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BEST RATED NANAIMO, BC PLACES TO SEE

3 Best Places To See in Nanaimo, BC

Expert-recommended Top 3 Places to Visit in Nanaimo, BC. All of our places to visit actually undergo a rigorous 50-Point Inspection, which includes everything from checking reviews, ratings, reputation, history, complaints, satisfaction, trust and price - all to ensure overall excellence. You deserve only the best!

Nanaimo Museum - Nanaimo, BC Places To See - Outdoor Activity Image
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9+ YEARS ON TBR
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NANAIMO MUSEUM

(4.9 Score)
100 Museum Way,
Nanaimo, BC V9R 2X1 Directions

Since 1967

Specialty:

✓Museum Exhibitions ✓Local History Exhibits ✓Indigenous Cultural Exhibits ✓Coal Mining Exhibit ✓Japanese Canadian Heritage Exhibits ✓Interactive Displays ✓Guided Gallery Tours ✓Bastion Tours ✓Lantern Tours ✓Educational Programs ✓School Group Visits ✓Gift Shop ✓Meeting and Reception Spaces ✓Heritage Tours

"Nanaimo Museum is housed in a historic, octagon-shaped building and serves as an active community center offering a variety of programs. It invites and engages visitors to "Make a Discovery" as they explore the region’s rich history and heritage. The museum offers award-winning exhibits, popular meeting and reception spaces, and a destination gift shop. Nanaimo Museum enhances the cultural quality of life, anchors the community, and enlightens visitors by presenting stories and artifacts from Nanaimo’s history in an engaging, interactive way. It also offers free admission. Nanaimo Museum is located in the heart of the Hub City with many wonderful activities, events and attractions.

2026 Highlights: Nanaimo Museum has a non-profit gift shop that works with local artists to bring you a fabulous selection of Indigenous artwork, jewellery, carvings and more."

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Price:

Gift Memberships
Family and Business $30
Individuals $12
Senior (55+) $8
Student $8

Discount:

Get 5% Off Museum Lectures, Workshops, Tours, and Most Purchases in the Museum Gift Shop View Coupon

Contact:

(250) 753-1821

Tue-Sat: 10am - 4pm
Sun & Mon: Closed

TBR® Inspection Report:

Vancouver Island Military Museum - Nanaimo, BC Places To See - Outdoor Activity Image
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VANCOUVER ISLAND MILITARY MUSEUM

(4.8 Score)
100 Cameron Road,
Nanaimo, BC V9R 0C8 Directions

Since 1986

Specialty:

✓Military History Exhibitions ✓Canadian Military Memorabilia ✓Historical Artifact Displays ✓Educational Tours ✓Public History Programs ✓Youth Learning Opportunities ✓Volunteer Programs ✓Military Heritage Education

"Vancouver Island Military Museum preserves the culture and identity of the Canadian military forces through research and the display of historical artifacts. The museum has assembled an awe-inspiring collection of military memorabilia and artifacts, ranging from the War of 1812 to Canada's involvement in Afghanistan. Vancouver Island Military Museum is staffed by a group of veteran volunteers and is mainly supported by public donations. Vancouver Island Military Museum is housed in one of the city's iconic Heritage buildings and conveniently situated in Nanaimo's dynamic downtown core.

2026 Highlights: Vancouver Island Military Museum has more than 25 exhibits and displays showcasing Canada’s proud Military History and traditions, and exhibitions include experiences of service members, women in the armed forces, the Merchant Navy, the RCMP, the Red Cross and other organizations."

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License #S0020906

Price:

Admission
Adults $4
Students and Seniors $2
Children Under 12 Free
Veterans Free
Currently Serving Military and RCMP Members Free

Contact:

(250) 753-3814

Tue-Fri: 10am - 3pm
Sat: 11am - 3pm
Sun & Mon: Closed

TBR® Inspection Report:

Port Theatre - Nanaimo, BC Places To See - Outdoor Activity Image
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10+ YEARS ON TBR
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PORT THEATRE

(4.8 Score)
125 Front Street,
Nanaimo, BC V9R 6Z4 Directions

Since 1998

Specialty:

✓Live Theatre Performances ✓Concerts ✓Musical Performances ✓Comedy Shows ✓Dance Performances ✓Touring Productions ✓Spotlight Series ✓Discovery Series ✓Community Events ✓Educational Conferences ✓Seminar Venue Rental ✓Theatre Rental ✓Ticket Sales ✓Accessible Seating ✓Audience Assistance

"Port Theatre is a modern 800-seat venue on the stunning waterfront in Nanaimo's city center. Port Theatre aims to enhance central Vancouver Island's artistic, social, and economic activity. It is a vital hub for various community events, seminars, and conferences. Over 250 events are held annually at the Theatre, attracting more than 100,000 attendees. The Port Theatre is a central focus for residents and visitors, offering various cultural events to suit diverse interests. The Port Theatre benefits from a wealth of guidance, advice, and support. The Theatre is the perfect place to enjoy live performances, including comedy, plays, rock shows, and symphonies. Port Theatre has 10 galleries and several gathering spaces.

2026 Highlights: Port Theatre was built by the Port Theatre Society and the City of Nanaimo."

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Price:

Memberships
Personal Membership $35
Business Membership $120

Contact:

(250) 754-8550 (250) 754-4555

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TBR® Inspection Report:

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NANAIMO MUSEUM REVIEWS

Went there with my boyfriend for a little date and it was lots of fun. Entry was by donation and they had two little scavenger hunts going on which added to the fun. Looks like they change up little activities there which is cool.

I can confidently say that this is one of the best museums I have ever visited in British Columbia.

Very knowledgeable and kind staff, always checking in on you during your visit.

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VANCOUVER ISLAND MILITARY MUSEUM REVIEWS

Absolutely amazing curation of Canada’s historical past in regards to all military involvement including peacekeeping and the RCMP. Our guide Brian was extremely knowledgeable and a terrific storyteller. He captivated us the whole time and after almost two hours we needed longer to see and learn all there was offered. We discovered so much of what Vancouver Island and local residents did to affect the outcome of past conflicts. This is must visit.

Great place for kids and adults to learn and connect with Canadian armed forces history. The Vets working there are very friendly and let us pose with Ak 47s! Sobering to see the sacrifices of our service men and women.

We were impressed! The museum looks small from the outside but it has a great display of the Canadian military history. The staff members are all volunteers. They were very friendly and knowledgeable. I wish the museum had a little gift shop.

PORT THEATRE REVIEWS

We've attended many events at the Port Theatre over the years. With 800+ seating, every seat is a good one. Tonight we enjoyed "Fleetwood Magic", a tribute band. They were excellent.

Absolutely beautiful space bang in the middle of downtown Nanaimo across the harbour front. Extremely well maintained with amazing staff and the ability to bring some incredible shows to the island.

The Port Theatre is THE place for bigger name live acts in and around Nanaimo. Great people watching, being in community and having a glass of wine or cold beer before the show. Best staff and volunteers too.

TBR® Inspection Score Report

NANAIMO MUSEUM Total Inspection Points: 118/120
Business Hours: 8
Acknowledgments: 10
Business Images: 10
Complete Info: 10
Contact Info: 10
Current Evaluation: 10
Exact Services: 10
Experience: 10
Legitimate Ratings: 10
Location Proximity: 10
Pricing: 10
Reviews Accuracy: 10

TBR® Inspection Score Report

VANCOUVER ISLAND MILITARY MUSEUM Total Inspection Points: 116/120
Business Hours: 8
Acknowledgments: 9
Experience: 9
Business Images: 10
Complete Info: 10
Contact Info: 10
Current Evaluation: 10
Exact Services: 10
Legitimate Ratings: 10
Location Proximity: 10
Pricing: 10
Videos: 10

TBR® Inspection Score Report

PORT THEATRE Total Inspection Points: 114/120
Business Hours: 8
Complete Info: 8
Acknowledgments: 9
Reviews Study: 9
Business Images: 10
Contact Info: 10
Current Evaluation: 10
Exact Services: 10
Experience: 10
Legitimate Ratings: 10
Location Proximity: 10
Reviews Accuracy: 10

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