No one warns you just how hard toy shopping can be once you have a kid. There are simply so many options out there, and half of the products are pretty much guaranteed to break within the week. If you are looking for a better playtime, you need a shop with curated options as well as expert staff members ready to help you find the perfect thing! As a Chicago family photographer, I love working with parents to create memories they can carry with them for years to come! Here are the toy stores in North Shore I always recommend!
657 Vernon Avenue, Glencoe, Illinois 60022
The Wild Child was started by a North Shore mom of two who wanted to make sure every child could have high-quality toys parents could feel good about! They prioritize green, organic materials you won’t mind having around your house. With imagination-rich products for pretty much every interest, you’ll find the perfect products for your child!
310 Happ Rd #128, Northfield, Illinois 60093
For over 30 years, The Children’s Gift Shop has been providing an engaging toy store to kids all over the North Shore Chicago area. They are constantly searching for the next great thing that will capture your child’s attention while teaching them problem-solving skills. Plus, they offer super-fast service anytime you need a last-minute gift!

654 Central Avenue, Highland Park, Illinois 60035
Beanstalk Toys and Books has premium toys for kids of all ages. This North Shore store mixes retro-inspired favorites with the hottest toys available, offering something amazing every time you walk through their doors. Their STEAM-based selection is the ideal thing for those curious kiddos!
644 North Bank Lane, Lake Forest, Illinois 60045
Sage Explorers is dedicated to helping your family find brand-new products to encourage your child’s learning. Their award-winning selection features toys designed to kick your child’s brain into overdrive! They also have a Learning Center where you can book tutoring lessons for kids from kindergarten through high school.

3115 Dundee Road, Northbrook, Illinois 60062
Parkway Presents is a toy store that is all about helping North Shore kids get away from screens. This shop is going to let your child have the best time ever, no batteries needed! Your child can find products that let them conduct science experiments or build up their logistical skills. From friendship bracelet kits to travel activities, they have just the thing for your little one!
5407 W Devon Ave, Chicago, Illinois 60646
Creativo is a local shop stocked with some of the best-loved brands on the market! This shop brings you plushes from Squisable, slime from Crazy Aaron’s, and building sets from LEGO. They even host their own summer camp where your child can have the best time having adventures while school is out!
If you have been looking for your new favorite destination, I think you are going to adore these toy stores in North Shore Chicago. With these locations, you are going to find a product your child will love!
Do you need more ways to make this a season worth remembering? Then I would love to connect! I am a Chicago family photographer, and I love working with clients to make sure they can celebrate every milestone. If you’ve been considering booking some pictures with your favorite people, I would love to have a conversation so you can decide if I’m a match for you. Hope to chat soon!