Best Toy Stores & Children's Boutiques in NYC

Jennie Utsinger said:  Kidding Around chooses toys, dolls, and games "to inspire creativity". Their two locations in Grand Central Station and the Village include brands such as Plan Toys, Haba, Hape, Djeco, and Green Toys. You'll find costumes, science kits, games, marble runs, dolls, blocks, pull toys and much more.

Jennie Utsinger said:  The Strand's "18 miles of books" includes a huge children's section on the second floor. On the weekends, Strand's twice-daily Story Time & Crafts provides an added draw: popular children's book characters, such as Elmo, Pete the Cat, or Madeline, attend the events, delighting young readers and parents alike.

Jennie Utsinger said:  Books of Wonder is NYC's oldest and largest children's bookstore, offering a huge selection of books, including limited editions and original children's book art. In addition to weekly Storytimes, Books of Wonder hosts launch parties, meet the author, and a variety of other events for kids. My favorite spot in the store? The wall of Oz, an entire bookcase devoted to Oz books by L. Frank Baum and his successors.

Jennie Utsinger said:  This East Village toy and clothing store is filled with special handmade items, toys, and gifts. Children will love marveling at the unique hot air balloons, globes, and mobiles hanging on the ceiling while grown-ups shop. Make sure to admire the array of puppets lining the walls.

Jennie Utsinger said:  WORD in Greenpoint has a lovely children's section and frequent storytimes and kids' events. Your little book-lover can even celebrate their birthday at WORD, with a party themed around popular children's books.

Jennie Utsinger said:  4D performances of children's books? Time to plan an outing to Book Culture on Columbus and view one of Diverging Element's physical and improvisational storytime shows. Past performances have included Pete the Cat and Children Make Terrible Pets. Frequent Storytimes at Book Culture's Columbus, Broadway and LIC locations include Turkish, Persian, and bilingual Spanish/English readings.

Jennie Utsinger said:  Mary Arnold Toys has been serving the Upper East Side for over 80 years since it opened in 1931! The store is filled to the brim with toys and games and the owners are usually inside happy to answer questions and guide shoppers. Whether you're looking to build with Lego, dress up in costume, or choose your child's first scooter, this neighborhood store is sure to deliver.

Jennie Utsinger said:  Puppet shows, story hours, and lit talks for young adults - Bank Street Bookstore has it all! The weekly free improvisational puppet shows are geared towards kids aged 2-8, but all ages are welcome. Story hours are offered multiple times a week. Lit Talks feature a dramatic reading of a high quality middle grade/YA novel (kids aged 9-14), followed by discussion and analysis of the featured excerpt.

Jennie Utsinger said:  Knowledgeable staffers curate the charming children's book section at The Corner Bookstore. If you want to give your bookworm free reign, the store offers special store charge accounts for children. Another incentive for frequent reading? Children aged 8 to 13 may receive advance copies of selected novels and publish reviews in the fall and spring issues of The Corner Bookstore’s Kids Newsletter, by Kids, for Kids. On Christmas Eve, visit Santa Claus and sample homemade cookies.

Jennie Utsinger said:   “Grandma” Dawn owns this family-run Harlem toy boutique. The friendly staff is always eager to help you find that special item, from puzzles to games to arts & crafts. Books and dolls in the store are representative of the rich heritage of the Harlem community.