THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Nanaimo - 2024 (with Photos) - Tripadvisor
Things to Do in Nanaimo

Things to Do in Nanaimo, Canada - Nanaimo Attractions

Things to Do in Nanaimo


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Top Attractions in Nanaimo

These rankings are informed by traveler reviews—we consider the quality, quantity, recency, consistency of reviews, and the number of page views over time.
Parks
Waterfront park with scenic ocean views, hiking trails, beaches, and picnic spots. Popular for outdoor activities, it can be quite bustling.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

What travelers are saying

  • Kristin
    Kamloops, Canada26 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Amazing park with gorgeous scenery and views. A great mix of the ocean and forest with very well marked trails and information about the area. Easy for all ages and very well taken care of park.
    Written April 16, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Ellen Akins
    Port Alberni, Canada8 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    It was really good I went there with Choices my Day Program in Parksville and had a picnic lunch their
    Written June 9, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Joanna C
    7 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    This small museum showcases the history of Nanaimo and includes a walk through a recreated coal mine. It is full of interesting artifacts that are beautifully displayed and described. I was especially taken by the Coast Salish peoples exhibits. Cedar was used to make not only canoes, but woven water-tight baskets, blankets and waterproof clothing. Everyday items were made artisitcally and the geometric patterns are beautiful. The staff member was very knowledgeable about the exhibits and we enjoyed our conversation with her. I would highly recommend this museum.
    Written August 16, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Hannah R
    24 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    The walkway is not spectacular, it's not overly complicated, there are a few shops and sometimes you can walk down where the boats are which is kind of neat to look at. Mostly I like the ice cream shop, it's been there since I was a kid and is still a nice treat on a hot day. There is also a super cute gift shop, it's great for locals or tourists. Worth checking out for sure.
    Written April 19, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Danika DiStefano B
    Quebec, Canada123 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Such a cute spot for a short walk - bring your dog! Very scenic routes and not too busy. Plenty of paths to choose from, a go-to after work.
    Written April 8, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Casey L
    Nanaimo, Canada118 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Nice 5-6 km walk around the lake! Has it's ups and downs and I don't think it's for those not used to walking or who have mobility issues (don't think it's wheel chair friendly throughout the trail system). There is another access point from a suburb at the other end of the lake as well. Bit cold that morning and the lake doesn't usually freeze (but it was!). Lots of walkers, joggers,.....Safe place to walk. They are expanding the parking lot I think right now so expect it to be busy in the summer.
    Written March 5, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • heeter_lyn23
    British Columbia, Canada571 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    I'm an avid walker, so today I walked the entire island and explored some trails.. just over 8 km a great way to spend my day. Easy walk, beautiful spring blossoms, serene, and lots of friendly folks. Finished up with coffee at the pub before catching the ferry back to Nanaimo.
    Written April 21, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • tdsuperstar
    Toronto, Canada18,759 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Great kids park, my daughters really enjoyed the park and did not want to leave. The park was relatively well kept up. There are some signs of homelessness, like the washrooms being on the dirty as well as the needle collection bins. The bandstand had someone plying their trade, really well. Great listen. The free parking is an added bonus. The “Nanaimo” sign is nice for a photo op. If in town, especially with younger kids, Maffeo Sutton Park is worth a visit!!
    Written October 19, 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Nell H
    Ingersoll, Canada64 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    This trail is not handicapped…it is a moderate hike…stairs and ups and downs and roots..
    Beautiful scenery and some carvings.
    Well worth the views overlooking Nanaimo..
    Written March 19, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Jeff L
    3 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Best museum in the west coast by far! The exhibits are quite an amazing view that left me talking to the point of needing a bit to clam up. In addition you will see these wonderful models, uniforms, and weaponry spanning from WW1 to the modern times. Highlight is the personal tours at an affordable price with shoutout going to Rob Robinson (if I remember correctly for helping me understand with the time we had. Would visit again and you should too. If you are ever around Nanaimo ever this is the spot. Cheers from Vancouver,
    Jeff (August 23rd 2023)
    Written August 23, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Hannah R
    24 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Compared to some of the other parks in Nanaimo, I find Colliery a fairly easy walk. There are some steep bits or uneven parts, but mostly it's pretty comfortable to do. The surroundings are lovely and generally peaceful. It's a nice place to go.
    Written April 19, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • artistdhm
    Andover, UK87 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Excellent service, on time, Good directions from staff. easy crossing and unloading and loading. Only problem was we couldn't change the time and location of our return journey as we had booked through our travel agent and we didn't have the email of the person making the original booking! But we did have the booking reference and all the other details, We couldn't even pay the cancellation fee and would be subject to a no show fee.
    Written October 24, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nanaimo




The above attraction descriptions were created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for any of the above attraction descriptions. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in one of these AI-generated descriptions is inaccurate, please share your feedback.
Reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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