9 best toy stores in Toronto

1. Mastermind Toys

This proudly Canadian chain offers an expertly curated selection of toys from popular brands like Playmobil, Glitter Girls, and Ty (at one point they were reportedly selling 4,000 beanie babies every week); plus games and books. Frequent shoppers will love Mastermind’s free loyalty program, which entitles members to complimentary gift wrapping (with curly ribbons, no less) and loot-bag assembly, plus other perks. Various locations, mastermindtoys.com

2. Kol Kid

Nestled on an eclectic strip of Queen Street West, this independent boutique is just as cool as its surroundings. Parents in search of something a little different won’t be disappointed—Kol Kid specializes in charming handcrafted toys and super-stylish playthings by coveted international brands like Denmark’s Maileg, France’s Moulin Roty and Germany’s Grimms. 674 Queen Street West, kolkid.ca

3. Playful Minds

If your little one is a mini Martha (Stewart, of course), this shop should be your go-to destination. It’s a treasure trove of crafty kits (kids can make their own jewellery, lip balm, ceramics and more). And there are lots of other educational offerings too, including puzzles, card games and STEM toys (build your own catapult, anyone?). Plus, join their free loyalty program and collect 500 points to receive a $25 store credit. 657 St. Clair Avenue West, playfulmindstoys.ca

4. Scooter Girl

Established in 2002, this west-end shop is “fiercely independent” and committed to carrying unique, design-conscious kids’ stuff. The shelves are stocked with the usual suspects (Playmobil, Lego, Corolle), but the real draw here is the brands you won’t find at big-box stores; for example, Janod, a French company that specializes in beautiful wooden toys. 187 Roncesvalles Avenue, scootergirltoys.com

5. Silly Goose Kids

Local parents swear by this Danforth boutique’s high-quality toys and new-baby essentials (think baby slings, onesies, etc.). A play area at the back of the store keeps kiddies entertained and also serves as a gathering place for both grown-ups and little ones—Silly Goose Kids regularly hosts story-telling sessions, sing-alongs and workshops (i.e. baby-wearing 101). The play area’s been temporarily closed due to COVID but is set to open back up by Fall 2022. 2054 Danforth Avenue, sillygoosekids.com

6. The Swag Sisters

Located in Little India, this independent boutique specializes in high-quality, fully loaded loot bags (made from biodegradable cellophane!). You’ll also find craft supplies, dolls, stuffed animals and building blocks (Lego, Magformers, and more) in stock. 1511 Gerrard Street East, theswagsisters.com

7. Toys"R"Us

Raise your hand if you remember the old Toys"R"Us jingle (“I don’t wanna grow up, I’m a Toys"R"Us kid”). Nostalgia aside, there are a couple of very good reasons that Toys"R"Us is one of the top Toronto toy stores: convenient locations around the GTA (including the Dufferin Mall, and Yonge and Eglinton) and huge amounts of inventory. Whether you’re looking for Fisher-Price, Barbie or Lego, all the big names are here in copious quantities. Various locations, toysrus.ca

8. Toytown

This legendary toy shop, located on Avenue Road just north of Lawrence, has been in business since 1952— it claims to be the oldest independent toy store in Toronto. All the major toy companies are represented here, including Little Tykes, Hasbro, Mattel, and more, and experienced staffers are always willing to make recommendations for any age, from infants to teens. 1754 Avenue Road, toytown.ca

9. Treasure Island Toys

Independently owned and operated by moms Katie and Lori, this store has been a fixture on the Danforth since 1988. Kids love the “Toy Ahoy” (a pirate ship in the middle of the shop) as well as the multiple play stations (such as a Hape Doll House and Brio Train Table), while parents appreciate the knowledgeable staff and neighbourhood feel. 581 Danforth Avenue, treasureislandtoys.ca