Plushes, puzzles and blind boxes: 5 local toy stores to check out for Christmas

With the gifting holiday approaching, community members can consider shopping at locally owned toy stores for Christmas presents. Some stores specialize in Star Wars-specific items while others carry a variety of toys for all ages. This list is not comprehensive.

Terra Toys

Items offered: classic toys, live toy demonstrations, blind boxes, books, Calico Critters, Monchichi, fantasy toys, magnetic toys, puzzles, plushes, baby toys, outdoor toys, Jelly Cats, bubbles, dolls, putty, educational games, magician tricks

Opening date: 2004

Hours: Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

• 2438 W. Anderson Lane, Austin
• www.terratoys.com

Items offered: action figures, figurines, board games, card games, electronic games, plushes, construction kits, costumes, masks, accessories, baby toys, toddler toys, sensory toys, puzzles, classic playsets, retro toys, housewares, blind boxes, outdoor toys, books, arts and crafts, STEM toys, sensory toys

Opening date: 2022

Hours: Sun.-Thu., 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 10 a.m.-11 p.m.

• 5501 Burnet Road, Austin
• www.toyjoy.com

Items offered: collectibles, apparel, accessories, books, Disney exclusives, Funko Pops, LEGO-brand products, home goods, plushies, signed items, vintage items, graded vintage

Opening date: 2021

Hours: Mon.-Sun., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

• 9828 Great Hills Trail, Ste. 330, Austin
• www.holocrontoystore.com

Items offered: new and used LEGO sets, vintage sets, pre-built sets, loose bricks, minifigs

Opening date: May 2017

Hours: Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., noon-6 p.m.

• 14010 N. US 183, Austin
• www.bricksandminifigs.com/austin-tx

Items offered: plushes from various franchises including Hello Kitty and Gudetama, fidget toys, stickers, keychains

Opening date: November 2021

Hours: Mon.-Thu., 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., noon-6 p.m.

• 11200 Lakeline Mall Drive, Cedar Park
• Instagram: Plushymaniacs