With the holiday season in full swing, we’re taking a look at where you can get the best local gifts for kids & teens.
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One Stop Comics
One Stop Comics was founded by RIck Manzella, a comic connoisseur who had over 8,000 golden age comics by the time he was 9 years old.
Today, Rick has over 3,200 square feet of comic goodness, including Marvel, DC, and independent comics as well.
One Stop Comics also has Chicagoland’s best comic subscription service, the perfect gift for the comic lover in your life.
Top Cut Comics
Founded in 2010 by Jimmy and Debbie Ballard, Top Cut Comics has proudly been serving the Chicagoland area for over ten years.
They have a huge selection, including:
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Books
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Collectibles
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Games
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Toys
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And most importantly — comics!
Stop in to see everything they have to offer.
Chimera's Comics
Chimera's Comics was created with a special vision in mind — to be a place where the fantastic comes to life.
Their goal is to make sure their store is a place where traditional comic readers feel right at home, but also a place that will be inviting to new readers young and old alike.
They offer an extensive array of comics & collectibles, and also host gaming tournaments.
It’s the perfect place to add to your shopping list.
Grandmaster Games
Grandmaster Games in Oak Park is a tabletop game store focused on board games, Magic the Gathering, and lighter miniature games.
They also have a small selection of video games in store.
Great for the kid that has a big imagination!
Timeless Entertainment
Just like the name says, Timeless Entertainment offers games from every decade. Customers love their store for the awesome staff, great deals, and retro vibes.
They have an incredible game selection, high quality items, plus so many options to choose from.
If your kids are into retro gaming, this is definitely the place for them.
Colony Games
Colony Games is a local gaming store that can satisfy all of your gaming needs.
From Magic the Gathering and Pokemon to a wide range of board games, they have something for everyone’s taste. Plus, they sell gaming supplies, dice, and expansion packs for many of your favorite board games.
Their regulars compliment the great atmosphere of the store, and the incredible owners that keep it that way.
They’re currently open by appointment only.
Fair Game
The second Fair Game store — located in downtown La Grange — Fair Game is a family-friendly community-focused board and card game retailer.
They have a large selection of activities and games that you can play in the store and also host organized play, private parties, and other special events. With products geared toward all ages, Fair Game offers something for everyone.
Their games include:
Board games
Card games
Miniature games
Role playing games
Puzzles
And gaming accessories
Gepetto’s Toy Box
A true gem in Oak Park, Gepetto’s Toy Box is a European-inspired toy shop filled with back-to-basics toys made from wood and natural fibers. These are toys that feel good, look good, and can withstand years of play and exploration — they truly stand the test of time.
From puzzles and games for the whole family, to world music and books, arts and crafts, or fabulous building toys, there’s something here for every age. They also offer a selection of products for eco-conscious living as well as a fun variety of gift items for tweens to adults!
At Gepetto’s Toy box, their goal is simple. To offer high quality toys that provide purposeful play that engages and captivates all of the senses of your little ones.
We’re sure there’s something they’ll fall in love with.
Berwyn’s Toys and Trains
Berwyn’s Toys & Trains is a family owned toy and hobby shop located in Berwyn since 1992.
Their original location was on Harlem avenue, but they have since moved to Ogden Ave located on historic Route 66.
Inside their store, you'll find many items that will return you to the 1930’s, 40’s, and 50’s when Route 66 was alive — from vintage car models to old trains.
It’s a true experience for the kids, and kids at heart!
Waterlemon
Waterlemon in La Grange is a true treat. Started by Nina after she moved back to Chicago from Los Angeles, she knew she needed somewhere for her daughter to escape to during the winter months (or any month!). And After lots of planning, Waterlemon was born.
Waterlemon is a stylish, cozy, and modern indoor play space (and party venue) where children can play creatively and peacefully and parents can relax with their coffee.
It’s also an adorable shop where you can find trendy toys, books, clothing and accessories, and party supplies for kids. So whether you’re taking them shopping or out to play, it’s a great treat during the holidays.
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Pumpkin Moon
Pumpkin Moon is a gift store in Oak Park that specializes in eclectic and whimsical toys and gifts.
Here, you’ll find a rotating inventory including toys, books, cards, magnets, mugs, and vintage goods. It’s the best place to find superheroes, pop culture figures, and more of all your favorite characters. There’s also an incredible stock of shirts for all ages.
You can also find a large array of old-time candy and wind up toys, perfect to add to the magic of the holidays.
The Darling Shop
At The Darling Shop in La Grange, you’ll find carefully curated cuteness around every corner. This girl owned gift shop has unique gifts for all of the darlings in your life — including women, men, teens, and children.
From adorable cards and unique necklaces to funky cups and printed tees, there’s a never ending array of color and aesthetics.
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The Book Table
At The Book Table, a fiercely independent bookstore since 2003, they’re on a mission to make sure there is truly a book for everyone’s taste — no seriously, just try them!
Started by husband and wife duo Rachel and Jason, The Book Table started as a small space and has since doubled in size, allowing them to keep the shelves stocked with almost every single genre you can imagine, for both adults and children.
Stop in to see what they’ve got, and if you don’t find what you’re looking for, they’re here to help make sure you get it!
The Looking Glass
A beloved store in the community, The Looking Glass is more than just another used bookstore. They sell a wide selection of gently used books, but also carry a variety of book related gift items, pieces for local artisans, and a variety of greeting cards.
They are truly a one stop shop for gifts for everyone in your family!
They also offer book genre discussion groups, book related craft classes for adults and children, as well as exclusive memberships to their Book Lovers Club.
A stop that should be on everyone’s shopping list!
Los Amigos Books
At Los Amigos Books, you’ll find bilingual and Spanish language books for kids that are published in America, Latin America, and Spain.
Their owners believe that every child deserves to see representation of themselves in books that are available to them. They know that raising bilingual children in the United States is difficult, but that books can be a tool to make it easier for them.
This shop is a true gem with an amazing mission.
Centuries and Sleuths
Tucked away between a few shops on Madison Street in Forest Park is a bookstore where mystery fills the air.
Here, you’ll find lines of cherry wood bookcases filled with historical era books and almost every subset of mystery you can imagine — from fictional mystery to true crime. They even have books for kids!
And if you’re a true enthusiast, they host five different reader groups that meet regularly, so you can chat about your favorite books with like-minded people.
Afriware Books
Afriware Books, CO is a Black owned bookstore and resource center located in Maywood. Since 1993, they have been serving the Chicagoland area by providing a platform to showcase authors, airtsts, and advocates that embody cultural pride.
They also hold in person and virtual events for those that are interested in learning about these authors, their stories, and significant cultural events.
Take a look at everything they have to offer, you’ll be glad you did!
Looking for a stocking stuffer? We’ve got you covered with our Under $20 Gift Guide.
Whatever you need, meet us wherever your kids will like best. Happy shopping!