Unique Shopping Opportunities on Manitoulin Island

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

1. Indigenous Arts and Crafts

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. There are too many little shops to highlight, but 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.

2. Local Art Galleries

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 Renowned Indigenous Artist, James artwork is a must see

• • Other Galleries: Edwards Art Studio, Turners Little Current upstairs, 

3. Artisan Foods and Farmer’s 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 favorite 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

4. Boutique and Specialty Shops

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.  Below is just a small list, explore and travel the Island and find all the treasured places we have.  Often the only place to find some of these unique products and gifts is at the various  Farmers Markets

• In Downtown Little Current you will find Turners Little Current, Swing Bridge Trading Post, Borderline, Breakaway, Island Home Outfitters (pop up) & D&N Variety
• Ten Mile Point Trading Post near Sheguiandah offers a sweeping view alongside a wide selection of Indigenous crafts and souvenirs.

• Linens & Lavender Just outside Gore Bay.  Drop in an explore the carefully curated collections of classic gifts and homewares, as displayed on our Manitoulin farm in an 1800s hand-hewn log cabin.

• Island Home Outfitters Located in Mindemoya (and a summer pop-up in Little Current), Island Home Outfitters offers a variety of home decor, gifts and home interior design. We work with our makers to create unique home decor pieces in a rustic modern style to accent small batch treasure we have found through our retail partners.
• The Muchmore Peace Cafe Located in Providence Bay. A cafe, gift shop and art gallery all in one
• 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, 100% Canadian made comfortable clothing and shoes.
• The Outpost General Store  In Gore Bay  showcases Manitoulin branded products and apparel, as well as locally made crafts and giftware.
• Wigwam Gift shoppe.  At the ferry dock in South Baymouth, Pick up all of your Manitoulin Island gear & souvenirs at our gift shop. Be sure to try our homemade fudge, too!

And of course you need to ensure that those fishing lures, fishing rods, hunting items and water sport need are covered too!

• Williamson Up Top Sport Shop and Hardware A shop where you can find the most interesting things.  They have it all.
• Manitoulin Cedar Products Do not let the name fool you, hidden inside this place is a shopping gem.
• Manitoulin Wind and Wave Your paddle sport specialists
• Island Vibes Aqua Adventures. For a day on the water rent a paddle board or kayak

5. Seasonal and Pop-Up Events

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.

In Conclusion
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 your experience.