Updated September 3, 2025
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Whether you’re on the hunt for the perfect birthday gift, getting a head start on your holiday shopping, or just looking for something special just because, Milwaukee is full of locally owned gems that make shopping for kids feel like a treat — not a task.
From whimsical toy stores to diverse children’s bookstores and curated baby boutiques, this guide is your go-to resource for finding thoughtful gifts while supporting small businesses right here in the Milwaukee area.
Toy Stores
These local favorites are packed with puzzles, games, creative playthings, and hands-on fun. Perfect for birthdays, holiday surprises, and everything in between.
- Ruckus & Glee – Wauwatosa
- Art Smart’s Dart & Juggling Emporium – Milwaukee
- The Smiley Barn Toy & Candy Store – Delafield
- Winkie’s – Whitefish Bay
- Fischberger’s Variety – Riverwest
- Little Monsters – East Side Milwaukee
Explore our full list of Milwaukee Toy Stores →
Children’s Bookstores
These indie shops go beyond bestsellers, offering curated collections of picture books, chapter books, and titles that reflect diverse voices and experiences.
Explore the Best Children’s Bookstores in Milwaukee →
Baby & Kids Boutiques
Looking for something a little more special? These boutiques offer high-quality clothing, baby gifts, and meaningful keepsakes with a personal touch.
- New in 2025: Fawn & Friends – Delafield
- Goo Goo Gaa Gaa – Brookfield
- BlackBear Children’s Boutique – Shorewood
- Little Monsters – East Side Milwaukee
- Creatively Yours — Mequon
Need a haircut to go along with those new outfits? Here are our favorite places around Milwaukee to get your child’s hair cut around Milwaukee, from playful chairs to first haircut certificates.
Children’s Resale Shops
Looking to save on gently used clothing, books, toys, or gear? These local resale shops are parent-approved and perfect for scoring great finds at great prices.
- Children’s Orchard — New Berlin
- Once Upon a Child – Brookfield & Greenfield
- Little Geese — Wauwatosa
Here’s our full guide to kid-friendly resale and thrift shops around Milwaukee >>
🎁 Shopping Tips
- Many of these stores offer free gift wrapping, making it easy to shop local and skip the stress.
- Several have online ordering and curbside pickup — perfect for busy parents.
- Need birthday party ideas too? Check out our Birthday Party Guide or find stores that offer gift registries and birthday clubs.
❤️ Support Local
Milwaukee’s locally owned children’s shops are full of personality, and every purchase supports a dream, a neighbor, and a stronger community.
Next time you need a gift, skip the big box and try one of these local favorites instead — you might just find something unexpected and unforgettable.
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
