An Update on the Commercial Street Construction
As you might’ve noticed, the Commercial Street makeover is in full swing with a new look scheduled to debut in May 2025.
While traffic and parking between Wharf and Church Streets are taking a break, you can still cruise through Commercial Street on foot to reach your favourite shops, eateries, and all the best local spots.
We Need Your Help…
Now more than ever, our local businesses need us to rally around them and keep Nanaimo strong! While Commercial Street may be closed to traffic, doors remain wide open, with shops, restaurants and services ready to welcome you with a smile.
These businesses aren’t just storefronts. They’re a vital part of our community, supporting staff, families and the character that keeps Nanaimo unique. Every time you shop, dine and share their stories, you’re helping them stay resilient.
So let’s show up and spread the love and support! Remember, every visit, every share and every shoutout counts!
Free Parking?
To help you shop your local favs, indulge in your go-to brunch spot, or browse unique crafts from local artists, the Nanaimo City Council and Downtown Nanaimo Business Association (DNBA) have rolled out a free parking initiative!
Enjoy free, two-hour parking on select surface streets including Commercial (south of Wharf), Front, Chapel, Church, Bastion, Anchor Way, and Cameron Road. (Heads up: this offer doesn’t extend to parkades or paid parking lots)
Want to check out Commercial Street for a little longer? Long-term parking spots are available throughout the Downtown. Here are a few of our recommendations:
- 236 Bastion St Parkade
- 12 Bastion St – Dorchester Hotel Parkade
- 51 Gordon St – Harbour Front Parkade
- 101 Gordon St – VI Conference Centre Parkade
- View all parking options here
With initiatives like this, how could you not want to explore Downtown?!
Planning a day on Commercial Street? We can help! Here are a few shops whose storefronts are directly affected by the renos.
Dining?
Sitting down for a bite with friends and fam? From comfort food and pub fare to farm-fresh dishes and Thai flavours, Commercial Street has you covered! Stop by Modern Cafe, Melange, SukkhoThai, Paisanos and Craft Fare to satisfy every craving. With so many unique dining spots open and ready to welcome you, why not make it a Commercial Street kind of day?
Retail Therapy?
Whether you’re hunting for goodies for yourself or getting a jump on holiday shopping, Commercial Street has something for every vibe and every list!
From vintage treasures at Red Shelf Decor and Rumours Vintage to stylish finds at Fig Love Clothing Co. and NYLA Fresh Thread, plus home essentials at Flying Fish, you’ll find a little bit of everything right here. Time to check everyone off your list…and maybe treat yourself to a little something special, because why not?
Just Looking for a Tasty Drink & a Pastry (or Nanaimo Bars?!)?
Looking for a cozy café moment on Commercial Street? From Red’s Bakery and Milk Jam Donuts to Ironworks Café, Brix & Mortar, and Mon Petit Choux, you’ll find no shortage of delicious drinks, unique pastries, and those warm, inviting vibes you’ve been craving.
So bring along your favourite book or work essentials and settle into one of these fantastic spots!
Dipping your Fingers in Nanaimo’s Art Scene?
Nanaimo’s art scene is truly something to behold, and Commercial Street is right at the heart of it! Explore the latest exhibits at the Nanaimo Art Gallery, roll up your sleeves in a ceramics class at Nanaimo Ceramic Arts, or find locally crafted treasures at Artzi Stuff to make your collection pop. Whatever you’re in the mood for, Commercial Street’s art scene is definitely worth a visit!
Remember, Commercial Street is home to a variety of fantastic storefronts! In this post, we’re highlighting those currently facing extra challenges due to road access changes. We encourage you to explore and support all businesses along Commercial Street and throughout Nanaimo.
