Best Toy Stores in Chicago
You can't watch a Saturday morning cartoon or any of the kids cable programming without seeing at least three toy commercials every 15 minutes. The latest toys such as Webkins, Moshi Monsters and Monster High are on the list of wants, and it's only normal for parents to indulge their little imaginations from time to time. So do it: pack 'em up and head to Chicago's best toy stores for great deals, exciting new toys and hours of playtime.
Play
3109 W. Logan Blvd.
Chicago, IL 60647
(773)227-6503
www.playlogansquare.com/
Play at Logan Square is a combination toy store, book store and gift shop. The name of store really says it all. It's full of fun and games, a true place of magic for all ages. Although its shelves are chock full of high-quality, educational and distinctive toys, the owner said she knows shoppers come in with different budgets in mind, so she makes sure her store is stocked with items priced from 50 cents up to a few hundred dollars. Find everything from traditional toys including wood blocks, Legos and Barbies to the most trendy toys around.
Building Blocks Toy Store
3306 N. Lincoln Ave.
Chicago, IL 60657
(773) 525-6200
www.buildingblockstoys.com/
Building Blocks Toy Store has been around for more than a decade in the Chicagoland area. While the shop may be small compared to some of the larger chain toy stores, it features a great variety of classic toys, arts and crafts items, board games, puzzles, and the hottest toys on the market. Building Blocks prides itself on also offering an array of toys that are educational, mentally challenging and encourages a child's development.
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Rotofugi Designer Toy Store & Gallery
2780 N. Lincoln Ave.
Chicago, IL 60614
(773) 868-3308
www.rotofugi.com/
Rotofugi Designer Toy Store & Gallery is not the average toy store for kids, but a premier seller of designer toys from all over the world. Its diverse collection includes a wide selection of capsule toys, vinyl figures and plush toys from both western and eastern designers. Rotofugi even has an adjoining gallery that features exhibits monthly by talented local and national artists. Stop on by to chat with husband and wife duo Kirby and Whitney Kerr, the shop's toy and art experts.
Bullfrogs & Butterflies
2124 W. Division St.
Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 661-1632
www.bullfrogsandbutterfliesshop.com/
Bullfrogs and Butterflies is more than a toy store, it is a children's lifestyle store that offers a variety of children's products including books and media, apparel, accessories, toys and specialty gifts. Its toy selection includes educational and information toys, arts and crafts, baby toys, dolls and dress up costumes, building and construction, traditional wood toys, games and media. In other words, there is something for any kid at Bullfrogs & Butterflies. Stuffed animal fans will find an array of Gund, Melissa & Doug, and Jellycat options both in the store and online.
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Marbles: The Brain Store
4745 N. Lincoln Ave.
Chicago, IL 60625
(773) 784-7991
www.marblesthebrainstore.com/
Marbles: The Brain Store is an original concept retail store that offers so much more than just toys. It boasts a collection of hand-picked and expertly tested toys that get the brain working in fun ways for people of all ages. The store is setup to allow kids to roll up their sleeves and actually get hands-on with games, puzzles, software and other brain-stimulating activities. Expect a staff of outgoing toy lovers who are readily available to help customers find the right toy for any special person on their list.
More of Chicago's Best Toy Stores
Sue Colerick loves to cook, bake, and share food and recipes with her friends and family. A freelance writer in Chicago, her work can be found at Examiner.com.