Toronto is home to many city witches, mystics, psychics and folks interested in dabbling in the dark (or light) arts. But what is the best spot to snatch that eye of newt, incense or crystal quartz amulet? The following is a list of the top occult shops in the city – just don’t expect any pointy hats sitting behind their counters. [Image credit: iStock.com/volkovslava]
The Rock Store is a cozy and peaceful hub snug in Ed Mirvish village, which specializes in specialty stones and literature. Rocks and gems cover the shelves, walls and ceiling, and tarot and healing sessions are offered in private rooms upstairs. Their Astrology Fundamentals workshops are popular, and teach participants about their rising, sun and moon signs, as well as other planetary placements.
Located on Bathurst just south of Bloor, this is a restaurant, café, bookstore and crystal shop combined. As you first walk in you can choose from a variety of treats and beverages (I recommend their homemade hummus). In the back is a large selection of esoteric and self-help books, as well as packaged everyday herbs and spices. They also offer clothing, and singing bowls and instruments for the more musically inclined.
Gifts from the Earth is the go-to shop in Toronto for gems, fossils, minerals and all things found underground. With a T-Rex skull cast in the front window, the ambiance at Gifts from the Earth is more museum-like than mystical. They sell sage, wheatgrass, jewellery and even real dinosaur bones!
WonderWorks is not just a shop but a community hub. They hold regular events, such as their Mindful Living meditation group and Tarot Fridays, in their light-filled location. Wonderworks was founded in 1985 by Mary Anderson, making it one of the longest running shops of its kind in the city.
This family-run business is tucked in a corner of Kensington market, just north of Dundas on Augusta. This small shop is stuffed with glass cases holding handmade jewellery and rare stones and crystals, as well as shelves holding eco-friendly and natural personal care products. They even sell chaga mushroom tea over the counter.