If you're shopping for a kid, or for an adult who likes a long project spread across the kitchen table, there are independent toy and puzzle shops in Boulder you can walk into and browse. This guide covers three of them, based on operator websites checked September 7, 2026. It isn't a full list of every shop in town.
The shops
Into the Wind, 1408 Pearl Street
Into the Wind is known for kites, and the rest of the shop carries science kits, games and toys alongside them. You can browse baby and toddler, models, crafts and puzzles. Call 303-449-5906 first if you're after something specific.
Grandrabbit's, 2525 Arapahoe Avenue
Grandrabbit's opened on October 3, 1977, per the operator's own history, and the current operator confirms the Boulder shop on Arapahoe. The shelves hold books, arts and crafts, games and active play. You can also browse by age. That range spans babies through adults, so it's a reasonable stop when you're buying for a family with kids at different stages.
Liberty Puzzles retail store, 1468 Pearl Street
Liberty Puzzles designs and manufactures wooden jigsaws in Boulder. Jeff Eldridge and Chris Wirth founded it in 2005. The retail store on Pearl is a different location from the 49th Street factory, so downtown is where you go to browse. Difficulty and piece count are the two things to settle before you buy, based on who's getting it.
How to choose a gift
Most of the decision comes down to who you're buying for rather than which shop you walk into.
- Start with the recipient's age and what they're already into.
- The age range printed on the box works as a first filter.
- For a puzzle, match the piece count and the difficulty to whoever will be doing it.
- Call before you drive over to check on what's in stock.
- Ask about gift receipts and the return policy at the register, while you're still paying.
Addresses, hours and stock all change, so check with the shop before you go.
Editorial update: September 7, 2026 by Your Boulder. Original author: Kelly Tidd.
