I once had an experience at a toy store that was nothing short of a parent’s worst nightmare. It was my daughter’s sixth birthday, and I wanted to surprise her with a shiny new Barbie house—something she’d been begging for a while.
I gave a nearby toy store a try, hoping for a quick in-and-out visit. What I didn’t expect was a chaotic mess: disorganized aisles and uninterested staff who weren’t helpful. There wasn’t even any Barbie house in sight.
Needless to say, I didn’t end up getting her what she wanted that year.
But after that experience, I started checking out different toy stores and speaking with other shoppers to find the best ones. Here are all the best toy stores in Calgary that made it onto my list.
Table of Contents
1. Cherry Tree Lane Toys
Address: 905 1 Ave NE, Calgary, AB T2E 2L3, Canada
Contact Details: +1 (403) 243-1993
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
On my first visit to Cherry Tree Lane, I was blown away by the incredible selection of toys they have for kids of all ages. From arts and crafts supplies to bath toys and building blocks, there’s something for everyone.
My kids love exploring the different sections and always end up with something new to add to the cart. Other parents I talked to had similar experiences and raved about how the toys here keep their kids entertained for hours.
Beyond the amazing toys, Cherry Tree Lane also hosts events and parties. My kids have attended storytime, craft sessions, and themed parties, which were always a blast. They even host book drives throughout the year!
The only downside is that the store can get pretty crowded on weekends.
Customer Reviews
The sweetest little toy store
This is the sweetest little toy store. It’s my go-to spot for gifts for my nieces and nephew, as they have such a great selection of beautiful, local, and sustainable products. I stop by anytime I’m in Bridgeland, but it’s also worth the trip out.
— Reilly Whittaker, Google Reviews
The definition of a true GEM
This is the definition of a true GEM! First place I’ve been able to find books in Spanish! The decor is stunning, prices are competitive, and the people are friendly! There’s tables there too so it made me wonder if they do little events with children and parents. I’m definitely coming back to get more goodies for my kid, and for birthday presents 🥰
— Yeni Baylon, Google Reviews
2. Castle Toys
Address: 5718 1a St SW Unit 101, Calgary, AB T2H 0E8, Canada
Contact Details: +1 (403) 258-1100
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 6 PM
Castle Toys has everything, including toy horses, 2000-piece puzzles, and puppets.
Many told me they loved how the store is organized into sections dedicated to specific types of toys, like advent calendars and building & construction sets. It makes it easy to find what you’re looking for.
Others also shared that their kids can’t get enough of the detailed costumes and dress-up selections. Teachers and therapists I spoke with also chimed in, saying that the sensory and educational toys are not only fun but super beneficial.
On top of that, Castle Toys also offers curbside pickup and delivery service, which I’ve used on occasion to get gifts for my kids.
That being said, a few shoppers expressed disappointment with the store’s inflexible return policy. It makes it difficult for many to return toys they picked up by mistake or aren’t happy with.
Customer Reviews
I found some unique and high-quality items
The selection of toys was fantastic, catering to all ages and interests. I found some unique and high-quality items that I haven’t seen anywhere else. Plus, the store’s layout is perfect for letting kids explore and discover new favorites while parents can browse comfortably
— Dave Lynch, Google Reviews
The variety is colourfully overwhelming
Livingstone and Cavell was my go-to place for special toys but since that closed I was interested in the reputation of Castle Toys. We found everything we needed. Some wooden puzzles, inclusive dolls, fun craft projects, a fidget device that could be taken to school and some animal toys. The variety is colourfully overwhelming and I almost got dizzy from turning in circles to take everything in. I’d be terrified to take kids here as I wanted one of everything and I haven’t been a kid in decades!
I will absolutely be back.
— Sunny Wellington, Google Reviews
3. The Discovery Hut (Chinook Centre)
Address: Chinook Centre, 6455 Macleod Trail SW #220D, Calgary, AB T2H 0K9, Canada
Contact Details: +1 (403) 301-4180
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10 AM to 9 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM
Several parents I spoke with told me their kids can easily spend hours lost in The Discovery Hut. Many of their children fall in love with their massive selection of animal plushies.
Personally, I come here when I’m on the lookout to add to our family board game collection. They honestly have everything from cooperative and family strategy games to party games and escape room kits.
The toy store is a dream come true for collectors. It offers Funko Pops, designer toys, hockey cards, and more. There’s also a diverse range of sections featuring fashion accessories, desktop toys, and musical toys.
If you can’t make it into the store, they have an easy-to-use online shop. Customers have told me it’s perfect for sending gifts throughout Canada.
My only minor concern is the level of attentiveness from the staff when shopping in-store. At times, it feels a bit like they’re closely monitoring my every move, which can be a tad uncomfortable.
Customer Reviews
Fantastic selection. Amazing displays. Helpful staff.
This store was difficult to leave… Fantastic selection. Amazing displays. Helpful staff. We looked through the massive board game selection as well as the various toys. Really great place to make a purchase for the littles in your life… or those who enjoys board games as they have such a large selection that you are sure to find something for anyone who enjoys board games!
— Mister L, Google Reviews
Has everything that a child or adult could want
This store (and chain) has everything that a child or adult could want – brain teasers, toys, fidgets, puzzles, figurines and anything else in the gift giving line or collection/hobby area. It is chock full of stuff, and most of it invites examination in some way, whether it be squeezing, assembling, calculating, labeling or just admiring! It can get very busy in Discovery Hut, so be prepared. It is extremely popular!
— Laurie O, Google Reviews
4. Brick Bin
Address: 2906 centre st ne, Calgary, AB T2E 2X1, Canada
Contact Details: +1 (403) 667-0941
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday 11 AM to 7 PM
I’m a LEGO lover through and through, and The Brick Bin is my happy place. They’ve got an insane selection—from the classic sets to those super rare, limited-edition ones that are almost impossible to find.
It’s not just LEGOs too. Families with kids and collectors alike go wild for the vintage and rare toys they have. I’ve seen grown-ups get all nostalgic over retro action figures and collectible cards that reminded them of their childhood.
The staff? They’re amazing. They are super friendly and knowledgeable. Plus, they have a knack for helping you find the perfect toy, even if you didn’t know you were looking for it. A few times, I’ve been recommended something to get my kids I never would have thought of.
The only downside is that the checkout line can get a bit long sometimes, especially when they’re short staffed.
Customer Reviews
This store is Lego Builders heaven
For any Lego fans this store is Lego
Builders heaven. We visited it from Kelowna and it was better than any Lego branded store. Kaiden provided excellent customer service, the mini figs we wanted were there and their sorting system for finding pieces was epic. I will highly highly recommend this store. It was busy when we were there on a Friday afternoon so be patient and enjoy this brick builders paradise.
— Joanna Cann, Google Reviews
A place to stop by for both the young and young at heart
Very unique shop! If you are looking for specific colours of Lego blocks or specialty pieces like train tracks or single Lego people/ figures, this Lego store offers it. They sell both Brand New Unopened and also Used Lego sets for a wide range of age groups/ skill level Independently & Locally owned + operated. It just opened this Year in 2020. A place to stop by for both the young and young at heart!
— Mr Martin, Google Reviews
5. Toy Hub
Address: 19605 Walden Blvd SE #1105, Calgary, AB T2X 4C4, Canada
Contact Details: +1 (403) 457-5002
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11 AM to 6 PM
- Saturday – Noon to 5 PM
Toy Hub has definitely made a name for itself amongst toy stores. From building kits to science experiment sets, there’s a terrific range that caters to young minds.
People love their collection of LEGO sets. Many of the shoppers I spoke with said they love coming here because they can always find the latest LEGO releases that their kids are begging for.
Barbie fans are in for a treat too. The store brims with Barbie dolls and accessories. My daughter loves coming here to check out the new dollhouses and fashion sets.
Hot Wheels enthusiasts aren’t left out either. Their selection is perfect for those who love creating their own race tracks at home.
That being said, it’s tough to move around freely because the store gets overcrowded quickly.
Customer Reviews
Got a great range of prices and toys and games
Absolutely love this store. It’s got a great range of prices and toys and games you don’t find in other stores. They also have a good selection of models and board games for a lot of ages. If you’re looking for a good gift at a good price this store is a great place to shop!
— Mike Wrobel, Google Reviews
I was able to find some really cool toys
Highly recommend this store, i was able to find some really cool toys that my kids loved! The variety they carry is really nice to see and it’s amazing being able to support a local store.
— Haider Albeer, Google Reviews
