There’s something special about combining a love of treasure hunting with a scenic drive through small-town Manitoba. Our Friday May 15, 2026 day-long adventure took my daughter Simone and I from charming second hand shops and thrift stores to delicious local eats and the world-famous Narcisse Snake Dens. Along the way, we uncovered vintage treasures, met wonderful shop owners, and enjoyed some unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Stonewall Florist & Antiques, 407 Main Street, Stonewall
Our first stop was this delightful shop in Stonewall. Part flower shop and part antique store, it’s housed in a charming building full of character.
In the basement, we found a cozy vintage section featuring glassware, books, oil lamps, clothing, and a small but interesting assortment of jewelry. Although the jewelry selection was limited, there was plenty to browse.
I came across a sweet little vintage biscuit jar that I immediately imagined using for sugar cubes. The owner was busy taking flower orders but still took the time to chat and offer me a very fair price. We spent about 20 minutes there, and it was the perfect start to our adventure.
2nd Time Around Market, 92 Main Street, Teulon
Next, we headed to Teulon and explored 2nd Time Around, a large thrift store that is combined with Kozy’s print shop.
The store offered a wide variety of clothing, dishes, kitchenware, collectibles, and jewelry. Prices were very reasonable, though many items showed signs of wear, so careful inspection was essential.
We left with several treasures, including an adorable Biddy figurine that I couldn’t resist.
Farmhouse Café & Bakery, 48 Main Street, Teulon
After a successful morning of thrifting, we stopped for lunch at Farmhouse Café.
If you visit, I highly recommend the beef tallow potato chips. Thin and crispy, they were absolutely delicious. We chose the French onion dip from three dipping options, and it paired perfectly with the fries.
I also enjoyed a smoked turkey and cheese croissant sandwich, and the service was warm and attentive.
Unfortunately, Finders Keepers was closed due to poor weather (high winds), which gives us a good excuse to return another day.
Chatfield Gallery & Thrift, 4131 Hwy 419, Chatfield
This stop was truly magical. This was the shop that we built our day trip around. We gave ourselves an hour to see everything, but realistically, we could have used two hours!
The Gallery was an eclectic wonderland filled with hanging décor, sparkling lights, music, a cozy fireplace, books, trinkets, crystal, china, and countless creative displays. Around every corner there was something interesting to discover—and plenty of opportunities for memorable photos.
Three additional buildings expanded the experience: two filled with thrift treasures and one dedicated to discounted items.
Here we found some wonderful pieces, including a stained-glass clock, vintage watches, earrings, and a pair of tealight candles.
The owner was exceptionally friendly and mentioned that business has been three times busier this year than in previous years.
Narcisse Snake Dens
Our next stop brought us face to face with one of Manitoba’s most remarkable natural attractions.
Despite the cool 14°C temperature and powerful winds, we saw an impressive number of snakes basking near the dens. I even had the opportunity to hold one—an experience I won’t soon forget.
Adding to the excitement, the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC National) was there filming a story expected to air later that weekend. This wonder is only witnessed once yearly, usually in the first three weeks of May.
Twice Over Thrift Store, 214 Manitoba Avenue, Selkirk
Our final thrifting destination was Twice Over in Selkirk.
I noticed several items that were still there from my previous visit a few weeks earlier, but I still managed to find a few practical treasures, including a couple of belts (one was leather), and some plastic bowls made in Thailand.
Sometimes the best finds are the ones that are both useful and affordable.
Tim Hortons and the Drive Home
Before returning to Winnipeg, we stopped at Tim Hortons for a warm drink to enjoy on the ride back home to Winnipeg.
Wildlife, Weather, and Wonderful Memories
This road trip offered more than just great shopping.
Along the way, we saw snakes, herons, horses, cows, suicidal ducks, and many other birds.
Although the sky appeared dark and overcast, the dramatic look was caused largely by 70 km/h winds sweeping dust across the prairie.
Final Thoughts
Our Friday road trip had everything I love: spending time with my daughter, vintage treasures, welcoming people, delicious food, fascinating wildlife, and the thrill of discovering the unexpected.
From a charming biscuit jar and a sweet Biddy figurine to a stained-glass clock and memorable snake encounter, every stop added something special to the day.
Some adventures are about where you go. Others are about what you discover along the way.
This was definitely one of those unforgettable Manitoba adventures.
Angela G. Gentile
(Written with the help of ChatGPT 5.5. Photos are my own or my daughter’s.)
Angela G. Gentile 