FAQs, Parking & Contact

Questions

Is the shop accessible?

YES! We had our entryway smoothed down in the Summer of 2021, so it is a level entry, though the door can still be tricky to open with a mobility device or stroller.  We know this isn't always ideal, but after the ramp work we can't afford to install an automatic opener at this point. Please knock on the door or window if you ever need a hand with the door and we will be happy to help you. Inside the aisles are well spaced to allow room for moving around.

We also have a small space designated for feeding or changing babies or for anyone needing to take a sensory break.

I came to visit, but you were closed! Why?

We prioritize our employee’s health and safety, as well as our own work-life balance as we have a young family. Sometimes circumstances beyond our control, including illness, late buses, weather, or family emergencies mean that we are unable to get the doors open. We do our best to communicate this on social media in a timely fashion.

Is Local Pickup Available?

We offer pick up from our front entrance ramp for local orders placed through our website. See something on social media that’s not listed online, please email events@trainyardstore.com and we can work out the details to get that order to you! 

Do you ship?

We are now offering flat rate, Canadian shipping, through Canada Post - shipping will auto calculate based on product size and weight. Shipping costs continue to rise, so the cost may seem high - but 99% of the time it actually costs us more than the shipping price you see to send it your way. 

All packages are shipped in recycled packaging. 

Do you sell gift cards?

We don’t offer gift certificates in-store or online. Lots of our Downtown Dartmouth neighbours do, including Kept & The Dart Gallery if you’re looking for a local option.

Pre-existing store credit is not currently available for use online.

What is your return policy?

We want you to love your purchase, so if something isn’t the right fit and you’d like to exchange it we are happy to help you find something new, or offer a store credit for a future visit. 

Due to the unique nature of our goods, and to help us plan community donations we are unable to offer full refunds on purchases. All exchanges must have a receipt and take place within 15 days of purchase.

Sale items, food, seasonal, earrings & select bath and beauty products are not eligible for the same return policies, please see in store or your receipt for details.

Please see our full return policy for more information. 

How come you aren’t offering consignment opportunities?

We offered consignment for 3.5 years, and time and again found it to be incredibly time consuming and difficult to maintain inventory this way. Despite making several changes to our approach over that time, and found the challenges and time involved remained constant and to make the business as a whole viable for us at this time we need to simplify our operations. We are happy to help you transition your business to wholesale, find more information on our Maker Applications page. 

How do I find out about workshops & events? Can I rent the space?

[Workshops & Events Currently Paused due to COVID-19] Social media (@trainyardstore Facebook or Instagram) is the best way, or by checking the website or in store listings regularly. You can also sign up for our mailing list here to stay in the loop!

Current Hours

Please see facebook, instagram or google for our updated hours by searching for "Trainyard Store." This is our family business and sometimes family commitments, illness or weather may impact our hours. Any changes will be posted on our Instagram and Facebook social media accounts.

You can expect to find us open during core hours Tuesday to Saturday year round, and open a minimum of 10-4PM daily *often later.*

Where To Find Us

137 Portland Street Downtown Dartmouth, NS  B2Y 1H9 

We have MOVED! We’re no longer tucked away at 53 Portland, you’ll find us just a few blocks up the street at 137 Portland Street now – across from May Garden and in the same building as Cafe Good Luck, Custom Curves, Power Promotions & Hiltz Shoe Repair.

We have street signage so we’re easier to spot! 

The space is accessible, however there is a slight lip where the sidewalk settled over the Winter - we are working on getting it repaired. 

Please feel free to knock or call (902) 407-5242 if you need any assistance with entering. 


Parking

This information is accurate as of March 2022 but please read posted signage before parking to avoid a ticket!

Street Parking: Free after 6pm and on weekends; Weekdays between 8am and 6pm street parking requires payment at Pay Stations around Downtown Dartmouth - the closest one to us is in front of the Clean Foundation, just across the street!

Other Parking Options: 

Queen Street Lot: The lot with the yellow hut is often free evenings/weekends when the gate is lifted. Check for posted signage. 

Alderney Landing: Parking is free evenings and weekends. Check signage regarding events and changes to parking.  

King/Queen Street Lot: The parking beside and behind our old location is changing to pay station parking and will be monitored and vehicles not paying will be immobilised with a boot ($100 removal fee). Please be prepared to make payment for parking and read the new posted rules. 

Victoria Road Lot: The lot adjacent to our current location is permit only, but may also be monitored by the same folks, One Spot, responsible for the King Street lot.