Child shopping in North America
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A
FAO Schwartz
The toystore giant, where Tom Hanks played footsy piano in the movie Big, is number one on the NYC wish list of most visiting kids. Why not indulge them? The magical (over-the-top consumerist) wonderland, with dolls up for ‘adoption, ’ life-size stuffed animals, gas-powered kiddie convertibles, air-hockey sets and much more, might even thrill you, too.
reviewed
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B
Plastic Chapel
Rows of clear plastic cubes house all kinds of designer toys, collectible Japanese-made figurines and other limited edition off-the-wall stuff to make this Denver's wickedest toy store. The toys are mostly suited for adult collectors – you're getting high-dollar stuff like Kid Robot and StrangeCo, not Fischer Price. Also hosts design competitions and graphic arts shows.
reviewed
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C
Timeless Toys
This charming independent shop is better described for what it does not carry – no Barbies, Harry Potter books or trendy kiddie togs. Instead you’ll find high-quality, old-fashioned toys, many of which are made in Germany or other European countries. Have fun playing with the bug magnifiers, microscopes, glitter balls and wooden spinning tops.
reviewed
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D
Tugooh Toys
This splendid store is a great place to browse, even if you’re not packing a rug rat on your hip. You’ll find eco-friendly toys and games, including racecars made of bamboo and lots of cuddly animals made with high-quality organic cotton. Lots of items made of wood and other natural substances give an old-fashioned charm to the place.
reviewed
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E
60 Toy Group
Ranging from mildly quirky to never-before-heard of, these toys are imported from all over Asia (particularly Hong Kong and Japan) by owner Jakuan. Figurine collectors will be happy to find the odd-ball character Michael Lau, rain-hat-wearing Bathing Apes, robotic Bounty Hunters, and abstract creations from Jakuan's Rock Hard clothing line.
reviewed
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F
The Children's General Store
Packed with stuffed animals, wind-up toys, costumes and puzzles priced for every budget. As a cute touch, it's laid out like a real general store, with dolls and toys stocked as practically as dry goods. Kids will love it. There is another store in Grand Central Terminal - it's a perfect place to grab something before jumping on a train.
reviewed
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G
Kidrobot Inc.
If your kid happens to be the hippest thing since sex, then by all means bring them here Brangelina, where they can shop for Ugly Dolls, limited edition ‘art toys’ (because kids care it’s limited edition) and originally designed $200 sneakers that look like they snuck off a 1980s MTV promotional teaser.
reviewed
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H
Benjo
This toy shop gives a glimpse into what the world would be like if kids ran the show. Even the front door is pint-sized (the adult-sized door for grown-ups is off to the side). There’s a train that goes around the store on weekends, and arts and crafts for little ones during the week (usually around $10 to $15).
reviewed
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I
Once Upon a Time
This children’s store stocks top international brands like Baby Bjorn for savvy parents who like to dress their renaissance tots in labels from around the world. You’ll find everything from the practical to the simply adorable: strollers, knit toys, train sets, books, games, little socks and hats, and more.
reviewed
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J
Puzzle Zoo
Those searching galaxy-wide for the caped Lando Calrissian action figure, look no more. Puzzle Zoo stocks every imaginable Star Wars figurine this side of Endor. For non–Star Wars fans and kids, there are hundreds of puzzles, board games and toys jockeying for space on scruffy, floor-to-ceiling shelves.
reviewed
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K
Toy Jungle
Follow the happy frogs to this bright, two-room store, just east of and up the hill from the Hermosa Beach Pier. Its towering shelves are crammed with Playmobile dump trucks, puppy puzzles and the latest in Hello Kitty. Curious George and others beckon to the tots from the cozy corner Book Nook.
reviewed
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L
Babystyle
The chicest babies in town kick their strollers toward the bright colors and cool fashions of Babystyle, cruising the stroller ramp into a wide selection of clothes and accessories perfect for every stage of mother- and babyhood. The tees for tots – ‘Preschool is cool’ – are impossibly cute.
reviewed
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M
Build-A-Bear Workshop
Here's a cure for cranky kids. This fun store is 'where best friends are made.' Literally. Children can pick out the cuddly creature they like, stuff it, give a heart, dress it and create a personalized birth certificate. All furry friends come with a Cub Condo carrying case.
reviewed
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N
Ginger & Pickles
Tucked into a north Boulder minimall is this high-end toy shop, with all manner of diversions, none of which are digital or digitized. The tots and kids will find things to cuddle, things to build, mechanical things and mind benders too. They even have clothes and books.
reviewed
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O
Fao Schwartz
After paying your respects to the gargantuan animatronic Trojan horse standing guard outside, step inside this tots’ paradise of toys, games, collectible dolls, stuffed animals, ‘make-my-own monster’ kits and even kiddie ‘tutu couture.’
reviewed
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P
Oink Oink
Westmount parents rush to Oink Oink for the latest and greatest in toy gadgets and fashionable clothing for children. You’ll find that pink mini-ghetto blaster, Barbie wig set or Sunday picnic garb in this adorable little shop.
reviewed
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Q
Polka Dot Kids
For a breath of fresh air and an answer to Nintendo overload, browse through cheery Polka Dot for a refreshing array of old-fashioned, all-natural wooden toys, knitted and linen booties, and patterned lunch boxes that hearken back to simpler times.
reviewed
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R
Fastball Sportscards
If it's signed Maple Leaf hockey jerseys, original Walt Disney art and stereographs, sci-fi collectibles, rare 20th-century sports cards or autographed photos you're after, this is your place. Make sure to talk shop with the friendly owner.
reviewed
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S
Kokonut Kids
A smorgasbord of unique, top-quality, locally made children's clothing and toys. The colorful screen-printed tees and handmade sun hats are irresistible. And where else can you find a tropical-print Barbie camping tent and sleeping bag?
reviewed
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T
Alexa & Jack
Can’t they just stay little till their Moschinos wear out? This popular Lincoln Rd stop hawks minifashions from the Italian designer, plus D&G Junior and Juicy Couture. Also find quality toys, gifts and accessories.
reviewed
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Kids at Home
A store sure to please style-savvy moms and dads, this shop carries kid-friendly art, as well as small-sized beds and linen. Be sure to look up at the chandeliers and around at the enticing quilts and wall hangings.
reviewed
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V
Game Trek
A classic toy shopping experience is to be had amongst the dart sets, elaborate chessboards and model cars at Game Trek. You can even bring home a little piece of the city with an edition of Toronto Monopoly.
reviewed
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W
Penny Whistle Toys
A small, indie, old-fashioned toy store, this bright shop is full of quality fun stuff, including display-worthy kites, Brio train sets, Czech marionettes, puzzles, costumes and collectible dolls.
reviewed
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X
Old Towne School For Dogs
Grab a gift for the pooch you left behind at this popular Old Town shop selling everything from organic treats to plush toys. If your puppy's in town, he's welcome inside as well, of course.
reviewed
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Y
Silver Snail Comic Shop
Silver Snail is home to action-figure versions of every conceivable hero and villain, from cult classics to big name box-office hits, as well as classic, rare and of-the-moment comic books.
reviewed
