Where To Shop on Manitoulin Island: Best Local Boutiques, Indigenous Art and Markets

Manitoulin Island is a hidden gem for shoppers seeking distinctive, locally-crafted goods and authentic cultural experiences. From Indigenous art and crafts to small-town boutiques and farmers’ markets, Manitoulin Island offers a shopping landscape rich with tradition, creativity, and natural inspiration.

Explore Indigenous Art and Culture Through Local Crafts on Manitoulin Island

One of the most enriching aspects of shopping on Manitoulin Island is the opportunity to explore and support Indigenous artisans. The island is home to several Anishinaabe communities, and their deep cultural roots are reflected in the handcrafted goods available at local shops and galleries. You’ll find beautiful beadwork, moccasins, hand-carved wooden items, dreamcatchers, and fine art that often tells stories of the land, spirits, and ancestral traditions. Notable stops include:

• Lillian’s Crafts in M’Chigeeng First Nation—a must-visit for authentic Anishinaabe handiwork.
• Ojibwe Cultural Foundation Gift Shop—offers both traditional and contemporary Indigenous art.

Visit Local Art Galleries Showcasing Manitoulin’s Creative Spirit

Manitoulin has a thriving arts scene inspired by its natural beauty. Galleries and studios showcase the works of local painters, sculptors, photographers, and mixed-media artists. Many artists live and work on the island, allowing visitors to meet the creators and gain insight into their processes.

• Perivale Gallery in Spring Bay is especially renowned for its eclectic and high-quality collection of Canadian art.
• Gore Bay’s Harbour Centre houses multiple artist studios and shops in a beautiful waterfront setting.
• James Mishibinijima Private Art Studio—a renowned Indigenous artist, James' artwork is a must-see.
• Edwards Art Studios—an independently owned and operated art gallery showcasing many local artists' work from Manitoulin Island and surrounding areas.

Taste of Manitoulin: Artisan Foods and Farmers Markets

For food lovers, the island offers a bounty of local produce, baked goods, and specialty foods. Farmers' markets pop up across various towns during the warmer months, offering fresh vegetables, local cheeses, preserves, maple syrup, and handmade treats.

• Manitoulin Chocolate Works in Kagawong is a favourite for handcrafted chocolates, gourmet coffee, and island-themed souvenirs.
• Finnia Chocolate in Gore Bay (in the Split Rail Brewery Building)—Experience fine chocolate crafted from bean to bar on Manitoulin Island.
• Three Forks Farms—located outside Gore Bay, growing high-quality, safe and certified organic vegetables, chicken and garden seeds for Northern Ontario.

Big Finds While Shopping Small: Boutique and Specialty Stores Across Manitoulin Island

Each of Manitoulin’s charming towns features its own selection of small, independently-owned shops. From handmade soaps and jewelry to unique clothing and home décor, these boutiques provide an enjoyable, laid-back shopping experience far from the bustle of city malls. Here is just a small list; travel the Island and find all the treasured places we have to offer! Often, the only place to find some of these products is at the various farmers' markets. Keep an eye out for these local businesses and makers:

• Linens & Lavender—Drop in and explore the carefully curated collections of classic gifts and homewares displayed on their stunning Manitoulin farm in an 1800s hand-hewn log cabin.
• Ten Mile Point Trading Post near Sheguiandah offers a sweeping view alongside a wide selection of Indigenous crafts and souvenirs.
• Island Home Outfitters offers a variety of home decor, gifts and home interior design. They work with makers to create unique home decor pieces in a rustic modern style to accent the small-batch treasures found through their retail partners.
• The Flower Hutch in downtown Gore Bay—not just a fabulous florist shop, but stocked with wonderful and creative gift ideas.
• My Ol’ Blues in Gore Bay specializes in 100% Canadian-made, comfortable clothing and shoes.
• The Outpost General Store showcases Manitoulin-branded products and apparel, as well as locally-made crafts and giftware.

Find Gear for Paddling, Camping, Fishing, and All Your Outdoor Adventures on Manitoulin Island

And of course, you need to ensure that those fishing lures and rods, hunting items and watersport needs are covered, too! Try these businesses for outdoor gear:

• Williamson Up Top Sport Shop and Hardware is a shop where you can find the most interesting things. They've got everything for your home, garden and recreational life, from plumbing, electrical and lawn care items to fishing tackle, camping gear and ammunition.
• Manitoulin Cedar Products specializes in building supplies, outdoor planters, floating rafts and docks, and more. Hidden inside this place is a shopping gem if you're looking for paddleboards, canoes or kayaks, since they've partnered with Manitoulin Wind and Wave.

Don’t Miss Manitoulin's Seasonal Events and Artisan Pop-Ups

The island also hosts seasonal fairs, craft shows, and art tours, such as the Manitoulin Art Tour, where visitors can follow a map to various studios around the island, meeting artists and purchasing their work directly. These events add a dynamic and festive dimension to the island’s shopping scene.

Shop Local, Support Culture, and Celebrate Manitoulin Island

Shopping on Manitoulin Island is more than a transaction—it’s an experience deeply connected to the island’s culture, community, and environment. Whether you’re looking for a meaningful piece of Indigenous art, a jar of homemade jam, or a handcrafted memento of your visit, the island offers something unique at every turn. It’s a place where buying local isn’t just encouraged—it’s part of the story.

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