Top 10 Best Thrift Stores in Calgary
Thrift stores are a great way to score some amazing deals on brand-new items. You can find everything from clothing and electronics to furniture and home decor. If you’re looking for a unique gift for your significant other or yourself, it’s never been easier to score some amazing savings.
Thrift stores have been around for decades, but they’ve only recently started to gain popularity in Canada. In fact, in the last few years, the thrift store industry has grown by leaps and bounds, with over 10,000 thrift stores across North America. This is great news for people who want to buy second-hand goods, but it’s also a problem for people who are on the lookout for the perfect bargain. With so many options out there, how can you make sure you’re finding the best thrift stores in your area?
If you’re looking for a great deal or premium vintage, there are plenty of thrift stores Calgary to choose from. If you approach thrifting right, it can be a pleasant experience.
When looking for the perfect thing you never knew you needed, you get an adrenaline rush unlike anything else you could find in a store. Essentially, it’s like hunting for treasure and finding prey in the wild. You get cash upfront with buy-and-sell as opposed to consignment.
1- 17th Ave Thrift Store:
Website: 17thavethrift.ca
Phone: +14034531305
Address: 2631 17 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T3E 0A5
Get DirectionsSue fled war-torn Lebanon for Calgary in 1974 with her family. Her family couldn’t afford to shop at department stores as new immigrants, so she learned about thrift stores as a young girl. In support of local animal shelters, she opened 17th Ave Thrift with the help of her family and friends. They offer discount prices on quality, trendy brand-name clothing while supporting local animal rescues and shelters. They hope to continue giving to worthy savings and protection as long as your support keeps coming in.
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Feel free to stop by. They offer high-quality items at reasonable prices. Feel free to bring your furry friend along! Old items you don’t want can be brought with you. All proceeds are donated to animal shelters. All types of clothing and shoes/boots are appreciated. Donations of new or gently used clothing, shoes, purses, jewelry/accessories, lamps, kitchenware, housewares, small appliances, knick-knacks, un-used make-up or toiletries are greatly appreciated. For safety and space reasons, they cannot accept large furniture, wired ceiling lights, or baby equipment.
What do Clients Think?
“Love love love this thrift shop. The prices and the staff are absolutely amazing. I love how they donate to animal charities. Scored some really sick Dr Martin boots for an incredible price. Can’t wait to shop again!!” (Google reviews)
“This thrift store is so awesome. I love bringing my dog and shopping! Sue always is very welcoming and friendly. I love finding quality items at this store. Better yet they donate so often to rescues, we need more of these places and people in Calgary 💕” (Google reviews)
Veterans Association Food Bank:
Website: veteransassociationfoodbank.ca
Phone: +14033678387
Address: 820 28 St NE #10, Calgary, AB T2A 6K1
Get DirectionsThe Veteran’s Association Store in Calgary supports the Veterans Association Food Bank directly through its programs and services. During regular business hours, visitors are welcome to visit their Calgary and Edmonton offices. Please stop by if you’d like to meet other veterans for coffee. They have staff on call to assist you 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for Veteran assistance and urgent matters. Please dial 911 if you require emergency assistance. Consumers are informed of the COVID-19 safety protocols in place as well as government regulations.
The presence of capacity restrictions may need shoppers to wait outside. Whether clothes, shoes, accessories, or jewelry for men, women, or children, they accept new or gently used items. Veteran services go beyond simple social functions. Veterans are supported in more ways than just with food. They are protected from homelessness, hunger, and suicide. Veterans in their programs benefit from their programs and gain hope for the future.
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A donation bin is located behind the Veterans Association building in Calgary, which accepts clean, gently used household items, kitchenware, and decor. You can also donate books, toys, and electronics! It would be best to refrain from donating soiled, damaged, and broken items, as they have to dispose of them to make money. Due to storage constraints, they cannot accept large items like exercise equipment or appliances.
To donate items, please bring them to the back of the building. Their storage is currently limited, so they cannot accept large items (exercise equipment, appliances, etc.). You can donate NEW items in the categories above by contacting the Calgary Veterans Association office. Veterans have found an essential sense of purpose and support at the Veterans Association Food Bank.
What do Clients Think?
“Our family attended the supper last evening and the presentation of the Quilts of Valour. My father was one of the Veterans honoured to receive a quilt and we felt welcomed and at home the minute we went through the doors. The Veterans and this place is truly amazing!” (Google reviews)
“Amazing, friendly staff, I was dropping donations for my wife’s work and they made the whole process simple and convenient. Please support these folks as the cause is right and purpose Is always remembered by these folks!! Cheers to all of you at this location!!!” (Google reviews)
Habitat for Humanity Southern Alberta:
Website: habitatsouthernab.ca
Phone: +14039102561
Address: 7291 11 St SE, Calgary, AB T2H 2S1
Get DirectionsNew and used building materials are available at Habitat for Humanity ReStores. Habitat ReStore shopping is a socially conscious decision since the funds generated go towards Habitat for Humanity’s home construction programs for Southern Alberta. A Habitat for Humanity ReStore sells building materials and home appliances and takes and resells building materials. By shopping, you help support the affordable homeownership program run by Habitat for Humanity Southern Alberta. The Habitat for Humanity ReStore concept was introduced in Winnipeg, Manitoba, in 1991 and has grown exponentially ever since.
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The Habitat ReStores are located throughout Canada and around the world, and they provide affordable homeownership opportunities to more families. Located in Calgary and Medicine Hat, there are two stores in southern Alberta. They offer a unique shopping experience at each Habitat ReStore for those looking for something new for their homes. Their inventory is continuously updated as new items are donated daily by residents and businesses.
Habitat ReStores offer various products at discounts of 40 – 80% off retail prices, including furniture, appliances, paint, doors, lighting, and home décor. Furthermore, the business is environmentally friendly because it sells new products, gently used or used products that otherwise would end up in landfills.
What do Clients Think?
“Very easy to communicate with the coordinator. Received the emails to confirm and was called the day of pickup with our 2 hour window. Fellows that came to pick up the furniture were great ! Would definitely use again if I needed.” (Google reviews)
“There is incredible selection of everything from furniture to tools to tools to working gear. I really love the staff they are superfriendly and so helpful. I found a vintage dresser which was in impeccable shape, I am so happy for that great find! You will always find something at this Habitat for Humanity restore!” (Google reviews)
MEOW Charity Thrift Shop:
Website: shop.meowfoundation.com
Phone: +14037351015
Address: 336 41 Ave NE Unit 110, Calgary, AB T2E 2N3
Get DirectionsWith the assistance of a thrift shop run by MEOW Charity, we can continue helping cats in our community. As a no-kill cat rescue located in Calgary since 2000, they are owned and operated by the MEOW Foundation. Knowing that 100% of their proceeds support needy cats makes your purchases all the more pleasing! Their store is filled with so many incredible treasures! It’s a pleasure to know that you’re helping stray and abandoned cats thrive as well as contributing to the proper use of recycled materials!
MEOW Charity Thrift Shop is the perfect place to help your wallet, the environment, local business, and homeless cats. They pride themselves on providing friendly, helpful service, a large selection of products, and lots of daylight to their Calgary thrift shop. Donations for resale by the thrift shop are only accepted during store operating hours. If you need to enter, bring your items to the side door of the parking lot and ring the bell.
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MEOW Foundation has established itself as a leading charitable charity in Calgary. MEOW Foundation is a registered charity and humane society wholly dedicated to cats. Having such generous support from businesses is a great blessing for MEOW! With your purchase, you are supporting the MEOW Foundation, and they can rescue more cats.
Meow Foundation supports local businesses that donate part of their sales proceeds to the foundation through pre-owned treasures, handmade items, MEOW-branded merchandise, and unique products.
Their rescue and adoption program helps stray cats find loving homes. MEOW takes the time to match each cat with a suitable home that fits its personality, history, habits, and individual needs. The staff and volunteers do their utmost to provide the highest level of care and service to donors and supporters.
What do Clients Think?
“So lovely! Lots of home goods and accessories, all very fairly priced. There’s a little area with volunteer-made items as well, which is such a sweet idea. I picked up a catnip-filled strawberry toy for my cat and he loves it! Definitely worth a visit.” (Google reviews)
“This thrift store has so much charm. The unique items are very reasonably priced and the staff is very polite and friendly. I appreciate that they were also very diligent about the safety of there customers and staff during these crazy covid days” (Google reviews)
WINS Thrift Store (Women In Need Society):
Website: winsyyc.ca
Phone: +14032512028
Address: 180 94 Ave SE #32, Calgary, AB T2J 3G8
Get DirectionsWomen in Need Society (WINS) is a Calgary-based charity dedicated to fostering community well-being through various shopping options. The organization operates six thrift shops, including MORE! Since 1992, WINS has provided basic needs resources, and support to Calgary’s women and their families. Having started with one thrift store, WINS has grown to seven in Calgary, in addition to its Donation Center.
More is their first bulk thrift store coming in 2020. It will be complemented by a thrift box delivery service online, TwiceNEW. Success requires people from diverse backgrounds. They value diversity of perspectives and experiences. Their thrift operations generate revenue that supports programs such as House to Home, Retail Ready, Warehouse Ready, and four community resource centers.
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With TwiceNew supporting WINS’ four Community Resource Hubs and programs like House to Home, Retail Ready, and Warehouse Ready, WINS enables women and their families to make life-changing decisions! You’re supporting an excellent social enterprise when you shop at WINS! Among its services, WINS offers emergency food support and employment and community activities to help its members become self-sufficient.
The thrift shops are visited by people from all walks of life, knowing their purchases and donations make a difference right now. With the help of the nonprofit WINS, gently used clothing and household items are repurposed, recycled, and upcycled. WINS donors make an immediate impact on the community’s well-being and health. Women and their families get resources and support from charity thrift shops that use gently used items. The value of thrift cannot be overstated!
What do Clients Think?
“Absolutely a great Thrift Store! The prices are cheap and you can find bargains here! It is THEE place to donate to in this area as they are an actual Charity and they don’t greedly price their inventory like Goodwill and Value Village across the street (Both of who just encroached on WINs territory in the early 2020’s). Donate and shop at WINs!” (Google reviews)
“A dedicated team is running this place and they are the reason everything is so well organized. We shopped some stuff for our kitchen and toys for our kids. No complaints!” (Google reviews)
Zoe’s Store:
Website: zoesstore.com
Phone: +14033987544
Address: 1403 14 Street SW, Calgary, AB T3C 1C8
Get DirectionsLocally owned and operated, Zoe’s is committed to our community, a sustainable lifestyle, the environment, and the beautiful people that live there. You can browse here, and you can find great deals on unique, rare finds if you are cost-conscious. There will be an extensive selection of antiques, vintage furniture, homewares, native art, fine china, crystal, books, and other rare collectibles for sale. Everyone will find something to love.
Since 1968, stores located at 1403-14th Street SW have served the neighborhood of Sunalta and Calgary. Originally, this space served as a thrift store until 1965; it became Zoe’s Store in 2008. The focus of Zoe’s Store is on people rather than things. It is a place of sentiment that crosses ages and generations. A store is just as much about the history of the items as it is about the personal stories of its customers.
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Its unique items are stories and history, retro and vintage clothing, and highly desired antiques and collectibles. Here, stories of personal experiences are as treasured as the history of the store itself. With Zoe’s Store, you can buy a vast selection of gently used brand names and vintage clothing at an affordable price. Following current trends, Zoe sells high-quality, unique pre-loved clothing and accessories from the 1920s to the 1980s and 1990s.
The items offered are vintage denim, retro clothing, accessories, purses, bags, and cowboy boots! Boots and western wear from Zoe are perfect for attending the Calgary Stampede! There is always new clothing in their store, so come back frequently to see what they have in stock. The clothes in Zoe’s store are steam cleaned before they are displayed. She picks every item personally. Her style is always in search of new, lightly used items of high quality and timeless design. Zoe will come to your home to pick up items whenever convenient; just let them know a few days in advance so they can plan.
What do Clients Think?
“Small space but packed with treasures ! Friendly and helpful staff and a community vibe resonates throughout the store. Happy to find owners of small businesses who provide this feeling of community spirit and energy to their clientele and patrons.” (Google reviews)
“Very friendly staff, well kept and organized store. Hand sanitizer in many spots. I wasn’t sure what to get for a gift and they were very knowledgeable. High quality vintage at fair prices. Would def be back here!” (Google reviews)
Goodwill Chinook Thrift Store:
Website: goodwill.ab.ca
Phone: +14032521514
Address: 5707 Macleod Trail SW, Calgary, AB T2H 0J7
Get DirectionsThe Goodwill Trust is a social enterprise that offers meaningful employment opportunities to individuals with disabilities. In the Thrift Store in Calgary, you can find gently used clothing, household items, sports equipment & more. As a nonprofit organization, Goodwill does not charge GST on purchases. In 1902, Edgar J. Helms founded Goodwill to employ those in need in the Boston area. Providing support to people with disabilities since 1963, Goodwill has been an integral part of Alberta’s fabric.
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Calgary’s Goodwill is rated as one of the city’s best thrift stores. Together, they are more robust; they are elevating their mission to create meaningful employment for people with disabilities, which is why Goodwill is proud to serve with you. Their Calgary-based nonprofit social enterprise aims to improve the lives of Albertans with disabilities who are closest to them. Its mission is supported directly by 90% of every dollar they earn.
You support local businesses in many ways when you shop at Calgary Chinook Goodwill Thrift Store & Donation Centre. Goodwill Industries of Alberta has a volunteer Board of Directors to oversee the organization’s governance. Business leaders from throughout the province make up the board. The key to their success is their team members’ dedication, ambition, and hard work. A set of values guides them: they care, they are continually improving, they are accountable, and they work together.
What do Clients Think?
“There is a good selection of house hold items and women’s clothing and accessories tho there isn’t a lot of casual wear for men good selection of electronics tools dvd’s furniture and decor go take a look you will leave with something 🎯🇨🇦” (Google reviews)
“Awesome place! Staff are always smiling, welcoming and ready to help! A great place to find knick knacks, curio style necklaces and great contemporary jewelry collection. Tidy and clean. Would always recommend.” (Google reviews)
Thrift Couture:
Website: thriftcouture.ca
Phone: +14039664942
Address: 1314B 17 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2T 0C3
Get DirectionsThrift Couture offers the latest vintage thrift clothing, accessories, and home decor, all at a great price. The items are selected based on their quality and style. Consignment shops are often more expensive than thrift stores because they have to raise the prices of merchandise to pay themselves and the consignor. However, Thrift Coutoure is different. They buy all of the items from the consignor directly so they can keep the prices as low as possible for the customer. You can now schedule one-hour styling appointments for FREE. To schedule a stylist-assisted wardrobe intervention, call or email them if you’re unsure what to wear, don’t like shopping, or hate shopping.
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At Thrift Couture, they offer one-on-one attention to each customer and provide their honest opinions. You can now book a one-hour styling appointment for free. If you are unsure about what to wear, have trouble shopping, or do not want to overspend, their stylist-assisted wardrobe intervention is the right solution for you. Come down to visit Calgary’s best-hidden gem. You can have the most fun while wearing your clothes… taking them off and putting them on again. In addition, they also do birthday parties… since playing dress-up is always so much fun. Let’s play dress-up with some wine.
What do Clients Think?
“Absolutely lovely store. The owner is super nice and talkative. Many good finds. Just an amazing experience to shop there! I will be back for sure. :)” (Google reviews)
“I have had nothing but wonderful experiences shopping at Thrift Couture. In Calgary we are super blessed with so many great thrift stores but nothing compares to the customer service and warm energy in this store. Lots of unique finds and great local artisan pieces. Please do yourself a favour and come check this place out!!!” (Google reviews)
Urban Thrift Consignment Boutique:
Website: urbanthrift.ca
Phone: +14037691934
Address: 906 Centre St N, Calgary, AB T2E 2P7
Get DirectionsDomenic Stante, the owner of Urban Thrift, is acutely aware of the environmental impact that unused items have on their society and the environment. Back in 2007, he bought Urban Thrift, a trendy thrift store in NE Calgary, due to his passion. Since then, Urban Thrift has attracted a loyal following. Known for its boutique-like atmosphere, it is one of Calgary’s most popular second-hand clothing shops. Whether you are having coffee with your girlfriends, celebrating a birthday with your closest friends, or having your Christmas work event, they are fully flexible to meet your needs.
Their dedicated stylists will be happy to assist you with whatever you choose, casual or glam. Throughout the store, you will have the place to yourself. Top-quality, gently used items from leading designers and brands are available at Urban Thrift. The clothing and accessories they select for consignment may be trendy, traditional, vintage, or unique. Count on each item thoroughly inspected, cleaned, and in near-new condition.
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The fashions and accessories they offer are suitable for women and men of all ages and sizes and at a range of price points. This tradition continues at their new consignment shop at 906 Center Street NE. To them, a piece needs to be of substantial quality and last the test of time. This is why they don’t accept a lot of fast fashion or big box pieces unless they’re brand new with tags or fascinating items.
Items may also be declined based on what they already have. Come in and look to get a sense of their style and what things they are looking for. The items are quarantined and sorted according to to first come, first served. Your items will be processed once they have been received. Items not selected for sale must be picked up 30 days after being notified of their fate.
Wearing a delicate brooch on a gorgeous dress is smart, but finding vintage pins to match your favorite outfit can be difficult. If you have your own preferences and a specific pin pattern you want, you can customize lapel pins, whether vintage or modern, cute or cool. It can not only be used as jewelry to express your personality, but also can be given to friends as a gift. At CustomPins.CA, you can get any design you want.
What do Clients Think?
‘The store has plenty of really cool pieces with fair prices, and the employees are extremely friendly and attentive. Will definitely be coming back, and recommend this place if you’re looking for some unique pieces. They also have a large selection of men’s clothing, which can be hard to find at other consignment stores in the city.” (Google reviews)
“Urban Thrift has a constantly changing stock with unique and stylish items. The staff are all very friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. Their environmentally conscious business model is also a huge appeal. Highly recommend checking it out” (Google reviews)
WorldServe Thrift Store Calgary:
Website: worldservethriftstore.ca
Phone: +14034744766
Address: 105 58 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2H 0A4
Get DirectionsBy partnering with local organizations, WorldServe Thrift can make a difference in their community. To the best of their abilities, they serve their local community. Their mission is to transform donated housewares into hope, revitalize furniture into food, and empower people through pass-along. Their thrift store net proceeds support humanitarian and mission initiatives around the world. Upon establishing their first Thrift Store in White Rock, BC, in January 2010, their second store opened in Calgary, AB, in January 2013.
Their goal is to have clean, tidy, well-stocked stores supported by helpful staff and friendly volunteers. Throughout your shopping experience with them, they strive to ensure you will have a remarkably positive experience. As a result of your support, they can engage in more local partnerships than ever in each of their thrift communities.
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Safe houses and shelters for women, refugee support programs, homelessness initiatives, food banks, and outreach programs are all among their partners. Through their international outreach, they are transforming communities into specific sectors. Church planting, Bible teaching, leadership training, and humanitarian relief are among their most important initiatives.
The customers are significant to them. By providing good customer service, offering great products at reasonable prices, and supporting your needs, they hope to make your lives better. The contributions you make to local and international initiatives are also appreciated. Come see for yourself the welcoming people, upbeat environment, excellent quality goods, and sense of community inherent in how they conduct their business daily.
What do Clients Think?
“I truly feel at ease shopping here. There are no over head intercoms or annoying music to disturb the peaceful atmosphere here!! Priced products are done very reasonable compared to the two other thrift stores near by!” (Google reviews)
“Absolutely beautiful store. Most thrift stores have a somewhat run down feel, but this store has a very clean feeling to it, almost like a Home Sense-kinda store. The staff is very nice, they greeted me as soon as I came into the store, and their merchandise had very good prices. I go thrifting pretty often, but this was by far one of the best stores and overall experiences I’ve had.” (Google reviews)
Final Thoughts:
You are more likely to find something unique and cool when you shop at second-hand stores – which is excellent for protecting the environment. Go to a Calgary thrift store instead of buying that cookie-cutter outfit you had in mind. I am sure there is a good chance that you will come upon a hidden treasure that everyone will ask you about.
These are some of the best thrift stores in Calgary. Find the top thrift shops near you in Calgary by utilizing the list that we have compiled. With these Calgary thrift and consignment stores, it is simple to do just that. You can add to your wardrobe and change your style at a fraction of the cost by thrifting.
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