My favorite toy stores in Austin

As a new mama, you’ve got lots to think about! While it might not be the most pressing issue, finding stores with the best toys for your little ones is something to consider. The good news is that Austin is full of some of the best locally-owned toy stores you can find! 

In this day and age, it’s so easy to plop your babies in front of a screen to entertain them. It’s a great form of distraction, but real toys are just as important and will keep them from becoming dependent on screen time. And we don’t mean electronic toys, but toys you don’t have to plug into the wall. 

Austin has some excellent options for toys that don’t even require batteries. Not to mention that we can include toys in our photoshoot if you’d like. Let’s look at some of the best toy stores in Austin to check out! Some of them even have treats for mama, because shopping doesn’t always have to be about baby! 

Terra Toys 

Terra Toys has been locally owned and operated in Austin since 1978. Not only will you find a fabulous selection of toys here, but an endless supply of novelty candy as well. The owners of Terra Toys got their start making hand-crafted wooden toys and have been a success ever since. The store is over 12,000 square feet, so you can take your time exploring one of the best toy stores in North Austin! There’s even an espresso bar so you can refuel yourself on your shopping spree. 

Toy Joy

Toy Joy is an independently owned toy store in Austin that’s been open since 1987. They currently have two locations, and there’s something for everyone. Remember, mama’s can like toys too! Toy Joy will surely have you taking a journey down memory lane with collectibles. Currently, there are locations on West 2nd Street and Airport Blvd. Toy Joy is home to plenty of unique toys, to be prepared to spend a good amount of time here. 

Anna’s Toy Depot 

This aptly named Austin toy store was opened by Anna in 1989. According to the store’s website, Anna opened the store when she was a new mommy, so I’m sure you can relate! She didn’t want to commit to full-time hours in advertising, and Anna’s Toy Depot was born. When you shop here, you’re supporting local and another mother. 

In fact, Anna’s story begins with selling used toys out of her care directly to childcare places. Now, you’ll find all the classics such as wooden toys and educational toys at Anna’s Toy Depot. You can’t go wrong stopping by Anna’s Toy Depot for your little ones. This one is located in South Austin on South Lamar.

Over the Rainbow

If you want to see a historical landmark while buying toys for your little one, step into Over the Rainbow. This one is not only one of the best toy stores in Austin but the oldest! Owned by Stanley Moore, Over the Rainbow has been in business for over 45 years. Here you’ll find everything from stuffed animals to sensory toys. They don’t have a website, but they update their Facebook page and Instagram.

Kinda Krazy Kids & Kompany

Continuing our list we have Kinda Krazy Kids & Kompany. According to their website, this Austin toy store is owned and operated by a former school teacher and a proud grandma. So, you know you’ll be getting something good! Here you’ll find an excellent collection of toys, books, and even clothes for your little ones. It’s also a great one-stop-shop if you’re looking for gifts. You can find them in West Lake Hills. 

Kids N’ Cats

Kids N’ Cats is another one of the best toy stores in Austin. They’ve been in business since 1991, and boast a huge collection of stuffed animals. So, if you’ve got a little one who likes a stuffed pretty much anything, this is your place! It’s also a gift shop, so if you’re in town visiting you may find souvenirs here. They specialize in retro t-shirts, as well. Their website also states that when you visit there will be a dog on staff. Along with toys, you’ll also find vintage clothing, incense, essential oils, and plenty of other treats for mama! 

Monkey See, Monkey Do!

If you find yourself on South Congress, you’ll know this storefront. Monkey See, Monkey Do! Is definitely more of a collectible shop, but you’ll find toys for your little ones tucked in as well. This is another store that may be more for mama, since they have lots of vintage figurines, but they also have modern toys! Also great for gifts, and it’s located right in the main shopping drag of SoCo. 

Little Limbo

While you’re on South Congress, stop by Little Limbo. This Austin toy store is a branch off of the jewelry store, Limbo. Here you’ll find children’s clothing and toys that will fit your mama style. Not to mention you can wander off to Limbo and find something for yourself! 

Conclusion

To sum it up, there isn’t just one toy store considered the best in Austin. With so many local options to choose from, you’ll be sure to find something for your baby, and yourself! It can be so tough to find unique toys when you go to big box stores. Sure that stuff can be great, but there’s something about making memories for your kids with unique toys you can’t get anywhere else. 

When you shop at the best toy stores in Austin, you’ll be in good hands. When we’re planning your shoot, please let me know if there are any toys you’d like to include. Happy shopping!