From Atlantic to Pacific, Canada has become the number one choice of seasoned travelers for vacations, business and a world of new things to see and do. Nanaimo, British Columbia is at the top of the list for travel and places to live in Canada. Located on Vancouver Island, this premier city offers travelers excellent transportation and accommodations. Nanaimo is recognized as the “Bathtub Race Capital of the World.” Welcome to Nanaimo. Enjoy its history and modern day activities and sights.

Five “Must See” Sights in Nanaimo

There are five sights to see in Nanaimo. These include:
. The Bastion
. Nanaimo Museum and Galleries
. The Old City Quarter
. New Castle Island Marine Provincial Park
. Nanaimo Downtown Farmer’s Market

The Bastion

The Bastion is located at the corner of Front and Bastion Streets. The Bastion is Nanaimo’s waterfront tower. It was originally a fort of the famous Hudson Bay Company, built in 1853. When tourists visit at noon, they are treated to the firing of cannons.

Nanaimo Museum and Galleries

The Nanaimo Museum and Galleries is located at 100 Museum Way, not far from Commercial Street, a main thoroughfare in Nanaimo. History tells that the Native people who first settled this region were Snuneymuxw.

In 1791, Juan Carrasco first sailed into Nanaimo Bay for Spain. The history of Nanaimo is well represented in artifacts throughout Nanaimo Museum. By 1849, the Snuneymuxw advised the Hudson Bay Company of large coal deposits in the area. Nanaimo soon became a major site for the exportation of coal.

Tours at the Nanaimo Museum and Galleries are available. Walking tours highlights include a coal mine dramatization and a “Coast Salish focus.” For traveling families, the Nanaimo Museum and Galleries are an exciting way to learn about this city.

The Old City Quarter

From the waterfront area of Bastion and Fitzwilliam Streets, there is an uphill trek to the Old City Quarter. Sightseers should take note of the plaques on buildings here. Most are of heritage origin. The Old City Quarter is definitely a sightseer’s top choice for a quaint, brightly painted neighborhood shopping soiree. There’s a Fibber Magee, Wee CupCakery and for adults, a train station converted into a pub.

Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park

No trip to Nanaimo would be complete without a stop at New Castle Island Marine Provincial Park. Originally, this was traditional Salish Coast land that was turned into a nature preserve with hiking, beaches, bike trails and plenty of opportunities to see wildlife. New Castle Island Marine Provincial Park was once the site of coal mines and shipyards, given that coal exportation was a major industry. Enjoy a ferry ride from the picturesque harbor and be treated to First Nations tribal dancing and other displays.

Nanaimo Downtown Farmer’s Market

In Canada, markets are a big part of a sightseer’s itinerary. In Nanaimo, there’s a downtown farmer market that has to be seen to be enjoyed. In addition to an enormous variety of produce, sightseers can start gift shopping early with arts and crafts and bath and beauty selections. There is also the most delectable assortment of preserves, baked goods, candies and nuts, dairy and meats and fish. Nanaimo’s Downtown Farmer’s Market is located 90 Front Street. While you enjoy the awesome waterfront, stroll the Nanaimo Downtown Farmer’s Market for a day of fun.