Shop Local

A unique shopping experience like no other

Each of Wellington County’s seven municipalities offer their own unique shopping experience. Find an array of specialty shops and stores in our quaint towns and see why we have become a popular shopping destination.

Explore charming boutiques, quaint cafés, and stunning galleries. Treasure hunt at antique markets and stores, and shop sustainably at consignment studios. Wander through farm shops brimming with fresh, local produce, discover cozy bakeries offering handmade breads and pastries, and browse bookstores stocked with local authors and unique finds. Visit artisan studios to see craftspeople at work, explore home décor shops for one-of-a-kind pieces, and stop by gift shops for thoughtful and handmade presents. Discover countless other hidden gems waiting for you.

Discover tips for shopping local

Find a full list of local businesses and products on the Wellington County Business Directory.

Colourful Art, stationary, journals and other products displayed cleanly on open shelves and table
Rural Commons, Erin
A woman delights in the smell of a scented candle for sale
Accents for Living, Aberfoyle
An interior design shop showroom featured home decor and furniture items
Accents for Living, Aberfoyle
Store front to an antique shop with a sign reading "Davie's Antiques"
Davie's Antiques, Harriston
A young woman peruses jewellery items in a local shop
The Flower Mill, Rockwood
Inside of a flower shop
The Flower Mill, Rockwood
A sustainable products shop with a refill station for soaps
The Eco Den, Mount Forest
A wooden cut out Mermaid sign marks a store entrance
Mermaid in Elora, Elora
A second hand clothing shop with racks of vintage clothes and accessories
The Pretty Penny Consignment, Moorefield
An antique storefront with lots of items displayed outside.
Rooster's Perch Antiques, Clifford
The modern interior of a gift shop and cafe with large front windows and a table and chairs out front.
Sterre Cafe and Gifts, Arthur
Clothing and gift items displayed on the wall in a small shop
Sterre Cafe and Gifts, Arthur
A cozy shop filled with books and reading related gifts and accessories
The Bookery, Fergus
barn interior with high wooden ceilings and a bright arched doorway displaying maple products
Elliott Tree Farm, Erin
A photo of the frontage of The Barrel House.
The Barrel House Canada, Clifford
table displays at the Minto Farmers' Market
Minto Farmers' Market, Palmerston
Image of Christmas decor in the storefront window next to a sign of The Bearded Barista's Christmas Boutique and Cafe.
The Bearded Barista Christmas Boutique and Cafe, Rockwood
A cozy and colorful thrift store interior with neatly arranged racks of second-hand clothing, hats, handbags, and shoes. The store features decorative items such as pillows, flowers, framed mirrors, and plush teddy bears on upper shelves, creating a welcoming and eclectic atmosphere. A display case on the left showcases jewelry and accessories.

Discover Hidden Treasures across the County

Love the thrill of the thrift? Explore Wellington County in a whole new way and uncover treasures at budget-friendly prices. Follow the new Thrift Store Trail to discover our favourite spots for thrifted, vintage, and consignment finds.
Taste Real Logo overlayed on top of an image of chickens coming out of a coop

Shop Local Food

Finding locally grown food in Guelph and Wellington County is getting easier every day. It's being served up at restaurants, farmers' markets, retail stores, and at community events. Look for the Taste Real brand to identify food from our region.

Tips for Shopping Local in Wellington County

  1. Plan Your Day by Town – Map out a few towns to explore in one trip so you can visit multiple shops, markets, and cafés in one outing.
  2. Look for Unique and Handmade – Seek out artisan studios, craft shops, and locally made products that you won’t find anywhere else.
  3. Support Sustainable Options – Check out consignment shops, second-hand stores, and eco-friendly makers to help reduce waste while supporting local businesses.
  4. Buy Seasonal and Local – Visit farmers’ markets, farm shops, and seasonal pop-ups for fresh foods, flowers, and handmade gifts.
  5. Ask for Recommendations – Shopkeepers know the area best! Ask for their favourite hidden gems, best-sellers, or newest products.
  6. Shop Early for Holidays – Beat the rush and find the perfect gifts by planning ahead at local markets and boutiques.
  7. Dine Local While You Shop – Combine your shopping trip with a stop at a local café, bakery, or restaurant to make a full day of exploring.
  8. Share Your Finds – Use social media to highlight your favourite local shops and tag them. It helps the businesses and inspires others to shop local too.
  9. Bring Your Reusable Bags – Make shopping eco-friendly while carrying home your treasures in style.
  10. Remember Every Purchase Counts – Even small items make a big difference for local business owners and the community.

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