When I was pregnant with my first babies (twins!), I remember how overwhelming it was to figure out which baby gear I really needed and which I could skip. To make matters worse, the city I lived in didn't have much in the way of baby stores. But expectant DC-area parents can choose from a variety of baby stores in DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia where they can see and try things in person, speak to knowledgable salespeople, score unique finds, and determine whether they really can fit that giant glider in their baby's nursery.

Here are 15 of the best baby stores in DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia, from locally owned boutiques to consignment shops to big-box retailers. Whether you're in the market for a crib, organic onesies, or your baby's first bath toys, at least one of these baby stores in DC and beyond will have you covered. And when you're ready to take a break from shopping, check out our article all about how to get free baby stuff.

Looking for baby stores in Houston? Here's a list of our favorites.

Oh, baby! It’s amazing how someone so tiny could need so much stuff. From a car seat to keep them safe on those Houston highways, to the best wagon for trekking through the Houston Zoo, and boutique baby clothes for your mini fashionista, it’s safe to say that babies don’t pack lightly.

You’re sure to find all the baby essentials you could possibly need at these 13 baby stores in Houston. From local boutiques to big-box baby shops to secondhand stores, H-town has plenty of options to keep you stocked with baby must-haves and all the cutest finds that will carry you from the newborn months to the toddler years and beyond. When you’re ready to move into the next phase, check out our list of consignment shops to unload the baby stuff.

For more info on things to do with Houston’s tiniest residents, check out our Houston Baby Guide or look through our list of 14 Things To Do with Houston Babies Before They Turn 1 to find the best spots to test out your new wagon or show off that cute outfit.

Family-friendly coffee shops are among the many reasons I love living in Westchester—a list that also includes world-class outdoorsy activities and a huge range of things to do with kids every day of the week. As someone who works from home and also has two young kids, though, checking out the many great coffee shops near me is particularly close to my heart. Tea plus a treat is a win-win for me and them!

So whether you want a place to hang with your baby where you can read a book or two, or a spot to stop after basketball practice for a muffin with your little athletes, there are plenty of mom-and-pop shops to choose from throughout the county. The places on this list are all local—many owned by local families, too—and all offer delicious dishes, family-friendly hangs, and lively events that kids can take part in. Read on for a few of our favorite coffee shops in Westchester.

Looking to go out to lunch or dinner with the fam instead? Check out our Guide to Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Westchester. 

Looking for baby stores in Chicago? Here's a list of local favorites.

Stroller, high chairs, loveys, clothes...it's amazing how many things babies need. Luckily, these baby stores in Chicago specialize in everything you need to outfit and care for your baby, or to gift to an expectant parent in your life. From strollers to clothing, these shops have it all. While all of these shops have physical locations, they all have great websites, and many also have baby registries.

Baby gear can add up fast, so cut your costs with this article on How to Get Free Baby Stuff. Then you can focus on Finding the Right Daycare, and maybe registering for Baby Swimming Classes.

Looking for the best baby stores on Long Island? Read on for 10 of our top picks. 

There are few things more exciting than anticipating a baby bundle of joy, and shopping for that baby is also pretty fun. Whether you're a newly expecting parent, already a pro, or a friend or family member searching for the perfect baby gift, we've got you covered with the top baby stores on Long Island. You can find everything from an outfit to bring the baby home in, to his or her first lovey, and can even plan ahead for the big first birthday. 

For more great baby tips, check out our Long Island Baby Guide.

Looking for the best baby stores in New Jersey? We've got you covered with 12 top options throughout the state. 

Expecting a baby and need, well, everything? Ready to make your registry and want to include some items that are unique? Or are you looking for a baby shower gift or an outfit for a special occasion? All of these are excellent reasons to get out of the house and head to one of these amazing baby stores in New Jersey. Many of these local baby boutiques can be found at delightful destinations, so you might want to make an afternoon out of it!

Below, you'll find a dozen of our top picks for baby stores in North Jersey, Central Jersey, and South Jersey.

Check out our post on the best things to do in New Jersey before your baby turns 1 and find more help for new parents in our Baby Guide for New Jersey Parents. 

We found the best baby stores in Philly for all the gear, toys, and clothing a babe could want.

Whether it’s your first baby or your third, stocking up on baby essentials can be stressful, and it can be hard to find a store with baby toys, baby gear, and baby clothes that match your style as well as your budget. That’s why we’ve rounded up our favorite Philadelphia baby stores where you can find all the stuff for your littlest family member. Whether you're shopping for a baby gift or welcoming a new baby into your home, we've got you covered. 

While you're at it, don't miss our list of all the things every Philly baby should do before they turn one. Grown-ups with babies also need a caffeine fix, so be sure to browse our list of kid-friendly coffee shops, or check out our roundup of stroller-friendly walks and hikes for some fresh air with baby in tow. 

Baby stores in Los Angeles are full of anything you need or want for an infant, from hip to adorable and practical to eye-popping. If you're expecting a baby or on the hunt for that unique LA item for a gift, shopping for the arrival of a new cherub is overwhelming and exciting. There's an array of enticingly adorable baby stores here, from clothes you'd wear yourself at La La Ling in Los Feliz to eco-friendly Earth Baby picks in Santa Clarita. It will prove hard to stick to a baby registry when you enter through the front doors of these incredible baby stores in Los Angeles. 

Between pregnancy cravings and late-night baby research, bookmark these pregnancy and parenting classes. When you're itching for some fresh air after the baby arrives, stroller-friendly hikes will help you get outdoors. We've got plenty more baby things in our Los Angeles baby guide for parents.