Boo! 3 Reasons to be Scared – Very Scared – in Nanaimo

 
Say “Nanaimo” and people usually think of a beautiful harbour town… But think again. Nanaimo has its dark side – and it’s something that’s great to fun to explore at Halloween time. So put your bravest foot forward and come with us on a spooky tour of Nanaimo’s dark side…
 

1. Beban House

What’s that? The sound of ball bouncing ominously down the hall? The unexplained clink of teacups? Then you must be in Beban House. Rumour has it that when the building was used as a daycare centre, the kids sometimes shared stories about an oddly dressed child playing with a red rubber ball. Doors apparently open and close on their own and cats have been known to escape from locked rooms. Are you scared yet?
 

2. Nanaimo Museum

If you’d like to learn about the darker side of Nanaimo’s past, take one of the popular walking lantern tours organized by Nanaimo Museum. Visit the site of the last public hanging in Nanaimo and listen to the scandalous stories of the famous architect who designed the courthouse and the murderer who was hung on Gallows Point.
 

3. Nanaimo Bastion

Built in the 1850s, the Nanaimo Bastion is an octagon-shaped fortification that is apparently home to the ghost of the axe murderer Kanaka Pete, who was imprisoned in the Bastion before he was hanged. It’s also said to be haunted by a ghostly woman in a long dress, so maybe Pete isn’t all alone after all!
 
If you’re looking for a great hotel in Nanaimo this Halloween, check out the historic Best Western Dorchester Hotel. Situated right downtown near bustling Nanaimo Harbour, it offers excellent views, outstanding service, immaculate rooms and suites and convenient access to all of Nanaimo’s attractions. There are rumours that it’s haunted too!