It is time to do your holiday shopping; shopping locally is best! Shopping locally is vital for both individuals and the community as a whole. Supporting local businesses has numerous benefits, including boosting our local community.
When you shop at local businesses, a greater portion of your money stays within the community. Local shops often source their products from nearby suppliers, helping to circulate money within the local economy, leading to job creation and economic growth. What a great gift to our community!
Many local businesses are owned by individuals or families who invest their time and passion into their work. Supporting them sustains livelihoods and encourages entrepreneurship, fostering a vibrant community of diverse businesses. Shopping locally promotes stronger community bonds. Local businesses are more likely to support community events, charities, and initiatives, fostering a sense of belonging.
Local businesses are significant employers in many communities. By shopping locally, you help sustain jobs and create new opportunities for residents, which is especially important in times of economic uncertainty. So, where are the best places to shop for kids in the Portland metro area?
Finding the perfect gift for kids can be delightful yet challenging. Fortunately, Portland is home to a variety of shops that cater to children of all ages and offer unique and thoughtful gifts.
Here are some of the best places to find kids’ gifts in Portland.
Mike Bennett is a local treasure, and he has two amazing options for your shopping needs. There is Mike’s Holiday Shop, where you can stop by daily in Director Park to find an array of fun, festive, and unique gifts. There are stuffies of Mike Bennett’s amazing characters! Or go to Wonderwood Springs in St Johns, which offers a permanent restaurant experience. According to their website, while soft serve ice cream, popcorn, grilled cheese, coffee, and breakfast sandwiches are a staple at the springs, there will be performances, events, shopping, adventure, and so much more.
This literary wonderland features a dedicated children’s section with everything from picture books to young adult novels. Don’t miss their selection of educational books and activity kits that inspire creativity. Plus, let’s be honest: the World’s Largest Independent Bookstore has a ton of toys and stuffies, too. There is something for everyone on your list here. Powells has a couple of stores around the metro area.
A charming toy store in the Alberta Arts District, The Beanstalk specializes in high-quality, eco-friendly toys, games, and crafts that promote imaginative play for children, from babies to tweens. In addition to toys, The Beanstalk has gently used baby clothes, children’s clothes, shoes, and books. Whether searching for a unique gift, eco-conscious toys, or quality children’s apparel, The Beanstalk is a delightful destination for nurturing creativity and play in Portland.
Piccolo Mondo Toys is a local, family-owned business in Oregon. They specialize in innovative toys for all ages that encourage creative play and stimulate the imagination. They strive to have a wide variety of products worldwide, including educational toys, books, puzzles, family games, stuffed animals, and classic wooden toys. Piccolo Mondo also has a few different stores around town.
Located in Multnomah Village, they have been on the same street for decades, offering kids and adults a curated selection of the best toys money can buy. While the main focus of their store is kids’ toys, they also have a respectable selection of items for teens and adults, including lots of novelties and “gag” gifts, beautiful puzzles, and games. The store also hosts workshops and special events, encouraging families to come together and enjoy interactive play experiences. Whether you’re searching for a classic toy, a unique gift, or a fun game for a gathering,
Kids at Heart is a specialty, independent toy store located on Hawthorne since 1987. They carry carefully selected toys, books, games, plush, and more. They can help you find the perfect gift for any age. They offer toys, games, and books for various ages, focusing on educational and imaginative play. Many products are sourced from local artisans or are unique finds that you might not see in larger chain stores. The store often hosts events and activities, fostering a sense of community among families. Kids at Heart is the quintessential toy store!
Grasshopper is a beloved establishment located in Portland, Oregon, known for its wide variety of engaging and educational toys for children of all ages. Grasshopper offers a curated collection of toys, games, puzzles, and crafts that promote imaginative play and learning. Their inventory includes everything from classic toys to the latest trends. The store emphasizes supporting local artisans and small businesses, showcasing unique and handmade items that you won’t find in larger retailers. Grasshopper is a fantastic destination for parents and caregivers looking to inspire creativity and joy in children through quality toys and interactive experiences.
So, as you embark on your holiday shopping this season, consider the profound impact of supporting local businesses in the Portland metro area. Each purchase made at these excellent stores not only brings joy to the children in your life but also contributes to the vitality of your community. From the enchanting selection at Powell’s City of Books to the eco-friendly offerings at The Beanstalk, there is a treasure trove of unique gifts waiting to be discovered.
By shopping locally, you help sustain jobs, foster entrepreneurship, and strengthen community bonds. So, make this holiday season special by exploring Portland’s diverse toy stores and shops. Your support enriches the local economy and nurtures a vibrant community, ensuring that these cherished businesses can thrive for years. And let us know your favorite local place to shop! Happy shopping!
Johanna is married with two kids, three dogs, three cats, one leopard gecko, several chickens, and a few fish. She has been in the Pacific Northwest since the dream was alive in the 90s but has Southern roots and hails from Arkansas. The family spends a lot of time at some sort of sporting event for the kids. Johanna likes to fast craft, garden, host parties, and bake. Johanna and her crew go hard traveling, DIY-ing, and are always up for a new adventure or challenge.