Best Of Tucson®

Best Toy Store

Yikes

READERS' PICK: Since it opened years ago downtown, Yikes has been a place where people can say, "I Like It Like That." Whether it's for a monster mash or a S-S-Saturday night party, Yikes has toys for every occasion, ranging from a computer goddess figurine or a doofus devil wig to a tiny brain that grows in water and the Shake, Rattle & Roll book on the founders of rock. In addition to hundreds of novelties and books, Yikes also carries a wide selection of model cars, toy animals and a lot of other things kids, and their parents, will love and laugh about. One recent young customer said of Yikes, "What a neat little toy store." We couldn't agree more. The store's motto should be, "Don't Worry, Be Happy."

READERS' POLL RUNNER-UP: Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle's, 4811 E. Grant Road, in the Crossroads Festival shopping plaza. Know how good music takes you away from it all? You'll find the same experience at Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle's. This jam-packed little toy shop harbors a beguiling spirit that dances to a different beat. The Enchanted Fairy Tree, designed by author and illustrator Charles Vess, provides a captivating story and song area for kiddies every Wednesday afternoon. While they're awed by this piece of the fairy forest, you'll be whisked away by nostalgia. Hum along to the School House Rock CD the friendly employees are playing and cuddle again with Raggedy Ann, Curious George or a monster from Where the Wild Things Are. The toys here are powered by imagination, not batteries. You'll find whimsical costumes, marionettes, beautiful dolls, kid-powered planes, art projects, exquisitely illustrated story books, children's music from around the world, unique baby gifts, silly novelties and more. So lose yourself in the magic of childhood again.