Grant and Swan Roads
STAFF PICK: Just as the name suggests, it's a toy store with a real personality. From the look of the store we'd sure like to party with Mrs. T and all the little winkles. The inventory seems hand-picked by someone who really loves toys. And there's a lot of cool stuff for the big kids here, too, like the happy Buddha squeaky toy and a nice selection of classic lunchboxes. The staff is very friendly and children are not discouraged from playing with the merchandise, which is mostly displayed at kid's-eye level with plenty of opened packages and floor models. They have a good selection of stuff for girls, from fancy dress-up costumes to dolls complete with accessories and not a Barbie® on the premises. Be sure to pick up a calendar while you are there so that you'll be hip to the free story hour every Wednesday at 11 a.m. and craft time every other Thursday for a nominal fee. The calendar also contains lots of fun facts and lists other special events. Rediscover the magic of exploring the nooks and crannies of a real toy store. Now, if only it were in a hollow tree.