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Indoor Activities in Nanaimo

Visitors who come to Nanaimo know how much the great outdoors has to offer. Fortunately, Nanaimo also has plenty of indoor activities that can offer a whole lot of fun and adventure when the weather's poor. There are a wide variety of fun indoor recreation venues in Nanaimo where you can work up a sweat or spend a relaxing day with the family. Local indoor destinations are rarely crowded since the ocean and mountains are typically the city's biggest draw, so you can come and go as you please. You'll also find prices at these places always within easy reach of the average travel budget.

Some of Nanaimo's most popular indoor recreation spots are located in the mid-town area, near Bowen road. The indoor rock climbing centre in this part of town is a great place to try scaling a wall for the first time, and is a frequent meeting place for local outdoor climbers. Just down the road, a giant arcade and laser tag hall is available for birthday parties, youth events, and multi-family outings.

Nanaimo Movie Theatres

Evening crowds make their way to Nanaimo movie theatres, both located in the north end of town. See the latest blockbusters and indie flicks at the Avalon Cinema, and Galaxy Nanaimo. Shows run nightly, and many films are offered as matinees as well.

Nanaimo Swimming Pools

For indoor water recreation, Nanaimo has two large swimming facilities that offer families the perfect escape from the bad weather blues. These popular aquatic centres feature giant swimming pools with extras like steam rooms, saunas, wave pools, and water slides.

Ice Skating in Nanaimo

Ice skating in Nanaimo has long been a favourite pastime of local residents. Public skating is offered at two large arenas in the city. One was constructed in 2001, and is located near the college, while the other was recently renovated, and is situated near mid-town. Onsite snack bars serve hot chocolate and other delectables, perfect for a break between laps.

Nanaimo Bowling Alleys

For fun lovers of all ages, bowling can be a great way to spend time indoors during your stay in Nanaimo. Whether you enjoy 10-pin, 5-pin, or glow-in-the-dark, Nanaimo bowling alleys offer a fun indoor activity for the whole family.

Indoor Activities in the Harbour City

  • Brechin Lanes
  • Brechin Lanes is a Nanaimo institution! We started in 1956, and now offer 16 lanes of computerized five-pin bowling. Check out our bumper bowling (gr...
  • Great Canadian Casino
  • Located at 620 Terminal Ave at Port Place Shopping Center, this lively casino has over 375 slot machines and a variety of table games. Open daily from...
  • Nanaimo Curling Club
  • NCC promotes a health lifestyle through the sport of curling. There are leagues and programs for everyone! Leagues - Junior, Ladies, Mens, Mixed, Sen...
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