Prince Rupert is one of British Columbia’s most distinctive coastal cities, where rainforest, harbor views, Indigenous culture, fishing traditions and dramatic North Coast scenery shape the shopping experience. Set on Kaien Island near the Inside Passage, the city offers souvenirs that feel closely tied to the ocean, the rain, the surrounding islands and the creative communities of Northern British Columbia.
The best things to buy in Prince Rupert include candied salmon, argillite carvings, Tsimshian art prints, City of Rainbows candles, Cow Bay keepsakes, Museum of Northern BC books, Prince Rupert enamel pins, Indigenous-made jewelry, rain-themed umbrellas and North Coast wildlife prints. These souvenirs reflect Prince Rupert’s maritime setting, Indigenous art traditions, seafood culture and famously rainy coastal character.
Here are 10 of the best Prince Rupert souvenirs to look for during your trip.
1. Candied Salmon
Candied salmon is one of the best things to buy in Prince Rupert. This sweet, smoky seafood snack is deeply connected to British Columbia’s North Coast, where salmon is part of local food culture and coastal life. Unlike fresh seafood, candied salmon is often sold in sealed, travel-friendly packages, making it easier to bring home as an edible souvenir.
Look for packaged candied salmon in seafood shops, gift stores or local markets. It makes a flavorful gift for anyone who enjoys Pacific Northwest food and can be served with crackers, cheese, salads or on its own as a snack. Because it is specific, useful and rooted in the region’s fishing traditions, candied salmon is a stronger Prince Rupert souvenir than a more generic food item.
2. Argillite Carvings
An argillite carving is one of the most distinctive souvenirs to look for in Prince Rupert. Argillite is a dark slate-like stone associated with Haida carving traditions, and it is often shaped into small figures, pendants, boxes or decorative pieces. Because Prince Rupert is a gateway to Northern British Columbia and Haida Gwaii, argillite pieces can be found in select galleries and gift shops that carry regional Indigenous art.
When shopping for argillite, look for authentic pieces with artist information whenever possible. Even a small carving or pendant can feel meaningful because it reflects a specific Northwest Coast art form. This is a more elevated souvenir and one worth buying from a reputable gallery, museum shop or Indigenous-focused retailer.
3. Tsimshian Art Prints
A Tsimshian art print is a meaningful souvenir from Prince Rupert and the surrounding region. The city sits within an area deeply connected to Tsimshian culture, and local shops, galleries and museum stores often feature Northwest Coast art, including prints, cards and framed pieces by Indigenous artists.
Choose a print with clear artist credit so your purchase supports authentic work. A small art print is lightweight, easy to pack and simple to frame once you return home. It is one of the best Prince Rupert souvenirs for travelers who want something beautiful, cultural and connected to the North Coast.
4. City of Rainbows Candles
A City of Rainbows candle is a fun and highly specific Prince Rupert souvenir. Prince Rupert is often associated with rain, mist and colorful skies, and the “City of Rainbows” nickname appears on local merchandise. A candle inspired by that identity feels more connected to the destination than a standard coastal gift.
Look for rain, cedar, sea salt, spruce, moss or forest-inspired scents. A small candle is easy to pack and can bring home the atmosphere of Prince Rupert’s rainy waterfront and lush rainforest setting. It is a cozy gift for someone who likes home fragrance or travel keepsakes with a strong sense of place.
5. Cow Bay Keepsakes
A Cow Bay keepsake is one of the most charming things to buy in Prince Rupert. Cow Bay is one of the city’s best-known shopping and waterfront districts, filled with colorful buildings, boutiques, gift shops, cafés and harbor views. Its playful name and seaside character make it a natural source of local souvenirs.
Look for Cow Bay postcards, stickers, magnets, mugs, tote bags or small decorative gifts. These items are usually affordable, easy to pack and clearly tied to Prince Rupert. A Cow Bay keepsake is a good option if you want something lighthearted and local without spending too much.
6. Museum of Northern BC Book
A Museum of Northern BC book is a thoughtful souvenir for travelers interested in Prince Rupert’s culture, history and Indigenous heritage. The museum is one of the city’s most important cultural stops, with exhibits and a gift shop featuring regional books, art, jewelry and souvenirs.
Look for books about Northwest Coast art, Tsimshian culture, local history, coastal life or Northern British Columbia. A book is easy to pack and gives more context to the places and stories you encountered during your visit. It also makes a meaningful gift for readers, history lovers or anyone interested in Indigenous art and culture.
7. Prince Rupert Enamel Pins
A Prince Rupert enamel pin is a small, affordable souvenir that is easy to bring home. Official Prince Rupert merchandise includes enamel pins, stickers and other compact gifts, making this a good option if you want something simple and destination-specific.
Choose a pin featuring Prince Rupert, the City of Rainbows, coastal wildlife, the harbor or local scenery. Pins are easy to attach to backpacks, jackets, tote bags or corkboards, and they make great small gifts for friends or family. This is one of the most travel-friendly souvenirs on the list.
8. Indigenous-Made Jewelry
Indigenous-made jewelry is one of the most meaningful souvenirs to buy in Prince Rupert when purchased from a reputable shop, gallery or museum store. Look for earrings, pendants, bracelets or rings inspired by Northwest Coast design, often featuring materials such as silver, copper, cedar, beads or carved elements.
Whenever possible, choose pieces that include the artist’s name and Nation or community. This helps ensure the souvenir is authentic and supports the maker. A small pair of earrings or pendant is easy to pack and can become a lasting reminder of the region’s art and cultural heritage.
9. Rain-Themed Umbrellas
A rain-themed umbrella is a practical and playful souvenir from Prince Rupert. The city is known for its rainy coastal climate, so an umbrella feels much more destination-specific here than it would in many other places. Official Prince Rupert merchandise even includes umbrellas, making it a fitting local gift.
Look for an umbrella featuring Prince Rupert branding, rainbows, coastal imagery or a simple design you’ll use at home. It is a functional souvenir that connects directly to the city’s weather and “City of Rainbows” identity. If you’re visiting on a wet day, you may end up using it before you even leave town.
10. North Coast Wildlife Prints
A North Coast wildlife print is a beautiful way to remember Prince Rupert’s natural surroundings. The region is known for dramatic coastal scenery and wildlife such as whales, eagles, bears, salmon and seabirds. Local galleries and gift shops may carry prints, cards or illustrations inspired by the animals and landscapes of Northern British Columbia.
Look for artwork by local or regional artists for something more personal than a standard postcard. A wildlife print is lightweight, easy to pack and simple to frame at home. It is especially fitting for travelers who take a wildlife tour or spend time exploring Prince Rupert’s harbor, forests and nearby waters.
Discover the Best Souvenirs to Bring Home From Prince Rupert
If you’re wondering what to buy in Prince Rupert, consider candied salmon, an argillite carving, a Tsimshian art print, a City of Rainbows candle, a Cow Bay keepsake, a Museum of Northern BC book, a Prince Rupert enamel pin, Indigenous-made jewelry, a rain-themed umbrella and a North Coast wildlife print. These souvenirs reflect the city’s seafood traditions, Indigenous art, rainforest climate, waterfront shopping and dramatic coastal setting.
Keep Exploring Prince Rupert
Want to learn more about this gem in British Columbia? Check out these guides to plan your next trip:
- Prince Rupert, B.C. Shore Excursions - Uncover the best of Prince Rupert with shore excursions that take you on unforgettable adventures.
- What is Prince Rupert Known For? - Learn more about the city's natural scenery, wildlife and indigenous culture.
- When is the Best Time to Visit Prince Rupert? - Plan the best time for your perfect getaway.
- The Best Foods to Eat in Prince Rupert - Savor the flavors as you taste your way through your latest adventure.
