Two children reading books in a cozy bookstore with colorful shelves filled with children's literature.

Best Toy Stores & Children's Boutiques in NYC

There is a charm and ambiance to small business bookstores and toy shops in NYC. The service is personal, the merchandise is high quality and you get a quieter, more relaxed shopping experience than at most big-name retailers.

Check out our map to find a wonderful boutique or toy store to visit next time you're on the hunt for something special. And, let us know which of these local businesses you love to support by "liking" them and adding your review!

We'd love to hear your thoughts on the best places to get a kids haircut in NYC, too.


 

    Kaleidoscope Kids Toys

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    Jennie Utsinger said:  This small Bay Ridge toy store has a well-thought out collection of educational and creative toys, games, and books. They also offer free gift-wrapping on site, so it's a perfect place to pick up a birthday present.

    Brooklyn, NY
    https://www.babesta.com

    Babesta

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    Jennie Utsinger said:  Hipsters head to Babesta to outfit their kids in trendy city-inspired clothes. The store offers a curated selection of kids' clothes from indie designers around the world. You can also find plush slices of pizza, unicorn stickers, and a wooden spaceship kit among their selection of designer toys. There's also furniture and gear for all of your baby needs.

    New York, NY
    www.booksaremagic.net

    Books Are Magic

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    Jennie Utsinger said:  Novelist and Brooklyn local, Emma Straub, owns this bookstore in Cobble Hill. Lounge on one of the comfy beanbag chairs with your kids while you listen to storytime.

    Brooklyn, NY
    http://powerhouseon8th.com/

    powerHouse on 8th

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    Jennie Utsinger said:  The smaller Park Slope outpost of the massive Powerhouse Arena DUMBO bookstore holds a similar carefully curated children's section. Make sure to mark your calendar for one of the store's tween book clubs or weekly Sunday storytimes.

    Brooklyn, NY
    picnicbrooklyn.com

    Picnic

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    Jennie Utsinger said:  Picnic is located in the heart of kid-friendly Cobble Hill, Brooklyn. This neighborhood boutique stocks boys and girls' clothes from newborn through size 12, along with a small selection of shoes, accessories, toys, and books.

    Brooklyn, NY

    My Little Sunshine

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    Jennie Utsinger said:  My Little Sunshine has a Tribeca and a Chelsea location. Both stores carry stylish upscale labels, such as Bobo Choses, Mini Rodini, Oeuf, and Blu Pony Vintage. There's also a selection of toys and books. Bonus: your kids can have their hair cut while you shop!

    New York, NY
    friendlymantis.com

    Playing Mantis

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    Jennie Utsinger said:  This whimsical shop is worth a visit even if you're not shopping for a toy or gift. The shop is filled with hand-crafted wooden toys from around the world. There are dollhouses, pull toys, instruments, cars, marble runs, coin banks, and intricate mechanical models. Playing Mantis also carries handmade dolls, animals, and puppets.

    New York, NY
    www.acorntoyshop.com

    Acorn Toy Shop

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    Jennie Utsinger said:  This beautiful Brooklyn toy shop carries a careful selection of toys and unique clothing, including Waldorf dolls, brightly colored Grimm blocks, and felt fairies. The owners donate a percentage of sales to schools and organizations that provide services for children.

    Brooklyn, NY
    Facebook Community Bookstore

    Community Bookstore

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    Jennie Utsinger said:  Bring your little readers to Community Bookstore in Park Slope and pick up some new books for an afternoon in Prospect Park.

    Brooklyn, NY
    Facebook powerHouse Arena

    The Powerhouse Arena bookstore

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    Jennie Utsinger said:  This huge airy DUMBO bookstore is a must-see for little book lovers. The children's section has an excellent selection of books, including classics and current children's books.

    Brooklyn, NY
    https://twokidsandadog.com

    Two Kids and a Dog

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    Jennie Utsinger said:  Inspired by the owners' two children (and dog!), this DUMBO children's store has a carefully selected array of clothes, shoes, toys, and books for kids aged newborn through 10. Apparel brands include Pink Chicken, Rylee and Cru, Mini Melissa, and Old Soles. Toys include current popular trends and classic favorites.

    Brooklyn, NY
    www.greenlightbookstore.com

    Greenlight Bookstore

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    Jennie Utsinger said:  Both of Greenlight Bookstore's locations host weekly Saturday Story Times for 3-8 year olds, often accompanied by activities or arts and crafts. A monthly young readers' book group for 9-12 year olds serves pizza during a discussion of classic and contemporary chapter books (book group picks are 15% off).

    Brooklyn, NY
    teichtoys.com

    Teich Toys & Books

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    Jennie Utsinger said:  Conveniently located across the street from Bleeker Playground is the family-run store, Teich Toys & Books. Teich carries a range of classic toys, books, games, and art supplies, including knit & wooden toys. Kids will love climbing on the large wooden locomotive and looking at books charmingly displayed in train cars.

    New York, NY
    yoyanyc.com

    Yoya

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    Jennie Utsinger said:  Yoya carries a selection of boutique children's clothing from US and European brands, along with carefully chosen toys and accessories. Should you want to bring Yoya's design aesthetic to your own home, the owner, Cristina, also offers interior design services for children's bedrooms and playrooms.

    New York, NY
    https://www.instagram.com/mcnallyjackson/

    McNally Jackson Books

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    Jennie Utsinger said:  Grab a snack at the cafe - and a coffee for mom - and browse the adorable children's section at McNally Jackson Books in Soho or Williamsburg. In addition to storytimes, the stores host a variety of author events.

    New York, NY

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