It’s that time of year where kids are excitedly making their Christmas lists (and checking them way more than twice). We can guarantee their biggest wishes can be granted on the shelves of a local Chicago toy store. Shop your neighborhood go-to or venture farther out to discover a new-to-you gem—just don’t forget to stop for a steaming cup of hot cocoa while you’re at it! Or, maybe even a favorite hot dog stand for a super-speedy lunch on the go? Just trust us: you’re going to need sustenance when you start shopping these independently owned toy stores throughout Chicago this season.

Related: Timber Time! Christmas Tree Farms to Spruce Up Your Holiday

1. Toys et Cetera

Learning and play intertwine at this shop, which is located in the historic neighborhood of Hyde Park. The owners seek out good craftsmanship and clever toy inventors, and the store is big on safe, eco-friendly fun that's also educational and developmentally and culturally sensitive. They've been going strong since 1976, so they have their finger on the pulse of what kids like. 

1502 E. 55th St.
Hyde Park
Online: toysetcetera.com

 

2. Play

This hot spot is full of fun and educational finds, and it has a sweet nostalgic twist. Owner Ann Kienzle has worked in the toy biz for eons and stays on top of the latest innovations. She has a passion for the importance of play in a child's life and has created a well-designed space that inspires awe in all who step into one of Play's four shops, located in Logan Square, Lincoln Park, Andersonville, and the West Loop, its newest storefront.

Various locations throughout Chicago
Online: playtoysandbooks.com

3. Berwyn’s Toys & Trains

Have a wannabe conductor on your hands? This specialty shop is worth the trip. Follow the glowing neon sign to a train lover's dream that has everything from collectibles to Thomas merchandise. Its specialty is O-Gauge electric engines, which were popular in the mid-1900s, from makers like Lionel and Mike's Train House. There's a separate toy room that has LEGO sets, Playmobils, and slot cars.

7025 Ogden Ave.
Berwyn
Online: berwynstoytrains.com

4. Building Blocks Toy Store

Saying this old-fashioned toy store is packed to the brim isn't an exaggeration. Its three locations fill every nook with play-rich, high-quality toys and books. Owner Katherine Nguyen is passionate about supporting small, local companies, so you'll find everything from developmental playthings for babies to science kits that grandparents can't keep their hands off of. Building Blocks is also known for its deep selection of Thomas, Brio, and Chuggington trains, but you'll also discover lesser-known finds. 

3306 N Lincoln Ave.
Lakeview

2071 N Clybourn Ave.
Lincoln Park

2130 W Division St.
Wicker Park
Online: buildinblockstoys.com

5. Geppetto’s Toy Box

Like Pinocchio, children will want no strings to hold them down at this Oak Park treasure. Cut your little ones loose to explore art kits, building blocks, puzzles, developmental diversions, and lots more. The owners of Geppetto's stand behind "slow toys"—back-to-basics playthings that children need time to explore and grow from. To that end, you won't see (or hear!) a lot of flashes, beeps, or electronic brouhaha on the shelves.

730 Lake St.
Oak Park
Online: geppettostoybox.com

Related: Gobble, Gobble! Dine-In or Take-Out on Thanksgiving Day . . . You Pick!

6. Timeless Toys

This Lincoln Square mainstay is what we think Santa's workshop looks like—toys, toys, and more toys everywhere. Also: a big air of whimsy. This sweet shop in the heart of the neighborhood's shopping district has been around since 1993 and is known for championing educational play. Go for games, puzzles, puppets, trikes, dolls, outdoor games, books, and just about anything else your little tinkerer's heart desires. 

4749 N. Lincoln Ave.
Lincoln Square
Online: timelesstoyschicago.com

7. Oakridge Hobbies & Toys

This mom-and-pop creation offers more than 250,000 products via their online store, but they have the best-of-the-best on display in their Lemont showroom. You'll find a sampling of hobby, craft, gift, toy and home & garden decor products offered on their website. They're also well stocked in Tonie figurines for those obsessed with the storytelling device.

15800 New Ave.
Lemont
Online: oakridgestores.com

 

 

 

Bored by that ever-present elf during the holidays? Here’s how to switch it up this year

There’s no pressure like the holidays to create lasting memories for our kids, but some of us aren’t ready to take on the nightly task of moving an elf around the house. Who wants to get out of bed because they forgot to set up an elaborate scene for Santa’s helper, night after night? If you’re looking for funny alternatives to Elf on the Shelf, look no further. We’ve got some funny, kind, and grown-ups only options we think you’ll love.

The Kindness Elves

kindness elves are alternatives to elf on the shelf
The Imagination Tree

As an alternative to the Elf on the Shelf, the Kindness Elves have arrived for the holidays to encourage littles to carry out acts of kindness every day this season. Each bundle comes with two Elves, accessories, a beautifully illustrated Storybook, and the 12 Days of Christmas Kindness ePack to get families spreading kindness in no time. 

Available at The Imagination Tree Store, $59.

Santa's Lazy Gnome

Lazy Gnome

Developed by a tired mom who couldn't keep up with the Elf on the Shelf tradition, Santa's Lazy Gnome is perfect for parents. Santa has hired a gnome to report back to him for his naughty and nice list, which means your family's guy can hang out on the mantle all. Season. Long. WIN! You can order your gnome on Lazy Gnomes for $29.

Shepherd on the Search

Amazon

The Shepherd on the Search ($22) is a faith-filled way to celebrate Christmas. During the Advent season, parents read the story of your shepherd's journey then hide your shepherd! Every year is a new opportunity for your shepherd's journey to start anew and end on Christmas day as the shepherd finds his way to the manger.

North Pole Ninjas

Amazon

The North Pole Ninjas ($6) are all about spreading kindness, and it shows in the beautifully illustrated picture book that tells the ancient legend that the North Pole Ninjas use for new recruits. The kit includes a plush and huggable "sensei" to guide Ninjas on their journey to carry out 50 special tasks, each packed in a special envelope. Your mission? To spread the holiday spirit, kindness, and love. 

Reindeer in Here

Reindeer In Here ($24) comes with a book and plush reindeer that celebrates how being different is normal! Your reindeer is a friend sent by Santa as the first gift of the holiday season and encourages kids to take their new friend on the go, so they can get to know your family and help Santa deliver their Christmas wishes. Created by a dad who wanted a positive Christmas tradition for his children, this tradition celebrates our individuality. Get this funny alternative to the Elf on the Shelf  here..

Mensch on a Bench

Amazon

Hanukkah will have some extra Funukkah with The Mensch on a Bench ($30) hardcover book and a 12-inch plush doll of Moshe the Mensch ($30). (For those not down with the lingo, "mensch" is a Yiddish word that means roughly "a good guy.") Kids will learn the story of Hanukkah with the help of Moshe. Moshe the Mensch tells the story of how he was present at the Temple in the time of Judah and the Maccabees, who defeated the Greeks and watched over the Menorah as everyone slept. Now he can help watch over yours!

Peep On A Perch

Amazon

Now you don’t have to wait until Christmas for a magical friend thanks to Peep On A Perch ($6). That sugar-coated marshmallow chick we all know and love to eat is now in plush form and ready to join your family in the countdown to Easter. Designed to inspire good manners and kindness in kids, the Peep On A Perch works the same as the Elf.

with additional reporting by Shahrzad Warkentin

 

 

We’re all for an easy $10

Just like moms everywhere, our love for Amazon is no secret. Convenience is a major reason—having all our needs (okay and several of our wants) arriving at our doorstep is a dream. But we’re definitely not mad at Amazon’s newest initiative: they’re offering $10 to U.S. customers to pick up their orders rather than have them shipped directly to your home.

Why would the arguably most well-known e-commerce site—one that many of us rely on them specifically for its fast and free Prime shipping—suddenly want to incentivize customers to take their pick-up option?

Apparently, it’s not so sudden.”We offer customers a variety of ways to get their packages, inclusive of delivery and pickup options. The $10 Amazon Pickup promotion isn’t new,” Amazon said in a statement. They didn’t include when or how long the $10 (or similar) promotion has been offered.

It would make sense if this is a move to cut delivery costs, but Amazon denies that’s the case. According to Reuters, Amazon has said that the promotion is not a cost-cutting measure and that it applies to customers who have never used Amazon Pickup or have not used that service in the last 12 months. So it’s totally possible it’s more a matter of just another way to bring awareness to the pick-up option.

Shutterstock

Over the last few days, Amazon has emailed a portion of their customer base (we don’t know the actual number) offering $10 to pick up their order of $25+ at pick-up points like Whole Foods, Kohls, and Amazon Fresh. And yes, those are the same places you can return Amazon orders. It’s worth mentioning that (separately from the $10 offer) Amazon has started adding a $1 fee if customers return a purchase via a UPS store if there’s an Amazon pickup/return location closer to their delivery address.

Amazon’s delivery service isn’t the only one out there that’s encouraging customers to use “pick-up points,” especially in rural areas where the cost of to-the-door delivery is higher.

No matter what Amazon’s reasons are, $10 is $10, and using a pick-up location is absolutely more environmentally friendly if delivery drivers can drop a bunch of packages in one place. So the next time you order from Amazon, definitely consider snagging it from Kohls or Whole Foods.

We even have a few suggestions for you

28 Swimsuit Cover-Ups on Amazon Way Cuter than an Old T-Shirt

28 Swimsuit Cover-Ups on Amazon Way Cuter than an Old T-Shirt—Read Here!

Amazon Parents Are Raving About These 8 Baby Bottles

Amazon Parents Are Raving About These 8 Baby Bottles—Read Here!

21 Amazon Mom Swimsuits To Make Her Look Great and Feel Confident (Including Plus Sizes!)

21 Amazon Mom Swimsuits To Make Her Look Great and Feel Confident (Including Plus Sizes!)—Read Here!

The Best Baby Gates on Amazon

The Best Baby Gates on Amazon—Read Here!

Get Your Phone Ready! These Baby Photo Props Are Available on Amazon

Get Your Phone Ready! These Baby Photo Props Are Available on Amazon—Read Here!

Mom Strong: Feel-Good Fitness Gear You Can Grab from Amazon

Mom Strong: Feel-Good Fitness Gear You Can Grab from Amazon—Read Here

The Best Baby Bath Toys, According to Amazon Parents

The Best Baby Bath Toys, According to Amazon Parents—Read Here!

Celebrate women this month by shopping a mom-owned business. If you’re pregnant, you’re going to want to check out the last business on this list.

March is Women’s History Month and we can’t think of a better way to celebrate than by supporting local female entrepreneurs and DMV business women. If necessity is the mother of all invention, these DC-area Moms know how to meet our local needs!  Read on to learn about some fantastic and creative DC Momtrepreneurs and you just may find one who makes your new favorite cake, can solve your family’s sleep or nutrition woes or create the bag you have been looking for. Read on to get inspired!

Some of Our Favorite Women-Owned Businesses around DC

Scout Bags

Scout Bags may be popular all over the country but the mastermind behind it all is DC Mom Deb Waterman Johns. As a Mom of four Deb understands how important it is to stay organized and have functional bags. As a Georgetown designed she knows how important it is to look good while schlepping the kids all over town. Scout Bags combines the best of form and function. Scout Bags releases hundreds of limited edition designs each year and many of them are hand-drawn. 

Online: Scout Bags

 

Mahogany Books

Mahogany Books

Black books matter! That's why DC Mom Ramunda Young (and Dad Derrick) founded MahoganyBooks. They have a brick-and-mortar shop in Anacostia and an online store with one of the most largest inventories of Black books online. The shop is open, but you can also request curbside pickup or conveniently shop online and have your holiday order shipped. MahoganyBooks is located in the Anacostia Art Center, home to a number of galleries, small boutiques and restaurants.

1231 Good Hope Rd. SE
Anacostia
Online: mahoganybooks.com

Mindful Return

Lori Mihalich-Levin knows how hard it is to be a working Mom in the DC Area. Lori created the Mindful Return Maternity Leave E-Course and is the co-host of the Parents at Work Podcast,. Her company, Mindful Return, also offers templates for expecting parents to develop Maternity and Paternity plans and courses specifically for working Dads and parents of kids with disabilities. The first year of motherhood is hard. Having someone who has been there, guide you through and develop a plan can help. 

Online: Mindful Return

Savor It Studios

Who better to support expecting, laboring and new Moms than another Mom? Michelle Cohen is a Washington DC birth and post-partum doula and yoga instructor who founded Savor It Studios. Michelle has helped countless parents in the DC area through the journey of becoming new parents from pre-natal yoga classes to helping Moms labor to providing post-partum support.   

Online: savoritstudios.com

The Sweet Lobby

The Sweet Lobby, based on Capitol Hill's Barracks Row, is known for both its classic as well as its globally inspired flavor incarnations and specializes in French macarons, madeleines, éclairs, shortbread, canelés and more. Owner Dr. Winnette McIntosh Ambrose is not only mom to two, she's also a two-time TV champ, having declared victory on both Cupcake Wars and Chopped. These award-winning treats caught the attention of Jill Biden last year when she shopped for Valentine's Day gifts.  

404 8th Street SE
Capitol Hill
Online: sweetlobby.com

Sticky Fingers

Sticky Fingers

DC Mom Doron Petersan is on a mission to bring tasty vegan treats to the masses. Her bakery, Sticky Fingers serves up guilt-free cupcakes, cinnamon buns and brunch that everyone enjoys. If you have any doubts about how delicious Sticky Fingers treats are know that they are the first vegan bakery to ever win Cupcake Wars All Stars. Have a little chef at home? As a Mom herself Doron knows how much kids like to help in the kitchen and her virtual baking classes are very kid-friendly! 

1370 Park Rd. NW
Columbia Heights
Online: stickyfingersbakery.com

Child's Play Toys and Books

Jamie Davis Smith

Owned by a DC Mom (and Dad) Child's Play Toys and Books is the place to go for the biggest selection of quality toys, games, art supplies and books. Staff travel the world to find the best and don't sell it unless they have personally played with, created or read the items on their shelves. Their enormous variety is perfectly curated include high quality, good value, fun toys to be cherished for years to come. Their very knowledgeable staff can made recommendations based on age, budget and interest.

5536 Connecticut Ave. NW
Chevy Chase
Online: childsplaytoysandbooks.com

Starlight Sleep Coaching

After too many sleepless nights with babies who thought it was time to party at 4:00 a.m. DC Mom Jessica Dodson knew there had to be a better way. She learned how to get her own children to sleep through the night and then started a sleep coaching business, Starlight Sleep Coaching, to help save other new Moms from the fate of needlessly spending months in a sleep-deprived haze. 

Online: starlightsleepcoaching.com

Labyrinth Games

When the kids have had too much screen time it's time to pull out a board game for some serious family bonding time.  Capitol Hill Mom Kathleen Donahue opened Labyrinth Game Shop after she could not find the perfect game for her son to bring to a birthday party. Since then, Labyrinth has expanded to carry everything from games for kids to sophisticated games and puzzles perfect for date nights at home. 

645 Pennsylvania Ave. SE
Capitol Hill
Online: labyrinthgameshop.com

 

Aspen Street Cakes

Teal cake with flowers
Aspen Street Cakes

DC Mom Lauren Cooper Allen runs two small businesses out of her Washington, DC home, Aspen Street Cakes and Lauren K. Cooper Food Styling and Photography. As a Mom of three, Lauren understands how important birthdays and other special occasions are. She can turn any idea into a masterpiece that's almost too pretty to eat.

Online: aspenstreetcakes.com

51st State Photography

DC Mom Cassandra Hetherington started 51stStatePhotography, a greeting card company featuring photographs from around the DMV, to showcase what makes our area so special. These cards feature everything from the colorful murals found around town to flowers found along the C&O Canal. 51st State Photography cards are the perfect way to send a note to a loved one or to include with a gift. They are sold at local markets and Shop Made in DC.

Online: 51ststatephotography.com

Epic Everyday

African-American Girl on Colorful Bed
Epic Everyday

When a couple of DC Moms got tired of seeing only fair-skinned princesses and could not find many images portraying Black and Brown boys in positive ways they decided to do something about it.  The result is Epic Everyday, a collection of backpacks, t-shirts, towels and more featuring kids in a range of mocha-hued skin tones and hair types. The “epic” in Epic Everyday stands for Empowered, Positive, Innovative, and Creative. When it comes time for the kids to buy new a new backpack, lunch box, towels or sheets look local first!

Online: shopepiceveryday.com

 

happyly

happyly was created by three Moms, Caitlin Iseler, Elizabeth Duall Regard, and Randi Banks, who live in DC and Alexandria. These friends wanted to take advantage of everything the DC area has to offer but spend less time planning. Their app has now grown to 30+ cities to help parents create customized experiences in their hometown, on daytrips or while on vacation. 

Online: happyly.com

 

Hooked and Loopy

Crocheted dolls
Hooked and Loopy

When DC Mom Sarah Potter looked around her child's playroom and noticed it was full of plastic she decided to take matters into her own hands and start crocheting toys. She started off small and slow but soon started Hooked and Loopy and now makes everything from crocodiles and foxes to Amelia Earhart's and RBGs. Hooked and Loopy can even make custom creations so your child can truly have a one-of-a-kind lovey. Tip: You can find Hooked and Loopy creations at Shop Made in DC, The National Museum of Women in the The Arts and other retailers throughout the area. 

Online: hookedandloopy.com

529 Kids Consign

Most Moms notice how quickly their kids grow out of clothing but Alexandria Mom Megan Polodosky decided to find a way to keep kids looking great in "gently used" clothing outgrown by other dressed-to-the-nines tots. Her answer is 529 Kids Consign which is now a thriving upscale children's and maternity consignment boutique that ships all over the country. Shopping at 529 is a great way to stay stylish while saving money and supporting a local Mom! 

22A South Royal St.
Alexandria, VA
Online: 529kidsconsign.com

 

 

Valery’s Wonderland Treats

Valery's Wonderland Treats

Valery’s Wonderland Treats are hand-crafted by mom and entrepreneur Valeriia Li in her Chantilly, VA home with a next-level precision.  From cakes and cookies to other delectable treats, these works of art are almost too breathtakingly beautiful to eat! Flowers, The Beatles, little fairy homes – even anime is not outside her ability to create the perfect, one-of-a-kind dessert for your one-of-a-kind celebration. It does take some time for her to gather ingredients and prepare your stunning creation, so Li does recommend placing your order at least 3-4 weeks in advance via Whatsapp

Online: facebook.com

Mai Health Now

Alexandria Mom Mai Trinh is a Wellness Speaker and Chronic Disease Expert who founded Mai Health Now years ago to help others live a longer and healthier lives. As a widowed working Mom of three, Mai knows how important it is for parents to take care of themselves - and how hard it can be be to actually make that work. Mai wants every parent to achieve optimal health so that they can be their best for the kids and enjoy themselves. She also knows how hard it can be to get kids to eat their veggies and has a plan for that too!

Online: maihealthnow.com

 

Pure Love Macarons

Let the food come to you with Pure Love Macarons. Mom-on-a-mission Kim Moehnke started this gluten-free bakery business after wrestling with food allergies in her own home. Pure Love Macarons is a home-based bakery that makes Paris look like it’s churning out knock-off macarons. 

Online: purelovemacarons.com

 

Mocktail

One DC Mom had enough of non-alcoholic bland drinks.  When Pauline Idogho was expecting she wanted to have just as much fun as her friends who were enjoying cocktails and the idea for Mocktail Club was born. Mocktail Club beverages ensure that everyone skips alcohol because of pregnancy, health concerns or because they are a designated driver can actually enjoy what they are drinking. Because Mocktail's flavors are based on Pauline's travels these drinks will also remind you of what it's like to be on vacation. Bonus: kids can upgrade from juice for a special treat!

Online: mocktailclub.com

These candy stores in NYC have what you crave for Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day will be here before you know it, and if you’ve got kids you know they’re expecting at least a little something sweet from you to celebrate (hey, it can’t be organic veggies all the time, right?). Luckily, we know just the place for you to find goodies for your sweethearts, both big and small. In fact, we know several places to get any kind of candy or chocolate you might desire—we’re talking fine chocolates, bulk candy, vintage candy, Swedish candy, and more. So the next time you’re in need of a sugar fix, head to one of these candy stores in NYC.

Looking for other Valentine’s Day treats around the city? Find something sweet at one of our favorite donut spots, ice cream shops, or cake bakeries.

Where to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth in Brooklyn

1. Fferins of Brooklyn

 

Located on Park Slope’s Seventh Avenue, Fferins of Brooklyn packs a wide variety of goodies into a relatively small storefront. Its eclectic and far-reaching offerings include nostalgia candy (Pop Rocks, candy necklaces, Astropops, and more), British imports (Aero Bar, Cadbury Flake, Wispa Gold), and artisanal treats for sophisticated palettes. Plus: Harry Potter candy, uncommon beverages (Bob Ross Energy Drink anyone?), and bulk candy for pick and mix also line the shelves.

438 7th Ave.
Park Slope
Online: fferinsofbrooklyn.com

2. Williams Candy

This Coney Island institution has been serving up candy apples in the Big Apple for over 75 years. It’s hard to pass up a candy apple with rainbow sprinkles to eat along the boardwalk. But if apples aren’t your thing, you can also count on Williams for lollipops, fudge, and ice cream to get you through.

1318 Surf Ave.
Coney Island
Online: candytreats.com

Best Candy Shops in Manhattan

3. Economy Candy

Arguably the definitive NYC candy shop, the Lower East Side’s Economy Candy is an institution established in 1937. This “Nosher’s Paradise of the Lower East Side” stocks over 2,000 kinds of candy and other goodies that you’ll find packed floor-to-ceiling. Whether you’re looking for the newest treat on the candy scene, nostalgic candy brands from decades past or an incredible selection of vintage trading cards from shows and movies like Alf, E.T., and Mork & Mindy, you can find it here.

Insider Tip: If you’re overwhelmed by the jam-packed layout, try Economy Candy’s online store, where you can search candies by hue to get perfectly color-coordinated hauls.

108 Rivington St.
Lower East Side
Online: www.economycandy.com

4. Sour Patch Kids NYC

While it’s not a longstanding, beloved New York institution, if your child loves Sour Patch Kids, Sour Patch Kids NYC could be a fun outing. Yes, it’s a huge store dedicated to those tart tykes, with every flavor and type for sale, as well as over-the-top creations (ice cream, waffles, etc.) at the “Sweets Bar.” Lots of SP merch is for sale as well, and you can hop in the Sour Patch NYC cab for a photo op before you leave.

665 Broadway
Greenwich Village
Online: sourpatchkids.com

5. Dylan’s Candy Bar

You’ll find Dylan’s Candy Bar locations all over the country now, but the company, brainchild of Dylan Lauren, debuted in NYC in 2001. The NYC store is located in Hudson Yards and features the brand’s stylish and wildly colorful, candy-centric aesthetic. All the candy bases are covered here: bulk, chocolate, lollipops, gummies, sours, nostalgia, and more, but Dylan’s is also a good spot to hit for candy gifts with a little extra, such as chic treat-filled “tackle boxes”, special Valentine’s collections and pops, and over-the-top candy towers, candy “cakes,” and even a chocolate “bash cake” filled with confections. They can also whip up a DIY Candy Buffet for your next party.

20 Hudson Yards, 4th Floor
34th St., between 10th & 11th Avenues
Hudson Yards
Online: dylanscandybar.com

Swedish Candy Is What This Manhattan Candy Store Is all About

6. Bon Bon: A Swedish Candy Co.

While Swedish candy store Sockerbit is no more, Bon Bon (“A Swedish Candy Co.”) is open to satisfy all of your Swede candy needs and more. Gummy creations such as Swedish Fish are of course on the menu, with a selection of fish from popular maker Kolsvart offered. Plus: Swedish lollipops, gum, beverages, and even Swedish delicacies. Bon Bon’s mixes are fun and festive, with curated collections of sweet, sour, jelly/marshmallow, and even gluten-free and vegan. Good news if you’re the type to crave Swedish sweets after bedtime (or at least the kids’ bedtimes)—Bon Bon is open til midnight.

Good to Know: They also have a shop in Brooklyn.

130 Allen St.
Lower East Side
Online: bonbonnyc.com

Best Chocolate Shop in Queens

7. Aigner Chocolates

Another NYC institution, Forest Hills’ Aigner Chocolates is widely recognized as producing some of the finest chocolate in the city. Founded in 1930, the shop creates its Austrian chocolate using time-tested recipes and vintage machines. Valentine’s Day is a big deal here, of course, and Aigner’s offers a wide range of chocolate treats and pops in shapes and flavors of all kinds. The bedazzled chocolate video game controller is sure to win your gamer’s heart, and you can’t go wrong with a sprinkle stripe pop.

103-02 Metropolitan Ave.
Forest Hills
Online: www.aignerchocolates.com

Find the Candy You Need at This Staten Island Favorite

8. Philip’s Candy

The exterior may not be much to look at, but Philip’s Candy is a local favorite in Northern Staten Island. The Staten Island extension to the now-closed “Coney Island’s Oldest Candy Shop,”—it was founded in 1930—Philip’s has a quiet mom-and-pop atmosphere, an old timey charm, and lovingly crafted chocolates and candies. Signature treats include fresh fruit hand-dipped in melted chocolate, chocolate-covered marzipan and graham crackers, and flavored popcorn. Just remember they’re closed Mondays.

8 Barrett Ave.
Staten Island
Online: www.philipscandy.com

Looking for a unique toy store, Portland parents? These independent shops stock the best gifts, no matter what the occasion

For a truly unique toy for your little one, you’ve gotta ditch online shopping and big-box stores and hit the streets. Portland mom-and-pop shops are where the best gifts are. Find that extra-special holiday gift or that perfect birthday present (because there’s always a birthday party around the corner, right?) at one of our favorite toy stores in Portland. Each one offers quality toys and helpful staff so even if you don’t have a gift in mind, they can help out. 

1. SpielWerk Toys

What's not to love about a toy store that understands that children's work is all about play. (Hint: that's what SpielWerk means.) You'll find tons of toys that encourage kids to play and develop healthy play habits too at their shop in the Williams District. Well-made toys that encourage open-ended play are front and center, and so is the play space where kids can test out toys and have fun while you browse the aisles. Books, games, puzzles, and even ride-ons are staples here. The next time you need one, this is the place to shop.

3808 N. Williams Ave., #121
Portland
Online: spielwerktoys.com

2. Kids At Heart Toys

Parents have counted on Kids At Heart Toys since the late '80s to find the perfect gift for their kiddos. Here you'll find all the brands you know and love, like LEGO, Playmobil, Plan Toys, Klutz, and more. But you'll also find local brands and other boutique labels you may not be familiar with yet, but will want to know more about. 

3445 S.E. Hawthorne Blvd.
Portland
Online: kidsathearttoys.com

Related: Shop to Save the Planet at Our Favorite Consignment Stores

3. Merci Milo

Merci Milo is another one of those super cute toys stores in Portland that stocks its shelves with handmade and quality toys and accessories. They source everywhere—showcasing everything from local makers and creative parents to global brands. Each toy selected is focused on sustainability and is ethically sourced too so you can trust that what you bring into your home is good for everyone. Parents can find a bit of everything at this toy store, from vintage to trendy and everything in between.

2438 N.E. Broadway St.
Portland
Online: shopmercimilo.com

4. MudPuddles Toys & Books

Looking for a toy store in Portland that's totally in the know? Check out the latest from MudPuddles Toys & Books. Stocking everything from pretend play toys to puzzles, games, and stuffies, having fun is at the heart of their inventory. They even stock gifts for tweens and teens that they'll actually like. Stop into one of their two shops today.

Good to Know: MudPuddles also has a shop in Sherwood (16420 S.W. Langer Dr.).

2305 N.W. Kearney St.
Portland
Online: mudpuddlestoys.com

Related: Portland's Eco Boutiques: Sustainable & Stylish

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cj6KqmySRtY/?hidecaption=true

5. Oodles of Toys

Need "oodles" of inspiration for gifts for your tyke? Take a trip to the Sellwood neighborhood for a shopping experience sure to beat the offerings of your local Target or Fred Meyers. From stuffed animals and plushies to board games and playsets, Oodles of Toys has you covered. They even offer online ordering with curbside pickup. They'll make it convenient for you and give you all the inspiration for the best gifts for your family.

Insider Tip: Oodles' sister store, Queen Bee Soriee, has all the party supplies you need to throw a killer bash.

7727 S.E. 13th Ave.
Portland
Online: oodlesoftoys.com

6. Thinker Toys

Thinker Toys has been a figurehead of Multnomah Village since 1994 and there's one reason for it: their toy selection rocks. They are a destination for children and parents alike, offering adult board games like Catan, and child tinkerings like PlayMobile. Head to Thinker Toys to peruse all their entire selection in person, or head online for their options for shopping, curbside pickup and local delivery. Whichever way you decide to get your Thinker Toy gifts this holiday season, it is sure to a magical and exciting experience.

7784 S.W. Capitol Hwy.
Portland
Online: thinkertoysoregon.com

Related: Support These Black-Owned Portland Businesses Today

7. Hammer + Jacks

Need a creative spin on movement-based toys? What about a cute, locally made "Slow Down" sign for your front yard when the teens in your neighborhood pass by? How about a toy set that is both thoughtful and stimulating? If only there was a Portland toy shop offering all these awesome gift ideas...oh, wait! Have you heard of family-owned Hammer + Jacks? Located in southeast Portland's Foster-Powell neighborhood, this cute boutique toy store will be sure to make you want to buy gifts for your loved ones and yourself. They offer a carefully curated selection of toys that grow with kids, and local delivery for those times where you know what you want, but you just can't make it out the door.

Insider Tip: While we love the toys here, Hammer + Jack's community REC Room wins big points with local parents. Programming here is all about Reading, Entertainment, and Crafts (get it—REC Room?). Drop in for a story time, author reading, musical events, and more.

6406 S.E. Foster Rd.
Portland
Online: hammerandjacks.com

8. The Bull & The Bee

Located in the Moreland neighborhood, The Bull & The Bee specializes in gifts for babies and parents. Whether you're shopping for an adorable outfit for you newborn, or you need a teether that's healthy for baby and the planet, this is the place in Portland to shop. And while they offer all kind of amazing and practical products for babes, parents can also count on finding quality wooden toys, creative toys, books, puzzles and more at this kids' shop. We also love their line of locally made products that support Portland in more ways that one.

7044 S.E. Milwaukie Ave.
Portland
Online: bullandbeebaby.com

9. Grasshopper

Everything you need for babies, toddlers, and kids is under one roof at Grasshopper. Toys, books, puzzles, clothes—this is a you name it, they've got it kind of place. Trusted brands that line the shelves like Tender Leaf Toys, Noodoll, and Brio make shopping easy. Their selection of musical instruments, books, and stickers are sure to please everyone (hint: they make great stocking stuffers too). We love that they also carry tons of seasonal products so you can find something truly special, no matter what the occasion.

1816 N.E. Alberta St.
Portland
Online: grasshopperstore.com

10. Black Wagon Kids

Although clothing and accessories are the main showstoppers here, Black Wagon Kids also has toys to please your little ones when you're looking for something special. Another cute toy store in Portland, this is the spot to find great puzzles, games, and thoughtfully designed wooden toys that encourage open-ended play for toddlers especially. It's also a great spot to find rain gear to get you through our rainy months. 

3964 N. Mississippi Ave.
Portland
Online: blackwagon.com

11. The Yo! Store

Wait! Is this store supposed to be for kids or for the people that mother them? Visiting the Yo! Store in northwest Portland, parents will find stuffed animals and aesthetically inclined children's books next to a garment rack of cool jean jackets or ceramic plant pots. It seems like this store really gets it, making the child shopping experience pleasurable for any parent. You'll be outfitted with the hippest bibs and bonnets, stylish nursery lights, sleek earrings, and toys from the brand Kid O.

935 N.W. 19th Ave.
Portland
Online: yoportland.com

Bonus: Finnegan's Toys & Gifts

A staple of a native Portlanders childhood, Finnegan's Toys & Gifts has kept families happily entertained with their wide array of toys since 1977. Although the local shop has given up its iconic corner location, families can still order exciting toys, puzzles, and more from their online store. Think of it like a local Amazon for all things childhood excitement. They offer shipping or pick-up for receiving your purchases. Pick-ups happen at "UnderU4men" during their business hours in downtown Portland.

Online: finneganstoys.com