Last-Minute Holiday Shopping? 12 Unique Toronto Gift Stores to Save You
Alright, let’s be real. You had a plan. You were going to be done with holiday shopping by December 1st. But here we are, deep in the festive season, and the panic is starting to set in. If you’re frantically searching for last-minute Holiday shopping in Toronto, take a deep breath. Forget the chaotic malls and the same old stuff everyone else is getting; our city is packed with incredible local shops that are perfect for finding something with a bit more heart.
Just a friendly heads-up. Holiday hours can get a little wild. It is always a good idea to check the official websites or social media pages for the most current hours and stock info before you head out on your last-minute mission.
Your Lifesaver Guide to Last-Minute Holiday Shopping at 12 Unique Toronto Stores
Spacing Store
For the proud Torontonian in your life, this is the spot. The Spacing Store is basically a love letter to the 6ix, with TTC-themed everything, from apparel and buttons to old station signs and unique city-centric books. It is one of the most unique gift stores Toronto has for city lovers.
- Price: $$
- Location: 401 Richmond St W, Toronto
- Contact: https://spacingstore.ca | (416) 644-1017 | store@spacing.ca
- Pro Tip: This is the best place to find a gift that feels incredibly local and specific to Toronto. Their retro TTC merch is always a huge hit.
Arts Market
This place is a lifesaver for last-minute shoppers. The Arts Market is home to dozens of local artists and artisans under one roof, selling everything from handmade jewelry and ceramics to cool prints and vintage clothing. You can find gifts for multiple people in one go.
- Price: $-$$$
- Location: 790 Queen St E, Toronto
- Contact: https://artsmarket.ca | 647-657-2787
- Good For: Finding something for that person who is impossible to shop for. With so much variety, you are bound to find something that fits their vibe.
Scout
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This charming Roncesvalles boutique is beautifully curated with a focus on independent, Canadian-made goods. Scout is perfect for finding thoughtful gifts like delicate jewelry, cozy candles, beautiful stationery, and unique home goods. It’s one of those classic gift shops Toronto is known for.
- Price: $$-$$$
- Location: 405 Roncesvalles Ave, Toronto
- Contact: www.iheartscout.com | (416) 546-6922
- Good For: Finding an elegant and thoughtful gift. Their card selection is also top-notch.
Crywolf
If you’re looking for a gift shop Ossington has to offer, Crywolf is a must-visit. This artist-run shop is filled with original apparel, pins, patches, and prints featuring cool, often nature-inspired illustrations. It’s perfect for finding a gift that feels unique and has a bit of an edge.
- Price: $$
- Location: Multiple locations
- Contact: www.crywolfclothing.com
- Good For: The artist, the friend with great style, or anyone who appreciates cool, graphic designs.
Cocktail Emporium
For the aspiring or expert mixologist in your life, Cocktail Emporium is a wonderland. This shop has everything you could need to make amazing cocktails, from beautiful glassware and bar tools to a massive selection of bitters, syrups, and garnishes.
- Price: $$-$$$
- Location: 65 Front St W, Toronto (other locations)
- Contact: www.cocktailemporium.com | 647-727-3804 | info@cocktailemporium.com.
- Pro Tip: If you’re overwhelmed, just ask the staff. They are super knowledgeable and can help you put together the perfect gift set for any type of cocktail lover.
Hanji
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This Queen West gem is a paradise for anyone who loves stationery, paper, and pens. Hanji specializes in beautifully designed Korean and Japanese paper goods. It’s the perfect spot to find a gorgeous notebook, a unique pen, or beautiful wrapping paper that’s a gift in itself.
- Price: $$
- Location: 940 Queen St W, Toronto
- Contact: www.hanjigifts.com | 647-340-2095
- Good For: The creative, the journaler, or the friend who still loves sending handwritten notes.
Cedar Canoe Books
If you are looking for Indigenous gifts Toronto has to offer, this is a wonderful place to start. Cedar Canoe is an Indigenous woman-owned bookstore that specializes in books by Indigenous authors. A thoughtfully chosen book is a fantastic gift, and here you are also supporting an important local, Indigenous-owned business.
- Price: $$
- Location: 72 Main St E. Huntsville, ON
- Contact: www.cedarcanoebooks.com | 705-789-2000 | info@cedarcanoebooks.com
- Pro Tip: They have a great selection for all ages, including beautiful children’s books. Check their website for specific store hours.
Easy Tiger
This is not your average corner store. Easy Tiger is a beautifully curated general store with two locations, offering everything from unique snacks and pantry items to beautiful home goods, books, and magazines. It’s a fantastic spot to find a cool, stylish gift for your friend with great taste.
- Price: $$-$$$
- Location: 1447 Dundas St W, Toronto
- Contact: https://easytigereasytiger.com | 1 647-748-6161 | hello@easytigereasytiger.com
- Pro Tip: It’s a great place to put together a custom gift basket with a mix of cool snacks, a nice candle, and a good magazine.
The Drake General Store
A go-to for fun, quirky, and Canadiana-themed gifts. The Drake General Store has a great sense of humour and offers a wide range of items, from cozy cabin socks and cheeky mugs to unique curiosities and wellness products. You can search their Toronto gift shop online or visit in person.
- Price: $$-$$$
- Location: 176 Yonge Street, Lower Leve,l Toronto
- Contact: www.drakegeneralstore.ca | (416) 861-9111
- Good For: Finding a fun and stylish gift with a dose of Canadian pride. It’s a reliable spot when you need a great gift and you’re short on time.
Outer Layer
This Queen West gem is full of cheeky cards, pop-culture mugs, and cool little finds that’ll make anyone smile. Perfect for last-minute shoppers who still want to look like they tried.
- Price: $–$$
- Location: 577 Queen St W, Toronto
- Contact: outerlayer.com | (416) 869-1224 | hello@outerlayer.com
- Good For: Funny, affordable, and personality-packed gifts that don’t feel last-minute.
Juxtapose Cards & Gifts
When you’re short on time but still want something cute and thoughtful, Juxtapose delivers. This cozy Annex shop has charming cards, handmade jewelry, and quirky home pieces that feel one-of-a-kind.
- Price: $$
- Location: 430 Bloor St W, Toronto
- Contact: https://juxtaposeannex.com | 416-324-8333 | orders@juxtaposegifts.com
- Pro Tip: Grab a funny card to go with your gift — easy win.
Shop404
Shop404 is perfect for those “oh no, I still need a gift” moments. You’ll find cool, locally made stuff like candles, pins, art, and accessories — all stylish, all thoughtful.
- Price: $$–$$$
- Location: 160 Baldwin St, Unit 6, Toronto
- Contact: www.workshop404.ca | 416-586-0888 | shop404.kensington@gmail.com
- Good For: Unique, design-forward gifts that feel anything but last-minute.
Hopefully, this list helps you conquer your last-minute holiday shopping with some truly unique gifts Toronto has to offer. Happy hunting.
Now, Enjoy the Festive Glow
One of the best parts about doing your last-minute holiday shopping at these local Toronto stores is that you’re right in the middle of the city’s festive magic. As you’re dashing from one shop to another, take a moment to look around and soak in the incredible atmosphere. To reward yourself after a successful shopping mission, why not make an evening of it and explore the beautiful light displays that make Toronto so special this time of year?
Once your shopping’s done, dive into 15 Free & Festive Things To Do in Toronto This Holiday Season — featuring light shows, cozy markets, and free events all over the city.
More…
- https://www.reddit.com/r/askTO/comments/zr77wf/what_are_the_best_stores_to_buy_gifts_at_in
- https://streetsoftoronto.com/toronto-culture/new-stores-toronto-for-holiday-shopping
- https://www.torontobeautyreviews.com/last-minute-holiday-gifts
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