What type of holiday shopper are you? Are you super organized and already have a closet full of wrapped gifts? Or do you rely on Amazon Prime three days before the big day? It’s likely you’re somewhere in the middle and while you’ve started thinking (a little) about those gift lists, the shopping hasn’t started yet. If that’s the case, then we have a great guide to help you get started. These local shops have those favorite, sought after items, as well as unique ideas to make gift giving extra special this year.
Related Article: Gift Ideas for Local Classes and Experiences around Cincinnati & Dayton
We present our guide to Local Holiday Shopping:
Local Stores
King Arthur’s Court Toys
King Arthur’s Court Toys in Oakley has been a neighborhood favorite for over 30 years and is the perfect spot to check things off those Christmas lists. With a wide variety of all the popular toys, from Legos to trains to dollhouses, they have it all and even carry quite a few unique and hard-to-find brands for that child in your life who may be difficult to shop for! While you’re there, let your play in The Dungeon.
Cincy Shirts
If you’re looking for a Cincinnati-specific gift, then Cincy Shirts is your one-stop-shop! You can order their unique and often hilarious shirts, gear, and gift items online or head to one of their stores to pick something out in person. They offer both adult and child sizes in many of their items!
Related Article: 10 Cool Local Toy Stores
The Spotted Goose
The Spotted Goose offers beautiful clothing for children that are perfect for when you’re looking for a special gift. Stop in for your holiday shopping but also keep this lovely shop in mind when you need a gift for a baby shower or birthday celebration.
Joseph-Beth Booksellers
Joseph Beth offers so much more than books and is really a great destination for all of your holiday shopping needs. You can surely find the perfect gift for your little literary lover, but there are also toys, arts and crafts, clothing, and locally made gifts for both kids and adults.
Related Article: Holiday Markets and Craft Shows
Blume Home
If you haven’t spent time in Blume in the heart of Lebanon, then plan some “me time” and head there soon! This unbelievably charming store has a beautiful selection of home décor and countless options for gift giving this season. It’s the perfect spot to find a gift for your child’s teacher and they do have a few items that your kids would enjoy, as well.
Once Upon A Child | Plato’s Closet | Clothes Mentor
From photo-ready holiday apparel (for kids and moms!) to toys and everything in between, this local resale superstar has everything you need for a budget-friendly holiday season. Don’t miss the Black Friday events at each of these local stores!
Restaurants
Jeff Ruby Culinary Entertainment
In Cincinnati, Jeff Ruby is King. Ruby’s restaurants are the best of the best, and offers a dining experience for patrons. From Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse to The Precinct to Carlo and Johnny’s, you can’t go wrong!
Aglamesis Bros
Ice cream, chocolates and candies – oh my! A gift card to Aglamesis Bros would make a sweet stocking stuffer.
Holtman’s Donuts
Arguably the best donuts in town, Holtman’s Donuts would make a fun Christmas brunch everyone would love. And we have it on good authority that Santa also loves donuts…
Experiences
Cincinnati Museum Center
A Family Membership to the CMC is a perfect gift for someone extra-special. CMC memberships offer tons of perks, and truly are the gift that keeps giving.
Cincinnati Zoo
Looking for a wild and unique gift? Give the gift of membership! Holiday Shopping? Order by December 10 to guarantee delivery by December 25.
Kings Island
For families with older kids, you can’t go wrong with a Kings Island Gold Season Pass. You’ll get free season-long parking, unlimited admission to Kings Island, Soak City Water Park, Halloween Haunt, The Great Pumpkin Fest and WinterFest, and access to early ride time. 2024 Gold Season Pass are on sale now — get more information here.
The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati
From single tickets to The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati’s Main Stage shows to gift cards for TCT Academy, to memberships to the Crown Club, give your theatre-loving kids the gift of The Children’s Theatre this year!
