The best toy stores in Manitoba

TOAD HALL TOYS
Celebrating its 35th anniversary this year, and run by the original owners’ daughter, this shop is Manitoba’s oldest and largest independent toy retailer. Their collection of playthings comes from more than 50 countries worldwide, and includes almost every Sesame Street plush toy in existence (along with several other of Jim Henson’s creations), classic wind-up robots and spinning tops, dollhouses and miniatures, hobby trains and plenty of Matryoshka nesting dolls. If you happen to be in the store when the staff magician is around, you’ll be astounded by some of his tricks. 54 ARTHUR STREET, WINNIPEG. 204-956-2195; TOADHALLTOYS.COM

A CHILD’S PLACE
Even though there’s plenty of fun and educational toys and games in-store for babies and toddlers (like a host of Lamaze toys from their Infant Development System), A Child’s Place caters to new moms and moms-to-be with their extensive collection of all things baby, including Baby Bjorn carriers, Robeez shoes, and Avent and Medela breastfeeding and bottle- feeding products. 91-1225 ST. MARY’S ROAD, WINNIPEG. 204-257-5289

KITE AND KABOODLE
Located in one of the most historic and adored places in Winnipeg, Kite and Kaboodle can be found in the Johnson Terminal at the Forks. There’s a toy in every nook and cranny of this jam-packed store. With more than 25,000 toys lining their walls, it’s almost guaranteed that they’ll have what you’re looking for, including Lego Star Wars Advent calendars. Find books for kids and parents, science and activity kits, posters, kites and more. 25 FORKS MARKET ROAD, WINNIPEG. 204-942-2800; KITEANDKABOODLE.COM