Dr. Paddy is an Englewood, Colorado pediatric dentist with many talents. He keeps young smiles healthy, he’s a pretty serious extreme skier and he also happens to know a bit about fashion (have you seen his crazy socks?) and toys (he’s still a kid at heart). In addition to his own shopping knowledge, he’s around little ones and their parents most of the day, so he’s picked up quite a few leads on the cool Englewood and Denver stores for kids. At Kids Mile High Pediatric Dentistry, we’re all about sharing the knowledge, which is why we’ve compiled our list of the best kids’ stores in Englewood, Denver, and the surrounding area.
Timbuk Toys
University Hills, 2526 S. Colorado Blvd, Denver and Lowry Town Center, 200 Quebec Street, Denver – This award-winning Denver toy store has great service and toys that aren’t just fun but also encourage learning through play. Is there a better way to learn than that? From classic toys to new, cutting-edge varieties, Timbuk has it all. They also offer classes for kids including the Songs for Seeds music program and Little Smartist art classes at the University Hills location.
Music & Arts
Brookridge Shopping Center, 5158 S. Broadway, Englewood – Music & Arts isn’t exclusively an Englewood store for kids but they’re experts in helping people of all ages, particularly students, in their musical endeavors and they regularly contribute to area schools. Kids will love seeing the instruments and Music & Arts has extensive instrument rentals, a private lesson program, instrument repairs, music books and accessories and everything a budding musician would need.
Talulah Jones
1122 E. 17th Ave, Denver – Talulah Jones is a unique Denver children’s store and certified green business with toys, Kathe Kruse handmade dolls, books, clothing and one-of-a-kind gifts for people of all ages. While the hip boutique is brimming with kids’ stuff, there are also a ton of treats for adults meaning mom and dad won’t mind shopping with the little ones.
Steve Spangler Science
4400 South Federal Blvd, Englewood – Steve Spangler is an impressive fellow. He travels around training teachers on how to make science engaging and fun, he’s gained Internet fame for experiments like his Mentos and Diet Coke geyser that went viral, he’s appeared on the Ellen DeGeneres Show and he even holds a Guinness World Record for the largest science lesson, which happened to include over 5,000 people doing a hands-on demonstration at the same time. While his store has actually moved online, his company is headquartered in Englewood so we’re including it on this list. If you get the opportunity to visit the offices, take advantage of it! We can’t really imagine a more fun workplace aside from Kids Mile High, of course. With classroom kits for teachers, all sorts of cool experiments, crazy science fair kits and so much more (there’s even a slime store!), kiddos can get a STEM lesson while having a blast and you can shop without leaving the house.
Tattered Cover Book Store
2526 East Colfax Ave, 1628 16th Street and 1701 Wynkoop Street (Union Station), Denver and 7301 S. Santa Fe Drive, Littleton, CO – This adult, teen and kids’ bookstore in Denver is independently and locally owned with three larger stores and some small commuter ones. While you’re picking up the latest bestseller or even some more unknown titles, your kids can browse their large children’s selection. The store also has a host of programs for child and teen readers including story times, story contests and family events.
Once Upon a Child
8996 W. Bowles Ave, K1, Littleton – Once Upon a Child is a Littleton store for kids’ clothing, accessories, toys and equipment. It features gently used items at up to 70% off retail. Not only can you find some bargains to buy, you can also sell your own kids’ stuff when they outgrow it making it a great way to reduce waste and pocket a little extra dough.
Little Feet
201 University Blvd, #103, Denver – Little Feet is all about the in-store experience and customer service, which is why there’s no online shop. The family-owned Denver children’s shoe store has high-quality shoes in every style (sizes newborn to youth 7) from brands like Converse, Crocs, New Balance, Adidas, Birkenstock, Chaco and more. They take a personalized approach and measure your child’s feet to help them find the right size and get to know their customers on a first-name basis. It’s actually very refreshing!
JAKE’s Toy Box
Westwoods Shopping Center, 15530 W. 64th Ave, Unit Q, Arvada – JAKE’s is a bright, cheerful Arvada, CO toy store. They have a huge selection of brand-name toys and games as well as unique items. From arts and crafts to educational toys to puzzles, your kids will love browsing and you can be pretty much guaranteed to walk out with something interesting. The store has won numerous awards including a 2015 Colorado Family Favorite award and a spot on the list of the 2014 CBS Top Toy Stores in Denver.
The Bookies
4315 E. Mississippi Ave, Denver – The Bookies is another great indie children’s bookstore in Denver. It’s been a part of the community for over 45 years. They have books for young adults and little ones, toys, games, craft kits and educational materials as well as plenty of adult titles and a playhouse. The store also hosts events like its popular Storytime held every Tuesday morning at 10:30 a.m. where actor Susie Leiser brings children’s tales to life.
Nest
2940 E. 6th Ave, Denver – Nest is a Denver children’s boutique with whimsical and fashion-forward clothing from well-known brands as well as up and coming designers, many of them high-end. It also has a collection of curated gifts. If you’re in the market for a funky present for a kid or a baby shower, Nest is an excellent place to start.
The Wizard’s Chest
451 N. Broadway, Denver – The Wizard’s Chest bills itself as “Denver’s most magical toy store and costume shop” and we’d have to agree. The 8,000 square-foot, two-story location, designed to look like a castle, has costumes galore for Halloween or for just playing make believe. It’s stocked with magic tricks, books, puzzles, games, puppets, stuffed animals, science toys and a whole lot of magic and wizard-themed items. It’s a hands-on play environment where kids are encouraged to try out some of the toys while the in-house magician wows customers.
Right Start (soon to be giggle)
Cherry Creek North, 3000 E. 3rd Ave, Unit 15, Denver – While Right Start will soon be transitioning to their parent company, giggle, the Denver baby store will still be the go-to destination for all things infant and toddler. It has gear like car seats, cribs and strollers, apparel, health, bath, potty-training and safety items, feeding supplies, nursery décor and all of the things you need for a tiny human. The store even has a baby registry so parents-to-be can get ready for their new arrival.
Huge thanks to Kids Mile High for featuring us on your list of kids’ favorites. Since we no longer have a physical store to visit, I wanted to offer a special discount for anyone who visits our online science store. Just use STEVE10 to take 10% off your first order. Thanks for helping us continue to find the most exciting ways to make science fun! – Steve