Best Gifts from Vancouver and Unique Souvenir Ideas
Ever wondered what the best gifts from Vancouver are—beyond the usual maple syrup and generic souvenir magnets? If you’re looking for authentic, locally made gifts that truly capture the spirit of Vancouver, you’re in the right place.
Having lived in Vancouver for over 20 years, I’ve bought countless gifts for family and friends—whether it’s artisan chocolates from Granville Island, handmade pottery from local studios, or books by Vancouver authors. I’ve also learned what not to buy (hello, mass-produced “Canada” mugs made in China).
This gift guide will help you find meaningful, high-quality gifts that locals actually love. Whether you want handcrafted home goods, locally roasted coffee, or unique experiences, I’ll share where to buy them and why they’re special.
Let’s explore the best Vancouver gifts that you’ll actually be proud to give.
Quick Look: Top 5 Gifts to Bring Home from Vancouver
- 🏞️ Indigenous Art & Jewelry – Support local First Nations artists
- ☕ Locally Roasted Coffee – 49th Parallel & JJ Bean are must-tries
- 🍫 Artisan Chocolate – Purdys & Rogers’ Chocolates make great gifts
- 📚 Books by Vancouver Authors – A meaningful souvenir to keep you entertained on the way home
- 🌱 Eco-Friendly West Coast Goods – Sustainable brands from Vancouver
1. Locally Made Food and Treats
One of my favourite things about Vancouver is the abundance of locally made food and drinks. Whether I’m picking up gifts for family members back in Calgary or just treating myself (because let’s be real, I always do), I gravitate towards high-quality, small-batch products.
These are the kinds of gifts you won’t find in generic souvenir shops—the ones that actually taste like Vancouver.
Locally Roasted Coffee & Tea
I fully admit to being a coffee lover, and Vancouver’s coffee scene is next level. I always bring a bag of local beans when I visit family—it’s a great way to share a piece of the city with them.
- 49th Parallel Coffee – My go-to for a solid cup of coffee, plus their Lucky’s Doughnuts are unreal.
- JJ Bean Coffee Roasters – A Vancouver staple; their espresso is always smooth and bold.
- East Van Roasters – Not only do they roast their own coffee, but they also make bean-to-bar chocolate. Bonus: they’re a social enterprise supporting women in need.
- The Granville Island Tea Company – I love their market stand, which smells incredible, and they have unique West Coast-inspired blends.
☕ If you’re as coffee-obsessed as I am, check out my guide to The Best Coffee in North Vancouver.
Artisan Chocolate & Sweets
If I had to pick one souvenir to bring home, it would probably be chocolate (or tea towels, but that’s another story). Vancouver has some incredible chocolatiers that take their craft seriously.
- Purdy’s Chocolatier – A Canadian classic. Their Hedgehogs are my mom’s favourite. I love their Vegan Hawaiian Black Salt Caramels.
- Rogers’ Chocolates – A Victoria-based brand with a beautiful store on Vancouver Island, but their historic shop on Granville Island is a must-visit.
- Hard Maple Candy & Maple Leaf-Shaped Maple Sugar Candies – Candy is the quintessential Canadian souvenir that actually tastes amazing.
- Maple Taffy – Usually found at winter festivals, but you can buy packaged versions year-round.
Related post: Can I Take Candy in My Carry-On Bag?
Locally Made Jams, Honey Alternatives & Syrups
I always stop at farm stands when driving through the Okanagan in the summer, filling my trunk with fresh fruit, garlic, and preserves. Luckily, you don’t have to leave the city to find high-quality BC-made jams and syrups.
- Mindful FÜD – This apple-based honey alternative is perfect for vegans. I love that Vancouver brands are making ethical, sustainable versions of classic favourites.
- Vista D’oro Farms & Winery – Their preserves are made with local fruit and wine, giving them a really unique, rich flavour.
- Canadian Maple Syrup – You can find the good stuff all over Vancouver. I always go for the darker, more robust options.
Where to Buy
- Granville Island Public Market – My #1 recommendation for gifts. You can find everything from artisan chocolate to locally roasted coffee here.
- Local grocery stores like Whole Foods and Choices Markets often carry BC-made food and drinks. London Drugs is also the perfect place to find local brands.
- Museum gift shops – Surprisingly great places to find locally made, high-quality products (and you support the museum at the same time!).
- Farmers’ markets (seasonal) – If you’re visiting in the summer, check out the Vancouver Farmers Markets for incredible local finds.
2. Locally Made and Artisan Gifts
If you want to bring home something that actually represents Vancouver—rather than a mass-produced souvenir from a tourist shop—local artisan goods are the way to go.
I always gravitate toward handmade and locally designed gifts, whether it’s a beautifully crafted notebook, a piece of pottery, or a unique print from a Vancouver artist.
Handmade Stationery and Art Prints
I have a weakness for beautifully made stationery and notebooks (I can always talk myself into buying another one). Vancouver has some amazing indie shops where you can find gorgeous, locally designed paper goods.
- Paper-Ya (Granville Island) – This shop is a stationery lover’s dream. They carry handmade journals, art prints, calligraphy supplies, and gorgeous wrapping paper. I could spend hours in here.
- Regional Assembly of Text – A tiny shop filled with typewriter-inspired notebooks, quirky zines, and minimalist greeting cards. It’s a great place to find something unique.
- The Vancouver Art Gallery Gift Shop – Museum gift shops are always full of hidden gems, and this one is no exception. You can find prints from local artists, plus high-quality art supplies and books.
Pottery, Woodwork and Home Decor
Vancouver’s artisan scene is full of talented ceramicists and woodworkers, and I love that you can find pieces that are both beautiful and functional. If you’re looking for an ideal gift, these are worth checking out.
- Granville Island Artisan Studios – You’ll find independent pottery studios, woodshops, and glassblowers here, making everything from handcrafted mugs to intricate sculptures.
- The Window Art Shop – Located in East Vancouver, this shop is filled with local artists’ work, including ceramics, paintings, and textiles.
- The Cross Decor & Design – If you’re looking for elegant, West Coast-inspired home decor, this Yaletown shop is full of stylish finds.
Locally Made Clothing and Accessories
Vancouver has a growing sustainable fashion scene, with brands focused on ethical production, eco-friendly fabrics, and Canadian craftsmanship.
Where to Buy in Vancouver
- Granville Island Artisan Shops – A great place to browse unique, locally made clothing from small Vancouver designers.
- Nettle’s Tale – A Vancouver-based swimwear and clothing brand with 90% of its products made in Canada. Designed for real bodies, their swimwear is particularly popular.
- Jessica Redditt’s Studio – Visit her studio (by appointment) to shop for sustainable, one-of-a-kind designs.
- Two of Hearts Boutique – Located on Main Street, this boutique carries Canadian-made clothing with a focus on timeless, wearable fashion.
- Slate Wearables – Browse their stylish and ethically crafted collection online or at select stockists in BC.
Still looking for the perfect gift idea? Keep reading!
3. Indigenous Art & Jewelry
Having studied Indigenous Art History at UBC with a focus on the First Nations of BC’s coast, I can confidently say that Vancouver is one of the best places to find authentic Indigenous art.
The city sits on the unceded territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations, and you’ll find incredible work by Indigenous artists that blend traditional techniques with contemporary styles.
I always recommend skipping the mass-produced “Indigenous-style” souvenirs (the ones you see in generic gift shops like made-in-China totem poles) and instead buying directly from Indigenous-owned businesses and galleries. Not only are you supporting the artists, but you’re also taking home a piece of art with deep cultural meaning.
Indigenous Art & Prints
Indigenous artwork from the BC coast often features symbols like the raven, orca, and thunderbird, each carrying its own unique story. If you’re looking for a meaningful gift, a print or small carving is a perfect choice.
- Susan Point (Musqueam) – One of the most influential Coast Salish artists. Her bold, circular designs, often inspired by spindle whorls, are some of my favourites. You’ll see her work at SkyTrain stations around the Metro Vancouver area and at YVR airport.
- Beau Dick (Kwakwaka’wakw) – A master carver whose masks are deeply rooted in Kwakwaka’wakw traditions. His work is displayed in major museums worldwide.
- Corrine Hunt (Tlingit/Kwakwaka’wakw) – If her name sounds familiar, it’s because she co-designed the Vancouver 2010 Olympic medals. Her contemporary jewelry and artwork are equally stunning.
Where to Find It:
- Museum of Anthropology (MOA) – I spent countless hours here during my studies, and their great gift shop has some of the best Indigenous artwork in the city.
- Bill Reid Gallery – If you love Haida art, this is a must-visit. Bill Reid’s influence on Northwest Coast art is massive, and the gallery carries both historic and contemporary pieces.
- Coastal Peoples Fine Arts Gallery – A high-end gallery featuring incredible works from BC’s Indigenous artists.
Indigenous Jewelry
Jewelry is one of my favourite souvenirs—it’s small, easy to pack, and every time I wear a piece, it reminds me of my travels. Indigenous jewelry from BC often features hand-engraved silver or gold, with designs inspired by traditional stories.
- Haisla Collins (Haisla/Heiltsuk Nations) – Her silver pieces are beautifully detailed, often incorporating nature-inspired designs.
- Hollie Bartlett (Haisla Nation) – Her hand-engraved silver and gold jewelry is some of the finest you’ll find.
- Frank Douglas (Gitxsan Nation) – Known for his intricate carvings and metalwork, deeply rooted in Gitxsan traditions.
Where to Shop:
- Douglas Reynolds Gallery – If you’re looking for investment-worthy Indigenous jewelry, this is one of the best places in Vancouver.
- The Spirit Gallery – Located in Horseshoe Bay, this gallery is a hidden gem for beautifully curated Indigenous art and jewelry.
4. Books by Vancouver Authors & Local Publishers
Books make the best souvenirs—they’re easy to pack, tell meaningful stories, and last forever. I always look for books by local authors when I travel, and Vancouver has no shortage of literary talent. Whether it’s contemporary fiction, Indigenous storytelling, or environmental writing, these books offer a real sense of place.
- “Ravensong” by Lee Maracle – A powerful novel by the late Stó:lō writer, offering an Indigenous perspective on life in BC.
- “The Jade Peony” by Wayson Choy – A classic Vancouver novel set in the city’s historic Chinatown.
- “The Golden Spruce” by John Vaillant – A gripping true story about BC’s forests, logging industry, and environmental activism.
- “Talking to Strangers” by Gabor Maté – A thought-provoking look at human connection, trauma, and healing from one of Canada’s most renowned physicians.
- “Finding the Mother Tree” by Suzanne Simard – If you love BC’s forests, this book by a Vancouver-based scientist will change how you see trees and ecosystems.
- “The Last Garden” by Jen Sookfong Lee – A compelling story set in Vancouver’s Chinatown, blending history and family drama.
- “City of Glass” by Douglas Coupland – A playful, modern take on Vancouver’s culture and identity by the author of Generation X.
- Anything by David Suzuki – His books on climate change, biodiversity, and Indigenous knowledge make fantastic gifts for nature lovers.
Where to Find Books by Vancouver Authors
Book Warehouse – Carries a solid mix of bestsellers and Canadian-authored books at great prices.digenous studies, Canadian history, and books by local professors.
Massy Books – An Indigenous-owned bookstore in Chinatown with a wide selection of literature, poetry, and history books.
The Paper Hound – A beautifully curated independent bookstore in downtown Vancouver, perfect for unique finds.
Iron Dog Books – A woman-owned bookshop that supports small-press publishers and local authors.
UBC Bookstore – A great place for Indigenous studies, Canadian history, and books by Vancouver-based professors.
5. Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Gifts from Vancouver
Vancouver is known for its strong sustainability culture, and I always love supporting brands that focus on eco-friendly practices, ethical production, and reducing waste. If you’re looking for a gift that aligns with Vancouver’s green mindset, these are some of the best options.
Where to Buy Sustainable Gifts in Vancouver
Flourist (A unique gift option—offering ethically sourced grains & baking kits)
The Soap Dispensary & Kitchen Staples (Best for refillable, package-free products)
6. Unique Vancouver Souvenirs & One-of-a-Kind Gifts
If you’re looking for something truly special that captures the essence of Vancouver, these gifts go beyond the usual souvenirs. I love finding Canadian crafts and gifts that tell a story—something locally crafted, meaningful, and not mass-produced.
West Coast-Inspired Artwork & Prints
Vancouver’s landscapes are a constant source of inspiration for local artists. Whether it’s a print of the North Shore Mountains, a watercolour of Stanley Park, or a minimalist map of the city, these make thoughtful, travel-inspired gifts to remember this beautiful city.
Handmade Candles & Scents of the West Coast
- Canvas Candle Co. – Their hand-poured soy candles are inspired by British Columbia’s natural scents—like cedar, fir, and sea salt.
- The Vancouver Candle Co. – Named after local neighbourhoods, these candles bring a little piece of Vancouver home with you.
Where to Buy Unique Vancouver Gifts
Granville Island Artisan Shops (Always a goldmine for unique, handmade finds)
Bird on a Wire Creations (A curated collection of locally made art, home décor, and accessories)
The Vancouver Art Gallery Gift Shop (Great for Emily Carr prints and art books)
Tips for Finding the Best Gifts from the Greater Vancouver Area
- Shop local businesses & independent boutiques – Granville Island, Main Street, and Gastown are packed with small businesses and artisans selling high-quality, Vancouver-made products.
- Support Indigenous artists – Always buy from authentic Indigenous-owned brands or museum gift shops to ensure your purchase supports local First Nations communities.
- Look for “Made in Canada” labels – Many souvenir shops sell mass-produced items, so check for genuine Canadian-made products to get something truly local.
- Consider size & portability – If you’re flying, smaller gifts like local coffee, chocolate, or art prints are easier to pack than large home decor or fragile pottery.
- Plan for food restrictions – If you’re bringing back food gifts, check customs regulations for your destination. Maple syrup and packaged chocolates are usually fine, but fresh food may not be allowed.
- Visit museum gift shops – The Museum of Anthropology, Bill Reid Gallery, and Vancouver Art Gallery all have beautifully curated selections of books, jewelry, and art by BC artists with a wide range of price points.
Vancouver has so many incredible gifts to offer—whether you’re picking up a keepsake for yourself or a thoughtful souvenir for someone else. From handcrafted Indigenous art to locally roasted coffee, there’s something for every person on your list!
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