Toytopia

Some of the most original and thoughtful children’s gifts can be found in many of Oregon’s small historic communities. Explore one-of-a-kind toy stores filled with unexpected treasures in Oregon’s century-old downtowns. Or head for the bright lights of the city and knock out the entire family’s wish list with a day trip to Portland, Eugene, Bend or Medford. Either way, the best part of an Oregon shopping trip is the tax-free shopping! Remember, Oregon is one of the few states in the country without a sales tax so stock up and enjoy the holidays.

From shiny-red firetrucks to furry farm animals, nothing tickles a childhood fancy more than a romp through a whimsical toy store. Here are four Oregon originals to pique playtime interests during holiday toy season.

At Scheffel's Toys, located in the Southern Oregon town of Jacksonville, modern-day favorites such as Robotix construction sets intermingle with kids' classics like Fiddlestix, and are housed in a charming, old brick building. Customers from all over benefit from owners Linda and Bill Graham's global product knowledge, vast selection of hand-painted pewter military figurines, and die-cast planes, tractors and trucks. Scheffel's is also one of the rare few to import Grenada lead-pewter knights from Russia.

Another toytopia offering a unique spin on an old favorite is McMinnville's Hopscotch Toys & Games. Since 2001, owners Don and Linda Hays have helped kids develop crucial social skills through interactive game playing. Wednesdays through Saturdays year-round, Hopscotch welcomes kids of all ages to participate in friendly tournaments of Pokemon, Yu-Gi-Oh! and Chess. Walk in and participate, or just observe clusters of kids (and adults) hunched over tables, immersed in their favorite games.

Portland's Multnomah Village is home to Thinker Toys. Throughout the store you'll find numerous play spaces for dress-up and make-believe, as well as hands-on activity tables and an oversized cottage playhouse designed from drawings used for the Disney classic Cinderella.

The Seaside Carousel Mall (there's a working carousel inside) alone is worth a trip to the north coast. Inside this mecca of fun is Under The Big Top toy shop, which offers a very cool collection of Folkmainis puppets, Ravensburger puzzles, colorful kites and more.