The Old City neighborhood—also known as Downtown Nanaimo—is the cultural and historical heart of the city. With its character buildings, cobblestone walkways, vibrant arts scene, and stunning waterfront, Old City offers a truly walkable, urban lifestyle with vintage charm.
This district is ideal for those who love heritage architecture, waterfront views, and easy access to restaurants, entertainment, and boutique shops. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, investor, or downsizer seeking condo living near amenities, Old City combines convenience, culture, and character like no other neighborhood in Nanaimo.
Old City offers a unique blend of historic homes, modern condos, and revitalized mixed-use buildings. Many residences feature original architectural details—high ceilings, exposed brick, and vintage woodwork—while new developments bring modern convenience to this iconic neighborhood.
Real estate in the Old City is in high demand due to its walkability, views of Nanaimo Harbour, and growing appeal as a downtown destination.
Key features of Old City real estate:
Heritage homes, character houses, and Victorian architecture
Urban condos with ocean or city views
Boutique live/work spaces ideal for entrepreneurs or creatives
Proximity to parks, marina, shops, and nightlife
Nanaimo Waterfront & Harbourfront Walkway
A picturesque oceanside path linking parks, cafes, and the boat basin. A favorite for walkers, runners, and anyone wanting to take in Nanaimo’s stunning marine views.
What to Expect: Public art, sea air, kayak launches, floatplanes, and views of Newcastle and Protection Islands.
Port Theatre & Arts District
Downtown Nanaimo is home to the Port Theatre, a world-class performing arts venue, as well as galleries, artist studios, and events like the International Jazz Festival.
Ideal For: Culture lovers, musicians, and creatives looking to live near inspiration.
Old City Quarter
A charming hillside area with restored heritage buildings, boutique shops, cafes, and a unique European-style ambiance.
Highlights: Artisan bakeries, fashion retailers, salons, and award-winning restaurants.
Maffeo Sutton Park
Downtown’s most active park, hosting community events, concerts, playgrounds, and scenic waterfront access.
Ideal For: Families, dog walkers, picnics, and catching the BC Day fireworks.
Old City is Nanaimo’s culinary and cultural hub. You’ll find everything from coffee roasters and food trucks to high-end bistros and harbor-view dining.
Restaurants & Cafés: A growing scene featuring local seafood, international cuisine, vegan options, and award-winning chefs.
Shopping: Boutique clothing stores, vintage shops, bookshops, and local markets.
Services: Professional offices, medical clinics, wellness centers, and transit hubs.
With a full spectrum of amenities within walking distance, Old City is perfect for car-free or low-car living.
While Old City is more urban and suited to professionals and empty nesters, families living here still have access to excellent schools:
École Pauline Haarer (French Immersion elementary)
John Barsby Secondary School
Vancouver Island University (VIU) is also just minutes away and contributes to the youthful, vibrant energy of the area.
Old City is extremely walkable and centrally located, offering easy access to transit, ferries, and floatplanes.
BC Ferries at Departure Bay and Duke Point are short drives away
Harbour Air & HeliJet terminals offer flights to Vancouver right from the waterfront
Transit hub downtown connects residents to all corners of Nanaimo
Bike-friendly routes make commuting and errands simple without a car
Downtown Nanaimo is undergoing a wave of revitalization, making the Old City a smart area for real estate investment. New condo developments, commercial projects, and increased tourism make it a hub of growth and opportunity.
Buyers are drawn by the unique architecture, strong rental demand, and potential for appreciation as downtown continues to flourish.
Whether you're dreaming of a heritage home, a modern condo with a view, or a smart investment property in the heart of Nanaimo, Tom Munro is here to help. With extensive local knowledge and a commitment to client success, Tom can guide you through every step of your Old City real estate journey.
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