As Nanaimo's signature destination park, Maffeo Sutton has a bit of something for everyone. This 7.9 hectare (19.5 acres) park located on the waterfront overlooks Nanaimo's harbour. It was named after Pete Maffeo, a popular mayor and ice cream shop owner admired for his community service and sport involvement, and Joe Sutton, the caretaker of Derverill Square Park for many years.
The park features 1.2 km of trails that are wheelchair accessible. The trails connect the park to the Harbourfront Walkway.
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For the kids, Maffeo Sutton Park is home to the Harbourside Playdock, one of Nanaimo's destination playgrounds.
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There is access from the park to a walking and fishing pier.
Ferry access to Newcastle Island Provincial Park is located in the park.
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As you walk through the park, take a moment to enjoy the gardens and public art including the famous "frame", statue of former Mayor Frank Ney, the Octopus and, recently making the park it's permanent home, the Crab.
Swy-a-Lana lagoon is a great spot for swimming and the start location for many of Nanaimo's famous events like the Silly Boat Regatta, Dragon Boat races and the Bathtub races.
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The Spirit Square is a gathering place for many community events and includes interpretive signage detailing the history of Nanaimo's waterfront.
Many other outdoors events occur in the park such as the Summer Concerts in the Park series which takes place at the Lions Pavillion on Wednesday evenings in August.
Looking to explore Nanaimo's parks and trails? Check out the Nanaimo Parks Search tool.