Top independent toy shops in Edmonton

We all know of a few big toy stores of the large franchise variety where you can buy all the toys your kids want from watching those pesky commercials. But, if you’re searching for something a bit different for that special kid or kid-at-heart, support these locally-owned shops who offer something that you can’t find elsewhere. You’ll be helping to keep the local, independent toy store landscape alive.

By Theresa Tesolin

TELUS World of Science Edmonton

1

11211 142 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5M 4A1

• Phone Number
  • 780-452-9100Primary
• Directions

Don’t worry, you won’t need to pay admission to get in here. The Telus World of Science gift shop is located right inside the main entrance. Every time I visit, I end up buying something really cool (like fake snow for a friend that moved to a warmer climate). The store obviously has an educational/science focus, but also carries a wide range of toys, puzzles, games, gleaming crystals and gorgeous sun catchers that appeal to people of all ages.

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Comex Hobby

2

1778-8882 170 Street NW, Edmonton, AB T5T 4J2

• Phone Number
  • 780-487-5886Primary
• Directions

With one location at West Edmonton Mall and another at Kingsway Mall, Comex Hobby is the place to go if you’re searching for anime plastic/plush figures, build-your-own car models and a few educational toys, such as telescopes and mind puzzles. If you’re into cosplay, they also have a few accessories to pull together your outfit.

Whyte Knight Toys & Games

3

201-10326 82 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 1Z8

• Phone Number
  • 780-439-5299Primary
• Directions

If you’re a collector, the narrow staircase winding up to this second floor Whyte Avenue shop may be worth it. The stuffed-to-the-rafters store has enough vintage collectibles, games and comics to keep you happily browsing for awhile. You may feel a pang of nostalgia as you find action figures from your childhood or a lunchbox that you used to carry.

Wee Love Baby Boutique

4

1052 91 St Sw, Edmonton, AB T6X 0P2

• Phone Number
  • 780-756-2922Primary
• Directions

If you’re looking for a gift for a younger child (mostly the under six years old crowd), you’ll love the selection of wooden Melissa & Doug toys, books, stuffies and those pedal-less Strider bikes you may have seen around. This husband-and-wife operation also carries all the baby gear you’ll ever need.

Collector's Edge

• Phone Number
  • 780-487-7885Primary

For pop-culture lovers, Collector’s Edge might just have your favourite television/movie paraphernalia (Gremlins, Family Guy, South Park), and action figures. Remember when Beanie Babies were all the rage? This store carries a load of them, along with other stuffies.

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More from Theresa Tesolin

Theresa Tesolin is a freelance writer based in Edmonton. She’s provided content for Fortune 500 companies, children’s magazines and everything in between. When she isn’t hanging out with her family, she’s snuggled up with a book or planning her next travel adventure, and is probably drinking way too much coffee.

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