These nine Philly-area children's stores have everything needed to keep kids happy on and off the playground, whether your little one is a precocious 3-year-old on a princess streak or a tween hoping for the coolest clothes for back-to-school.
•Ali's Wagon
Founded in 2007, Ali's Wagon carries kids' apparel and toys, plus a smattering of contemporary home and kitchen accents (soap, stationery, candles, dish towels), some of which is sourced from local makers and crafters. This boutique in Philly's Fairmount neighborhood is probably better known for its frequent parenting workshops and classes, which enable new parents to mix and mingle with other Philadelphia moms and dads.
2017 Fairmount Ave., Philadelphia, Pa.; (215) 787-0611More »
•The Children's Clothing Patch
Because most of the kids' apparel at Wayne's The Children's Clothing Patch shares a common theme of being USA-made with natural fibers, shoppers can rest assured that their purchase will withstand the rigors of childhood—even if that purchase is a frothy tulle tutu.
163 W. Lancaster Ave., Wayne, Pa.; (610) 971-5102More »
•Born Yesterday
Just steps from Rittenhouse Square Park, Born Yesterday keeps Philly boys and girls—aged 0 through 16—in the most up-to-date children's gear and fashions. Expect everything from high-end carriers and strollers to cozy UGG boots, handknit cardigans and silly novelty tees.
1901 Walnut St., Philadelphia, Pa.; (215) 568-6556More »
•Greene Street Kids
Because "they just grow so fast," Greene Street Kids, a consignment shop in Chestnut Hill, provides budget-minded shoppers with gently used, name brand children's apparel and footwear at discount prices. Looking to trade in your kids' old gear for cash? This is the place to do so.
8518 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia, Pa.; (267) 368-5782More »
•Hatch
Part boutique, part community center, Hatch caters to the "modern mom" via stylish maternity and kids' apparel, plus parenting classes that can help new moms and dads forge a much-needed social network (and support system!) after Baby's arrival.
12 W. Butler Pike, Ambler, Pa.; (215) 646-1907More »
•O'Doodles Toy Store
Marked by royal blue awnings, this decades-old, family-owned toy store specializes in battery-free fun for kids of all ages. Floor-to-ceiling stuffed animals, wooden puzzles, train sets, arts and crafts kits, and other playthings from hard-to-find makers prove O'Doodles to be a Chestnut Hill mainstay.
8532 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia, Pa.; (215) 247-7405 More »
•pucciManuli
Imported from all over the world, toys and games at Ardmore's pucciManuli are intended to spark curiosity and creativity in young minds. Craftsmanship is the focus here, from the simple, hand-painted wooden tops to the cuddly plush animals guaranteed to become your child's new best friend.
35 Cricket Ave., Ardmore, Pa.; (484) 466-2067More »
•Scarlett Alley
A longstanding boutique in Old City, Scarlett Alley specializes in gifts for brides, newlyweds and new baby. Head to the rear of the store to browse posh nursery essentials, snuggly toys and blankets, elegant keepsakes and chic diaper bags.
241 Race St., Philadelphia, Pa.; (215) 592-7898More »
•Villavillekula
Sourced from the USA and Europe, quirky children's wear is the draw at Villavillekula, a charming boutique in Philadelphia's tony Chestnut Hill section. Here, you'll find applique-adorned wool jackets, faux fur-collared sweaters and whimsical printed rainboots perfectly suited for puddle splashing.
8135 Germantown Ave., Pa.; (215) 242-0200More »