6 of the Best Hobby Stores in Winnipeg
Hobbyists may differ in what they like to collect or do during their pastimes, but they all share a third place to satiate their need for recreation: hobby stores.
From art supplies and crafting tools to vintage collectibles and author-signed printed literature and to sports essentials, hobby stores are havens for anyone looking to unlock their creativity, seek knowledge, and meet others who share the same interests.
Just for you, we checked out the different hobby shops in Winnipeg and assessed the best ones in this article.
Read on to learn more about where to get gizmos for your pastimes or to find a new hobby!
What types of hobby stores are available in Winnipeg?
In Winnipeg, you’ll come across different hobby shops that offer various products and services tailored to collectors, crafters, artists, and bookworms.
Here are the kinds of stores that specialise in different hobbies you’ll surely stumble upon:
Sports hobbyists may also find limited-edition cards and signed items of their favourite athletes and fitness icons.
Selecting the best hobby stores in Winnipeg
We’ve chosen the following hobby stores in Winnipeg based on these standards:
1. Hobby Sense
| CRITERIA | RATING |
| PRODUCTS | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| ⮕Variety | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| ⮕Quality | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| STORE | ★★☆☆☆ 2.5/5 |
| ⮕Organised and well-lit | ★★★☆☆ 3/5 |
| ⮕Accessible | ★★☆☆☆ 2/5 |
| STAFF | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| CUSTOMER SATISFACTION | ★★★★☆ 4.75/5 |
Hobbyists rave about Hobby Sense’s selection of plastic and wooden kits featuring model cars, planes, boats, war tanks, ships, trains, aircraft, and spacecraft.
In terms of quality, we’re told that the sets last quite long and are made for display.
It’s just quite unfortunate that some of the model kit paints and varnishes are not suitable for winter delivery. Some of them are water-based, so the store notes that they can freeze during transit.
We think it’s wiser to just purchase the model paints and varnishes in-store to prevent them from hardening and becoming useless.
Alternatively, if you plan to send these as gifts to your hobbyist friends, we recommend having them delivered by spring or summer.
When we visited, we were pleasantly surprised by the huge collection of items available. In fact, the store’s shelves are filled with boxes of building kits – some are even placed on the floor!
But while we love Hobby Sense’s great selection, we’re not so pleased that the items aren’t as organised as we like.
We hope management will rearrange and categorise its items so shoppers, especially those with disabilities, won’t have a hard time navigating the shop and looking for what they need.
Also keep in mind that some sets sell out faster than others, so you’ll need to be quick on the uptake for a set you really want to take home.
We’re also giving plus points to Hobby Sense for offering cross-stitching, beading, and diamond painting sets.
We think that this shop might just be the right place to start a new hobby and make lovely home displays and presents for family and friends.
Pros
- Diverse model kit selection
- Restocks older kits
- Also carries cross-stitching, beading, and diamond painting sets
Cons
- Could work on organisation
- Kit paints and varnishes are not suitable for winter delivery
Customer Reviews
A haven for plastic model kits
“The widest assortment of plastic model kits I’ve ever come across in Winnipeg, the owner Mr.Igor treats customers like family and will listen to your needs and will even order in custom hobby supplies. A great edition to St. Vital and most of all Winnipeg. Prices are better than online! Check him out!” – Eric Hogue
Sells modelling kits for reasonable prices
“I was searching for Boeing 747 in 1/144 scale and hobby-sense was the only place to sell kits for a reasonable price. Everywhere else Revell and Zvezda models are awfully overpriced. Bought some consumable as well as the prices are very competitive and selection is good. Very quick delivery too.” – Sergei Gasilov
2. Eliminator-RC
| CRITERIA | RATING |
| PRODUCTS | ★★★★☆ 4.5/5 |
| ⮕Variety | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
| ⮕Quality | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| STORE | ★★★★☆ 4.5/5 |
| ⮕Organised and well-lit | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| ⮕Accessible | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
| STAFF | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
| CUSTOMER SATISFACTION | ★★★☆☆ 3/5 |
Eliminator-RC takes pride in carrying remote-control toy vehicles that are of superior quality to what other toy stores offer.
We actually looked into the shop’s items and we have to agree with its claims.
First, the remote-control (RC) vehicles are made of materials and finishes similar to those used for actual automobiles.
Second, the shop’s items retail for $100 to $1,000. The prices may be hefty, but we understand that they reflect the toys’ overall quality and suitability for collection displays.
In terms of variety, we’re happy to find that the shop offers cars, trucks, aeroplanes, helicopters, boats, and war tanks.
Our favourite items would be the model vintage, sports, and muscle cars. We think these are suitable for collectors who want to marvel at their dream autos in the comfort of home.
Another favourable point of this hobby shop is that it does back orders on its inventory as much as possible, especially for those that sell out quickly.
It’s also a plus that the shop sells oils, fuel, adhesives, batteries, and other replacement parts for some of its vehicle models.
That said, it’s just a tad unfortunate that the store doesn’t have replacement parts for all of its items.
We find this inconvenient as customers will need to search for other shops that have the components they need for their RC automobiles.
It’s also a bummer that returns are currently limited to gift items – the toys can also only be returned or be exchanged if they’re unopened.
Alternatively, should you need to have your RC vehicles fixed, we’re pleased to know that this hobby shop offers repairs, custom work, and upgrade services.
Pros
- Carries various kinds of RC vehicles
- Does backorders
- Offers repairs, custom work, and upgrades
Cons
- Does not carry replacement parts for all items
- Returns are currently limited to gift items
Customer Reviews
Thankful for the friendly and awesome staff
“Awesome people, awesome customer service! They’re always willing to help you find what you need and answer any questions! Big thanks to everyone there for being such a great bunch of people!” – Thomas Wiebe
The go-to place for RC needs
“Great for your rc needs. Very knowledgeable staff. They have been my go-to hobby shop for at least the last decade.” – W. R.
3. Little Star Gifts
| CRITERIA | RATING |
| PRODUCTS | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| ⮕Variety | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| ⮕Quality | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| STORE | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| ⮕Organised and well-lit | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| ⮕Accessible | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| STAFF | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| CUSTOMER SATISFACTION | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
Little Star Gifts is a haven for anime and K-pop merchandise. We dropped by the store and found an impressive selection of collector’s items, costumes, toys, and graphic novels.
Some of the notable anime items we found included large and small figurines, printed pillows, posters, cosplaying sets, and English-translated manga (Japanese comics).
As for its K-pop selection, the shop currently carries albums, lightsticks, vinyl figures, concert bags, and signed limited-edition items.
We’ve also heard that the shop offers higher prices on its items compared to other shops.
Although hobbyists mention that the prices are reasonable, given that majority of the goods are sourced from Japan and South Korea.
It’s also a plus that Little Star Gifts carries authentic goods, so we think that the current prices are worth paying for. We’re also pleased to hear that the items are durable and long-lasting.
We also have to give it to the shop for hosting pre-orders for new releases. From what we’ve learned, hobbyists may get exclusive freebies when they opt for pre-orders.
Customers also get a 5-day grace period for payment after they’ve checked out their items.
We think that this gives shoppers time to decide whether they want to add to their cart or wait for the money they need to pay.
It’s just a bummer that the shop doesn’t accept returns or exchanges. As of writing, the only time the shop will issue returns or exchanges is if customers will be able to prove that their items got damaged due to transit.
Another thing we’re bummed about is that some of the items posted on sale still have their original prices displayed.
We think the shop should clear this to avoid confusion from customers looking for anime and K-pop merchandise deals.
Pros
- Huge anime and K-pop merchandise collection
- Offers preorders on select items
- Offers a 5-day grace period for payment
Cons
- Currently does not accept returns or exchanges
- Some sale items still have their original prices
Customer Reviews
Awesome place to find anime cosplay items
“This place is awesome! I found my Nezuko cosplay here and I love it they have everything like figurines, books, cosplays and even keychains I swear I could look in there for one week and still find something new! 10/10.” – Skyla 0943
Anything anime, k-pop, even cosplay, they’ll have it
“This place is the best! First time ever in this little store and I will definitely be back! So much to see and the staff are the friendliest around! Anything anime, k-pop, even cosplay, they’ll have it! Everything is authentic and the staff are very open about the products so you can feel safe making purchases big or small!” – Sarah H.
4. Play N Trade Winnipeg
| CRITERIA | RATING |
| PRODUCTS | ★★★★☆ 4.4/5 |
| ⮕Variety | ★★★☆☆ 3.75/5 |
| ⮕Quality | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| STORE | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| ⮕Organised and well-lit | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| ⮕Accessible | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| STAFF | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| CUSTOMER SATISFACTION | ★★★★☆ 4.5/5 |
If you’re into collectible trading cards and unique board games, then Play N Trade Winnipeg is the right place for you.
We took the liberty of exploring the store and we like that popular board games, such as Dungeons and Dragons, Warhammer, Night of the Ninja, Cards Against Humanity, and Exit the Game – with their expansion packs – are available.
As for the trading card games, it’s a little unfortunate that the shop only carries inventory for Yu Gi Oh!, Pokemon, and Magic the Gathering. Other stores carry collectible cards from famous sports teams and games.
Despite the smaller trading card lineup, we’re pleased to hear that hobbyists still love coming to this place as they can get original, rare, and special cards to add to their collections.
And if you’re looking to meet fellow hobbyists or test your game skills, Play N trade hosts tournament events from time to time.
We recommend checking the shop’s event calendar to know which tournaments are scheduled and how to register for the games.
That said, we’re not too pleased to hear that some of the events aren’t organised well – some of the participants said they didn’t have their names listed despite registering days prior to the event.
We think it will be best if the store’s management will check if every aspect of the tournaments is in order to avoid any inconveniences or mistakes in registrations.
Another favourable point of this hobby store is that it carries video games for consoles and computers.
And if you’re a fan of retro games, the shop also carries copies of video games of vintage and discontinued console units.
It’s also a plus that Play N Trade offers disc restoration services starting at $5. Customers highlighted that some of their discontinued games revived and relived their favourite childhood games.
Pros
- Wide board game selection
- Carries games for consoles and computers
- Has an event calendar for its games
- Offers disc restoration services for old games
Cons
- Limited trading card game selection
- Could improve on store organization
Customer Reviews
My go-to store for trading cards for years now
“I’ve been coming to play n trade for years now it’s one of my number one locals to support great service even when it’s one employee working a busy tcg tournament. I hope Michael gets a manager position or something because I seen the guy multitasking questions and doing tcg trades and he seems like a friendly guy when you get to know them more. And I feel that after the pandemic the service got even greater and the store inventory as well!” –
Excellent staff and disc restoration services
“Great, Friendly, and helpful staff. They have an excellent disc restoration service that brought my favorite GameCube game back to life. The disc looks brand-new and the game even plays smoother with nicer graphics and the best part, it only cost $5! Will definitely be returning!” – Liam Richardson
5. Warhammer: Winnipeg (Games Workshop)
| CRITERIA | RATING |
| PRODUCTS | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| ⮕Variety | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| ⮕Quality | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| STORE | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| ⮕Organised and well-lit | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| ⮕Accessible | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| STAFF | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
| CUSTOMER SATISFACTION | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
Warhammer: Winnipeg specialises in Warhammer board games and miniatures. We looked into its physical and online stores and we found that the store has Age of Sigmar, 40,000, and Horus Heresy editions of the Warhammer brand.
While this hobby store’s main product is Warhammer, it also carries board games and miniatures from the Lord of the Rings franchise.
From what we’re told, the miniatures are made of resin suitable for displaying and durable enough to withstand dust, air, and humidity.
For prices of $50 to $100, we think that the figures are worth the investment!
It’s worth mentioning that this hobby store currently imposes an age restriction for paints, glues, and adhesives.
Customers will need to provide proof that they’re at least 16 or 18 years of age before purchasing some of these products.
Shoppers are also required to purchase a minimum of 2 of the age-restricted items along with at least one non-restricted item, such as a board game or resin figure.
From what we’re told, these items are regulated by Canadian laws and regulations for customer safety.
Our favourite aspect of Warhammer: Winnipeg is that it has work tables for customers to customise their resin figurines.
The store also sells model kit paints, varnishes, brushes, and tool kits for hobbyists who prefer working in their miniatures at home.
Do note, however, that the shop only allows customers to bring in specific types of figurines to its work tables.
On a brighter note, the model customisation sets are available to any miniature collector. We think’s it’s best to purchase the paints and finishes you need then work on your resin models elsewhere.
Pros
- Carries a wide collection of miniatures
- Store has work tables for customers
- Also carries painting and modelling supplies
Cons
- Shop imposes an age restriction
- Only allows select miniatures on its work tables
Customer Reviews
Thankful to the store for getting me into my current hobby
“One of the most friendly and professional stores around. The guys are extremely helpful and you can tell that Warhammer is not just a job but a passion of theirs. My experience in this shop was a big part of me getting into the hobby as hard as I have. Any questions, any item you need brought in, any advice on painting, anything at all you can ask them and get help above and beyond basic service.” – True North Wild
Kudos to Mark for explaining all the miniatures the store has
“Walked in for some model glue. Mark spent his time explaining all the minitures and the universes they’re from. I always wondered about Warhammer and such. Loved the service I got. Thanks Mark!” – Keith, P.
6. GameKnight Games
| SERVICES | Hobby Stores |
| WEBSITE | http://gameknight.ca/ |
| ADDRESS | 519 Osborne Street Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3L2A9 |
| CONTACT DETAILS | Phone: 2044874263 Email: info@gameknight.ca |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday – Thursday, 11:00 AM -10 PM Friday, 11:00 AM – 11 PM Saturday, 10:00 AM – 10 PM Sunday, 12:00 NN – 5 PM |
GameKnight Games has been one of the go-to shops for gamers and hobbyists of different genres in Winnipeg. Back in August 2003, they started as a side company to Grape & Grain Wine and beer-making supplies, carrying a limited number of Dungeons & Dragons books, primarily for friends and family.
Today, they became Winnipeg’s top gaming store, stocking thousands of board games, card games, dice games, role-playing games, miniature games, and other fascinating items.
They strive to present the finest that the gaming industry has to offer, and they host daily gaming events for a wide range of titles. They offer a big range of demo games accessible for play at any time, as well as lots of gaming tables.
In addition to their variety of gaming products, they also provide novels in fantasy, science fiction, manga, and many more. We highly recommend them for people who want high-quality gaming merch.
Pros
- Carries a wide collection of miniatures
- Quality products
- Excellent staff
- Open seven days a week
Cons
- Has some complaints about customer service
Customer Reviews
Staff is knowledgeable and friendly
“Amazing selection of board games, card games, and MINIATURES! everything from rare hero clix and the warhammer hits to racks of reaper. Staff is knowledgeable and friendly. store is compliant with vax & cleaning regulations. the in-store gaming room is ample for both tournaments and game rentals/trials. excellent fgs” – Alex Scholtz
Great selection of games, the staff are very friendly and knowledgeable!
“Great selection of games, the staff are very friendly and knowledgeable! We did go in for a very specific board game which they did not carry but the staff were so kind to try and order it for us. Unfortunately they couldn’t find it so we ended up leaving. But lots of games to choose from so we will be back!” – Carmen Huang
FAQs on Hobby Stores
That’s a wrap on our review of the best hobby stores in Winnipeg! If you’re looking for other stores that cater to your interest or may spark up a new hobby, take a look at these other articles: