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Best Chicago Toy Stores

For children in Chicago (or even those who are just young at heart), there are more than a few toy stores in town that make a big impression. The best Chicago toy stores carry both classic and more unusual toys and games that are designed to spark a child's imagination and sense of adventure. Adults can get in on the fun, too. It's hard to leave a toy store without a big smile on your face, and spending even a few minutes in some of these, the best toy stores in Chicago, is guaranteed to improve your day. These stores are also characterized by the caring, friendly staff who aim to put just the right toy or game into a child's hands. There's magic in these toy stores, and best of all, you bring a little bit of it home with every purchase. - Christine Zibas

Cat And Mouse
Cat & Mouse (credit: cat-n-mouse.com)

Cat and Mouse Game Store

2212 W. Armitage Ave.
Chicago, IL 60647
(773) 384-4454
www.cat-n-mouse.com

The staff at Cat and Mouse really know their games. With an in-house stock of more than 600 games (puzzles too), chances are, the one you are looking for is here. From Candyland to advanced adult games of strategy, this store has it all. With regular game nights several times a week, in addition to special events (like new game releases), this is a fun, interactive place to be for gamers of all types. The store offers advanced ordering for new releases and special orders, plus free gift wrapping.

Timeless Toys
Timeless Toys. (credit: timelesstoyschicago.com)

Timeless Toys

4749 N. Lincoln Ave.
Chicago, IL 60625
(773) 334-4445
www.timelesstoyschicago.com

At Timeless Toys, the focus (besides fun) is on educational toys that stir the imagination. Located in the Lincoln Square neighborhood, the store was created to be, in the words of owners Harry and Martha Burrows, "an urban oasis for children and families." Here you will find the classic toys you loved as a child, including tricycles, puppets, wooden toys and more. This is a special place, with a great neighborhood feel and special events the whole family will love (puppet theater, anyone?).

Toys Et Cetera
The Hyde Park location of Toys Et Cetera. (credit: toysetcetera.com)

Toys Et Cetera

1502 E. 55th St.
Chicago, IL 60615
(773) 324-6039
www.toysetcetera.com

With four Chicago locations (one in Evanston), Toys Et Cetera prides itself on being a toy store with a heart. With unique toys, games and books from around the world, the store brings a loving intelligence to their quest to teach and entertain children of all ages. Moreover, amid recalls of so many toys, Toys Et Cetera makes it a top priority to ensure store products are safe for your children. There's also free gift wrapping, and in some cases, free delivery, too.

Uncle Fun
Some of the antics at Uncle Fun. (credit: unclefunchicago.com)

Uncle Fun

1138 W. Belmont Ave.
Chicago, IL 60657
(773) 477-8223
www.unclefunchicago.com

You know you are going to enjoy your browsing experience at Uncle Fun's even before you step foot inside this toy store. Its garish-yet-happy exterior screams fun – and grabs the attention of the kid inside us all. This toy store is just as much for adults as children, with a wide selection of both political and gag gifts aimed at the older crowd. The merchandise here has a quick turnover, so you'll find something new on every visit. If you find something that tickles your funny bone, you better be sure and grab it; you might not find it on your return.

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