Shopping in the Canadian harbour front city of Nanaimo, BC is quite a treat. Unique boutiques line the downtown streets and are all within walking distance of each other. In Nanaimo stores, shoppers can expect small town service and big city styles; it makes for quite a nice balance.
Flying Fish
180 Commercial Street, Nanaimo
(250) 754-2104
For everything kitchenware, furniture and jewellery, this is the place to find it. The large 6,400 square foot store is beautifully adorned with gift ideas and many home décor designs. This is also the home of the “Scrubbies,” an insanely popular cleaning product for kitchen, bathroom and, well, even sports equipment.
Lucid
35 Commercial Street, Nanaimo
(250) 753-3571
The interior of this store is gorgeous exposed brick, but the clothes are even more fabulous. Lucid carries local, Canadian and organic brands like Sitka and Big Rock, so fresh designs are always flowing. Both funky and young, this store caters to to those who are digging the hip new vibe overtaking Nanaimo.
Catwalk
45 Commercial Street, Nanaimo
(250) 716-1300
Another fab store in the downtown shopping district, Catwalk wins over shoppers with stylish clothing and fashionable accessories. Specialties are L.A.’s !iT Jeans, which are some of the best fitting styles out there, as well as Foxy, Amsterdam’s D.E.P.T. line and B.B. Dakota.
Boo Streetware
13 Commercial Street, Nanaimo
(250) 753-7893
This is a shop for the younger generation who loves all things STYLE. Expect well known names like Guess, Ecko, Rocawear and Alpine Pro to be hung throughout the store. Prices are reasonable and some good deals can be had during sales times.
Quintessential Accessories
2 Commercial Street, Nanaimo
(250) 753-1041
More than just accessories, there are quite a few women’s fashions on display here. But accessories are the key, and fantastic wallets, handbags, shoes, and jewellery make up this energetic spot. For pet lovers, don’t miss the specialty product section for dogs and cats. This is also where to find the deliciously healthy Coco Loco’s Fruit Smoothies & Wraps.
Barton & Leier Gallery
3140 Decourcy Drive, Ladysmith (15 minutes south of Nanaimo)
(250) 722-7140
Although not downtown Nanaimo, this art gallery is one of the most enjoyable galleries in the area. There are gardens outside that make classical French pruning look completely stuffy; the inside art gallery is more like stepping into a wonderland of art, jewellery and gorgeous items from all over the world.
Nanaimo Travel
The gracious folks at Tourism Nanaimo (1-800-663-7337) can help visitors plan their city trip, as well as give shoppers more information about their annual Nanaimo Shopping Festival. There is a $1,000 shopping spree to be won and many deals to be had. Or contact Tourism Vancouver Island (250-754-3400) for assistance in getting around the island.
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