Located in the heart of downtown Nanaimo, the Best Western Dorchester is a central and walkable stay with a blend of historic character and modern upgrades. While some elements of the room felt refreshed, others showed signs of age—making this a bit of a mixed stay overall.
Room Condition & Design
There have clearly been noticeable upgrades to bring the hotel into a more modern feel, especially compared to what it looked like just a few years ago. That said, our room still had visible wear and tear, such as scuffed furniture and peeling wallpaper. The bed was comfortable, but the room felt like it was partway through its transformation.
Amenities & Layout
Parking is free, but limited—a nice perk if you can get a spot. We were pleasantly surprised by the rooftop sitting area, which had chairs and picnic tables, though the access point to it wasn’t clearly labeled, so it took a little searching to find the door.
The ice machine is on the third floor, and the vending machine was out of service during our stay. However, a thoughtful detail we noticed was that the vending area had small boxes of laundry soap, which is super handy for travelers looking to wash clothes without buying a full-size bottle.
Location & Service
One of the best features of this hotel is its location. Being right downtown, we were able to walk to restaurants, cafes, and the waterfront with ease. It’s a great base if you’re exploring the downtown area on foot.
As with many hotels we’ve stayed at, the staff were friendly and welcoming, making check-in and general questions a breeze.
Final Thoughts
This Best Western Dorchester Nanaimo review reflects a convenient and centrally located hotel with charm and walkability. While some parts of the hotel show wear despite recent updates, the rooftop patio, small guest conveniences, and excellent location make it a worthwhile option—especially for travelers who value access to downtown over perfection in finishes.
Details
Address:
70 Church Street
Nanaimo, BC V9R 5H4
Website:
Best Western Dorchester Hotel
Phone:
(250) 754‑6835
Reservations (Toll‑Free):
1‑800‑780‑7234