Calgary is home to its fair share of Value Villages, Sally Anns and Goodwills. But there are also SO MANY smaller or independent thrift stores just begging to be explored. I get the appeal of the big shops and quite frankly I shop there a ton myself when I want alllll the variety. But if you’re on the hunt for the best hidden gems (because we know they aren’t always at the big-name stores), then you’re in luck. Here’s a rundown of some of the best thrift stores in Calgary.

I promise not to judge you for shopping there: The best Value Village in Calgary

First, here’s the TLDR. I know how short our attention spans are.

For more tips and elaborations on these spots, do scroll further and click around, why don’t you?

MEOW Charity Thrift Shop

Address: 336 41 Ave NE Unit 110, Calgary

I’ve said it once and i’ll say it again. Two of my favourite things in the world are thrifting and cats. The MEOW Charity Thrift Shop is where you can shop second hand goods and help kitties in the YYC, with 100% of proceeds going to the MEOW Foundation. You won’t find clothes here, but you’ll discover unique home decor, accessories, electronics, a little used bookstore section in the back, as well as hand made cat beds and toys. Plus, there are weekly 50% off sales on select categories so keep an eye on their socials to see whats on sale this week. It’s a cozy spot for both thrifting and supporting a good cause.

Tip: Keep an eye on their socials to see whats on sale this week

17th Ave Thrift Store

Address: 2631 17 Ave SW, Calgary

17th Ave Thrift Store also merges a love of thrifting with a love for animals as all proceeds go straight to local animal rescues (they’ve donated $150,000 donated so far!). This place is definitely special with an owner who truly cares about curating a special thrift experience for all shoppers. Lots of good vibes, clean aisles, and friendly faces, with everything from high-end items at thrift store prices to unique vintage pieces. Definitely a must-visit in Calgary.

Tip: If you’re a reseller then don’t come here for a big haul. The owner strives to keep the treasure hunting fair for EVERYONE so requests resellers to just pick a few items.

Junk In The Trunk Thrift Store

Address: 2808 Ogden Rd SE Bay 11, Calgary

Junk In The Trunk is definitely a top pick for one of the best thrift stores in Calgary. With over 3000 square feet of space, it’s the definition of a second hand treasure hunt. The prices are pretty good too with knick-knacks under $5 and furniture typically under $100. Lot’s of variety as well with clothes, toys, tools, you name it. On top of scoring some cool finds, shopping here means you’re also helping out small local charities. So, if you’re looking for a new favourite spot for thrifting in Calgary, this might just be it.

The Veterans Association Thrift Store

Address: 640 28 St NE #1, Calgary

The Veterans Association Thrift Store support Veterans and their programs. It’s a large store, easy to navigate with clear signs and simple pricing. They’ve got a wide range of items from kids’ stuff to tools, home decor, clothes, and jewelry. There’s even a nice book area where you can sit and browse. If you’re in the area, this place is worth a drop by. Plus, they offer furniture delivery for an extra charge. Good spot for both donating and shopping.

Good Thrift (and Good Neighbour Community Market)

Address: 149 5 Ave SE, Calgary

Good Neighbour in Calgary offers a unique approach to thrifting with its two-part setup. First, there’s the ‘pay what you can’ market, aimed at providing clothing, non-perishable foods, and even household items like house plants to those need it. It’s a true barrier-free market, supporting individuals in need. Then, there’s Good Thrift, which is a fundraiser shop for Good Neighbour. This side of the store has a more traditional thrift shopping experience while still supporting the overarching mission of Good Neighbour. It’s an innovative model that caters to both the community’s needs and those looking to support a good cause through their purchases.

Thriftopia

Address: 214 62 Ave SE, Calgary

Thriftopia is a fun one because it has a different pricing model than usual. Rather than being priced individually, items are priced by the category. Meaning you can get some very good scores! The shop is clean and organized, making for a comfortable shopping experience. BONUS! They’ve even got change rooms with couches, adding a touch of comfort. Thriftopia is definitely one of the best thrift stores in Calgary and well worth a visit.

WINS Thrift Store

Locations:

• Beltline: 1005 – 11 Ave SW
• Dover: 3525 – 26 Ave SE
• Macleod Plaza: 32 180 – 94 Ave SE
• Bowness: 6432 Bowness Rd NW
• Fisher Park: 134 – 71 Ave SE
• Richmond: 2907 Richmond Rd SW

WINS Thrift Store, with its 6 locations across Calgary. The selection spans clothing, household items, and furniture, all at competitive prices. They host a customer appreciation day on the first Wednesday of every month, offering significant discounts, along with special deals for seniors on Tuesdays, students on Sundays, and great prices on kids’ clothes. Shopping here not only gets you good deals but also supports women and families throughout Calgary, making every purchase count towards a good cause.

Tip: Also check out the WINS More Store for the bins! Need more than 251 items?! Get them for 50 cents a pop at the More Store!

WorldServe Thrift Store Calgary

Address: 105 58 Ave SW, Calgary

WorldServe Thrift Store offers a special deal called Thrifty Thursday on the first Thursday of every month, where shoppers can enjoy 20% off everything, plus 50% off items tagged red or yellow. While shopping, it’s good to know your purchases support WorldServe Ministries’ international projects, specifically aimed at “Advancing the gospel.” The store itself is surprisingly large, with a layout that makes browsing a breeze. It’s the kind of place where you might pop in for a quick look but end up discovering something unexpected that you just have to take home. Definitely worth a visit for those interested in both finding deals and supporting WorldServe’s mission.

The Good Samaritan Thrift Store

Address: Home Square, 5012 16 Ave NW A2, Calgary

Since there have been new owners in 2023, the Good Samaritan Thrift Store has really turned a corner, with shoppers leaving rave reviews. Owned by a husband and wife team, this Calgary spot offers a warm, fun shopping experience—expect to share a laugh or two while browsing their selection. It’s the kind of place where you can snag like-new Lululemon gear and soft tees without breaking the bank, all for around $6. Regulars praise its unique finds, dubbing it a true hidden gem where you’re almost guaranteed to leave with something special in hand. While it operates for profit, the personal touch of independent ownership by a local couple adds a feel-good factor, setting it apart from other for-profit thrift stores.

MCC Thrift Store

Address: 2946 32 St NE, Calgary

The MCC Thrift Shop in Calgary is a nonprofit store that backs the work of the Mennonite Central Committee. MCC operates with a strong commitment to Christian principles but their missions are relief, development and peace/support based vs missionary based (which we like). It’s known for its diverse and fair-priced selection of home wares, standing out in a city filled with second-hand shops. The store is praised for its large, well-organized inventory and friendly staff, making shopping there a smooth experience. While it might not have the largest clothing selection, it compensates with a notable furniture range and a weekly color-coded discount system that offers serious bargains. There’s also a boutique section for those after higher-quality apparel. Overall, it’s often highlighted as offering the best prices among thrift stores in Calgary, all while supporting relief, development, and peace initiatives.

Mission Thrift Store

Address: 3423 26 Ave SW, Calgary

Mission Thrift Store offers a cozy shopping experience without a heavy focus on clothing, making it a unique spot among the best thrift stores in Calgary for those more interested in household items. The store is known for its reasonable pricing and a selection of houseware treasures that stand out. The staff add to the store’s charm with their friendliness and commitment to the store’s values. For those who love sifting through kitchen wares or hunting for a variety of items like shoes, puzzles, and board games, this place is a delight. It’s decently organized, making the hunt for nik-naks enjoyable. Besides offering great finds, shopping here supports the broader mission of the thrift store, contributing to community and charity initiatives that make a difference. It’s a gem in the community, appreciated not just for its items but for the values it stands for.

Thrift bins in Calgary

Calgary has two spots to go if you really want to get dirty in the bins and rummage for your finds. Bring a dust mask, some gloves and your best attitude and get digging!

Goodwill Bins/Outlet Store

Address: 2731 57 Ave SE, Calgary

The Calgary Goodwill Bins/Outlet Store is a “unique” shopping experience where you can shop by the pound. This place, also known as the Goodwill Bins, is where items that didn’t sell in regular Goodwill retail stores end up. It’s definitely the ultimate treasure hunt, as the bins are filled with a mix of everything—clothes, shoes, electronics, books, toys, and home goods—all unsorted and in bulk. Because of this, you never quite know what you might find on any given visit. It’s a different kind of shopping adventure, perfect especially for thrift resellers who want to buy in bulk.

Tip: You need to be 12 or older to enter, and it’s wise to bring your own bags or boxes and maybe a pair of gloves, since things can get a bit dusty.

WINS More Store

Locations: 7007 54th St SE #133, Calgary

The WINS More Store also offers a bulk thrifting experience where the bin system lets you save more as you buy more—ideal for resellers or anyone looking to reaaaally stock up. Prices drop to as low as 50 cents per item beyond 251 items! That’s a lot of items.

Well there you have it! Lot’s of independent more purpose-driven thrift stores in Calgary to support rather than Value Village. Happy thrifting!