At Tourism Nanaimo, we believe the magic of a tournament extends far beyond the scoreboard. It's about building camaraderie, making memories, and truly experiencing the spirit of our city. Here are some ideas for unforgettable moments for your entire travelling contingent, tailored to different vibes and ages.
Imagine a group of teenagers and their contingent of siblings, fueled by the thrill of competition, needing an outlet after a long day at the track or on the field. Nanaimo serves up the fun, blending high-energy activities with opportunities to chill and refuel.
Head towards North Nanaimo, 15 minutes from downtown, to challenge their wits and communication skills at EXIT Nanaimo with a themed escape room. It's perfect for team-building, a bit of friendly sibling rivalry, and a great way to bond by solving puzzles under pressure! Choose from several themes, levels of difficulty, and age-appropriate spooky factor.
And if the squad is still buzzing with energy, the Romper Room Indoor Rock Climbing Gym is close by and offers exciting vertical challenges, with no experience necessary! Or, for gravity-defying fun and a good laugh, Airhouse Trampoline Park, literally right next door, lets them jump, flip, and tumble their way to exhaustion.
If an easy wander or some gentle unwinding is required afterwards, head back towards downtown to Maffeo Sutton Park, right on the waterfront adjacent to all downtown hotels. It's a fantastic hub offering playgrounds for younger siblings, sprawling green spaces for impromptu games or lounging, and easy access to the scenic Harbourfront Walkway for a leisurely stroll with stunning ocean views. They can even grab a Nanaimo bar or gelato (or both - they’ve earned it!) at Waterfront Confections, and soak in the lively atmosphere.
And yes, for those reliable post-game fuel-ups, we've got you covered! You'll find all the cheap-and-cheerful chain restaurants they know and love, mixed with fantastic local eateries and specialty treats that offer something a bit different - trust us on the signature namesake flavour at Burnt Honey Ice Cream as just one place to satisfy a serious sweet tooth. Plus, for those late-night victories, Nanaimo boasts some of the best late-night pizza joints around, like the iconic Mambo’s, perfect for celebrating.
