Shopping
Shopping (Kevin Arnold photo)
Chemainus has quietly evolved into one of Vancouver Island's more charming boutique shopping locales.
Antique stores, fashion outlets, art galleries, gift shops and quality confectioners line two blocks of Willow Street, the town's main shopping drag. Classy coffeeshops and relaxed dining spots allow shoppers to rest and refresh as needed.
Leave the car in the free lot at Waterwheel Park across from the Visitor Centre and enjoy the compact walkabout. Additional shops in the Old Town neighborhood warrant the two-minute stroll down the hill.
Street Markets
An open-air market is held in downtown Chemainus on Wednesdays throughout the summer. In early July the town hosts a "giant market day" that fills Willow Street to the brim with street vendors.
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Fashion
The Kinney Clothing Co. (2881 Mill Street) is housed in a former bowling alley where shoppers stroll down the original hardwood lanes while flipping through namebrand fashions.
Antiques
Antique hounds have a half-dozen outlets to choose from in the area. Some 20 dealers share space at the Willow Antique Mall (9756E Willow); Royal Dalton figurines, rare books, vintage glassware, and jewelry are among the finds. The Highway Antique Emporium, a barn-like structure at the corner of Henry Road and the Trans Canada, is another vintage superstore. Factor in nearby Ladysmith's own mega-sized Post Office Antique Mall, and the area is irresistible for collectors.
Candy Outlets
Expect to pick up an extra pound or two on any main street Chemainus shopping excursion. A staggering selection of old-fashioned and new-fangled bon bons fill every available shelf and corner of Hansel & Gretel's Candy Co. (9748 Willow). Ice cream aficionados will enjoy the gelato and fresh-made waffle cones from Billy's Delight Ice Cream Parlor (9752 Willow).
Other Retail Shops
Soccer jerseys and specialty food items are among the UK-centric imports at British Allsorts (9776 Willow). Vancouver Island Soap Factory (2865 Oak Street) carries its own line of Kogi Naturals beauty products made in Chemainus. Twisted Sisters Tea Room (9885 Maple Street) offers dozens of varieties of loose-leaf tea for takeaway or to drink on the spot along with light meals and desserts.
Check with the Chemainus Visitor Centre for more information about markets and retail locations in town.
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