If you're looking for the best toy stores in Chicago, you're in luck. This city has a variety of options to suit every taste and budget.
From traditional toy stores to specialty shops, you're sure to find something that will delight children of all ages.
Chicago has a rich history of toy stores, dating back to the early 20th century. Today, many of these stores continue to thrive, offering a broad range of toys, games, and activities.
Whether you're looking for classic toys like dolls, action figures, and board games, or something more modern and innovative, Chicago's toy stores have got you covered.
But with so many options to choose from, how do you know where to start? That's where this guide comes in. We've scoured the city to find the best toy stores in Chicago, based on their selection, quality, and customer service.
Whether you're a parent, a grandparent, or just looking for a fun gift, you'll find something to love in one of these stores.
1. SMASH Toys and Collectibles
SMASH Toys and Collectibles is a toy store that's worth checking out.
The owner, Jonathan, is knowledgeable and helpful, making it easy to find what you're looking for.
The store has a great selection of both old and new toys, including Star Wars, Marvel, and more. Prices are fair, and the atmosphere is friendly and welcoming.
If you're a collector or just looking for a fun toy, SMASH Toys and Collectibles is definitely worth a visit.
2. Timeless Toys Ltd
Timeless Toys Ltd is a locally owned toy store that offers a great selection of classic, creative, and educational toys for children of all ages.
The store has a variety of gifts, including baby clothing, children's books, and games. Visitors can expect unbeatable customer service, free gift wrapping, and online order pickups.
The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to offer advice and help customers find the perfect toy.
The store has a train table, retro wooden toys, creative playthings, puppets, and outdoor games. It's a treasure spot that promotes learning and development. Timeless Toys Ltd is definitely worth a visit.
3. Rotofugi
Rotofugi is a toy store and art gallery that offers a unique selection of designer plush and vinyl figures.
Their stock is always changing, making it an exciting place to visit for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
The store also features an art gallery that showcases the work of local artists. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, making shopping at Rotofugi a pleasant experience.
If you're looking for something different and fun, Rotofugi is definitely worth checking out.
4. Cloud & Bunny
Cloud & Bunny is a charming toy and children's clothing store that offers both new and gently used items at excellent prices.
The owner is welcoming and accommodating, and the stock rotates so fast that it's like a new store every time you visit.
In addition to high-end and boutique brand clothing, you'll find beautiful toys, books, rugs, diaper bags, baby carriers, and other items to make your children's spaces magical and inspiring.
The store is a great place to find unique gifts, and the owner even offers free gift wrapping. If you're looking for a local small business to support, Cloud & Bunny is definitely worth checking out.
5. Nakama Toys
Nakama Toys is a dream come true for anime lovers. This toy store specializes in anime figurines and collector-quality models.
The staff is knowledgeable about the products and offers excellent customer service. The prices are fair, and the store has a wide variety of figures available, including lesser-known titles.
Nakama Toys also carries Gunpla and other model kits, making it a one-stop-shop for hobbyists.
The store updates regularly on Instagram, showcasing new arrivals and pre-orders. Nakama Toys is a must-visit for anyone looking for unique anime merchandise.
6. Building Blocks Toy Store
Building Blocks Toy Store is a great place to find toys for children of all ages.
The store has an excellent selection of building blocks and other toys that will keep kids entertained for hours. The staff is friendly and helpful, and they offer great service.
Customers can even take advantage of curbside pickup and gift wrapping services.
Building Blocks Toy Store is a local gem that is perfect for buying birthday gifts and other presents for children. Anyone who loves toys should definitely check out this store.
7. Kido
If you're looking for a toy store that offers a great selection of toys, books, and gifts for kids of all ages, Kido is the place to be.
This black-owned store has a wonderful curation of items that you won't find anywhere else. From cute T-shirts and fun colors to great books and toys, Kido has it all.
The staff is always friendly and helpful, making your shopping experience a breeze. Plus, they offer weekly activities that are sure to keep your little ones entertained.
Whether you're shopping for your own kids or looking for the perfect gift, Kido is definitely worth a visit.
8. Zombie Unicorn Comics
Zombie Unicorn Comics is a great place for collectors and comic book enthusiasts. The store offers a wide range of toys, figurines, and comic books.
The staff is helpful and knowledgeable about the products they sell. The store is well organized, making it easy to find what you're looking for.
While it may be easy to miss from the street, it's definitely worth checking out. Parking can be a bit of a challenge, but it's worth the effort to visit this unique store.
Whether you're a seasoned collector or just getting started, Zombie Unicorn Comics is a must-visit destination.
9. Play
Play is a fantastic toy store that offers a wide variety of fun and educational toys for children of all ages.
The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, always willing to help customers find the perfect gift.
They offer gift-wrapping services and have a gift registry for special occasions.
Play is a great place to shop for unique and affordable gifts for kids and adults alike.
10. Quake Collectibles
Quake Collectibles is a toy store that every toy enthusiast should visit. The store has a wide variety of toys, figures and vintage collectibles.
The prices are reasonable and the owners are super friendly. The store has everything from vintage sports figures, Simpsons, Transformers, Star Wars, to Doctor Who, LOTR, and the Walking Dead.
The store is a bit cramped when crowded, but that's part of its charm. The staff is knowledgeable and helpful.
The store has floor-to-ceiling nerd memorabilia, and browsing through it will bring back childhood memories. If you're looking for a specific toy or collectible, Quake Collectibles might have it.
11. Peach Fuzz
Peach Fuzz is a fantastic toy store that offers a wide variety of items for kids. The staff is friendly and always willing to help.
The store is not just a toy store, but also a baby clothing store, baby store, book store, gift shop, and children's store.
The selection of toys is impressive, making it easy to find something for any child.
The store is well-organized, and the layout is easy to navigate. Peach Fuzz is a must-visit for anyone looking for the perfect gift for a child.
12. Throwback Toys Chicago
Throwback Toys Chicago is a must-visit for vintage toy collectors. The store has a great selection of Star Wars, DC, and GI Joe toys and figures.
The staff is friendly and accommodating, making the shopping experience enjoyable. While the store may not have a wide selection of new items, the assortment of vintage toys is impressive.
Customers can browse through loose Joes and Vintage Star Wars figures, old playsets, and more. The store also buys collections, making it a great place to sell your vintage toys.
If you're in the market for some nostalgic toys, Throwback Toys Chicago is the perfect place to find them.
13. Toy de Jour
Toy de Jour is a toy store that will take you on a trip down memory lane.
The store is filled with an impressive collection of new, vintage, and used toys that will make you feel like a kid again. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and always willing to help.
The prices are fair and the selection is always changing, so you never know what you might find.
The store is appointment-only, which makes for a more personalized shopping experience. If you're a collector, or just looking for a unique gift, Toy de Jour is definitely worth checking out.
14. B Toys Zone
B Toys Zone is a toy store that has it all. From plush toys to drones, they have a great selection of toys for kids of all ages.
The staff is always friendly and willing to help you find what you're looking for.
They have a huge selection of Ty Beanie Boos and Beanie Babies, as well as a variety of educational and game supplies.
This store is a must-visit for anyone looking for a great selection of toys at reasonable prices.
15. Toys et Cetera
Toys et Cetera is a great toy store with a variety of toys and games for kids of all ages. The staff is friendly and always willing to help.
They have a unique selection of board games and classic toys that you won't find at big chain stores.
They also have plenty of learning-based toys for kids who love to learn. The store has a quality curated selection and free gift wrapping.
Shopping at Toys et Cetera is a great way to support an independent, locally owned store.
16. The Red Balloon Co
The Red Balloon Co is an upscale toy store that offers a chic and cozy shopping experience for parents looking for high-quality children's products.
The store stocks a nice array of kids' clothing, furniture, books, and toys.
While the selection is a little pricey, the helpful staff is always ready to assist customers in finding fun and affordable items.
The store is perfect for parents looking to buy something special for their little ones. The Red Balloon Co is a great place to shop for gifts, too.
17. Cell-Toys collectibles
Cell-Toys Collectibles is a must-visit toy store for collectors and enthusiasts. They offer a great variety of vintage and modern toys and collectibles.
The store is well-organized and has a cool environment that makes it a fun place to browse.
The owner is knowledgeable and friendly, always willing to help customers find what they're looking for.
While some items may be pricier than online retailers, the selection and quality make it worth the visit. This store is a gem for anyone looking for unique toys and collectibles.
18. Chicagoland Toys and Hobbies
Looking for a one-stop-shop for all your hobby needs in Chicago area, Chicagoland Toys and Hobbies is the place to be.
With an impressive selection of model trains, RCs, plastic model boats, planes, and vehicles, you'll find everything you need to fuel your passion. Their knowledgeable staff is always ready to assist you with any queries or concerns you may have.
From a great selection of model kits, including many rare ones, to a vast collection of used Lionel freight cars and parts, this store has it all. They also have hard-to-find O gauge items, making them a go-to store for collectors.
If you're a jigsaw puzzle lover, you'll find a fantastic selection here too. With great customer service and fair prices, Chicagoland Toys and Hobbies is a must-visit store for hobby enthusiasts.
19. Squishable
Squishable is a toy store that specializes in plush toys. They have a wide variety of Squishables, including the popular Squishmellows.
In addition to plush toys, they also sell keychains and charms.
The staff is friendly and helpful. Prices are a bit high, but the quality of the toys is worth it.
If you're a fan of soft and squishy toys, Squishable is definitely worth checking out.
20. Wild Things gift shop
Wild Things gift shop is a great place for animal lovers of all ages.
This colorful gift store, located at a free zoo, offers a fantastic selection of animal-related gifts, including toys, stuffed animals, handcrafted items, and clothing.
With its friendly staff and great prices, it's the perfect place to pick up a souvenir or two while exploring the exhibits.
