The Queen's

The Queen's is a legendary venue in the heart of Nanaimo that harmoniously blends historical spirit with modern nightlife. Established back in 1892, this elegant Italianate-style building once served as a hotel for miners; today, it is rightfully considered the premier music venue in this city in Canada.

The place attracts tourists and locals alike with its unique rustic atmosphere. Original arched windows and elements of old masonry have been preserved, creating a cozy, almost home-like environment. The Queen's is more than just a nightclub; it is a true cultural hub where both rising stars and international artists perform on the same stage.

In addition to its rich musical program, the establishment is famous for its selection of craft beers from Vancouver Island and an original menu where traditional Canadian dishes sit alongside popular Canadian-Chinese favorites. If you are looking for a place with deep heritage and high-quality sound, this club is an ideal stop on your travel map.

To check the evening performance schedule or book a table, you can use the venue's official contact details:

The main reason to visit The Queen's is, without a doubt, the live music. Every Sunday, soulful blues jam sessions take place here, while rock bands and performers of various genres take the stage on weekday and weekend evenings. An energetic dance floor and professional lighting create the perfect environment for those who love to spend their time actively.

Be sure to try the local cuisine, which pleasantly surprises guests. The Canadian-Chinese combo plates are particularly popular and are great for sharing with a group. The bar offers a wide range of drinks, from classic cocktails to the best local craft brews. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, free billiards and cozy lounge areas are at your service.

The interior of the old hotel, with its wooden elements and historical charm, is perfect for long conversations. Even though the place can get quite loud during concerts, a friendly and welcoming atmosphere always prevails. It is a great opportunity to meet locals and feel the true rhythm of life on the West Coast.

The legendary club is located in the heart of the city at 34 Victoria Crescent. Thanks to its central location, it is easily accessible from anywhere in Nanaimo. If you prefer public transport, the nearest bus stops are on Commercial Street and Chapel Street, just a couple of minutes' walk from the entrance.

For those traveling by car, street parking is available, along with several paid garages in the vicinity of the central business district. The drive from Nanaimo Airport (YCD) takes about 20 minutes via Hwy 1. If you arrive by ferry from Vancouver, a taxi or local bus will take you to the venue's doors in 10–15 minutes.

A walk from the scenic waterfront or Maffeo Sutton Park takes no more than 15 minutes. The route passes through historic quarters, which is a pleasant addition to your evening out. You can also call a taxi from any part of the city, which is one of the most convenient ways to reach the club in the evening.

The history of The Queen's began back in 1892. Originally known as the Queen's Hotel (or the Davidson Block), the building was designed to accommodate coal miners. In those days, Nanaimo was a rugged mining town, and such hotels served as both housing and primary social hubs for the many single men seeking their fortune in Canada.

The building's architecture is in the Italianate style, which was popular in the late 19th century. Characteristic elements have been preserved to this day: arched double windows on the second floor and the overall vertical massiveness of the structure. This building is an important part of the historical heritage of Victoria Crescent — one of the city's first commercial streets.

For over a hundred years, the building has been used as a drinking establishment, weathering periods of prosperity and economic decline alongside the city. It was only in the early 2000s, after a series of renovations, that The Queen's finally changed its role, transforming from a simple hotel bar into the region's premier music venue. Today, it is recognized as a cultural landmark that preserves the spirit of old Canada combined with modern energy.

To simply soak in the atmosphere and try the local food, one hour is plenty. This gives you enough time to enjoy the interior and have a bite to eat in a cozy setting.

However, if you plan to attend a live concert, expect to stay for 2–3 hours. The main performance schedule and dancing usually take up the entire evening, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the musical life of Nanaimo. Remember that the venue operates on a 19+ basis, so don't forget your ID.

The venue opens its doors to guests in the latter half of the week. Recommended visiting hours: from Thursday to Saturday, the club is open from 6:30 PM until late (until midnight on Thursday and until 2:00 AM on Friday and Saturday). On Sundays, The Queen's welcomes visitors for afternoon and evening jam sessions from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday are usually closing days. We strongly recommend checking the club's official website before your visit, as opening hours may change depending on the schedule of special concerts or private events.

After enjoying a musical evening or a meal at The Queen's, it is worth taking some time to explore the surroundings. Downtown Nanaimo is rich in historical sites and cozy spots that will help you dive deeper into the Vancouver Island atmosphere.