One of the only independent toy boutiques left, Adventures in Toys has been catering to discerning parents and kids for more than 18 years. The quaint shop features personalized shopper service and high-end favorites like Madame Alexander dolls, Brio, Steiff, Playmobil, Lego, Alex, Melissa & Doug, Rokenbok and Kettler bikes. Check out its new locale, right across the street, with an expanded selection of board games. Free gift wrapping and, best of all, back-door pickup for emergency birthday gift runs. --Julie Yolles

See more: Downtown Birmingham stores, Birmingham stores, Toy stores