutshun Ferry Service is a short 10 minute ride for $5 return · Individual and Group Campsites available · Other park services such as camping, docking and special events · Tasty treats at our Saysutshun Bistro

101 THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN NANAIMO

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101

THINGS TO SEE & DO IN NANAIMO

Photo by Sarah Étoile

On behalf of City Council for the City of Nanaimo it gives me great pleasure to welcome you to one of the most desirable, livable cities in North America. We regard our City as one of the most beautiful harbourfronts on the West Coast and recognize we are located on the traditional territory of the Snuneymuxw First Nation.

Our community of approximately 90,000 people is Vancouver Island’s second largest city and has been chosen by entrepreneurs, artists and families for our urban energy, unique history, outdoor recreation and lifestyle to visit and return to live. This all contributes to the character of our community and the unique lifestyle some call “island living.”

I hope you have the opportunity to explore the natural highlights and scenic beauty of our mountain and oceanside setting or some finer qualities of our urban amenities. Visit our downtown core with its beautiful waterfront, heritage character and specialized retail services. Enjoy a walk along the seawall, partake in a game of golf, or just sit back and relax.

While your stay with us may be brief, I trust will be enjoyable. I invite you to visit us again in the foreseeable future when you can enjoy the full extent of our hospitality and the many points of interest that our beautiful city has to offer.

Sincerely, Leonard Krog Mayor

It gives me great pleasure to welcome visitors and residents to Snuneymuxw Territory. We are pleased to share the beauty and bounty of the land that our Snuneymuxw People have called home since time immemorial.

Snuneymuxw First Nation is a vibrant community with a strong culture, traditions and way of life. Part of the Coast Salish Peoples, Snuneymuxw is located on the eastern coast of Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands, and the Fraser River. Snuneymuxw Territory encompasses one of the most productive and resource rich areas in the heart of the Salish Sea, and we are proud to be one of the largest First Nations in British Columbia with a population of approximately 2, 000 Snuneymuxw citizens.

Our pre-confederate treaty with the Crown – the Treaty of 1854 – forms the fundamental basis for our relationship with the Crown, Canada and British Columbia. Through recognition and reconciliation of our treaty relationship, Snuneymuxw strives to create opportunities to fulfill our potential as a Nation, families and individuals.

A significant opportunity is present for Indigenous Tourism to lead the way for meaningful reconciliation of our shared history. Snuneymuxw tourism products are interactive ways to learn about Snuneymuxw culture, our shared history and support the regional economy. Experience Saysutshun today by visiting Newcastle Island and embarking on a Saysutshun Walking Tour or Salmon BBQ! We hope that visitors and residents take the opportunity to learn about our shared history, the Snuneymuxw way of life and become immersed in our shared-vision for future generations.

We welcome you back to our territory in the future. I trust that the special memories you form of Nanaimo will last a lifetime.

Erralyn Joseph Councilor, Snuneymuxw First Nation President & Acting CEO, Petroglyph Development Group

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101 things to see and do in nanaimo

1.

ENJOY a nanaimo bar

Nanaimo feels pride in its signature dessert and enjoys Nanaimo bars in all their many forms.

“It’s kind of this iconic Canadian dessert,” says Diedre Tansey, food blogger. “When you get the texture and get the flavours right it is just amazing.”

Cafés, bakeries, restaurants and breweries have tinkered with the treat in some fun ways to co-operate on creating the Nanaimo Bar Trail. tourismnanaimo.com

2.

cheer dragonboats The Nanaimo Save-On-Foods Dragonboat Festival makes a lot of special moments in the harbour every year. The festival is a fundraiser for breast cancer treatment and support, but the racing is competitive.

The festival is July 5-7 at Maffeo Sutton Park. nanaimodragonboat.com

3.

see SILLY boats

Not every vessel at the Silly Boat Regatta is seaworthy, and that’s what makes it so much fun. The annual fundraiser for the Nanaimo Child Development Centre will be held July 14 at Maffeo Sutton Park. Teams construct boats at the park and then race heats and finals that same day. sillyboat.com

sean fenzL photo

4.

WATCH world-class bathtub racing

There’s one mode of ocean transport, more than any other, that people identify with Nanaimo – bathtubs.

The Great International World Championship Bathtub Race is the main event every year at the Nanaimo Marine Festival. The weekend consists of a series of events, with concerts, street fairs and other family activities, a Sailpast parade, fireworks and more leading up to the great bathtub race on Sunday morning.

“Bathtub weekend is iconic,” says Greg Peacock, Loyal Nanaimo Bathtub Society commodore.

This year’s race will be held July 21, when skippers piloting boats made from tubs will attempt to navigate a 58-kilometre course starting and ending at Maffeo Sutton Park. The Nanaimo Marine Festival is July 19-21. bathtubbing.com

Hours of operation: Mon. - Fri. 10am - 3pm Saturday 11am - 3pm Admission: Adults $4, Students & Seniorss $2 Children under 12, Veterans, and current serving members of the Militaryy & RCMP FREE.

Phone: 250-753-3814 www.VIMMS.ca Z6

101 things to see and do in nanaimo

www.nanaimodragonboat.com

www.sillyboat.com

www.bathtubbing.com

www.marinefestival.ca

101 THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN NANAIMO

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6.

admire our flower

Lotus pinnatus, a.k.a. bog birds-foot trefoil, is Nanaimo’s official floral emblem, and is found in very few locations in Canada. Look for it on the Harewood Plains between White Rapids Road and McKeown Way in the springtime.

7.

5.

jordan dyck photo

LEARN ABOUT the BASTION

Nanaimo’s iconic Bastion was built in 1853 by the Hudson’s Bay Company and is the last of the original free-standing HBC bastion forts. Operated as an exhibit by the Nanaimo Museum, it is open for tours daily during the summer season. Every day at noon during the summer, museum staff fire the historical cannons next to the Bastion, located on Front Street.

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101 things to see and do in nanaimo

visit the museum

Learn about how it all began as the Nanaimo Museum offers a look at the city’s origins as Snuneymuxw village sites before the Hudson’s Bay Company set up trading operations. Permanent exhibits detail the city’s transition from coal mining to forestry and beyond, and feature exhibits offer other perspectives on Canadian history and culture. nanaimomuseum.ca 8.

hear about heroes

Vancouver Island Military Museum has memorials, medal displays, books and military records at its location in Piper Park in downtown Nanaimo. The Wall of Honour recognizes veterans from across Canada. vimms.ca

get wet

9.

Check out the city’s water parks. Chill out on a hot summer day at Departure Bay Park, Deverill Square Park, Harewood Centennial Park and Mansfield Park.

10.

ben giesbrecht photo

Go for a walk

Get outdoors and see Nanaimo at your own pace. Nanaimo offers parks and trails to view wildlife, wildflowers and breathe clean air. Here are 10 of our favourite places to walk:

• • • • •

Harbourfront Walkway Cottle Lake/Linley Valley Neck Point Pipers Lagoon Buttertubs Marsh

11.

• Colliery Dam Park • Jack Point/Biggs Park • Hemer Park • Westwood Lake Park • Saysutshun

climb a mountain

If you can handle a brisk pace on some of those aforementioned walking trails, then it might be time to see if you can step it up and ascend the summit of Mount Benson.

Set aside five to seven hours for a round trip, and expect some steep spots, but the reward at the top is Nanaimo’s best views. Start your hike at the trailhead to the Witchcraft Lake Regional Trail on Benson View Road. rdn.bc.ca/mount-benson-regional-park 12.

take to the trails

The region is working on improvements to access at Benson Creek Falls Regional Park, but there are other regional parks and trails to visit including Extension’s Great Trail. rdn.bc.ca/regional-parks-and-trails 101 THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN NANAIMO

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14.

catch a catamaran cruise

Island Marine Adventures offers tours in and around the harbour in a catamaran or inflatable. islandmarineadventures.com news bulletin photo

13.

WIND AT YOUR SAILS

• The major sailing event on the calendar this year is the Van Isle 360 international yacht race. Forty boats will look for a fast start out of Nanaimo Harbour June 1 as they set out to circumnavigate Vancouver Island. vanisle360.com

• Nanaimo Yacht Club hosts the Snake Island Nanaimo

Regatta from June 28-30. The yacht club also has a slate of sailing programs for youths or adults. nanaimoyc.ca

• Learn to sail with the non-profit Van Isle Sailing Co-op, which shares boats and knowledge. vanislesailing.ca

Snorkel ADVENTURES

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250-756-1863

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101 things to see and do in nanaimo

15.

watch whales

Vancouver Island Whale Watch offers sustainable whale watching tours. View orcas or humpback whales in the strait and learn from a marine naturalist. Sightings guaranteed.

Tours are three to four hours and depart daily from downtown Nanaimo from the spring to the fall. vancouverislandwhalewatch.com 16.

Dive in

Nanaimo has some of the best temperate water diving in the world. There are three artificial reefs – HMCS Cape Breton, HMCS Saskatchewan and the Rivtow Lion – and an undersea garden of natural phenomena awaits. Snorkel excursions are also available.

• Sundown Diving

sundowndiving.com

• Nanaimo Dive Outfitters divenanaimo.ca

17.

canoe or kayak the marine trail

The Salish Sea Marine Trail is a network of identified and mapped land access points for paddlers. The B.C. Marine Trails Network is continuing to develop campsites, make dock improvements and install signs. bcmarinetrails.org 18.

paddle paradise

20.

go fish

Go for a swim, outdoors or indoors. At Beban Park, you’ll find a pirate-themed pool with a waterslide, leisure pool and interactive play features. Nanaimo Aquatic Centre boasts a 52-metre pool, three water slides, a leisure pool and lazy river. Both facilities have steam rooms and hot tubs.

Kin Pool at Bowen Park has public swimming most afternoons until the start of September.

Westood Lake Park is Nanaimo’s favourite place for lake swimming; the City of Nanaimo will have lifeguards there from the start of summer through to Labour Day. Nanaimo River is a great place for summer fun, too, provided you know the right areas for safe swimming.

A favourite launch point for paddlers is Brechin boat ramp.

Get out on the water in your own canoe, kayak or standup paddleboard, or rent from Van Island Rec on Front Street or Coastal Expression on Stewart Avenue. coastalexpression.com 19.

take a dip

mike anderson photo

Around Nanaimo there are a lot of fish in the sea and several area lakes are stocked with trout. Ask local retailers about secret and not-so-secret fishing spots.

• Coastal Blue Adventures

• Invictus Charters

coastalblueadventures.com

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21.

ZIP IT

25.

PLAY AT BOWEN PARK

WildPlay Element Park partners with the City of Nanaimo to offer a zip line attraction right over the Sway’ A’ Lana Lagoon at Maffeo Sutton Park.

22.

BUNGY JUMP

Bowen Park, 36 hectares and mostly natural, borders the Millstone River and offers places to walk, picnic and play. Here are highlights:

Bungy jumping, a zipline, a big swing and an aerial adventure course can be found in the woods at WildPlay Element Park on Nanaimo River Road. wildplay.com/nanaimo 23.

ICE skate

There are ice times year-round. For public skating schedules, visit the City of Nanaimo’s website. nanaimo.ca 24.

• Disc golf • Duck pond • Lawn bowling • Horseshoes • Outdoor pool

26. mike anderson photo

see salmon splashing

Fall is the best time to visit the Nanaimo River Hatchery, but trails are open year-round. Take Beck Road to Rugby Road. nanaimoriverhatchery.ca

• Rhododendron grove • Millstone channel • Volleyball sand courts • Activity centre • Sports fields

camp out

Pitch a tent or park an RV in the great outdoors.

Campgrounds close by include Saysutshun/ Newcastle Island, Living Forest Oceanside Campground, Mountainaire, Rondalyn Resort, Brannen Lake, Westwood Lake and Zuiderzee Campground.

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101 things to see and do in nanaimo

Located in Central Vancouver Island, Longwood Brew Pub is Nanaimo’s favorite rendezvous destination.

250.729.8225 • 5775 Turner Rd, Nanaimo www.longwoodbrewpub.com info@longwoodbrewpub.com

27.

float at the pub

Take the Protection Connection ferry to Protection Island’s Dinghy Dock Pub, Canada’s only registered floating pub. dinghydockpub.com 28.

toss a crab trap

Get a crabbing licence and compete with resident seals for supper at the crabbing dock at Maffeo Sutton Park.

29.

spot petroglyphs

Petroglyph Park in south Nanaimo features prehistoric sandstone rock carvings depicting animal and human figures.

30.

walk your dog

The City of Nanaimo offers a dozen places to let your dog roam off-leash including Beban Park dog park, Westwood Lake power lines, and upper Colliery Dam Park. nanaimo.ca 31.

see sweet views

Sugarloaf Mountain, overlooking Departure Bay, offers one of the city’s best viewpoints after a steep but short climb.

sarah Étoile photo

32.

EXPERIENCE SAYSUTSHUN

Saysutshun/Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park, just a 10-minute water taxi ride across the channel from Maffeo Sutton Park, features a perimeter trail and other walking trails, a campground, amenities and First Nations culture.

Saysutshun in the Hul’qumi’num language means ‘training for running’ and competitive canoe pullers used to run the island’s trails to build strength and endurance. newcastleisland.ca

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• Maffeo Sutton Park (Jul 2-30) • Bowen Park Amphitheatre (Aug 6-27)

http://www.recreation.nanaimo.ca 101 THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN NANAIMO

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Discover the OCQ

Shop, Dine, Relax in Nanaimo’s destination shopping, business and dining district!

There are Over 70 services located in the OCQ for your enjoyment, plus Free street parking for up to 2 hours or pay parking lots at minimal rates for your longer stays.

UPCOMING EVENTS: Every Friday between June 7th to August 30th, starting at Noon ~ Sounds of Summer in the OCQ! Free, live local music at various locations every month in the OCQ!

Tarot Readings, Books, Incense, Jewelry, Imports & Crystals Tools for Conscious Living www.lobeliaslair.ca 250-753-5440

• June - Visit Fitzwilliam Gate • July - Wesley Square • August - Heritage Mews The finale will be a 2 hour event with celtic group Knacker’s Yard on August 30th

June 20th, from 4-8 ~ Summer Solstice Mystic Faire in the Heritage Mews, hosted by Lobelia’s Lair.

Tarot readers, local vendors, music see Facebook for more details June 21-22 ~ Vancouver Island Chamber Music Festival, St. Paul’s Anglican Church October ~ Watch for updates on the Haunted Walking Tour in the OCQ! Find the Old City Quarter on Instagram at #lifeintheocq and on Facebook @OldCityQuarter to keep in touch with all of our upcoming local events!

Come join us for fun and excitement with over 320 games in our library to try out.

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party with us THIS SUMMER

*

DRAGONBOATS Nanaimo Save-On-Foods Dragonboat Festival is July 5-7 at Maffeo Sutton Park. * see page Z6

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SILLY BOATS The Nanaimo Silly Boat Regatta boat building, heats and finals all happen July 14 at Maffeo Sutton Park. * see page Z6

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bathtub race at Maffeo Sutton Park on July 21. * see page Z6

arrowsmith media photo

33.

NANAIMO PRIDE B.C.’s third-largest Pride festival celebrates members of the LGBTQ2+ community, the diversity of sexual orientations and gender identities. It honours those who have fought for gay and trans rights in the face of discrimination and hate, and offers hope that we can do better. And it’s inclusive, with members of the LGBTQ2+ community and allies welcome and encouraged at the parade and parties June 4-9. nanaimopride.ca

34.

CANADA DAY Food, music and other entertainment, and family activities July 1 at Maffeo Sutton Park. nanaimo.ca

35.

INFRINGING DANCE A celebration of dance, with world-class acts, timed

to coincide with the Dragonboat Festival. July 4-14. crimsoncoastdance.org/infringing

MARINE FESTIVAL Festival fun downtown culminates in the great

36.

FRINGE FESTIVAL Offbeat theatre productions will be performed at various downtown venues Aug. 8-17. nanaimofringe.com

37.

SUMMERTIME BLUES Walter Trout, Ana Popovic, Eric Gales and many other artists play Maffeo Sutton Park Aug. 22-25. nanaimobluesfestival.com

38.

VISIT THE VIEX The Vancouver Island Exhibition commemorates its

125th anniversary Aug. 23-25 and with that in mind, organizers will be dedicated to ensuring this year’s exhibition success. Every year, the VIEX brings back old favourites and introduces new attractions, while maintaining its roots as a country fair. Livestock, midway, food, music, blue ribbons and more. viex.ca

A Country ye experience for the entire Family!

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101 things to see and do in nanaimo

ice cream shop

39.

CULTIVATE ARTS

Gabriola Island’s Cultivate Festival, featuring theatre, music and art, is Aug. 30-Sept. 1. The Gabriola Arts Council merged a long-running theatre festival with a newer music festival. “The community has really come alive here on Gabriola Island and people are loving it,” says GAC program director Mitch Miyagawa. cultivate.artsgabriola.ca

40.

MINETOWN DAY

Lantzville celebrates its history with summer fun in and around Huddlestone Park on Sept. 7. lantzville.ca

41.

JAZZ FESTIVAL International jazz performances, including some free concerts, a parade and more Sept. 20-22. nanaimojazzfest.ca

42.

LONGWOODSTOCK Beer-and-music festival at Longwood Brewery’s location on Boxwood Road takes place Sept. 21. longwoodstock.com

Keep the party going 43.

BITE OF NANAIMO A gourmet food festival supporting TheatreOne will be held at Beban Park social centre this fall. theatreone.org

44.

MAPLE SUGAR FEST The Maple Sugar Festival, celebrating Nanaimo’s francophone culture, is Feb. 22-24, 2020. francophonenanaimo.org

45.

WEE TIPPLE PARTY It’s a classy night out and a chance to sample fine

whiskies in support of Crimson Coast Dance Society, will be held in late winter at the Grand Hotel. crimsoncoastdance.org/weetipple

46.

fantasy ball The Island Fantasy Ball is presented every spring at the Beban Park social centre by the Nanaimo Ballroom Dance Society. islandfantasyball.com

EXHIBITIONS ART LAB PROGRAMS THE GALLERY STORE Tuesday to Saturday 10AM–5PM Sunday 12–5PM

www.msfnanaimo.org

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150 Commercial St Nanaimo, British Columbia 250.754.1750 NanaimoArtGallery.com

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2151 Bowen Road (at Northfield) Nanaimo, 758-7219 Monday to Saturday 7am-5:30pm 101 THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN NANAIMO

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Needlework - Quilting - FAT Paint

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Quality Used Select New Records CDs

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101 things to see and do in nanaimo

101 THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN NANAIMO

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49.

have fun at the farm The region has dozens of farms offering all sorts of fresh goods right at the farm gate, as well as experiences that educate visitors on how the products are made.

• Fredrich’s Honey • •

ENJOY FRESH tastes

nancy shields photo

47.

•

50.

SHOP TILL YOU DROP

Nanaimo’s outdoor farmers’ markets are enjoying their favourite time of year – markets are now all open for the season. Try to stop by each one if you can:

Nanaimo is a shopping hub for the mid Island and merchants in all areas of the city keep their shelves and racks wellstocked. Start with the unique shops in downtown Nanaimo and the Old City Quarter. As far as malls, Woodgrove Centre in the north end is a destination. Visit also Nanaimo North Town Centre, Country Club Centre and Port Place.

• Nanaimo Downtown Farmers Market at Pioneer Plaza nanaimodowntownfarmersmarket.com

• Island Roots Market at Beban Park islandrootsmarket.com

• Cedar Farmers Market at Woodbank School cedarfarmersmarket.org

51.

• Gabriola Farmers Market at Agi Hall

facebook.com/GabriolaFarmersMarket

48.

fredrichshoney.ca Yellow Point Cranberries yellowpointcranberries.com Yellow Point Farms yellowpointfarms.com McNab’s Corn Maze and Produce Farm mcnabscornmaze.com

hit the market

Now in its second year, the Commercial Street Night Market is a celebration of downtown business, central Island crafts, homemade food and the culture of food trucks.

Come hungry Thursdays from 5-9 p.m., June 20-Aug. 29. nanaimonight.market

eat up

Have a hearty meal, sit down to fine dining or try exotic fare. From Indian to Thai, Mediterranean to Ukrainian, sushi, burgers, wings and fish and chips, there’s something to suit any palate. tourismnanaimo.com/dining The News Bulletin’s Best of the City survey finds year after year that the best restaurant in Nanaimo is Asteras Greek Taverna on Wesley Street. asteras.com

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101 things to see and do in nanaimo

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53.

enjoy playground antics

Kids can make a playground out of just about anything, but Nanaimo has some terrific playgrounds that encourage activity and fun. Here are some of the best:

52.

richard kelly photo

arrive at departure bay

• • • •

Maffeo Sutton Park Playdock Beban Park Altrusa Park Oliver Woods Community Centre McGirr Elementary School accessible playground

54.

Snuneymuxw totems always face the ocean – it’s a mark of the First Nation’s traditional territory and a welcome to visitors who almost always arrived from the sea. With that in mind, two totems joined by a steel symbol of a frog now greet travellers sailing into Departure Bay. The gorgeous stretch of sandy beach and shallow water next to the seawall make the park perfect for picnics, playing and swimming, and there’s also a playground, grassy fields, a cultural portal, water park and nearby shops.

adventure in and around westwood

Westwood Lake Park is a well-loved and well-used nature park up in the hills at the base of Mount Benson. Last year, in the News Bulletin’s Best of the City survey, Westwood was chosen the best place to walk, jog, hike, mountain bike, walk a dog and swim outdoors. The 6.2-kilometre trail around the lake features gorgeous views and links to other trails. The lake is popular with swimmers, anglers and paddlers. Lifeguards keep an eye on things in the summer.

Hands-on Fun in the Barnyard & Horseback Trail Rides

InFrinGinG Dance Festival 2019

July 5th - 13th l Maffeo Sutton Park & The Port Theatre www.CRIMSONCOASTDANCE.ORG Tickets & Info: CRIMSONCOASTDANCE.ORG

PADDLE BOARDS KAYAK CANOE ROW BOAT PADDLE BOATS

www.tigerlilyfarm.ca 1692 Errington Rd. 250-248-2408

FRIES + GOURMET DOGS HOT + COLD DRINKS ICE CREAM CANDY +SUPPLIES PROPANE TANK EXCHANGE

OUTDOOR MOVIES GAME NIGHTS MUSIC

www.westwoodlakecampgrounds.com 101 THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN NANAIMO

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learn about coal history

Morden Colliery Historic Regional Park, with its head frame and tipple, is one of two such remaining above-ground structures in North America. It takes you back a century to Nanaimo’s coalmining heydays. The provincial government recently announced funding for restoration work to keep the structure sound. “[Morden] can give people a visual history lesson,” says Sandra Larocque, Friends of Morden Mine president. mordenmine.com 57. maureen coughlin photo

55.

bird-watch

There are about 300 bird species in the Nanaimo region, which makes birdwatchers rejoice. Anyone can do it, it’s easy and there’s always something of interest. Buttertubs, Pipers Lagoon, Neck Point Park, Morrell Wildlife Sanctuary and Colliery Dam Park are some great places to bring your binoculars. tourismnanaimo.com STRETCH YOUR LIMITS

TAKE A TOUR

be wowed by wildwood

Wildwood Ecoforest, operated by the Ecoforestry Institute Society, promotes principles of sustainable forestry and honours the legacy of Merv Wilkinson, the previous owner of Wildwood. ecoforestry.ca 58.

hike in a sanctuary

Morrell Nature Sanctuary encompasses 113 hectares of mature second-growth forest with more than 11 kilometres of trails. There are interpretive tours offered, or take a self-guided tour. morrellnaturesanctuary.ca

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

B

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HARBOUR CITY BINGO Nanaimo Open 10:30 am every day!

Close 11:00 pm every day!

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101 things to see and do in nanaimo

59.

find inner peace

The Bethlehem Centre is a non-profit retreat centre for spiritual and educational programs, valuing humanity, spirituality, healing and peace. bethlehemcentre.com 60.

read a good book

It’s often a good idea to bring along a book in your bag or backpack for whenever you get a quiet moment. Visit Literacy Central Vancouver Island’s Well-Read Books or Windowseat Books. literacycentralvi.org/bookstore.php 61.

Fun and games

63.

climb up

news bulletin photo

Sit down to play at the Board Game House in the Old City Quarter. Customers pay $5, or $2.50 for kids, and can play as many games as they like, as long as they like. bghouse.ca

All ages and abilities can scale the walls at the Romper Room indoor climbing centre on Boban Drive. climbromperroom.com

62.

64.

FLY in a seaplane

Seaplanes come and go all day in Nanaimo’s harbour.

Harbour Air and Seair Seaplanes will give you a bird’s-eye view of the city.

hop, skip, jump

Airhouse trampoline and freestyle training facility on Boban Drive is filled with jumping-off points and forgiving surfaces. airhouse.ca/nanaimo

6-6338 Metral Dr, Nanaimo, BC 250.933.6641

SOCIAL HOUR DRINKS 3-6PM, MON-FRI

social red & white | social lager | social soda 101 THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN NANAIMO

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66.

go to galleries

See what art is featured at these other galleries, too. Visit The View Gallery at VIU, Gallery Merrick downtown and Art 10 Gallery at Nanaimo North Town Centre.

67.

65.

ART BY WILLOW FRIDAY

aDMIRE Art

The Nanaimo Art Gallery, located on Commercial Street, showcases work by contemporary artists from Canada and beyond, presented through a local lens. Coming exhibits will explore the current thematic inquiry, ‘What are generations?’ The gallery also offers arts programming for people of all ages, and the gallery store offers pieces by Canadian and Vancouver Island artists including jewelry, textiles, ceramics and books. nanaimogallery.ca

TAKE Mural selfies

The Urban Art Gallery mural project beautified all sides of an abandoned building at Commercial Street and Terminal Avenue.

Selfies are encouraged there.

“We were not only looking for amazing artists … but we also wanted artists who live, work and just absolutely love our downtown community,” says Humanity in Art’s Alyssa Glassford. humanityinart.com 68.

LISTEN TO THE MUSIC

The City of Nanaimo presents its annual Concerts in the Park, a free music series, during July and August at Maffeo Sutton Park and the Bowen Park amphitheatre. nanaimo.ca 69.

BE A POP STAR

Karaoke nights give everyone a chance to belt out the hits. Check out the Quarterway Pub, the Oxy Pub and the Wellington Pub.

Your Adventure Awaits...

Nanaimo’s

CHOOSE FUN!

1 # Toy Store

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250.585.1778

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101 things to see and do in nanaimo

70.

hear the sound of the symphony

The Vancouver Island Symphony is celebrating its 25th anniversary season with classical and casual themes that will allow musicians to perform without boundaries, but with enthusiasm, commitment, passion and talent. vancouverislandsymphony.com

71.

see what’s on stage

The Port Theatre, an 800-seat downtown venue located steps away from Nanaimo Harbour, stimulates and enhances artistic, cultural and economic activity on central Vancouver Island. The theatre’s programming includes a range of cultural events designed to meet many diverse interests. “I’m always looking for interesting artists, some emerging, some better known, some very well established‌â€? says Bruce Halliday, Port Theatre general manager. “A very simple measure of success is watching an audience leave the auditorium and there’s a buzz after the show.â€? porttheatre.com

72.

go to a play

See why Nanaimo’s drama groups get standing ovations for their local performances:

• Nanaimo Theatre Group

•

•

•

•

nanaimotheatregroup.ca Schmooze Productions schmoozeproductions.com Yellow Point Drama Group yellowpointdramagroup.org

73.

TheatreOne theatreone.org Western Edge Theatre westernedge.org

take an art tour

Artists open up their work spaces and share their methods during the Nanaimo Art Walk, Gabriola Studio Tour, Hammond Bay Studio Tour, Cedar-Yellow Point Artisan Tour and the Nanoose Bay Studio Tour. “Painting can take a long time and it can be a long time before it’s out in the world‌â€? says painter Susan Bibbs. “For me, here I’m really fortunate to have a beautiful space and wonderful people to work with and to have a large number of paintings out in the world, but the next step is to have people respond to it and take something from it.â€?

WE CATER TOO!

Home Made

Goodness!

Our FRESH Sandwiches and Baked Goods are made in-house everyday!

234 Commercial St. | Nanaimo 250.753.2582 101 THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN NANAIMO

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76.

raise a pint

The B.C. Ale Trail spotlights Wolf Brewing, White Sails Brewing, the Longwood Brewpub and Longwood Brewery, which has a new licensed picnic area.

• Longwood Brewpub

•

• Longwood Brewery

•

longwoodbeer.com

74.

night life

mike anderson photo

77.

Whatever sort of night on the town you envision, there are venues that will fit the bill. The Queen’s Hotel, the Cambie, the Lighthouse Pub, the Nanaimo Bar, Corner Lounge, Modern Café, Old City Station Pub, the Coach & Horses, the Palace Hotel and the Vault Café are some good bets, and for dance clubs, there’s Level 2, Koncept and Evolve.

75.

swirl and sip

Nanaimo has two wineries producing grapes in the lush East Wellington area of the region.

• Millstone Estate Winery •

longwoodbeer.com

millstonewinery.ca Chateau Wolff chateauwolff.com

White Sails Brewing whitesailsbrewing.com Wolf Brewing wolfbrewingcompany.com

have a drink

Arbutus Distillery is continually creating at its Boxwood Road craft distillery and lounge, in pursuit of unique and unconventional flavour-forward spirits and cocktails. arbutusdistillery.com 78.

perk up

Meet for a cup of java and home-made treats at one of Nanaimo’s cozy cafés. The Buzz Coffee House, Bocca Café, Bee’s Knees Café, White Rabbit Coffee Co., Café Today, Javawocky, the Vault Café, Mon Petit Choux, Haz Beans, Kaldi Café and Drip Coffee Social are good choices.

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101 things to see and do in nanaimo

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Young or old; resident or visitor; there is something for everyone in Nanaimo.

Enjoy!

Doug Routley, MLA Nanaimo~North Cowichan

www.dougroutley.ca | douglas.routley.mla@leg.bc.ca

Nanaimo Welcomes You to

Attend the Church of Your Choice St. Andrew’s United Church 250-753-1924 • 311 Fitzwilliam St.

A Place of Worship since 1893. We hold traditional church services accompanied by our pipe organ and choir. We are a friendly, welcoming church offering tea and coffee after church.

We have a Sunday School for children and teens, a thrift shop offering household goods and clothes and an Outreach program.

Worship Service: 11 AM www.standrewsunitednanaimo.com

First Baptist Church 250-753-0241 • 1650 Waddington Rd. First Baptist Church’s vision is “To Know Christ... and Make Him Known.” Guests are welcome at our two Sunday morning Worship Services at 9 am and 11 am. www.fbcnanaimo.ca

Brechin United Church

Generations Church

Brechin United Church is an Affirming Ministry and an inclusive congregation that welcomes all seekers and sojourners. You will experience us as open to exploring questions of faith and deepening spirituality. With a focus on outreach, we seek ways to respond to needs in our local community. Sunday services engage current context and feature a lively music program. Our community of faith welcomes you. www.brechinunited.ca

A place where individuals and families can take a fresh step on their spiritual journey and experience God. Our passion is to love God, serve others, and grow in grace! Our gatherings focus on energetic worship and relevant teaching in an informal atmosphere. Everyone is welcome. For Sunday worship times, please see www.generations.ca or call 250-753-0258.

1 Newcastle Avenue 250-754-9212

250-753-0258 • 1300 Princess Royal

Trinity Catholic Church

Trinity United Church

In the Catholic tradition of the Apostles we invite you to celebrate the Holy Eucharist, our source of strength & spiritual life. Jesus is truly present with us in Holy Mass.

Everyone is welcome to our celebrations Saturdays at 6pm, Sundays at 8am or 9am, Mondays at 6pm and Tuesdays to Fridays at 9am. There’s also a family/youth mass every third Saturday of the month. Adoration is every Friday at 9:30am, the Rosary is at 8:30am Tuesday to Friday, & El Shaddai is every first Saturday of the month. www.trinitycatholicnanaimo.ca

Minister Foster Freed We worship every Sunday at 11am; we also offer a church school program for young children that runs at the same time. All are welcome.

For more information go to our website. www.trinityunitednanaimo.ca https://www.trinityunitednanaimo.ca

250-390-2612 • 6234 Spartan Rd

250-390-2513 • 6234 Spartan Road

Thank you and GOD Bless!

L’Association des francophones de Nanaimo 250-729-2776

French Courses, Summer Camp, Maple Sugar Festival, Volunteering, Mini-Franco Fun, Meet and Greet, etc.

www.francophonenanaimo.org

Beginner Classes Start in January, May and September.

Visit the website for times and locations.

Membership: $10/year.

Activity fees: $60/3 months or $200/year Provides access to all beginner classes and all other classes once prerequisites have been completed.

250.756.0070 • www.nanaimotaichi.org A Not For Profit Society

101 THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN NANAIMO

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79.

take an art class

Try your hand at a variety of mediums. Check out the Nanaimo Parks and Recreation Activity Guide for inspiration, or look into classes at the Art Lab at Nanaimo Art Gallery or 4 Cats Art Studio. Arts supply store Iron Oxide on Victoria Road also offers some ideas.

• Nanaimo Art Gallery

•

• Iron Oxide Art Supplies

•

nanaimogallery.ca

ironoxideartsupplies.com

80.

4 Cats Arts Studio 4cats.com Parks and rec nanaimo.ca

see the future

Calico Cat Tea House on Haliburton Street offers tea-leaf readings. Or for tarot card readings and more, visit Lobelia’s Lair in the Old City Quarter. lobeliaslair.ca 81.

have a spa day

Nanaimo has all kinds of options for people to treat themselves to a spa day. Try Maffeo Salon and Day Spa, Breze Salon and Day Spa, Nanaimo Elements Holistic Centre and Spa, Kiyo Salon and Day Spa, and Pure Spa.

82.

serve and rally

A lot of folks in Nanaimo keep active by playing racquet sports. Tennis courts are at Beban Park, Bowen Park, other city parks and at Westwood Lake Tennis Club. Pickleball is played at Beban and at Beaufort Park.

83.

meet comic heroes

Comic books, cosplay and gaming – geek culture is cool in Nanaimo, especially on occasions like the comic book and gaming conventions M-Con and Curious ComicCon. “I’ve seen where people have walked in not knowing it and understanding it and not really liking it to walking out embracing it. There’s something for everyone,” says M-Con co-ordinator Marc Gervais. m-con.ca 84.

make an escape

See if you can pull off a great escape from one of Nanaimo’s escape room facilities. Compile clues, solve puzzles for teambuilding, brain-teasing fun.

• Exit Nanaimo e-exit.ca

• Escapism Escape Rooms escapismnanaimo.ca

• Breakout Nanaimo

breakoutnanaimo.com

2019 TRIAL MEMBERSHIP

Join now & experience all the privileges of Club membership!

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Contact Ryan today to sign up!

250-758-2451 ext. 722 gm@nanaimogolfclub.ca * Includes pro-rated Member Dues and Building Mortgage Assessment to the end of 2019. Offer valid for first-time adult members only.

www.nanaimogolfclub.ca Nanaimo Golf Club is also open to the public for green-fee play, practice and dining.

Z28

101 things to see and do in nanaimo

250-729-2698

Open Country Club Mall Hours Delivery from 4:30 pm • Mon-Sat 3200 N Island Hwy, Nanaimo BC V9T 1W1 Thai take-out and delivery at Country Club food court

www.thaichili.ca

Let us help you with your renovation, new build or any building project!

Canadian Owned & Operated Serving Canadians for 50 years!

exotic lumber & slabs woods Come in and see our selection of natural live edge

live edge lumber. Ideal for counters, tabletops, mantels or shelves. Each piece is unique and range in thickness from 2 to 5 inches. One or two live edges of various widths and lengths.

Ask us about finishing, delivery and installation options!

We carry an extensive selection of hardwoods from all over the world... we even have an equally extensive selection of veneers to compliment our exotic hardwoods.

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events

there’s more online » When you want to see what’s happening or have friends coming over for holidays or just the weekend... it’s all just a click away.

NanaimoBulletin.com 101 THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN NANAIMO

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85.

spin spokes

World-class mountain biking opportunities fill the forest trails in and around Nanaimo. There’s technical mountain single-track and family-friendly beginner’s terrain.

Novices can head to Westwood Lake Park.

“It has been specifically designed for the beginner to intermediate rider,” says rider Mark Perdue. “It’s not super technical. It’s a beautiful area going around the park.”

For more thrills, go to the Doumont trails. ridenanaimo.ca Nanaimo is always trying to make the roads safer and more appealing for cyclists. The Cedar-Yellow Point area and Nanaimo Lakes Road-White Rapids Road are some prime places for pedalling. Stop by one of the city’s many bike shops for more guidance and the Mid-Island Velo Association also helps create cycling opportunities. midislandvelo.ca 86.

be extreme

Nanaimo takes it to the extreme on a bicycle, motorbike or skateboard. If you’re into extreme sports, there’s a community waiting to welcome you. Hit up the Steve Smith Bike Park’s dirt jumps and pump track or Pioneer Skatepark on Dover Road, Nanaimo Skate Bowl on Wall Street or Cedar Skatepark on Walsh Road. Or link up with BMXers, cyclocross racers or motocross riders:

• Nanaimo BMX Association

facebook.com/NanaimoBMX

• Cross on the Rock

crossontherock.com

• Nanaimo Motocross Association nanaimomx.com

NANAIMO BAKERY AKERY

& CONFECTIONERY Y LIMITED

European Style Bakery

Z30

87.

roll a strike

Score strikes, make spares and try to pick up a splits. Five-pin or 10-pin, competitive or disco bowling.

88.

• Brechin Lanes •

brechinlanes.ca Splitsville Entertainment splitsville.ca

hit the links

In balmy Nanaimo it’s golfing season for most of the year.

See if you can make par at these local courses:

• • • •

Nanaimo Golf Club Gabriola Golf Club Fairwinds Golf Club Beban Pitch and Putt

89.

• • • •

Cottonwood Golf Course Winchelsea View Golf Pryde Vista Golf Course Eaglequest Golf Centre

go for a run

The 6.2-kilometre loop at Westwood Lake Park is a local favourite and the Harbourfront Walkway, E&N Trail and the Parkway Trail are some paved routes. Or stop by Rotary Bowl track and field stadium when it isn’t in use.

Trust your vehicle to the

PROFESSIONALS

Repairs & Service to ALL Domestic & Imported Vehicles

Mon.-Fri. 8am-5:30pm Sat. 8am-5pm Sun. Closed #1-2025 Bowen Rd. www.nanbakery.ca

dave silver photo

250-758-4260

101 things to see and do in nanaimo

2-6430 Hammond Bay Road, Nanaimo

250-390-2100 ~ www.applecrossautomotive.ca

cheer on your sports heroes

92.

NANAIMO TIMBERMEN Lacrosse is the fastest game on two feet and you’ll want to root for the Timbermen during the summer months at Frank Crane Arena.

• WLA Sr. A Timbermen tmen.ca

• WCSLA Sr. B Timbermen

facebook.com/NanaimoSrBTimbermen

93.

VIU MARINERS Vancouver Island University has college-level soccer, basketball, volleyball, hockey, baseball and more. mariners.viu.ca

90.

NANAIMO Clippers B.C. Hockey League team plays its home games at

94.

at the Nanaimo Ice Centre in the fall and winter. buccaneers.vijhl.com

Frank Crane Arena during the fall and winter. nanaimoclippers.com

91.

V.I. RAIDERS Canadian Junior Football League team plays home games at Caledonia Park in the summer and fall. viraiders.ca

OVER 400 SLOTS | DAILY PROMOTIONS LIVE TABLE GAMES | POKER & MORE

JR. B BUCCANEERS Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League team plays

95.

Pirates baseball The Mid-Island Pirates BCPBL baseball team plays at Serauxmen Stadium in spring and summer. bcpbl.com

GENERAL STORE groceries • sundries • confectionery

WWW.CASINONANAIMO.COM

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1145 Totem Road., Downtown Nanaimo 101 THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN NANAIMO

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96.

SIP SOME tea

Afternoon tea is served at the Grand Hotel. Choose from more than a dozen varieties of looseleaf teas and enjoy house-made miniature sandwiches and pastries. thegrandhotelnanaimo.ca 97.

play the slots

100.

take a road trip

We’re the Hub City, after all, and we’re surrounded by welcoming neighbouring communities, natural surroundings, special attractions and more, nearby via car, bus or ferry. tourismvi.ca

Casino Nanaimo downtown has slots, table games and a Well Public House with food, drinks and more. casinonanaimo.com 98.

call out bingo

For a chance to call out ‘Bingo!’, check out Harbour City Bingo at University Village mall. harbourcitybingo.com 99.

make time to plan

Spontaneous is good – sometimes. But be sure to make a plan to stay safe and stay informed. Heed backcountry/trail closures and any campfire bans or restrictions and look out for weather alerts. And be careful in and around the water.

Consult Hello B.C.’s ‘know before you go’ tips. hellobc.com/plan-your-trip/need-to-know

lietco photo

101.

instagram your adventures

A lot of the 101 things on this list would make a picturesque photo, or at least a fun selfie. Instagram your Nanaimo adventures to let even more folks know about our amazing scenic, seaside, special city. #ExploreNanaimo T SI EW VI R N RE! OU STO

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ALPHA GOLD & SILVER

101 things to see and do in nanaimo

ABC Country Restaurant

6671 Mary Ellen Dr. | (250) 390-4064 | www.abccountry.ca *Banquet room available

Browns Socialhouse

6338 Metral Drive | (250) 933-6641 | www.brownsocialhouse.com

Cassidy Country Kitchen

2930 TC Hwy, Nanaimo, V9G1J8 | (250) 924-2500 www.cassidycountrykitchen.com

Carlos O'Bryan's Neighbourhood Pub

1724 Steward Avenue | (250) 591-3088 | www.kobcob.com

Columbia Bakery

2151 Bowen Road | (250) 758-7219 | www.columbiabakery.ca

Cottonwood Golf Course/Cotton Club Restaurant

1975 Haslam Road, Cedar | (250) 245-5157 | www.cottonwoodgolfcourse.com

Longwood Brew Pub

5775 Turner Road | (250) 729-8225 | www.longwoodbrewpub.com

Mt. Benson Lounge at Nanaimo Golf Club

2800 Highland Blvd., Nanaimo | (250) 758-2451

Perkins Coffee Co.

234 Commercial St, Nanaimo | (250) 753-2582

Saysutshun Concession

www.newcastleisland.ca | (250) 802-0255 | Saysutshun Newcastle Island

Thai Chili

Country Club Centre 3200 N Island Hwy, Nanaimo BC, V9T1W1 (250) 729-2698 | www.thaichili.ca

The Well at Casino Nananimo

620 Terminal Ave, Nanaimo, BC V9R 5E2 | (250) 753-3033

Restaurant

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101 THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN NANAIMO

Z33

Best Western Dorchester

70 Church Street, Nanaimo | (250) 754-6835 | www.dorchesternanaimo.com

Inn on Long Lake

4700 N. Island Hwy, Nanaimo | (250) 758-1144 | www.innonlonglake.com

The Buccaneer Inn

1577 Stewart Avenue, Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada, V9S 4E3 | (250) 753-1246 Toll Free Reservations (Canada & USA., 9 am to 9 pm Pacific daily) 1-877-282-6337

www.buccaneerinn.com and email Sleepwell@buccaneerinn.com

Living Forest Oceanside Campground

6 Maki Road, Nanaimo | (250) 755-1755 | www.livingforest.com

Westwood Lake Campground

westwoodlake@shaw.ca 380 Westwood Road, Nanaimo | (250) 753-3922 | www.westwoodlakecampground.com

Tenting and RV Sites ...........................................................................................

Camping Cabin & Cottage Rental .....................................................................

Saysutshun Newcastle Island

Saysutshun / Newcastle Island | (250) 802-0255 | www.newcastleisland.ca

Hot Tub

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Daily scheduled service between Victoria to Port Hardy Operated by

For additional stops, schedule and to book online, visit Z34

101 things to see and do in nanaimo

www.viconnector.com

Be Berr y P r r y oi P o nt R i nt d Rd

www.nationalcar.com www.drivenational.ca

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SANDWELL SANDWELL (local number) PROVINCIAL PARK PROVINCIAL PARK

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• Discounts at some of Vancouver Island’s Premier Golf Courses • Low daily, weekly, monthly rates and Special weekend packages • In terminal rental service at Harbour Air, Sunshine Coast Air, and Seair Seaplanes • Free local pick up and drop off.

PARKPARK

Z36

Your Lakeside Resort in the City!

T.f. 1.800.565.1144 Ph. 250.758.1144

4700 N. IslaNd Hwy (19a) NaNaImo BC V9t 1w6

Reservations@innonlonglake.com www.innonlonglake.com