Discover the Banff Trading Post: A Women-Owned Native American Goods Store
Located in the picturesque town of Banff, Alberta, the Banff Trading Post has become a staple for both locals and tourists seeking authentic Indigenous crafts. As a proud women-owned business, it offers a unique selection of products that support Canadian Indigenous communities while providing an inviting shopping experience.
Exceptional Shopping Experience
The Banff Trading Post is not just about shopping; it’s about community and culture. The store is dedicated to supporting local artisans, purchasing items directly from the Stoney Nakoda First Nations, ensuring authenticity and fair compensation for their work. From handcrafted jewelry to beautifully beaded accessories, customers can find a wide variety of unique handcrafted items.
Convenience at Its Best
Planning a quick visit? The Banff Trading Post is easily accessible with a wheelchair-accessible entrance and on-site parking, including a wheelchair-accessible car park. With in-store pick-up options available, you can grab your favorite souvenirs quickly. Additionally, they accept various payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and emerging technologies like NFC mobile payments, making transactions seamless.
Service Options for Everyone
The store takes pride in being an inclusive environment, identifying as a transgender safe space and being LGBTQ+ friendly. Whether you're stopping in for a same-day delivery or simply to browse, you'll find an atmosphere that's welcoming and supportive of all visitors.
For those with specific needs, the store offers wheelchair-accessible seating and various on-site services to enhance your shopping experience. Appointments are not required, so feel free to drop by and explore!
A Rich Legacy and Community Connection
Having been established over 120 years ago, the Banff Trading Post carries a rich history that intertwines with the cultural heritage of Banff. Visitors often express their appreciation for the knowledgeable staff who share stories behind each piece, deepening the connection between the products and their Indigenous roots.
Affordable Authenticity
While some may find prices to be on the higher end, many customers agree that the quality reflects the craftsmanship behind each item. The store continually receives praise for its reasonable prices and great selection of authentic Indigenous goods, making it a shopping destination worth visiting multiple times.
Come for the Crafts, Stay for the Stories
With positive reviews highlighting the friendly service provided by staff like Emilio and Ray, the personal touch is evident. Shoppers often leave with more than just items; they come away with stories, connections, and a deeper understanding of the Indigenous heritage represented in the store.
In summary, the Banff Trading Post is not merely a store; it is a celebration of Indigenous culture and an essential part of the Banff experience. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a regular, plan your trip to this enchanting destination where each purchase helps support local artisans and preserves a significant part of Canada's cultural landscape.
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This here is a charming souvenir store with some fantastic goods. The folks workin' there are real friendly and helpful. Definitely a must-see when you're in Banff.
Brandon Moore (2025-06-29, 3:56 p.m.):
Paid a visit to the merman, I did. Quite the assortment of goods for outdoor pursuits and even a merman to behold!
Zachary Bennett (2025-06-28, 7:17 a.m.):
A MUST-visit spot if you find yerself in Banff, mate.
They've got some right incredible bits and bobs for sale 'ere, I reckon you'll stumble upon somethin' special that tickles yer fancy, even if ya weren't on the lookout for it.
Proper unique items, they are, mixed in with some top-notch pricier goods. Cheers!
Michelle Green (2025-06-27, 3:46 a.m.):
I visited this store on July 4th, 2024, during a trip to Banff with my wife to celebrate our wedding anniversary. While my wife found a few things to buy, I was interested in the animal pelts they had for sale. Sadly, I had a less than pleasant encounter with what I believe was the manager - who seemed to be in charge due to being the owners' daughter. Her attitude was quite rude and disrespectful.
After seeking help from another staff member, I managed to purchase a fur. However, I was asked to fetch the fur myself from the storage area, even though several furs were bundled together with zip ties. When the fur was finally brought to the counter, I was surprised to find out that hangers were not included, despite having bought a coyote fur from the same store in November 2023, which did come with a hanger.
Based on my experience, I sadly cannot recommend this store to others, especially considering the noticeable drop in customer service from my previous visit in November, where the staff showed much better service skills.
Mary Allen (2025-06-26, 11:38 p.m.):
Absolutely love popping into the Native American goods store. There's always something unique to add to my collection, and the view from there is simply fantastic. Highly recommend a visit!
Daisy Coleman (2025-06-26, 11:57 a.m.):
A hidden treasure of a shop with a must-see mermaid... don't overlook this little gem when you're in Banff.
Samantha Kim (2025-06-24, 2:00 p.m.):
Fantastic spot to pick up some unique souvenirs while also supporting Native American artists.
Bruce Taylor (2025-06-23, 10:51 a.m.):
A GEM OF A STORE IN BANFF FOR AUTHENTIC NATIVE AMERICAN CRAFTS
Let me tell you, folks, if you find yourself in Banff, you absolutely must swing by the Banff Trading Post. It's a real treasure trove, stocked with a wide array of genuine Native American crafts, artwork, and keepsakes.
SHOWING LOVE TO INDIGENOUS ARTISTS
What really sets the Trading Post apart is its dedication to supporting local Indigenous communities here in Canada. They source their beadwork directly from the Stoney Nakoda First Nations, ensuring that every piece is authentic and that the artisans receive fair compensation for their work. And let me tell you, if you're into beadwork, they've got a fantastic selection of seed beads and gemstones too.
GREAT PRICES & DIVERSE SELECTION
You can find all sorts of goodies here, from traditional clothing and moccasins to cozy sweaters, hats, sweatshirts, and tees - and all at very reasonable prices. Whether you're after a meaningful memento or a warm sweater to fend off the mountain chill, this place has got you covered.
ONE-OF-A-KIND HANDMADE TREASURES
I've picked up a few gems over the years myself - earrings, a leather wallet, knitted wool socks, gloves, necklaces...you name it! The trading post showcases a stunning array of handcrafted pieces from different Native American tribes, so every visit is a chance to uncover something new and special.
CONVENIENT SPOT & TOP-NOTCH SERVICE
Parking is a breeze, with two hours on the house, so you can pop in stress-free. And let me tell you, the staff, especially Emilio and Ray, are an absolute delight - friendly, courteous, and super helpful. Chatting with them is a real treat, and you'll walk away with some fascinating insights into this fantastic store.
RICH HISTORY, RICH EXPERIENCE
The Banff Trading Post has been around for a whopping 121 years - talk about heritage! It's more than just a store; it's a living part of Banff's cultural tapestry.
IN A NUTSHELL
For anyone looking to support Native American artisans, the Banff Trading Post is a no-brainer. You'll leave with unique, handmade souvenirs that'll hold a special place in your heart. With fair prices, a diverse collection, and top-notch service, this place is an absolute must-visit!
Annie W.
Seasoned Reviewer
Local Guide / Google Maps
Roger Rodriguez (2025-06-20, 7:36 p.m.):
I absolutely love this place! The handmade crafts, the talent... I purchased some truly lovely items there, and the prices were quite reasonable. I definitely plan on returning in the future.
Kevin Ramos (2025-06-19, 3:13 p.m.):
Absolutely love this store! They offer such one-of-a-kind items for us Indigenous Canadians, like fur footwear, gloves, hats, and beautiful beadwork. It's such a treasure trove of Native American goods!
Ann Turner (2025-06-19, 12:03 a.m.):
There be a plethora of fantastic wares and treasures to behold or acquire at this establishment. The prices do tendeth towards the higher end, but the quality doth justify the cost.
Steven Hayes (2025-06-16, 11:32 a.m.):
I recently came across the mermaid skeleton in this shop on an Ancient Aliens FB Group, haha, really cool!!!
It wasn't the exact same skeleton, but very similar, which is even more fascinating. It makes you ponder if the legend could actually be true!!!
Denise Reyes (2025-06-15, 8:35 a.m.):
If you're looking for top-notch souvenirs crafted by indigenous communities, this is the spot to head on over to. While the prices might be a tad steep, they're justified by the fact that the goods here are far from the typical mass-produced items you'd find churned out in China. The selection is vast, spanning everything from clothing and accessories to artworks and more. During my visit on 10/13/24, I must say the staff members weren't exactly warm and welcoming towards me, but apart from that minor hiccup, it's a solid 5-star experience.
Nicholas Collins (2025-06-09, 10:56 p.m.):
Being the oldest gift shop in Banff, they have such a wide selection of items. I absolutely adore the handmade goods. The team there were so helpful, recommending items I might not have considered. Their expertise on the products and the history behind each item for sale was truly impressive.
Jason Rogers (2025-06-06, 6:56 p.m.):
The trading post is a proper good store. I reckon it's lost a bit of its authenticity over the years, you know, to please the tourists. But then again, everywhere else has done the same so it ain't fair to be too upset about it. I do appreciate that many of the goods are crafted by the indigenous folk and that the shop supports them. Overall, in Banff, it's probably as genuine as you can find. Cheers!
Frank Richardson (2025-06-06, 7:16 a.m.):
A right proper shop just off the high street, it is.
Diane Gonzales (2025-06-03, 10:27 p.m.):
I came by for some moccasins and ended up leaving with a whole load of goodies in my shopping bag.
Dorothy Murphy (2025-06-02, 4:51 p.m.):
What a splendid array of wares from diverse indigenous artisans! I recently acquired a stunning pair of earrings adorned with porcupine quills, as well as two charming mini wallets crafted by the talented Maxine Noel, my personal favorite artist. And all at very reasonable prices!
Joe Watson (2025-05-30, 11:14 p.m.):
A one-of-a-kind shop with a dedicated and respectful owner who truly values 100% Canadian indigenous or locally crafted goods. None of that typical tourist trinkets from overseas here in Banff. Genuine regalia arts and crafts, beautifully handmade Mukluks - I ended up purchasing two pairs and various treasures from across the country. An incredible selection of taxidermy items, from merman to caribou, make this place one of my top stops in Banff.
Debra Reynolds (2025-05-29, 5:56 p.m.):
This shop in Banff is quite special, I must say. The decor is truly fascinating, with prices for items being much more reasonable compared to the touristy shops on the main street. The staff members are extremely welcoming, and there's ample free parking available both in front of and around the store. And let's not forget about the famous Merman - a definite must-see!