Had enough of Cyber Week and shopping online? Small toy shops are the go-to destinations for those who prefer to shop brick and mortar stores for their gifts. Shopping these smaller local stores gives a more personal shopping experience and patrons can find unique and fun gift ideas. These shops often provide demonstrations and offer one-on-one assistance to ensure you select the perfect gifts.
At these local Long Island shops you will find everything from the hottest new toy trends to the classics, educational toys, party favors and much more:
Funky Monkey
Funky Monkey Toys and Books Is A Trendy, Funky, Cool Store That Will Keep You One Step Ahead! You should definitely plan to stop here if you’re looking for what’s new and hot, as they often get a hold of popular and trendy products before other stores. Watch for in-store and seasonally-themed events as well.
Fun Stuff Toys
Specializing in kids’ toys. Shop for creative, educational, developmental games, puzzles, and specialty toys. Fun Stuff Toys has a friendly staff who hold playful demos on the latest and greatest toys. There are many seasonal and trendy toys, action figures, models, educational toys, riding scooters and mainstream items for children of all ages.
More Information: 3639 Merrick Rd., Seaford) 516-409-8697; Click here for more info
Stevenson’s Toys and Games
With two locations in the Hamptons, Stevenson offers a variety of main stream and rare toys. They pride themselves on offering toys from around the world that are both fun and stimulating. Some toys will rekindle memories from your own childhood; others are new and exciting. Free gift wrapping on all purchases.
More Information: Southampton (631-283-2111) and East Hampton (631-527-7222); Click here for more info
M.J. Beanz Toys
At M.J. Beanz Toys you’ll find toys of the trendy and educational variety, as well as the traditional activity and coloring books, dolls, stuffed animals, puzzles and arts and crafts kits. There are also party favors and educational products.
More Information: 345 S. Oyster Bay Rd., Plainview; 516-827-7700; Click here for more info
G. Willikers
At G. Willikers seasonal gifts and trendy board games are the norm. Here you can find educational toys, dolls, action toys, cuddly stuffed animals and items for babies and toddlers. Art tools and kits, outdoor riding toys and books are also mainstays.
More Information: 22 Forest Ave., Locust Valley; 516-671-3335, Click here for more info
Einstein’s Attic
At this store in the heart of Northport village, you’ll find more than just toys from major manufacturers, but also handmade and specialty items for dolls and collectibles. Educational and science toys are available too, as are seasonal offerings.
More Information: 79 Main St., Northport; 631-261-7564, Click here for more info
Funni Business
Toys are the main option of this playful shop notable for the large “Gumby” statue that stands in front of its window, but stock also includes seasonal and lawn games, as well as party favors, collectibles, retro toys, baby playthings, books and candy.
More Information: 30 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay; 516-922-3900, Click here for more info
Boardwalk Games
Boardwalk Games has a little something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a gift for a child or a seasoned gamer, the store specializes in strategy games, jigsaw puzzles and chess sets. Boardwalk Games sells collectible versions of classic games. The store has a wide array of chess sets and variation chess games as well as a large selection of Monopoly sets.
More Information: 35 Creek Rd., Port Jefferson; 631-928-4263; Click here for more info
Matty’s Toy Stop
A family-owned operation, this local chain of stores has 4 locations serving the Long Island area. Each locations has a variety of mainstream toys as well as educational items and playthings for babies. Rows of shelves filled with games, toys, books and puzzles, this store is a fun house for young kids.
More Information: Locations: 19 Covert Ave., Floral Park, 516-358-4010; 1350 Peninsula Blvd., Hewlett, 516-295-2555; 2138 Merrick Mall, Merrick, 516-771-4209; 284 Sunrise Hwy., Rockville Centre; 516-634-0030; Click here for more info
Goldsmith’s Toys and Electronics
Recently reopened in a new space slightly down the block, Goldsmith’s is still well known for its large collection of rubber ducks; it also carries plush toys, beach and bath toys, books, art supplies, kites, puzzles and more. They carry a full line of Thomas the Tank Engine, Lego, Melissa and Doug, and Lionel Trains. Oh and Goldsmith’s also has electronics, just in case you need batteries, cables or a new phone charger.
More Information: 128 Main St., Greenport; 631-477-0466; Click here for more info
Learning Tower
LearningTower Toys features hard to find, innovative, high quality games and toys. Their mission is to provide children with quality products that foster personal expression and self esteem. Learning Tower features mainstream toys, but also focuses on interesting board games, collectibles, figurines and building toys. Be sure and explore its puppet section, which includes a wide selection of well-crafted options that range from finger fun to hand dolls that work best with practiced manipulation.
More Information: 4747 Nesconset Hwy., Port Jefferson Station; 631-928-2040, Click here for more info
Lakeshore Learning
Lakeshore Learning may not be a traditional toy store but it carries hands-on learning materials. Customers can open any product to take a closer look before making a purchase, and the store hosts free events for kids every Saturday. Some things you’ll find there: building sets, educational toys, science kits, math/reading games and art supplies.
More information: 2079 Hillside Ave., New Hyde Park; 516-616-9360; Click here for more info