As parents, we are constantly searching for the best baby and children’s items, either for ourselves or as gifts. Knowing where to go to find tried-and-true and unique items can be as overwhelming as knowing what to buy! We are lucky to have some amazing independent retailers that take the guesswork out of shopping — here are some of the best baby stores in Boston!
Whitney + Winston :: Beacon Hill
Originally founded as a contemporary women’s store, Crush Boutique expanded to include a sister store focused on children’s fashions and gifts. With a large assortment of Boston-themed gifts and apparel, this is also the go-to destination for the perfect special occasion outfit. I love that they are always willing to curate the perfect gift basket (with wrapping!) for any celebration.
Mockingbird Baby & Kids :: Charlestown
This store prides itself on its environmental commitment while sourcing women- and minority-founded brands and items made in the U.S. They are known for their “I Love Boston” T-shirts and sweatshirts, as well as their active support of local nonprofits. Mockingbird carries a variety of well-known and specialty brands both online and in their Charlestown store. They have everything from clothes and gifts to strollers and carseats!
Bringing Up Baby :: South Boston
Located in South Boston, this store focuses on high quality, niche brands from around the world. With an assortment that includes clothing for newborns to tweens and toys for newborns on up, Bringing Up Baby hopes to challenge the imagination and capture the magic of childhood.
Tadpole :: South End
The staff at Tadpole aim to take the research out of crafting the perfect baby registry. They are happy to provide demos and consultations on everything from the perfect outfit to a car seat or highchair. They carry all the gear you need from newborn through childhood and even offer a registry service and car seat installations.
Magic Beans :: Wellesley
No Boston baby store list would be complete without mentioning many local parents’ go-to destination for baby gear — Magic Beans. Eli has provided so much to the Greater Boston community via social media demos, YouTube reviews, and the Drool Baby expo. Sadly, they have announced they will be closing their remaining store and ending their business after the 2023 holiday season. This is a great opportunity to check off any big gear purchases as they liquidate their inventory and also support their business as they transition into what’s next.
CouCou :: South End
This award-winning shop, pronounced “koo-koo,” focuses on small-label and sustainable brands from around the world. They believe in investing in fewer, quality pieces and offer products like clothing, toys, crafts, and even some women’s items.
Kodomo :: South End and Beacon Hill
Kodomo, which means “child” in Japanese, is all about embracing the happiness and joy of children. This shop is focused solely on slow fashion and retailers who are committed to these business practices. With everything from clothes and toys to home goods and items for teens and women, this store is sure to delight with their vast selection of brands.
UPPAbaby Hub :: South End
Offering a unique, one-stop shop for all things UPPAbaby, the Hub Service Center & Showroom provides the full line of products and accessories for you to test out and purchase. They even have a customization studio! Whether you purchase from them directly or one of the other small businesses listed here, the best part about the Hub is they offer maintenance and service repairs on any of your UPPAbaby products at low or no cost. Appointments are recommended, but their staff on site are available to walk through any product demos or provide recommendations to best suit your needs.
Looking for more toys and big-kid items? Check out our list of the best toy stores in the Boston area!
