Thinker Toys

"Best Toy Store"

I have to be upfront...I am not much for big box stores.  I love my local little stores, especially when they are fantastic as this place is.  I would say this is one of the best toy stores in the Portland area.

Located in historic Multnomah Village, the store is chalk full of toys.  Not just in their boxes, but out, so the kids can play with them.  It is great to go and find out what your kid actually likes playing with before buying them.  

If you don't have kids (or haven't had the opportunity to shop for a specific age group) all you have to do is ask the really helpful staff and they will point you in the right direction (all you have to say is boy or girl and the age).  

If they don't have something you may be looking for, they can usually special order it for you (and they are usually quick about getting it for you as long as the manufactures are being helpful...they always keep you informed though).  

There are lots of little shops in the area to make an afternoon of it and loads of cafes to fill up on your choice of drink.  Grand Central Bakery is around the corner too, to  pick up some fresh bread for dinner or a cookie for a snack!

We like to go here on rainy days to play too.  They don't mind.  Also, if you think you will shop there again, don't forget to pick up a punch card (after 12 purchases you get the average of what you have spent towards a purchase!).

They have also just been nominated by Nickelodeon's ParentsConnect.com as Portland's Best Toy Store for 2009!