Shop Small for your Small Ones

Got kids on your holiday shopping list? You don’t need Amazon or the mall. Just take a stroll downtown - specifically Hargett Street - where you’ll find at least four of our favorite places to shop for kids. (Two blocks over, you’ll find another good one, too!)

• Marbles Kids Museum - Inside this popular downtown kids' museum, you’ll find one of the best toy stores around, especially if your kids love playing at Marbles. Marbles PlayStore stocks many of the same toys found inside the museum. Bonus: Museum members get 10 percent off! (Don’t miss the gift-wrapping event on Dec. 3. from 9 a.m.-2 p.m.) 201 E. Hargett St.

• Gathering Gallery - This delightful locally owned shop has something for everyone on your list, and simply does not miss when it comes to kids' gifts. Fairy wands, hair lights, stuffed animals and so much more! 111 E. Hargett St.

• Read With Me - This mainstay downtown Raleigh children’s bookstore has the classics and the latest great reads. Can’t find a specific book? The store owner will happily order whatever you need! (Conveniently located right next door to Gathering Gallery.) 111 E. Hargett St.

• Munjo Munjo - Your pre-teens and teens will love the stickers, frames, socks and sweatshirts at this quirky corner shop at Hargett and Wilmington street. (Bonus points if you get to see the fluffy pup Munjo in the store.) 20 E. Hargett St.

• NC Museum of Natural Sciences - If you’ve got kids on your list who love nature and animals, this museum’s gift shop is THE spot. Dinosaur puzzles, plush owls, gemstone kits, science experiment books. (Museum members get a 10 percent discount) 11 W. Jones St.