Now that you’ve had a taste of Memorial Avenue, continue to explore the sights along the heart of downtown and Middleton Avenue before we loop back to the beach.
Heart of Parkville Downtown
Continuing along historic Hirst Avenue, this path will lead you directly into the vibrant heart of Parksville Downtown—the intersection of Hirst Avenue and Craig Street. Here, you’ll discover a charming retail district that beckons with its warm and inviting atmosphere.
As you explore this popular area, you’ll encounter a delightful array of cozy cafes and family-owned shops, each offering a plethora of vintage finds and meticulously crafted goods. Your journey along Craig Street, in particular, promises limitless experiences—you can savor a steaming cup of coffee, replenish your supply of eco-friendly refillable laundry soap, uncover the perfect attire for an upcoming event, or even indulge in a splendid bouquet of fresh flowers.
Middleton Avenue
Using the Pacific Brimm Coffee Shop as your reference point, cross Craig Street and you’ll find yourself on Middleton Avenue. As you continue your journey you’ll encounter a diverse ranges of shops and services, each with its own unique charm and offerings. Make sure you save time to visit Kidsville, a haven for lightly worn kids’ clothing and toys that kids, and parents, are sure to like.
Corfield Plaza
Following Middleton Avenue, your path will lead you to McCarter Street, where we will make our way to the exciting new shopping area of Parksville, Corfield Plaza.
Once you’ve crossed McCarter Street, follow along the small laneway to Weld Street. On Weld Street you will find coffee shops and restaurants, several boasting welcoming patios. This is the perfect moment to treat yourself to a refreshing beverage or perhaps a delicious snack.
Or, if you’re in the mood for a sweet indulgence, consider crossing Weld Street to access another laneway that will lead you to the Mid-Island Co-op, and some of the best ice cream in town!
Emerging from the second laneway, conveniently situated next to Mid-Island Co-op, you’ll find yourself at Corfield Street. Cross Corfield Street at the Island Hwy lights and continue along Island Hwy. This will take you directly to the Thrifty’s parking lot, a convenient stop where you can explore a variety of options. Here, you can pick up a captivating book, gather supplies for your beloved pet, or even pop into one of three grocery stores in the areas for your dinner essentials.
Located between Thrifty’s and Lefty’s Fresh Food, follow the sidewalk that will lead you to Corfield Plaza, an assortment of delightful shops and boutiques awaiting your discovery. You can explore clothing stores, seek out unique home decor, find one-of-a-kind souvenirs, discover local photographic art or unearth great deals at the local dollar store. The possibilities are endless as you indulge in a bit of retail therapy amid the charming surrounding of Parksville’s Corfield Plaza.
Back to the Park….and the Beach
With your arms now brimming with the amazing treasures you’ve collected along the way, you might be feeling like a few more steps are out of the question. Well, you’re in luck because you’re just a mere 5 minutes away from the beach. Simply walk to the Corfield Street exit of the parking lot and make a right turn.
You’re now well on your way back to the beach. Cross Island Hwy and be on the lookout for the hidden stairs discreetly positioned behind the Community Park sign. These stairs will guide you on a brief but enchanting journey down to the Shelly Park ball fields.
As you continue heading towards the beach, you’ll pass by the lovely Arboretum, adding a touch of natural beauty to your journey. Your path will take you back to the gazebo, marking the culmination of your Discover Parksville – Downtown Loop Tour. Amid the coastal beauty and nostalgia, your heart will be filled with the enduring charm of Parksville Downtown.
Full Tour Approx: 45- 60 minutes, depending on stops
