Shop Local: Five Indie Toy Stores for Imaginative Birthday Gifts

If you're tired of shopping at the big box retailers, we’ve rounded up five indie toy stores that sell durable, green and (above all) imaginative toys for kids age zero... to adult.

By Sara Billups October 23, 2014

Seattle families like to play local. We have our favorite neighborhood playground, bouncy houses and covered play spaces for rainy days. And we can choose to buy marble runs, art supplies, wacky tracks and bubble machines from any of several independently-owned toy sellers offering the best birthday presents in town. If you’re ready to give the mom-and-pop stores a try, we’ve rounded up five one-of-a kind stores that sell durable, green and (above all) imaginative toys for kids age zero… to adult.

Retroactive Kids

Located in the heart of Seattle's Columbia City neighborhood, RetroActive Kids is a toy and gift store specializing in retro, vintage, and one-of-a-kind items for kids, and the kid at heart. Founded in 2004 by Beth Reyes and Trisha Gilmore, the co-owners share a passion for artistic, interesting, unique products and are always happy to help with a recommendation (or two!).

Bonus: If your fam is in need of haircuts, you can also get your hair and your kids' hair cut in the salon, Columbia City Cuts, which is located in the back of the store.

4859 Rainier Ave. S.
Seattle, Wa 98118
206-932-3154
Online: retroactivekids.com/index.php

photo: RetroActive Kids

Don’t see your favorite indie toy store on our list? Tell us about it in a comment below.

-Sara Billups

Photo credits: Clover Toys Facebook page, Curious Kidstuff Facebook page, Retroactive Kids Store Facebook page, Planet Happy Toys website, Top Ten Toys Facebook page & Wee Tots Facebook page