Relocating to Boise With Kids: Local Shops That Make It Feel Like Home (Fast)

Moving to a new city with kids isn’t just about bedrooms and school boundaries — it’s about helping them feel excited, safe, and grounded as quickly as possible.

As a Boise relocation specialist (and mom), I always tell families this: don’t start with houses — start with lifestyle. When kids connect to a place emotionally, the transition gets a whole lot smoother.

Here are four Boise spots I recommend to almost every family relocating to the Treasure Valley — because they help Boise feel like home, fast.

G. Willikers Toy Store — Hyde Park

Address: 1511 N 13th St, Boise, ID 83702

If there were a welcome committee for families moving to Boise, G. Willikers would be leading it.

This locally loved toy store in Hyde Park specializes in:

• Educational toys and puzzles

• Science kits and creative play

• Thoughtful gifts for all ages

• Free gift wrapping (which feels like an emotional support service during a move)

Hyde Park itself is one of Boise’s most walkable, charming neighborhoods — and this shop gives kids an immediate sense of place and fun.

Fantastic Games — Downtown Boise

Address: 610 W Idaho St, Boise, ID 83702

Boise winters are cozy, not isolating — and Fantastic Games plays a big role in that.

This downtown staple carries:

• Board games for all ages and skill levels

• Family-friendly strategy games

• Community game nights and events

For relocating families, this becomes a go-to spot for screen-free connection and easy traditions during colder months.

Bricks & Minifigs — West Boise

Address: 7189 W Overland Rd, Boise, ID 83709

If your kids love LEGO (or you’re still stepping on it years later), this place is magic.

Bricks & Minifigs allows kids to:

• Buy, sell, and trade LEGO sets

• Explore rare and creative builds

• Feel a sense of ownership and continuity during a move

For many families, this shop becomes a ritual stop — and a surprisingly helpful way to ease transitions.

All Weather Adventuring — Boise-Based, Online + Pop-Ups

All Weather Adventuring is a local Boise brand created by a mom who understands Idaho childhood.

They offer:

• Nature-based activity kits

• Outdoor exploration tools for kids

• Screen-free ways to connect with Idaho’s landscape

This brand captures what many families are moving to Boise for: space, nature, and a slower, more intentional lifestyle.

Why These Places Matter When Relocating to Boise

Relocating isn’t just a logistical change — it’s an emotional one.

These local Boise shops:

• Help kids feel excited instead of uprooted

• Create early positive memories

• Make Boise feel familiar and welcoming

• Support a smoother transition for the entire family

When kids settle in faster, parents can make clearer, more confident decisions — especially around housing and long-term plans.

Thinking About Moving to Boise With Kids?

If you’re relocating to Boise and want help choosing:

• Family-friendly neighborhoods

• New construction communities

• Schools and lifestyle areas

• A clear relocation plan that actually makes sense

I’d love to help.

Planning a visit soon? Check out my 48 hour in Boise Guide

Relocation doesn’t have to feel overwhelming — it just needs the right plan.

Written by Sarah Breck, Boise Relocation Specialist helping families move with confidence and clarity.