Santa Clarita, a family-friendly destination nestled just outside of Los Angeles, is a place that doesn’t just have great parks and fun attractions—it’s also home to a variety of fantastic toy stores that are perfect for a family shopping trip. From quirky independent shops to big-name chains, Santa Clarita offers a range of options for toy shopping with kids. I’ve spent the past few days exploring some of the best spots in the area, and it’s safe to say that Santa Clarita should be on your list if you’re planning a trip with little ones in tow.
Let me take you through some of the best toy stores in the area, share some memorable experiences, and point out a few gems you might otherwise miss.
1. The Toy Shoppe: A Local Favorite with Personality
One of my first stops was The Toy Shoppe, an independent, locally owned store that has been a staple in Santa Clarita for years. Located in the heart of the city, this place feels like a step back in time—a nostalgic treasure trove of classic toys mixed with the latest must-have products.
Upon entering, the warm, inviting atmosphere hits you right away. The shop is cozy, with wooden shelves lined with everything from stuffed animals to puzzles and board games. One thing I immediately noticed was how interactive the store is. Kids can test out toys in the aisles, trying out new games or experimenting with hands-on puzzles. It’s not just a shopping trip; it’s an experience.
What really stands out at The Toy Shoppe is the way it manages to balance traditional and modern toys. You’ll find old-school toys like wooden blocks, dolls, and figurines alongside the latest Lego sets and tech-inspired gadgets. There’s a little something for every age, from babies to pre-teens, and the staff is incredibly knowledgeable about the best picks for different age groups.
I spent some time chatting with the owner, who told me that the store prides itself on curating high-quality, educational toys that aren’t just about entertainment—they’re about fostering creativity, learning, and development. If you’re traveling with younger kids, you’ll love the range of sensory toys and interactive playthings that engage little minds. I ended up picking up a gorgeous wooden train set for my nephew, which quickly became his favorite gift.
2. Target: The Convenient All-In-One Shopping Experience
While local boutiques have their charm, sometimes the convenience of larger stores can’t be beat. Enter Target, a short drive from the heart of Santa Clarita. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Target’s toy section is a go-to for families who want variety, affordability, and, let’s be honest, an all-around convenient shopping experience.
The Target in Santa Clarita is huge, with a toy section that feels like a wonderland for kids. You’ll find everything from trendy action figures to science kits and outdoor games. I found it particularly helpful that the store has separate aisles dedicated to different age groups, making it easier to narrow down what to get for the little ones. There’s also a section for themed toys, such as Disney princesses or Star Wars action figures, so if your child has a specific interest, Target is sure to have something for them.
What I loved about this Target, though, was the layout—it was easy to navigate, and the staff was super friendly. I spotted a few parents pushing strollers around, stopping by the colorful aisles and picking out books, stuffed animals, and educational toys. It’s the kind of place you can pop into when you need to grab something quickly, or even just wander around to see what catches your eye.
3. Barnes & Noble: Not Just Books, But Amazing Toys Too
As much as I enjoy reading, I hadn’t expected Barnes & Noble in Santa Clarita to stand out for its toy selection—but it totally did. Right off the bat, I was impressed by how seamlessly the store blends books and toys. Their children’s section is expansive, with a lovely collection of plush toys, games, and puzzles that would make any kid’s day.
I spent a good while just perusing the aisles, discovering educational toys that promote learning in fun and engaging ways. There were tons of science kits, art sets, and craft supplies, which is perfect for parents like me who are looking for something that will spark a child’s creativity. One of the standout sections was the educational toys for toddlers. It’s not every day you find a toy store that offers great options for younger kids, and Barnes & Noble definitely delivered in this regard.
What’s also nice about Barnes & Noble is the overall vibe. It’s quiet, peaceful, and perfect for a more relaxed shopping experience. There’s no rush, and you can take your time browsing. For parents who also love books, the mix of reading materials and toys is an added bonus, especially if you’re looking for something for older children.
4. The Lego Store: A Dream Destination for Building Enthusiasts
I don’t think any list of toy stores would be complete without mentioning the iconic Lego Store, and luckily Santa Clarita has one in the nearby Westfield Valencia Town Center. If you have a child who is obsessed with Legos (or you happen to be one yourself), this is a must-visit stop. The Lego Store in Santa Clarita is a great place to immerse yourself in the world of these beloved building blocks.
I spent hours here just exploring the various sets on display. The Lego Store features everything from classic kits like the Lego City collection to intricate designs based on famous landmarks and movies like Star Wars and Harry Potter. There’s something magical about watching a child’s face light up when they discover a new set they’ve been dreaming about.
One of the coolest parts of the store is the interactive Lego wall, where kids (and adults) can build whatever they can imagine with thousands of colorful pieces. It’s a fantastic spot for a quick break while you shop, and I found it a great way to get kids involved in the experience. I ended up picking up a small Lego Friends set for my daughter, which she immediately began building when we got home.
What I also appreciated was how helpful the staff was. They’re all Lego enthusiasts, and they’re more than happy to offer recommendations based on a child’s interests or age group. If you’re looking for something that’s both fun and developmental, the Lego Store has a lot to offer.
5. The Learning Express: Where Learning Meets Fun
Another toy store worth mentioning is Learning Express, a small chain with a store in Santa Clarita. If you’re in the area and looking for toys that combine fun with education, this store is perfect. Located just off the main shopping strip, it has an excellent selection of toys designed to stimulate learning and creativity in children.
The store is filled with STEM-focused toys, arts and crafts supplies, and even puzzles that challenge critical thinking skills. The layout is colorful and organized, with clear sections for different types of toys. Whether you’re after a science kit, a creative building toy, or a sensory toy for younger children, Learning Express has it covered.
What I really loved about this store was how engaged the staff was with customers. One of the employees walked me through some of the most popular toys for kids in various age ranges, which helped me find the perfect gift for my niece. There’s also a great selection of board games for family nights. It’s one of those stores where you walk in to pick up one thing and end up leaving with a bag full of carefully selected goodies.
6. The Disney Store: Magic for Every Child
Of course, no shopping trip with kids in Santa Clarita would be complete without a visit to the Disney Store. Located in the same Westfield Valencia Town Center, this iconic store is a must-see for anyone with little ones who adore Disney characters.
Stepping inside the Disney Store is like walking into another world. It’s magical. The entire space is dedicated to all things Disney—from toys and apparel to exclusive collectibles and limited-edition merchandise. Kids can find their favorite princess dolls, action figures, and Disney-themed board games. The store also features plenty of plush toys, so it’s easy to find something snuggly for your child to cuddle.
As soon as I walked in, I saw a huge display featuring the latest Disney movies, with a section dedicated to the brand-new characters and storylines. For younger kids, there were plenty of soft toys and books, while older kids could browse through everything from Frozen action figures to Cars-themed Lego sets.
I ended up grabbing a few Disney Princess figures for my daughter, and she hasn’t stopped playing with them since. It’s the kind of store that feels like it’s made just for kids, and parents can enjoy the nostalgic charm of the Disney brand too.
7. Toy Crazy: For the Quirky Collector
Last but not least, Toy Crazy is a hidden gem that’s a little off the beaten path in Santa Clarita. This store specializes in all things collectible and quirky, so if you’re looking for something unique or a bit nostalgic, this is the place to check out.
What makes Toy Crazy stand out is its eclectic mix of toys—ranging from vintage collectibles to modern, niche items. I found everything from retro action figures and limited-edition Barbies to obscure board games and unique Lego kits. It’s a fun spot to explore if you have older kids who are into specific fandoms or collecting.
There’s something fascinating about a store that carries both vintage toys and new releases. Whether you’re after something rare or just want to find a fun surprise, Toy Crazy is a must-visit stop for any toy lover in Santa Clarita.
Santa Clarita is a wonderful place for families, and the variety of toy stores here make it easy to find something special for the kids. Whether you’re on the hunt
for educational toys, the latest action figures, or something a little nostalgic, there’s something for everyone in this charming city. Each of these stores provides not only great shopping but an experience that will make your trip to Santa Clarita memorable for both parents and kids alike.
