Shopping & Art in the vancouver island region
Woodgrove Centre – Nanaimo, Vancouver Island – Photo: Artez Photography Corp
The Vancouver Island region is blessed with an impressive population of creative people. And while we have everything from big-name fashion to big-box outlets, it’s the array of creations made only here that makes shopping in the Vancouver Island region an experience you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
From body-care products made from Island-grown ingredients, sweaters made from the wool of Island sheep, alpacas, and llamas, and furniture crafted from Island wood to an outstanding selection of fine art, folk art, and First Nations art — it’s a one-of-a-kind shopping experience!
Parksville and Qualicum Beach
Parksville and Qualicum Beach is Canada’s best family friendly beach destination according to Better Homes and Gardens. The Globe & Mail called these towns “Canada’s Riviera”. Relax by the sea, explore huge old-growth forests, or rappel down a 7-storey underground waterfall. Then pamper yourself with a spa experience, endless dining options, and a quiet sunset stroll along our famous beaches. Stay on the beach and save with seasonal Web Specials.
1-888-799-3222
Parksville / Qualicum Beach
Central Island
Central Island
Destination Nanaimo
From the protected picturesque harbour and outdoor adventures, to vibrant city amenities, Nanaimo offers countless options for visitors. Relax in a rural setting sampling cranberries, herbs, honey and visit tucked away gardens and galleries. Downtown Nanaimo offers a 5-km walkway along one of the prettiest harbours on the West Coast. While strolling, visitors can browse the shops, take in free concerts during the summer, or buy fresh fish and crabs from the Fisherman’s Wharf.
1-800-663-7337
Nanaimo
Central Island
Central Island
Vancouver Island North Tourism
The Vancouver Island North region is a paradise of natural splendour, located within a day’s travel from Victoria, Vancouver and Seattle. Here, black bears roam on the Island, grizzly bears can be viewed on the mainland coast and a population of some 260 fish-eating orcas known as the “Northern Residents” are often in the area pursuing salmon. Rich also in history and First Nations culture, Vancouver Island North offers an internationally renowned cultural centre.
250-902-8281
Vancouver Island North
Duncan Business Improvement Area Society
Shopping in Downtown Duncan is fresh, fun and fabulous! Our jem of a town boasts hundreds of remarkable shops and services. The quality and diversity of what we have to offer surprises and delights visitors from near and far. Just one hour from Nanaimo or Victoria on Vancouver Island, with plenty of free 3-hour parking spots or parking for $1-2 dollars for extended visits.
250-715-1700
Duncan
Cowichan Region
Cowichan Region
Tourism Cowichan
The Cowichan region encompasses verdant farmland, deep ocean bays, whitewater rivers, numerous lakes and low rolling mountains. Cowichan’s pretty towns and villages – including Chemainus, Ladysmith, Duncan, Cobble Hill and Cowichan Bay – offer art galleries, outdoor murals, fishing piers and farmers markets. One of the top culinary destinations in Canada, Cowichan is home to medal-winning wineries, organic farms and artisan food-producers who have created a thriving agritourism industry based on the mantras of fresh, local, seasonal and sustainable.
250-746-1099
Duncan
Cowichan Region
Cowichan Region
Wickaninnish Inn
Discover Tofino through the only resort on Chesterman Beach. The Wickaninnish Inn offers magnificent views of the open ocean set against a backdrop of old-growth forest. A dedicated Clef’s d’Or Concierge custom creates readily available Tofino itineraries such as: wildlife viewing, fishing, ocean sports, and arts and cultural experiences. Uncompromising service and a range of in-house amenities, such as Ancient Cedars Spa and The Pointe Restaurant, make for memories reaching far beyond the tangible.
250-725-3100
Tofino
Pacific Rim Region
Pacific Rim Region
Harbour Quay
The Harbour Quay is the centre of life and play in Port Alberni. It features gift shops, art galleries, restaurants, coffee shops, a park, boardward, Farmers Market and marine businesses. See current weather and waterfront activities on ourHarbour web cam at http://www.portalberni.ca
250-723-2146
Port Alberni
Pacific Rim Region
Pacific Rim Region
Victoria Quay
You don't need to go far in Alberni to see black bears, minks, eagles, and seals - these can be safely viewed at the Victoria Quay. As wildlife puts on a show across the river, you can stroll along the Quay's walkway or have a picnic in the park. You'll also find restaurants, a tackle shop, a gift shop, and First Nations carvings.
250-723-2146
Port Alberni
Pacific Rim Region
Pacific Rim Region
Woodgrove Centre
Vancouver Island's largest shopping centre with over 150 stores and services including The Bay, Walmart, Winners, Chapters, Save-On_foods, Toys 'R' Us and many more, you'll find everything you need. For hours, events and store information visit woodgrovecentre.com
250-390-2721
Nanaimo
Central Island
Central Island
Quw'utsun' Cultural and Conference Centre
First Nations cultural experience- Open June thru September. Let a Cowichan Tour Guide tell you stories passed from generation to generation, see the Authentic Cowichan Knitters display and purchase hand carved art pieces and jewelry. Try Authentic Native cuisine in the Riverwalk Café- along the banks of the Cowichan River.
250-746-8119
Duncan
Cowichan Region
Cowichan Region
I-Hos Gallery
I-Hos Gallery presents a collection of traditional and contemporary Northwest Coast artwork. Masks, prints, gold and silver jewelry and wood carvings produced by First Nations artists are displayed on the Comox First Nation band lands.
250-339-7702
Courtenay
North Central Island
North Central Island
Tourism Chemainus
Chemainus is one of the most beloved places by visitors to Vancouver Island. An Arts & Cultural Destination that is famous for its well over 40 murals painted on the towns various walls. Golf, diving, shopping and exploring our natural surroundings in this seaside village.
250-246-3944
Chemainus
Cowichan Region
Cowichan Region
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