Best of 19 toy stores in Chicago
Toy Stores in Chicago: A World of Playful Delights Chicago, a city known for its vibrant culture and dynamic spirit, is also home to an array of toy stores that capture the imagination of children and adults alike. Toy stores in Chicago offer a diverse selection of educational, classic, and cutting-edge playthings, catering to every taste and budget. These magical spaces foster creativity, learning, and joyful memories, making them essential stops for both locals and tourists. Explore the enchanting world of toy stores in Chicago and let the adventures begin!
- 1. Timeless Toys Ltd
- 2. Nakama Toys
- 3. Throwback Toys Chicago
- 4. Building Blocks Toy Store
- 5. Toy de Jour
- 6. Quake Collectibles
- 7. SMASH Toys and Collectibles
- 8. Play
- 9. Rotofugi
- 10. Toys et Cetera
- 11. Building Blocks Toy Store
- 12. The LEGO® Store Chicago
- 13. CAMP, A Family Experience Store
- 14. KA-POW Collectibles
- 15. Play - Lincoln Park
- 16. Play West Loop
- 17. Galt Baby
- 18. Zippy Toys
- 19. Play
1. Timeless Toys Ltd
Unique and vintage toy collection

A local toy store has become my preferred shopping destination for toys and gifts, providing an alternative to large chain stores like Toys R Us. This toy store stands out for its selection of unique, fun, and creative products that are perfect for the children in my life.
The local toy store's offerings are a refreshing change from the standard options found at larger retailers. Each visit provides the opportunity to discover new and interesting toys, games, and gifts that I know the children in my life will enjoy. The store's commitment to curating a distinctive collection sets it apart and makes it a go-to destination for thoughtful and engaging toys.
2. Nakama Toys
Focus on customer service and knowledgeable staff

This small business aims to cater to a wide range of fandoms, with a knowledgeable and helpful owner who goes above and beyond to assist customers, particularly when gift shopping. They also offer a small selection of snacks and drinks.
The establishment boasts an impressive array of gunpla and other model kits, model building supplies, and import toys, making it a must-visit destination for fans of these items. The friendly and helpful staff only adds to the positive experience, leaving customers eager to return for more.
3. Throwback Toys Chicago
Dedicated to preserving childhood memories

Throwback Toys Chicago is a well-known toy store located at 1450 N Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60622. The store offers a vast selection of both vintage and modern toys, making it a popular destination for toy enthusiasts of all ages. The store's knowledgeable and friendly staff are always available to help customers find the perfect toy or answer any questions they may have.
In addition to its extensive toy collection, Throwback Toys Chicago also boasts excellent reviews and ratings from satisfied customers. The store's hours and phone number are easily accessible, and directions to the store are provided on its website. Whether you're looking for a rare vintage toy or a popular modern toy, Throwback Toys Chicago is the place to go for all your toy needs.
4. Building Blocks Toy Store
Family-owned and operated since 1982

This toy store is a wonderful place with a wide selection of puppets and creative toys, as well as gifts suitable for adult friends. The prices are affordable, making it a great option for anyone looking for gifts. However, the store can get quite crowded, especially on weekends, with stroller-parking resembling a small parking lot. Despite its size, I managed to quickly find a birthday gift for a 3-year-old friend within 5 minutes.
The toy store is an affordable and entertaining destination for those looking for unique and creative gifts for both children and adults. Its small size can be a disadvantage during busy hours, but it did not pose a problem for me as I was able to swiftly locate a birthday present for my young friend in just a few minutes. Despite its occasional crowds, this toy store remains a great location for all toy enthusiasts.
5. Toy de Jour
Exclusive collaborations and events

The establishment houses a variety of items that are sure to evoke nostalgia, even for those who do not consider themselves collectors. The couple who runs the place are known for their friendly and helpful demeanor, adding to the overall positive atmosphere of the shop.
One specific item that caught the author's eye was the Roboto, a toy that they hoped to acquire on their next visit. The language used implies a sense of destiny or meant-to-be quality about this potential purchase, indicating a strong desire to own the Roboto.
6. Quake Collectibles
Extensive collection and knowledgeable staff

Dave, the owner of the store, is known for his friendly and humorous personality. He possesses a vast knowledge of various topics, ranging from Star Wars to Strawberry Shortcake. The store is filled with vintage toys from the 80's, primarily targeting boy toys such as GI-Joe and He-man, as well as some early 90's toys.
To find girl toys from the 80's, one must either ask for assistance or thoroughly search through the inventory. The store mainly focuses on vintage toys that were popular among boys during the 80's and 90's. Therefore, customers who are looking for 80's girl toys may need to put in extra effort to locate them in the store.
7. SMASH Toys and Collectibles
Rare and hard-to-find items

A charming store, specializing in captivating collectibles, is a must-visit for anyone seeking unique items. The owner, who is delightful and helpful, goes above and beyond to ensure customers' satisfaction.
One customer in particular had the pleasure of meeting the owner, Zach, who was incredibly accommodating while they searched for a specific collectible. Zach's kindness and patience made a lasting impression on the customer, who is extremely grateful for his assistance.
8. Play
Live music and sports events on big screens

I greatly enjoy the new store in town, which is owned by a kind and helpful woman named Ann. Although my husband and I do not have children, we have many nieces and nephews, along with numerous young cousins and friends' children in our lives. The staff, led by Ann, are always eager to provide advice on suitable gifts for different age groups and price ranges.
This store specializes in toys and gifts for children, and I often visit to purchase items for the many young people in my life. Ann and her staff are incredibly knowledgeable and can help select the perfect gift for any occasion. Their expertise and customer service make shopping at the store a pleasure, even if I don't have children of my own.
9. Rotofugi
Rotofugi is a renowned gallery and retail store

I've visited a place where every item and person I encountered tempted me to take them away. Among the things that caught my attention were the small, cute gachapon capsule toy machines. It was a delight to see the wide variety of toys available.
I've always found the items and people in this place irresistible, as if I want to put them in my bag and run away. Specifically, I was fascinated by the gachapon machines that contained tiny, adorable toys. The variety of toys offered was impressive and added to the overall fun of the experience.
10. Toys et Cetera
Expertise in educational and developmental toys

Toys Et Cetera is a toy retailer with a Hyde Park store and a thriving e-commerce website, offering a vast selection of over 10,000 toys from various countries worldwide. The store's collection includes puzzles, art supplies, and toys suitable for children up to 17 years old. The store's unexpectedly spacious interior may surprise visitors, given its small exterior appearance, creating a welcoming atmosphere for customers.
Walking into Toys Et Cetera, one may appreciate the extensive array of toys and educational items filling the shelves. The store is an attractive destination for children and parents, providing a variety of high-quality, fun, and educational toys that can engage young minds. Visitors may find it challenging to leave the store due to the captivating and diverse range of products offered by Toys Et Cetera.
11. Building Blocks Toy Store

12. The LEGO® Store Chicago
Interactive play areas and expert assistance

The Lego Store is a must-visit for both kids and adults who love playing with Legos. It features an eye-catching shop window with a Chicago skyline made entirely out of Legos, as well as other impressive large-scale Lego builds. Once inside, customers will find workstations where children can sit and build using their imagination.
The Lego figures in the store are especially impressive, and even adults cannot help but be amazed by them. The store is a great place to explore, and whether you're a child or an adult, you are sure to enjoy playing with the Legos and checking out all the amazing creations on display.
13. CAMP, A Family Experience Store
Expert staff and experiential shopping

Upon entering CAMP, you are greeted by an engaging indoor play space that doubles as a toy store. This area kept my children occupied and entertained while we waited for the main experience to begin. The play space is designed to be both an immersive experience and a showcase for a collection of kid-friendly products.
CAMP stores strive to create a seamless blend of play and retail, with the open play area serving as a major part of that mission. The toys and products for sale are carefully selected to enhance the play experience, creating a cohesive and entertaining environment for children.
14. KA-POW Collectibles
Knowledgeable staff and welcoming atmosphere

Duo Findz recently visited KA-POW Collectibles in Chicago, IL, a toy store that boasts an extensive collection of both vintage and modern toys and collectibles. The store carries items from the 70s, 80s, 90s, and today, with such a wide variety that it may cause sensory overload. Despite the overwhelming amount of items, Duo Findz had a great experience and was able to see some impressive figures.
KA-POW Collectibles is known as the Original Toy Store of Chicago, and it's easy to see why. The store is packed from wall to wall with toys and collectibles, ranging from action figures to comic books. Duo Findz found the store to be a blast from the past, with items that brought back memories of childhood. Despite the vast array of items, the store is well-organized, making it easy to find exactly what you're looking for. Overall, KA-POW Collectibles is a must-visit for toy and collectible enthusiasts of all ages.
15. Play - Lincoln Park

16. Play West Loop

17. Galt Baby

Galt Baby toys have been turning frowns upside down for decades. The owners research trends and stay on top of what's best for baby and mom. You can visit their showroom, where one of their trained employees will allay your fears and help you choose the perfect baby gear, from strollers to toys that will keep them busy along the way. Galt has a couple of “best of” badges under her belt and the store has baby products experts on board.
18. Zippy Toys
