Shopping locally is one of my favorite things.
First of all, it feels pretty guilt-free. Yes, I’m spending money, but I’m also doing it in a way that will directly impact my community. Secondly, buying things from local shops saves time and headaches and helps you avoid shipping delays.
Lastly, for all of the procrastinators like myself, you can visit these shops right up through Christmas and still find great gifts for the kids in your life. But that’s enough chatting. Let’s get into the fun stuff!
Big Fun
Specializing in vintage toys, Big Fun is always a great place to get a little shopping done. Whether you’re on the hunt for your favorite childhood toy to pass on to your own kids or you are searching for something for those “kids at heart” friends or family members, you can probably find what you’re looking for at Big Fun.
Location: 672 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
Dublin Toy Emporium
Dublin Toy Emporium sells a wide variety of toys, from puzzles to puppets and just about everything in between. Located in Historic Dublin, the Toy Emporium focuses on providing high-quality, mind-expanding, safe, and fun toys for all ages.
Location: 28 North High Street, Dublin OH, 43017
Cub Shrub
Cub Shrub is legit one of the coolest shops for kids around. Started by Tiger Tree owners, Cub Shrub has toys, puzzles, gifts, clothes, books, and more. The kids will love shopping there as much as you do and it’s really a one-stop shop around the holidays. You can grab big gifts, stocking stuffers, gift bundles, and all sorts of other goodies.
Location: 3301 N High St, Columbus, OH 43202
Learning Express
With three locations around central Ohio, Learning Express is the definition of convenient. There are gifts for kiddos of all ages and it’s easy to find gifts by interest or age group on their website. When I mentioned convenience, I wasn’t kidding. You can have any gifts purchased at Learning Express gift-wrapped for free!
Location: Multiple locations.
Jamison & Bexley
Located in Westerville, Jamison & Bexley has some incredible finds for babies, young children, and mothers. With clothing (sized Newborn through 5T) fun and functional learning activities, stuffed animals, and more, it’s the perfect place to pick up holiday gifts for all the young kiddos in your life.
Location: Shop online here or in person inside of Painted Tree Boutiques at 59 Meadow Park Ave. Lewis Center, OH, 43035
