It's that time of year when holiday shopping officially kicks off. This winter gift guide is tailored to provide parents with ideas for finding gifts, either locally in Jefferson City or through popular online retailers.
Local Shopping
Downtown Book and Toy: Located in downtown Jefferson City on High Street, Downtown Book and Toy offers an array of holiday gifts. From Schleich dinosaurs and animals to the Stomp Rocket, Calico Critters, charm bracelets, necklaces, puzzle sets, toy trains and stuffed animals, you'll find a diverse selection to choose from. Prices vary according to the item.
Online
National Geographic Earth Science Kit: The National Geographic Science Kit contains over 15 science experiments and STEM projects for kids. It includes a crystal growing kit, a volcano science kit, dig kits, and even the ability to create water tornados. You can find it on Amazon for just $29.99.
Minecraft LEGO: If your child is a Minecraft enthusiast, consider gifting them a LEGO Minecraft set, allowing them to craft in the real world. Online options include The Axolotl House, The Skeleton Dungeon, The Bee Cottage, The Abandoned Mine, and The Fox Lodge, all priced between $15 and $20.
Pokémon Battle Academy 2 Board Game: Board games make for fantastic indoor winter fun. The Pokémon Battle Academy 2 game is suitable for children ages 6 and up and requires only two players.
PAW Patrol-Themed Toys: With "PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie" hitting theaters in late September, anything PAW Patrol-related is a fantastic choice for young fans. Consider the Melissa & Doug PAW Patrol Pup Backpack Role Play Set, available on Amazon for kids ages 3-5 at $19.93.
Magna-Tiles: Magna-Tiles are great toys for kids over the age of 3, enabling them to create shapes and designs with colorful magnetic tiles. You can find a 32-piece set online for $49.99.
Magic Mixies Magical Misting Cauldron: This extremely popular magic cauldron allows kids 5 and up to mix potions and create spells with a magic wand to create their own magical pet. Find it on Amazon for $64.00.
Unique Experiences
If you're seeking something beyond traditional toys for memorable holiday gifts, consider experiences that will create lasting memories.
Runge Nature Center: Located in Jefferson City, Missouri, Runge Nature Center offers educational opportunities about local Missouri habitats. Explore five hiking trails, nature exhibits and a fish aquarium, and learn about native Missouri species.
Washington Park Ice Arena: Open year-round to the public, the ice arena offers entertainment for everyone, including birthday parties, rentals, figure skating, and hockey.
Where Pigs Fly Farm: Located in Linn, Missouri, Where Pigs Fly Farm is a 62-acre rescue farm where kids can interact with and pet animals such as horses, donkeys, sheep, birds, and pigs.
Stark Caverns: Located near the Lake of the Ozarks in Eldon, Missouri, Stark Caverns allows visitors to explore geological formations, indigenous artifacts, and ancient bear beds while learning about stalagmites and stalactites during a cave tour.
St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station: Plan a visit to the aquarium at Union Station in St. Louis, where families can learn about the unique geography of Missouri's freshwater rivers, observe a variety of sharks in Shark Canyon, and encounter deep-sea life such as sea dragons, octopus, and jellyfish. General admission ticket prices vary based on demand but typically average around $20.
Science City in Kansas City: Ideal for kids of all ages, Science City features a diverse range of science-based exhibits designed to spark curiosity. General admission tickets typically cost around $15.00, and children 12 months and under are admitted free of charge.