Best Toy, Book and Children's Stores around New York City

Jennie Utsinger said:  Knowledgeable staffers curate the charming children's book section at The Corner Bookstore. If you want to give your bookworm free reign, the store offers special store charge accounts for children. Another incentive for frequent reading? Children aged 8 to 13 may receive advance copies of selected novels and publish reviews in the fall and spring issues of The Corner Bookstore’s Kids Newsletter, by Kids, for Kids. On Christmas Eve, visit Santa Claus and sample homemade cookies.

Jennie Utsinger said:  Puppet shows, story hours, and lit talks for young adults - Bank Street Bookstore has it all! The weekly free improvisational puppet shows are geared towards kids aged 2-8, but all ages are welcome. Story hours are offered multiple times a week. Lit Talks feature a dramatic reading of a high quality middle grade/YA novel (kids aged 9-14), followed by discussion and analysis of the featured excerpt.

Jennie Utsinger said:  4D performances of children's books? Time to plan an outing to Book Culture on Columbus and view one of Diverging Element's physical and improvisational storytime shows. Past performances have included Pete the Cat and Children Make Terrible Pets. Frequent Storytimes at Book Culture's Columbus, Broadway and LIC locations include Turkish, Persian, and bilingual Spanish/English readings.

Jennie Utsinger said:  The smaller Park Slope outpost of the massive Powerhouse Arena DUMBO bookstore holds a similar carefully curated children's section. Make sure to mark your calendar for one of the store's tween book clubs or weekly Sunday storytimes.

Jennie Utsinger said:  Bring your little readers to Community Bookstore in Park Slope and pick up some new books for an afternoon in Prospect Park.

Jennie Utsinger said:  WORD in Greenpoint has a lovely children's section and frequent storytimes and kids' events. Your little book-lover can even celebrate their birthday at WORD, with a party themed around popular children's books.

Jennie Utsinger said:  Both of Greenlight Bookstore's locations host weekly Saturday Story Times for 3-8 year olds, often accompanied by activities or arts and crafts. A monthly young readers' book group for 9-12 year olds serves pizza during a discussion of classic and contemporary chapter books (book group picks are 15% off).

Jennie Utsinger said:  Novelist and Brooklyn local, Emma Straub, owns this bookstore in Cobble Hill. Lounge on one of the comfy beanbag chairs with your kids while you listen to storytime.

Jennie Utsinger said:  Books of Wonder is NYC's oldest and largest children's bookstore, offering a huge selection of books, including limited editions and original children's book art. In addition to weekly Storytimes, Books of Wonder hosts launch parties, meet the author, and a variety of other events for kids. My favorite spot in the store? The wall of Oz, an entire bookcase devoted to Oz books by L. Frank Baum and his successors.

Jennie Utsinger said:  The Strand's "18 miles of books" includes a huge children's section on the second floor. On the weekends, Strand's twice-daily Story Time & Crafts provides an added draw: popular children's book characters, such as Elmo, Pete the Cat, or Madeline, attend the events, delighting young readers and parents alike.

Jennie Utsinger said:  This huge airy DUMBO bookstore is a must-see for little book lovers. The children's section has an excellent selection of books, including classics and current children's books.

Jennie Utsinger said:  Grab a snack at the cafe - and a coffee for mom - and browse the adorable children's section at McNally Jackson Books in Soho or Williamsburg. In addition to storytimes, the stores host a variety of author events.

Jennie Utsinger said:  Inspired by the owners' two children (and dog!), this DUMBO children's store has a carefully selected array of clothes, shoes, toys, and books for kids aged newborn through 10. Apparel brands include Pink Chicken, Rylee and Cru, Mini Melissa, and Old Soles. Toys include current popular trends and classic favorites.

Jennie Utsinger said:   “Grandma” Dawn owns this family-run Harlem toy boutique. The friendly staff is always eager to help you find that special item, from puzzles to games to arts & crafts. Books and dolls in the store are representative of the rich heritage of the Harlem community.

Jennie Utsinger said:  My Little Sunshine has a Tribeca and a Chelsea location. Both stores carry stylish upscale labels, such as Bobo Choses, Mini Rodini, Oeuf, and Blu Pony Vintage. There's also a selection of toys and books. Bonus: your kids can have their hair cut while you shop!