Once a thriving fishing, mining and forestry hub, the town of Chemainus reinvented itself in the 1980s by capturing its history in a series of large, striking murals painted on the walls of the town.
That shrewd decision inspired the town’s well-earned description, “The Little Town That Did”. Today, there are 44 amazing murals and various sculptures, which can all be viewed on foot.
Located in the centre of town is Waterwheel Park, venue for Chemainus Accordion Days, the annual Jazz and Bluegrass festivals and the weekly Music in the Park summer concerts. Right next door to Waterwheel Park is the new and resplendent Chemainus Valley Museum and Visitor Centre, which is well worth a visit.
The 274-seat Chemainus Theatre welcomes more than 70,000 visitors annually to its many top-notch dramas, musicals and concerts. Food and drink is also at a high level here with a new brewery, taphouse and a must-try cafe that specializes in international cuisine.
