Regardless of why they've come to Smithers, at some point during their stay, visitors will spend a morning or afternoon strolling along Main Street.
Shopping on Smithers' Main Street
The town's main commercial hub is great for browsing in delis and eateries, unique local boutiques, outdoor clothing and equipment outlets, and retail chain stores. It's here shoppers find everything from the trendiest touring skis and 100% hemp underwear to Indian prayer bowls and fresh, regionally-raised and locally-processed meat.
Stretching from the railway tracks at the bottom of Hudson Bay Mountain to Highway 16, Main Street cuts through the centre of Smithers' downtown core. Just a few short blocks with four-way stops at every intersection, the area's slow traffic and easy-to-read signs make it pedestrian-friendly. The alpine look of most buildings also makes for a pleasant atmosphere.
Some of the shops along the strip have been there for decades, others are less than a year old. More and more specialty businesses are moving into the prized real estate area all the time, packing the five or so blocks with great options.
Farmers' Market
Another Smithers shopping treat is the Bulkley Valley Farmers' Market, which takes place Saturday mornings from May to September. The market is held in the parking lot next to the Central Park Building, the town's former courthouse, on the corner of Highway 16 and Main Street. Vendors sell a range of homegrown produce and homemade sweets, treats, arts and crafts; buyers can purchase anything from juicy tomatoes to knitted baby booties. The atmosphere is friendly, and social with musicians playing in the background and locals socializing as much as shopping. The market is a great place to experience friendly Smithers' culture.
Music and "Big-Box" Stores
Art, books and music of regional artists are available for sale at the Old Ranger Station Gallery & Gift Shop in Telkwa, a 10-minute drive east of Smithers. Following Highway 16, the station, an older white building with green trim, is on the riverside of the road halfway through town.
Bigger shops, such as big-box stores, hardware stores and grocers are also in Smithers – some downtown, others on the outskirts along Highway 16. Various knick-knack and clothing shops also dot the blocks surrounding Main Street shoppers should take time to weave on and off the main drag.