Model Land: Our store may be small, but our inventory is huge!
Yes, that is the mantra of Calgary’s Model Land, located off-the-beaten-path in a small strip mall on 26thAvenue SW (between 33rd and 34th Streets SW), in Killarney. It doesn’t look like much from the street, but as flaneurists often say, “don’t judge a store, by its façade.” Recently, while at the Mission thrift store in the same mall, I decided to pop-in and I am glad I did.
Largest In Western Canada
I can confirm the inventory is huge, however the store isn’t that small, as there is a large basement. There are boxes with models neatly piled high everywhere (I hope no firemen read this blog). Radio controlled planes, helicopters and UFOs hang from the ceiling. My eyes were flickering, here, there, and everywhere, as there was so much to see.
I decided to ask one of the staff (who by chance was the owner) just how much inventory do they have. After he hesitated, I asked “more than a million pieces?” He smiled and said probably in that range.
He shared with me that Model Land is Western Canada’s largest model store and that it has been around for 45+ years – he is the second owner.
If you are looking for something specific, you might want to first check their online web store or catalogue page to see if they have what you want – or just give them a call. Regardless, if you (or a young family member) are into die-cast models, rockets, educational toys, slot cars, model boats, puzzles etc. you must check this place out.
Often when I am thrifting, I find things I didn’t know that I wanted or even existed, I am sure it must be the same for those into models. You have to see this place it to believe it.
Last Word
If you love the thrill of discovering unique shops, that are hidden gems, Model Land should be on your list. Model Land joins my growing list of unique Calgary shops that can boast having national and international status - Bow Cycle (North America’s largest bike shop), Sentry Box (Canada’s Premier Game Store) and Recordland (Canada’s largest used record store).
If you live in Calgary or are visiting, you might want to keep these places in mind as fun places to explore.
If you like this blog, you will like these links:
Uniquely Calgary Shopping Experiences
Sentry Box Celebrates 40 Years as an Iconic Calgary Gaming Store