5 Independent Toy Stores in Vancouver.
December 06 2022, Mercedes-Benz Vancouver
Looking for some perfect gifts for the special kids in your life? Choose local over big-box retailers this holiday season—not only will it be a better shopping experience, you’re more likely to find unique gifts on the shelves along with personalized service. Here are our five recommendations for independent toy stores in the city.
Kaboodles
This beloved independent shop began its life in Point Grey in 1980, but has since moved—and expanded—to three stores scattered across Vancouver. Kaboodles has one location in Kitsilano, one in Cambie Village, and one at the Kids Market on Granville Island. This is the place to go for expert advice from seasoned staffers, who can help you handpick the perfect present out of the hundreds items in stock.
The Granville Toy Company
The Kids Market is the obvious place to find the iconic Granville Island Toy Company, but those living in East Van will be happy to know they also have a second location at Main St. & 17th Ave. From science and nature toys, puzzles and games, to arts and crafts—plus the city’s largest assortment of Playmobil—you’re likely to find something here for the playful adults in your life, as well as the kids.
Knotty Toys
As the name alludes, Knotty Toys is all about wooden toys, stocking the most complete collection of wooden toys for kids of any age in the country. Another Kids Market favourite on Granville Island, Knotty Toys is your go-to for model kits, traditional wheeled toys, wooden puzzles, dollhouses, and so many more nostalgic gifts that will last a lifetime.
Dilly Dally Kids
Commercial Drive is home to Dilly Dally Kids, a neighbourhood favourite for thoughtfully sourced gifts for any age range, from baby to young adult. If you can’t make it into the store, Dilly Dally’s website makes your shopping experience as easy as possible: there is a handy “shop by age” filter for those hard-to-buy-for age ranges, along with category refinements such as “dress up for 6 & 7 year olds”.
Kidsbooks
While not a toy store per se, Kidsbooks is a Vancouver institution—with good reason. Open since 1983, it should absolutely be on your holiday-present-destination list. While many independent bookstores in the city were shuttering, Kidsbooks expanded to a huge storefront on West Broadway and another location in North Vancouver. The book selection is well-curated, the staff is knowledgeable, and they offer complimentary gift wrapping. (They also sell puzzles, games, and other fun stuff.)
