top 3 local unique shops in Calgary to visit this Canada day
looking for something fun, refreshing, and a little different to do this canada day? skip the big chains and celebrate by supporting local gems right here in Calgary. whether you’re strolling through the city, heading to fireworks, or just want to cool down between events, here are three unique spots to check out:
1. vitaminboba – aesthetic bubble tea shop founded in Calgary
perfect for: cooling down, trying something new, and snapping a cute canada day drink pic 🍓🇨🇦
vitaminboba takes bubble tea to the next level. known for their fresh fruit drinks, creative flavours, and aesthetic presentation, this is the go-to spot for canada day refreshment. their new mango colada (made with 100% fresh mango, coconut cheese foam, and aiyu jelly) is a tropical dream you won’t want to miss.
vitaminboba takes bubble tea to the next level. known for their fresh fruit drinks, creative flavours, and aesthetic presentation, this is the go-to spot for canada day refreshment. their new mango colada (made with 100% fresh mango, coconut cheese foam, and aiyu jelly) is a tropical dream you won’t want to miss.
other faves include their peach kiwi tea, supercado (fresh avocado smoothie), and strawberry mojito. bonus: their drinks are handcrafted with real ingredients and layered to perfection - no shortcuts here.
and if you're a bubble tea lover, don’t forget to browse their wide selection of bubble tea-themed merch - from cute pins and keychains to limited edition apparel and tumblers. perfect for gifting or treating yourself.
tip: order in advance on their website to avoid the wait and grab a loyalty card if you're planning to come back (trust us, you will).
2. luke’s drug mart – more than just a pharmacy
📍 112 4 st ne, calgary
perfect for: discovering unexpected gems, browsing local goods, and grabbing a great cup of coffee ☕🧼📚
luke’s drug mart is one of calgary’s most beloved and quirky local spots. family-owned and operating since 1951, it’s part old-school pharmacy, part general store, part modern lifestyle boutique — all wrapped into one friendly neighbourhood hub.
inside, you’ll find everything from vinyl records, natural skincare, and eco-friendly home goods, to indie magazines, craft toothpaste, and yes, even prescriptions. plus, they serve some seriously good phil & sebastian coffee, making it a great stop to recharge during your canada day adventures.
if you love discovering places with personality and heart, luke’s is a must-visit.
3. dough boy – hot mini donuts & milkshakes in ne calgary
📍 unit 8 – 3604 52 st ne, calgary
perfect for: sweet treats, fun drinks, and family-friendly vibes 🍩🥤
dough boy is a hidden gem in northeast calgary that serves freshly made mini donuts, creative milkshakes, and rotating seasonal flavours that are as instagrammable as they are delicious. the shop has a nostalgic, fun feel that’s perfect for cooling down after fireworks or picking up a box of donuts to share at your canada day picnic.
expect a lineup — but it’s always worth the wait.
celebrating canada day, one local stop at a time
this canada day, go beyond the fireworks and parades. take a moment to explore calgary through its local creators and community spaces — whether you’re sipping mango colada at vitaminboba, browsing handmade goods at the livery shop, or treating yourself to hot donuts and a milkshake at dough boy.
