Big Blue Whale – The Heights
237 W 19th St, Houston
832-623-6990

This small shop in the heart of the Heights specializes in handmade and hard to find classic toys. The Big Blue Whale owner, a Heights resident for 20 years, carefully chooses the toys and makes sure to carry toys you can’t find in big box stores.

Toys to Love – Galleria
1715 Post Oak Blvd, Houston
713-599-0099

What’s not to love about this small shop in the Galleria area that specializes in unique, high-quality toys and games. Also independently owned, this store carries various types of fun toys and camp gear for all different seasons in the year. 

FUNdamentally Toys – West University
2401 Rice Blvd, Houston
713-524-4400

This toy store is all about having fun! FUNdamentally Toys has been in business for 21 years and specializes in educational and fun toys. This store sets itself apart from big-box competitors through careful attention to what toys are chosen for sale, and the owners throw in free gift wrapping.

Imagination Toys and Shoes – Braeswood Place
3851 Bellaire Blvd, Houston
713-662-9898

Let your child’s imagination run wild at this 20,000-square-foot, locally owned store. The store is conveniently organized so customers can find anything from toys to greeting cards, family gifts, and shoes. Staff members are always available to help fit your child into the most comfortable shoes possible. There are sizes for infants to kids around 7-years-old.

Third Planet – Upper Kirby
2718 Southwest Fwy, Houston
713-528-1067

This independently owned comics store is the second oldest comic store in the country. They have been in Houston for 41 years and specialize in back-issue comics as well as older, retired toys and action figures. It's the perfect place for Star Wars fanatics.

Tomfoolery Toys & Books – Meyerland
4844 Beechnut, Houston
832-879-2461

Tomfoolery offers a large selection of toys and specializes in new and classic children’s books. You won’t find any electronics here - all the toys are geared toward engaging play for all ages. The staff can help parents find the perfect age-appropriate toy.

Bedrock City Comic Company – Various locations
6516 Westheimer Road, Ste. D, Houston
713-780-0675
4602 Washington Ave., Houston
713-862-0100
4683 FM 1960 W., Houston
281-444-9763

With five stores throughout Houston, this comic store specializes in comic books, trade paperback books, graphic novels, and more. Comic books encourage kids to learn how to read and engages them with their colorful graphics and fun story lines. They also offer apparel for all ages, novelty items, superhero and pop culture toys, games, model kits, original art posters, statues, vinyl figures, and more.

Super Happy Incredible Toys – The Heights
740 W 20th St, Houston
832-516-7176

Super Happy Incredible Toys is another independently owned, cute toy shop in the Heights that started off as a weekend-only shop. After finally finding the ideal location in the Heights, this store is now open daily and offers current and vintage toy collections, from Star Wars and GI Joe to Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and My Little Pony. 

Top photo: Big Blue Whale by Shary Peck