The Terminal Bar Nanaimo

About This Spot

Stepping into The Terminal Bar Nanaimo feels like settling into a familiar rhythm amidst the bustle of downtown. The space strikes a balance between easygoing and electric, where the worn-in warmth of a neighborhood haunt meets the pulse of live music unfolding in real time. It’s a place where the pace slows just enough to savor the moment—whether you’re nursing a drink or watching local musicians improvise under softly flickering lights.

The atmosphere is inviting without trying too hard, a little rough around the edges in the best way that makes it feel honest. The buzz of conversation and laughter blends seamlessly with the hum of a small stage that often hosts open-mic performers, making room for surprising voices to share the spotlight. Here, the music is palpable, grounded in local spirit and authenticity rather than polish or spectacle.

Drinks come with friendly service and reasonable prices, making it easy to linger as the night unfolds. Besides the stage, there’s a playful corner with table hockey, a reminder that this bar isn’t just about soaking up tunes—it’s about connecting, unwinding, and sharing simple moments of joy. Whether you’re drawn by the live shows, the down-to-earth vibe, or just looking for a welcoming spot that stays open late, The Terminal Bar quietly crafts its own kind of lively, unpretentious charm in Nanaimo’s heart.

What’s Available Here

Outdoor seating
Takeaway
Dine-in
Delivery

Bar games
Great beer selection
Great cocktails
Karaoke
Live music
Live performances
Sport

Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible toilet

Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Dancing
Food
Spirits
Wine

Seating
Table service

Toilet

Casual
Trendy

Groups
Tourists

Accepts reservations

Debit cards

Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Paid parking lot
Paid street parking

Location & Hours

Monday	02:00 PM - 02:00 AM
Tuesday	02:00 PM - 02:00 AM
Wednesday	02:00 PM - 02:00 AM
Thursday	02:00 PM - 02:00 AM
Friday	02:00 PM - 02:00 AM
Saturday	02:00 PM - 02:00 AM
Sunday	02:00 PM - 02:00 AM

Guest Reviews

Sean Dooher 20 Dec 2025

As always, Nanaimo will entertain you, especially if you love live music. The old and historic Camby bar is now The Terminal Bar and the live music is, for the most part, local. But don't think; Ho Hum, local schmokle... the musicians in this town will blow you away. Night after night as I scour the downtown core for live music I find myself stopping for a good length of time to watch a One Woman Band knock out some Steely Dan and she owned it! And she was just on a downtown sidewalk playing for herself! Well worth the sawbuck I placed into her guitar case as I made my way to The Terminal Bar to listen to one of this town's Musical Heavyweights ! "Moths & Locusts" featuring the phenomenal presence of Valentina Cardinalli and her unequaled repertoire of talents as she presents her Awsomeness front and center while the Meat and Potatoes of this ensemble push their sounds around her to feed on and then there's the Wizard Genius and leader of this Group of "Note Serving Masters", standing, unoticed, behind the Methodical Madness... holding down the Base-line, weaving his tendrils in, around and through each of the others sound offerings, lacing the music into a nice neat package, presenting and offering this tight bundle to the audience... "Here you go good people... Enjoy." As our ears and minds are cracked wide open from the nicely packaged gift of lit dynamite Mr. Dave Read and his pet Moths & Locusts have Smothered us with. Their Dreamy yet Voracious Sound will have you rockin' like a Banshee as you sit calmly sippin' on a Long,Island ice tea. . . Cross-Eyed The experience was almost as good as Crazy Sex! Thanks Guys, I hope it was as good for you as it was for me Someone call me an ambulance?... You're an Ambulance and the band played on

Borna Zargarian 19 Dec 2025

drinks are cheap, great place for shows (if you like grungier/punkier/metallier/rockier stuff), and they have TABLE HOCKEY!

Dalton Douglas 06 Nov 2025

Amazing show last night- timely service, excellent bartenders and great music, definitely would recommend!

Lê Thu Hiền 22 Oct 2025

If you’re looking for a laid-back, affordable pub that stays open late in Nanaimo, The Terminal Bar Nanaimo is definitely worth checking out. It’s located right in the heart of downtown, easy to find, and has a warm, casual vibe that makes you feel at home the moment you walk in. One of the best things about this place is the open stage where anyone can get up and sing. You don’t have to be a professional — just enjoy the moment and have fun. The crowd is super friendly and supportive, which creates a really welcoming atmosphere, like you’re at a gathering with friends rather than a public bar. Drinks here are incredibly cheap, ranging from just $3 to $10, which is a rare find these days — especially if you’re used to Vancouver prices. Just a heads-up: they only accept cash, so make sure to bring some with you (there’s an ATM at the bar but it charges a fee). Another major plus is that the bar is open until 2 AM, making it a perfect late-night hangout spot. If you’re not into loud music or you smoke, there’s a nice outdoor patio area where you can relax in peace and get some fresh air. There are also some really fun extras that make this place feel more like a community space than just a bar. They have arcade-style games that cost only $1 per play — super cheap compared to what you’d find in bigger cities. There’s also a pool table, perfect if you’re looking for a chill activity to enjoy with friends over a drink. All in all, The Terminal Bar Nanaimo is more than just a place to grab a drink. It’s a fun, casual hangout spot where you can sing, meet new people, play games, or just unwind after a long day. I’d call it a true hidden gem in Nanaimo — simple, affordable, and full of character.

Delise Lazarenko 02 Oct 2025

Great people working, lots of good bevies and beer to choose from. Games on one side, small stage on another. Bartender was friendly, and it was a great place to hang out at. I'm visiting, wish I could come for a show! Good vibe to it!

Honore deBalzac 25 Sep 2025

Thursday karaoke night is good if you're a good singer. So...don't be a bad singer! Beer price HALF what Casino charges! Pool tables, many coin-operated arcade games: b--ball...air hockey.. TouchTunes jukebox: daytime. Food? Doritos, chips. Large outdoor patio in back just in time for Spring and Summer. -Stefon from SNL