Figpickels Toy Emporium Figpickels is a place where kids can be kids and grown-ups can feel like kids again. The shop offers fun for all ages, including hands-on displays, a German carousel and items ranging from the latest games to old-fashioned toys. Coeur d'Alene Resort Plaza Shops, 210 E. Sherman Ave. Coeur d'Alene, Idaho • 208-667-2800 • figpickels.com
French Toast Targeted specifically to new and expectant mothers, this exquisite children's boutique is also full of gift ideas for aunts, uncles, cousins or siblings. Babar and Matilda books stir happy memories, and the owners offer dreamy home design services. Steam Plant Square, 159 Lincoln St. • 315-8200 • frenchtoastonline.com
Merlyn's Merlyn's is a utopia for video games, board games, card games and more. But don't just stop in to buy something and leave — there are usually casual games and tournaments to join at the tables in the back. 15 W. Main Ave. Spokane, Wash. • 624-0957 • merlyns.biz
Shenanigan's Toy Emporium & Sweet Shop In addition to their selection of vintage-inspired toys for all ages, Shenanigan's also has a coffee shop, homemade ice cream parlor, a chocolate shop and a wide selection of candy, including retro sweets. 312 E. Sherman Ave. Coeur d'Alene, Idaho • 208-664-0955 • shenaniganstoyemporium.com
Uncle's Games, Puzzles, and More Uncle's has Spokane's largest selection of puzzles, board games, dominoes, chess, playing cards and party games. And unlike big-box stores, knowledgeable staffers who love games as much as you do. Tell them who you're shopping for, and they can guide you to the perfect game, puzzle or brain teaser. Spokane Valley Mall, 14700 E. Indiana Ave. Spokane Valley, Wash. • 891-7620 || The Liberty Building, 404 W. Main Ave. Spokane, Wash. • 456-4607
The White Elephant Since 1946, the family-owned White Elephant has stocked its shelves with anything and everything a Spokanite might need to have fun. They offer a variety of items for camping, hunting, and fishing, but 40 percent of their sales come from their expansive toy selection. 12614 E. Sprague Ave. Spokane Valley, Wash. • 924-3006 || 1730 N. Division St. Spokane, Wash. • 328-3100 • whiteelephantstores.com
Whiz Kids Whiz Kids' motto is "smart toys for smart kids," and they mean it. The games, books and toys here aren't the cheap plastic crap you'll find at big-box stores. They're well-made and designed to spark creativity and enhance learning. Next time your kiddo has a birthday party to attend, stop by Whiz Kids and pick up a cool wooden puzzle, a science kit or an Erector set as a gift. River Park Square, 808 W. Main Ave., #251 Spokane, Wash. • 456-8697 • whizkidstoys.net