Best Independent Toy Stores in Greater Vancouver

Image by Angela Poon
Bring out your playful side at a classic, old-school toy store

Whether it's retro Fisher-Price or the latest brainteaser you're after, Greater Vancouver's toy shops offer a diverse array of playthings for both kids and the young at heart.

With a selection of toys, games, and dolls handpicked by store owners and personally demoed by staff members, you’re sure to get the personalized service and advice you’re looking for when it comes to picking out the perfect item.

1 of 5 — The Granville Island Toy Company

Image by Angela Poon
The Granville Island Toy Company has been delighting families for nearly three decades

A staple at Granville Island’s Kids Market, The Granville Island Toy Company has been delighting locals and tourists alike for nearly three decades.

When the shop switched hands in 2007, the beloved store expanded to a second location on Main Street. "From day one, the reception has been fabulous," says co-owner Joanna Mileos.

Featuring an entire room dedicated to the uber-popular Playmobil line of toys and figurines, the store's other top sellers include Buckyballs and Hexbug. A special treat this month, Granville Island Toy Co. will host silhouette artist to the stars Karl Johnson at both locations on July 27 and 28.

2 of 5 — Splash Toy Shop

Image by Angela Poon
At Splash, the Lego Minifigures and Corolle Dolls go down a treat

A hub of Richmond’s Steveston community, Splash Toy Shop offers its customers a hands-on experience.

"Our staff are very knowledgeable," says long-time store manager Kelly Krull. "We sample all of our products so that we can tell you exactly how they work."

This insider knowledge creates many repeat customers, who then bring their friends and family to join in on the fun. The warm reception to Splash in Steveston helped owner Beth McKercher open a second location in Vancouver’s Dunbar neighbourhood. Top sellers include Lego Minifigures, Corolle Dolls, and Ravensburger puzzles.

3 of 5 — Kaboodles Toy Store

Image by Angela Poon
Kaboodles offers up toys, puzzles, games and fun supplies for the young at heart

One of Greater Vancouver’s most prolific toyshops, Kaboodles Toy Store, can be found in just about every west side neighbourhood – Point Grey Village, Granville Island, and Cambie Village – in addition to a fourth outpost in Downtown Victoria.

With a varied collection of toys, games, puzzles, greeting cards, balloons, and even party supplies, Kaboodles is a one-stop shop for throwing or attending birthday parties throughout the year.

Kid at heart? Kaboodles caters to the silly adult demographic with "toys" geared at your inner child, including bacon and egg bandages, Viking hats, retro lunch boxes, and even remote control fart machines.

4 of 5 — The Village Toy Shop

Image by Angela Poon
Self-proclaimed toyologists, the staff at The Village Toy Shop pride themselves on their toy expertise

After 10 years managing The Granville Island Toy Company, Kirsten Anderson opened up her own shop for kids in Port Moody’s Newport Village.

Investing in the newly developed neighbourhood, Anderson has watched the community – and her business – grow immensely over the last 10 years. "We have lots of young families nearby, and our primary customers are frequent regulars."

Self-proclaimed toyologists, Anderson and her staff regularly appear on Global TV to share their toy expertise. The Village Toy Shop is home to a wide variety of toys and games, from trendy collectibles to classic favourites, such as the Slinky and kazoos.

5 of 5 — The Fort Toy Box

Image by Angela Poon
The Fort Toy Box boasts an extensive collection of wooden toys

Nestled in Fraser Valley’s historic Fort Langley, The Fort Toy Box (along with sister shop, White Rock’s Crescent Beach Toys) boasts an extensive collection of wooden toys, offering families creative, sustainable options.

"We want to introduce kids to new classics – toys that will last," says owner Phil Lipton. Case in point: Red Tool Box. In order to play with its line of products, kids have to build them first.

Like The Fort Toy Box, but wish there was more of it? This September, the shop will move into a bigger space down the street, and partner with children’s consignment boutique, Bumble Bee’s.