Bigger isn’t always better and that is especially true in the retail world. Many Long Island families wish to start their holiday shopping, but dread the idea of crazed crowds in local malls. Small businesses offer great prices and personalized service that large chain stores often cannot match. Help boost the local economy by visiting these 25 small businesses for holiday shopping on Long Island.
Aunt Suzie’s Clothes for Kids
59 Main Street, Southampton, NY
Aunt Suzie’s Clothes for Kids is a unique clothing store located in the Hamptons. Too busy to select each individual item? No problem – they have a personal shopper on staff.
Book Revue
313 New York Avenue, Huntington, NY
It’s never too early to instill a love of reading in a child. Check out their gigantic children’s book room for unique options (including local authors).
Read our full review: Book Revue Bookstore – A Huntington Treasure
Bubble Boutique, Babylon
15 East Main Street, Babylon, NY
Bubble Boutique is owned and run by a mother-daughter team. Offering everything from clothes to classes, shopping here is a uniquely fun experience.
Read our post: Locally Owned Children’s Clothing Boutiques
Cow Over the Moon
282 Main Street, Huntington, NY
This store in Huntington Village offers everything from rare sports memorabilia to toys for all ages. Gifts are available at all price points, so shoppers will definitely find something in their budget.
Creations by Lisa
123 Main Street, Greenport, NY
Creations by Lisa offers original clothing and accessories located in the East End. There is a large children’s selection, but Mom can pick up something for herself, too.
Dollhouse Alley
3335A Park Avenue, Wantagh, NY
Dollhouse Alley was founded by a Long Island mom who started it for her daughter. They offer unique miniature houses and will help families of doll lovers customize their homes – including with wallpaper and electricity!
The Dolphin Bookshop
299 Main Street, Port Washington, NY
This multifaceted store truly offers something for everyone. After holiday shopping is finished, pick up a sandwich at the café or stick around for story time.
Read our post: Insider’s Guide to Things to Do in Port Washington with Kids
Fun Stuff Toys
3639 Merrick Road, Seaford, NY
Toys that can’t be found in other places are sold here, and where else can you see toys do the Harlem Shake? Check out their YouTube video here.
Funky Monkey
360 Wheatley Plaza, Greenvale, NY
Enjoy this gorgeous toy store with your little one. As a bonus, kids can catch a story time reading during holiday shopping!
G. Wilikers Gifts
22 Forest Avenue, Locust Valley, NY
G. Wilikers Gifts offers great toys, gifts and dress up clothes. There are lots of varieties of educational toys and options for older children, too.
Grace Photography
168 Atlantic Ave., Carle Place, NY
Owner and proprietor Maxine Weber started photography as a teenager, but turned it into a business after the births of her two children. Holiday photos make great grandparent gifts!
Joseph’s Shoes
5507 Nesconset Highway, Mt. Sinai, NY
Children do only one thing consistently…grow! New shoes are a practical gift. This family-owned shoe store has been fitting children for decades. They offer a sizeable selection of shoes and offer brands to suit any budget. Gift cards are available.
Lainie’s Way
216A Main Street, Port Jefferson, NY
After Hurricane Sandy flooding damaged their store, the owners of this Port Jefferson landmark moved a few blocks south (and uphill). Their unique toy offerings remain unchanged, and educational toy options abound.
Lavender Ladybugs
Online store based in East Meadow, NY
Owner Danica Valentine’s online-only store offers all kinds of fun accessories such as barrettes, bows, hats and t-shirts — they make great stocking stuffers! Can’t find what you’re looking for? She’ll customize almost anything.
Little Dragonflies
Online store based in Center Moriches, NY
Little Dragonflies sells infant and toddler clothes, swimwear and specialized birthday apparel.
Lots and Lots of Toys
451 Route 25A, Miller Place, NY
True to their name, families will find lots of toys at this independent store. Pricing is usually competitive, but if a chain store sells something for a lower price, they may match the sale.
Matty’s Toy Stop
2138 Merrick Ave. in Merrick, NY; 284 Sunrise Hwy. in Rockville Centre, NY; 855 Willis Ave. in Albertson, NY
Matty’s Toy Store is an independently owned and run toy store. Melissa & Doug fans rejoice: there is a HUGE selection of wooden toys. The stores have several locations across Long Island.
Read our post: 8 Independent Toy Stores on Long Island
Mommy and Me Art
565 Rt. 25A, Miller Place, NY
In the midst of holiday shopping madness, families forget that what children need most is time with their parents. An art class gives children a chance to have some creative (and messy) fun with mom or dad. The studio is independently owned and run by a trained teacher, art therapist and Long Island mom.
Once Upon a Child
5460 Sunrise Highway, Sayville, NY
This consignment store sells new and gently used baby and toddler items. All favorite brands are available. Consignment shops are a great way for families on a budget to buy baby gear, clothes and accessories for the holidays.
Read our post: Family Consignment Shops on Long Island
Second Star to the Right
2044 Montauk Hwy., Bridgehampton, NY
This store offers great quality toys, a user-friendly website and a long list of inventory for ages birth through teens. Computer savvy kids can make helpful “wish lists” for their families on the website.
St. James General Store
516 Moriches Road, St. James, NY
General stores are a reminder of an era long past, but there’s still a place for them in the Long Island business scene. Pick up an antique yoyo, munch on molasses candy and explore the book room for unique holiday gifts.
Stevensons Toys
69 Jobs Lane, Southampton, NY
Stevensons Toys is a store with an inventory to rival the large chains. They even have a search engine on the website to assist families with finding the perfect gift. If Southampton is too far to travel, they offer free shipping on orders over $100.
Theatre Three
412 Main Street, Port Jefferson, NY
Theatre Three has been independently operated for more than three decades, Theatre Three is dedicated to introducing the dramatic arts to children. Tickets to one of their children’s shows make a fun holiday gift the whole family can enjoy together.
Willis Hobbies
300 Willis Avenue, Mineola, NY
Got trains? Willis Hobbies sells all kinds of remote control cars, trains and supplies to keep them running – perfect for a less traditional holiday gift.
Yussel’s Place
30A Merrick Avenue, Merrick, NY
Yussel’s sells all kinds of Judaica, ranging from room décor to toys and books. Shop here for all your Chanukah needs!
Written By Rachel Minkowsky