This neighbourhood is the cultural hub of the city and is considered part of the downtown core. For people who love to be in the centre of the community, there is no better place. In the summertime, the historic quarter comes alive with a number of festivals. With the new 38,000 capacity convention center, the Diana Krall Plaza, the Port Theatre, the Nanaimo Museum, numerous restaurants featuring something to please everyone’s palate and the waterfront promenade located in the Old City, there is virtually something happening here year-round. Recently, Commercial Road, which runs near the waterfront, was named one of the best streets in Canada. This just shows how much residents love their community and this neighbourhood. Some of the oldest homes in Nanaimo are found in this neighbourhood and many date back to the late 1800s or early 1900s. However, there are also plenty of new developments and condos in the area for potential home owners who want something with a more modern flare. Along with having most of the city’s cultural infrastructure, Nanaimo’s Seaplane hubs, Gabriola Island Ferry Terminal and the bustling and newly renovated Port Place Mall and Nanaimo’s Casino are also located in the Old City.
Search Listings in this area by Map
Schools in the area:
École Pauline Haarer Elementary – 400 Campbell Street, (250) 754-2722
Fairview Elementary – 205 Howard Avenue, (250) 753-3418
John Barsby Secondary – 550 7th Street, (250) 753-8211
Nanaimo Montessori School – 945 Waddington Road, (250) 753-0649
Parks in the area:
Maffeo Sutton Park- Maffeo Sutton Park is a booming hotspot for locals and visitors in Nanaimo. The playground, fields and pavilion are built around the Swy-A-Lana Lagoon, a small man-made lake that is connected to the ocean only at the highest tides. There is an arched pedestrian bridge leading from the lagoon to the rest of the park and many locals can be found here celebrating Canada Day, the Nanaimo Dragonboat races, the infamous Nanaimo Bathtub Race and countless musical concerts throughout the warmer months. The Harbourfront Walkway continues through this park and is extremely popular for walkers, joggers, bikers and skateboarders looking to enjoy the picturesque harbour views and snow-capped mainland mountains in the background. It is a must-see visit hotspot.
Bowen Park- Bowen Park offers both sports and tranquility. This particular park stays busy year round because of all the activities it offers. During the summer months the outdoor swimming pool opens up and becomes a great way to cool off on those hot days. The beach volleyball courts are also very popular when the weather warms and frisbee golf is quickly growing in popularity too. During the winter months, the hills are great for tobogganing and Bowen Park is conveniently located across the road from the Curling Park as well. All throughout the year the playgrounds and seniors centre are open and keep the park very busy with people from all ages.