2021’s Best Toy Stores in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh parents seeking a special toy shopping experience have plenty of mom-and-pop classic toy stores and some unique specialty national shops to choose from for their little one’s playthings.

Whether it’s holiday gift giving time or your special tot’s birthday, it’s hard to find quality toys in big box chains or online shopping. If the child you’re buying for is not your own, it’s hard to know what toys they want and what toys they already have, so a GiftYa personalized egift card is the perfect option to ensure the child gets exactly what they want! You can customize the egift card and easily send it to the gift receiver — an easy, thoughtful gift for any occasion!

Locally-Owned Shops

Finding a neighborhood locally owned toy shop guarantees a charming experience and personalized service. Here are the best mom-and-pop shops to buy toys in PIttsburgh:

S.W. Randall Toyes and Giftes

A magical toyland like no other

Thousands of toys are on display at S.W. Randall Toys

‍630 Smithfield St | Pittsburgh | swrandalltoys.com

With three locations in Downtown, Squirrel Hill, and Shadyside, S.W. Randall is Pittsburgh’s oldest and largest specialty toy store.

Bringing children delight since 1970, you’ll find everything from classic playthings to the latest trends and character toys. WIth over 20,000 items in stock, you could easily get lost in this magical toyland like no other in the Burgh.

“My favorite toy store! I love this place and it's magical to me. We've bought some amazing gifts, games and toys here. I can't wait to bring my daughter here someday. It's a true diamond in the rough.” - Yelp Review

Shadyside Variety Store

Simple, classic toys for the whole family

A toy for everyone of any age!

5421 Walnut St | Pittsburgh | shadyside-variety-store.business.site

Transport back in time to a traditional neighborhood variety store at the Shadyside Variety Store.

Located in the heart of the quaint Shadyside shopping district, the cozy shop offers simple classic toys for every age, along with new toys like coveted LEGO sets and craft kits. They even have an antique cash register for a charming toy buying experience.

“Love this store, they are always happy to show you new items and find something to meet your personal or gift needs. So much to see, don't forget to look up and see what is on the higher shelves.” - Yelp Review

Brambler Boutique

Ethically-made products for the hippest kids

This boutique features some modern toys for the coolest kids on the block.

3609 Butler St | Pittsburgh | bramblerboutique.com

The perfect, hip boutique featuring everything you need from infants through toddlerhood, in Pittsburgh’s hippest neighborhood, Lawrenceville.

Dedicated to providing organic, sustainable, ethically-made goods, from apparel and dinerware, to quality books and playthings for the coolest kids on the block.

“A great store for baby/children gifts and clothing etc. I visited the store on a Saturday and the staff were very helpful in helping me choose a gift similar to items on a registry.  Quality brands and appropriately priced.” - Yelp Review

Happy Baby Company

Because happy babies deserve the highest quality toys possible

Shop quality brands and unique toys at Happy Baby Company.

558 Lincoln Ave | Bellevue | happybabycompany.com

Another must stop for parents from newborns to toddlers featuring unique, natural and sustainable toys and gifts, cloth diapers, and baby and parent accessories, Happy Baby Company is located in the heart of up and coming Bellevue.

You’ll find quality brands like Melissa & Doug, Skip Hop, Tagu, Haba, Eco-Kids, and Fat Brain Toys in this quaint shop with a very friendly and helpful staff. They’re also Pittsburgh’s experts on cloth diapering and babywearing!

“Super cute and super unique clothing, toys, and  health and wellness items for babies and toddlers...Happy Baby Company is amazing!” - Google Review

Kawaii Gifts

For some of the most unique gifts in Pittsburgh'

These cute Kawaii Toys will put a smile on any child's face.

738 Copeland St | Pittsburgh | shopkawaii.com

This specialty shop is full of all things Kawaii-- “loveable, cute, adorable” -- Kawaii refers to the culture of cuteness in Japan.

From bento boxes and kitschy stationary, to plush toys and collectables, there’s no other shop quite like it in Pittsburgh.

"I absolutely love everything they sell, tons of cute happy things. They also have a daiso section with great cookware and nice little home things that I especially like.” - Yelp Review

Lynlott Miniatures Dollhouse Junction

For exquisite dollhouses and more!

Your child will adore one of these life-like dollhouses from Lynlott.

223 Commercial Ave | Pittsburgh | dollhousejunction.com

Another one of a kind speciality shop located in Aspinwall, Lynlott Miniatures is heaven for dollhouse and miniature enthusiasts of all ages.

Get lost in the exquisite details found in every miniature item from delicate afternoon tea settings to realistic miniature macbooks.

“...Sales and crafts people really know what they're doing; they carry quality houses (no tab and slot) and they build/custom build for you, too...Attention to detail on their houses is fabulous.” - Yelp Review

Pop Culture Comics and Toys 

Toys, classic comic books, and collectibles 

Comics as far as the eye can see and boxes to sort through until you find the perfect one!

1105 Mt Royal Blvd | Pittsburgh | buypopculture.com

If you have an obsession with classic comic books, this toy store might be the best spot for you! They buy and sell comic books as well as toys like action figures, vintage video games like Atari, original movie posters, and much more. If there’s one comic book missing from your esteemed collection, you might be able to find the missing link here!

“Recently sold my collection of Pops, the owner gave us a fair price for our collection.   The store has plenty of comics & toys, you won't be disappointed!” - Yelp Review 

Dragonfly Castle Toys

Toys for every age group, stationery accessories, and fashionable gifts 

They have toys for babies, toddlers, grade school level children, teens, and even gifts for adults! 

4747 Butler St | Pittsburgh | dragonflycastle.com

Dragonfly Castle Toys used to have a 1840’s storefront, which was renovated to the newly updated building we see today. They are back in business at this new storefront! They specialize in European and American made toys that will stand the test of time -- constant use from children who are less than gentle. They offer a selection of puzzles, baby, toddler, and preschool toys, school age and preteen items, stationery accessories, fashionable gifts for women, and sustainable made gifts! This covers all your options, so you’re sure to find the perfect toy at this location. 

“A small selection of unique, boutique toys. From eco-friendly European wood toys, to hand-made tutu's, and some of the most beautiful and unique children's books, this shop is packed with gems!” - Yelp Review 

D and E Collectibles - Vintage and Collectible Toys 

Exactly what the name suggests 

Looking for a rare comic to finish off your collection -- D and E might have it!

700 Main St | Sharpsburg | dandecollectibles.com

D and E Collectibles began when two guys, born in the 80’s, decided to buy and sell childhood toys from their basements. Soon this hobby began to take over both of their homes. This is when they knew it was time for a real storefront. In 2013, they opened the store you see today! They sell collectible vintage action figures like Star Wars and Marvel, along with Nintendo, and collectible comic books!

“D and E Collectibles is a cool place to buy and sell all sorts of vintage toys, collectables, and action figures. Very knowledgeable and fair folks.  I recommend a visit if you happen to be in the area.” - Yelp Review 

National Specialty Chains

There are some quality national specialty shops that are worth a trip. Here are our picks for the best national specialty shops for toys in Pittsburgh:

Learning Express

For, well ... any toy you can think of, really!

Toys on toys on toys!

1500 Washington Rd | Pittsburgh | learningexpress.com

Enjoy a friendly, hands-on environment and engage with the knowledgeable toy experts on staff to find the perfect gift for littles ones from birth through 11+.

From STEAM toys and puzzles to games, dolls, stuffed animals and books, you’ll find a wide array of quality toys at Learning Express.

“They never disappoint!  My go to for all holidays and toy-related needs!  The staff is super helpful, and the store is always organized.  I have also ordered online from LE and it's been exceptional as well.” - Yelp Review

LEGO Store

A classic: The Lego Store in Pittsburgh has something for everyone!

The Lego Store has sets of all shapes, sizes, and colors.

1000 Ross Park Mall Dr Ste D04 | Pittsburgh | lego.com

LEGOs have been around for nearly 80 years and are loved by toddlers, teens, and adults alike!

The magical building block has an empire of special building sets from Star Wars and Marvel, to Disney and their own line of elves, architecture, and robotic building sets.

The new store located in Ross Park mall features some amazing showpieces from a realistic Bugatti to an ornate Asian Pagoda, the Millennium Falcon to a grand working ferris wheel. There are play tables to build on with Duplo pieces, build your own character bins, and a wall of bins for a pick your own piece pack.

“Just love shopping at a great little store in Ross Park Mall!   I love the pick a block section!   I bought some amazing selections for my nephews last Christmas!   I plan on getting more this year!” - Yelp Review

Build-A-Bear

Special toys that come to life

Put a smile on your child's face at Build-A-Bear!

1000 Ross Park Mall Dr Ste K09 | Pittsburgh | buildabear.com

A teddy bear or stuffed animal is one of the most classic, heartwarming toys a child can possess. Help your child create their very own stuffie from scratch at Build-a-Bear!

Children can pick their favorite furry friend to bring to life, from traditional teddies to their favorite characters. The customization doesn’t stop there — they can add sounds (like a personalized recorded message!) and scents, and last but not least, their iconic special heart. After giving them their first hug to make sure they are just right, they can give their new friend a bath, then choose an outfit for them to wear.

They even host birthday parties, just pick a package and their team does the rest.

Purchase a GiftYa To Build-A-Bear

“Bless the hearts of the ladies that work here.  They are so patient with the kids and should really be kindergarten teachers.  This particular lady that helped us out was so sweet to my niece that the tears kind of stopped.” - Yelp Review

No matter what kind of toy you’re shopping for -- whether for a child or yourself, one of these locations is sure to give you exactly what you’re looking to purchase!