Hobby Shop of the Year 2025
Vote for Your Favorite Hobby Shop
From now until December 31, 2025, stores and customers can vote for the local game stores that have gone above and beyond to support both their local community and the TCG industry. Review the list of nominated shops and read their submitted bios. When you're ready to vote, click the "Cast Your Vote" button. You'll be taken to a short form where you can select your favorite shop and submit your vote. This is your chance to vote for the stores that make a meaningful impact in the community.
Nominated Hobby Shops Northeast
FREDERICK, MD - We started off in the birth of Covid, March of 2020, as solely a Magic: the Gathering store. 5 and a half years later and many milestones achieved, we've doubled in size, fully renovated and now support countless games and communities. We get praise for our aesthetic and for our loveable staff members who are passionate about games and community!
BETHLEHEM, PA - A tournament center that specializes in various trading card games. The card shop is for the players ran by players!
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Labyrinth Games & Puzzles in Washington, DC is a family-friendly store that raises over $10,000 annually to provide games for local classrooms. We pride ourselves on being an inclusive space for all, and regularly host events in partnership with LGBTQ+ and women's rights-focused community organizations.
TANEYTOWN, MD - Laughing Coffin isn't just a trading card shop - it's the heart of Taneytown's gaming community. Specializing in Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering, and other popular trading card and tabletop games, the store provides a welcoming and inclusive environment for players of all skill levels. Beyond retail, Laughing Coffin offers a local social club that gives families and community members an affordable place to gather, play, and connect. With access to computers, gaming consoles, extra tabletop space, and classic arcade machines, the club creates a vibrant, safe, and engaging atmosphere that brings generations together through shared hobbies and friendship.
WARMINSTER, PA - Primarily focused on Magic: The Gathering, Pokémon, Warhammer and soon to be others like Riftbound and Hololive. We are one of the biggest cEDH event organizers with the best community around, and we have the product to support it. We have the best selection in our tri-state area and we are proud of it!
BREWER, ME - This is his third store. He has been the number one gaming area in the community and is still growing. He also purchased a bigger area for us to play and have more people in the store to enjoy.
BALTIMORE, MD - Silver Canon is a local game store located in Southwest Baltimore, Maryland. We specialize in buying and selling trading cards, video games, computer games, board games, and more! We strive to serve the local community's gaming needs because games are for everyone.
NORWALK, CT - Skybox Collectibles does their best to offer a premium customer experience, with competitive prices and some of the largest variety of product and singles in stock. Skybox hosts tournaments and trade nights often to get people involved in the community. Skybox has a mission to keep people informed in the hobby so that they can make the best decisions.
HOWELL TOWNSHIP, NJ & BROOKLYN, NY - New York and New Jersey Toys, Collectibles, Trading Cards and Skateboards store brings people from all over the world to create memories with friends and family.
BETHLEHEM, PA - The Portal has been bringing the complete gaming experience for over 20 years. We want to share the same excitement and deliver the same commitment to everyone, because when it comes to games we don't play around!
HADLEY, MA - We recently moved into a larger much more spacious location which can now comfortably seat upwards to 100 players, an additional roleplaying group, and 7 miniature games. Located inside the Hampshire Mall, we offer Magic: The Gathering, Pokémon, Disney Lorcana, Riftbound, Malefaux and more.
Nominated Hobby Shops Midwest
GROVE CITY, OH - At Card Father Games, we believe in people over profits. Built on trust, transparency, and passion, our shop is more than a place to buy cards; it's where memories are made, friendships are built, and collectors of all ages and backgrounds feel like they truly belong.
MACHENSNEY PARK, IL - We're a large, friendly, and inclusive store that caters to all kinds of tabletop gaming! We have a massive space for open play, and we stock all kinds of tabletop games and accessories for those games!
IMPERIAL, MO - We carry Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering, Yu-Gi-Oh! and several other card games. We have one of the largest selections of sports and trading cards in the St. Louis Area.
SIOUX FALLS, SD - Game Chest strives to be a welcoming, safe space all of our community members. We've grown from a little pop up in 2017 to our current location, our biggest yet! Our community is a mix of board game lovers, TTRPG gms & players, and our TCG friends!
INDEPENDENCE, MO - Gamers Getaway KC is a community focused shop started to provide a fair and friendly place for our local community to play and collect their favorite TCG's!
CLEVELAND, OH - We are a community space that is free and has a focus on TCG's in particular. We have developed a thriving community of Geek peeps who play Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering, Gundam and more.
OZARK, MO - Graffiti Games in Ozark, Missouri is the ultimate community game store! With a spacious play area, over 100,000 cards to browse, and regular events for Magic: The Gathering, Pokémon, Disney Lorcana, and Star Wars, it's the perfect place to play, trade, and connect.
TAYLOR, MI - Hyperion Games offers a safe and welcoming play space for anyone involved in card games! With a strong focus on community and a player first outlook.
JASPER, IN - We like to dabble in being different. At Jumping Jasper LLC, we are more than just a card shop. We are a whole entertainment center with inflatables, a redemption arcade and play space. Focusing on TCG's and tabletop wargames, we offer entertainment for kids, families and competitive alike!
GRAND RAPIDS, MI - Legends Sports and Games started in 1988 under the name Baseball Card City. We started with sports cards and memorabilia, but quickly expanded into gaming and TCG's in the 90's when Magic: The Gathering hit the scene. We were among the very first stores in our area to host card game events and have been proudly doing so for over 30 years. We host one of the largest gaming spaces in the world and maintain a small team to cater to many hobbies and interests, with cards being the heart and soul of our business.
ADDISON, IL - We are one of the largest Flesh and Blood stores in the country! We just purchased a 100-year-old bank to better serve our gaming community, and we have been a WPN Premium location for years. MinMaxGames doesn't deserve this, but our customers do!
CHESTERFIELD, MO - Veteran seller, supplying a wide variety of games over the last half decade. Large focus on One Piece Card Game and other up and coming games, as well as staples like Pokémon and Magic: The Gathering.
MADISON HEIGHTS, MI - At Mythic Forge Gaming we pride ourselves on providing an amazing, friendly, and cohesive community of tabletop gamers. All the while offering a large selection of TCGs and board games.
WARSAW, IN - Nicodemus Cards & Gaming is Warsaw's community hub for collectors and players. From Pokémon leagues to Magic: The Gathering prereleases, we create an inclusive, welcoming space where families, teens, and enthusiasts can connect, play, and grow. We're more than a shop - we're community.
NILES, MI - Reddhill Games & Electronics is a locally owned hobby shop in Niles, Michigan, blending tabletop games, TCGs, and hobby supplies with everyday electronics. We provide a safe, inclusive community hub where players gather for events, tournaments, and creativity beyond the game table.
CHARLESTON, IL - Sirius Unbound brings people together through games like Magic: The Gathering, Pokémon, and D&D. In a town once without a gathering place, we built a family helping players connect, grow, and even overcome struggles. Here, everyone belongs, and every game creates community.
REEDSBURG, WI - We are a 3 year old store that has had rapid growth. We have a wide variety of board games, card games, and roleplaying games. We really specialize in building community and a love for games.
BERKLEY, MI - Time Travelers is a hobby store like no other. We offer a wide range of comics, old and new, as well as graded comics. We have a wide variety of TCG's including Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering, One Piece Card Game and more! We carry a wide variety of vintage and newly sealed toys. Our staff has insane knowledge and are always happy to help.
AVON LAKE, OH - We are a family friendly store that supports 11 different trading card games and offers a fully organized inventory of over one million cards and sealed products from many past years. We host tournaments every day to bring our local community together and share our love of gaming.
FENTON, MI - We focus on the local community gaming. We run learn to play events to keep everyone involved and grow the gaming community.
Nominated Hobby Shops South
BAINBRIDGE, GA - Arkham Games & Comics is Bainbridge's home for gamers, collectors, and fans! We host Magic: The Gathering, Yu-Gi-Oh!, Disney Lorcana, RPGs, Warhammer, and more. From comics to board games, it's where the community gathers to play, trade, paint, and connect through fun and friendship.
TAMPA, FL - Whether you're a comic reader, a parent introducing your kids to games, a serious TCG competitor, or just a fan of pop culture, Beechboyz Comics & Games feels like home. It's a place to belong - where fandoms collide and friendships form.
AUGUSTA, GA - Cardboard Castle Games is a community-driven tabletop haven with a large, comfortable event space seating over 150 players. Hosting 80+ events monthly and open seven days a week, we provide a welcoming, family-friendly environment where players can connect, learn, and celebrate their hobbies together.
ROCK HILL, SC - We are different than other card shops because we will sit down and teach you to play, we offer bulk free to all players. We do not upcharge our customers and we charge MSRP.
MIAMI, FL - We are one of the leading retailers in the industry, with over 2,000,000 completed orders on 4 continents . We offer you the best shopping experience, tournaments, contests, and the best prices.
ROYAL PALM BEACH, FL - We've been able to breakthrough every barrier we've ever set. Reaching new limits in growing an 8 figure business. Expanding into multiple locations in 2 years.
BECKLEY, WV - Dragon's Den is on its 8th year serving the players in the Beckley area. We strive to be welcoming to all people in all walks of life regardless of race, religion, gender or orientation. We are all equals, we are all people here.
ANDERSON, SC - With an expert staff, a focus on building community, and a dedication to promoting a welcoming and inclusive environment, Empire Games sets itself as a premier destination for hobbyists.
BECKLEY, WV - Board games, trading cards, D&D, miniature wargaming, retro arcade, weekly events, & more! Family Game Knight Provides a space that is suitable for all ages where our community can socialize and have fun with the wide array of entertainment that we offer.
MORGANTOWN, WV - Four Horsemen Comics and Gaming is a Community-focused shop offering comics, games, cards, and collectibles. We host events, tournaments, and casual play for everybody. With passionate staff and a welcoming atmosphere, it's your local hub for geek culture, fun, and friendship.
JENA, LA - Located in the rural town of Jena, Gamer's Pair-a-Dice has grown to be a hotspot in Central Louisiana. Fair prices, a welcoming community, and friendly staff are the core of our store. Players come from hours away to spend the day with us playing trading card games, board games, and table top roleplaying games.
RIPLEY, TN - Located in Ripley, Tennessee, Hall of Heroes is an inclusive, community-first game store. We offer weekly free learn-to-play sessions, welcoming tables for women and new players, and an annual Suicide Prevention Challenge that's raised thousands for AFSP. Come for cards, dice, and games, but stay because you found your people.
WARNER ROBINS, GA - Heroes and Villains has been the only comic book and gaming store in Warner Robins since 2004! The store offers many events and activities, including roleplaying, card games, tabletop games and board games, as well as being a one-stop shop for comics, manga, Gunpla, and much more! Our events are casual, so new players can join in at any time. With our knowledgeable staff and friendly community, we are the place where all skill levels can play!
BUNNELL, FL - KingsWay Collectibles is where players come together! With 14 tables open daily, we host nightly tournaments for top TCGs like One Piece Card Game, Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering, and Disney Lorcana. Our welcoming community makes KingsWay a home for friendships, fun, and the shared joy of the game.
NEW ORLEANS, LA - We are the leading TCG store in the New Orleans area with the largest community for both Magic: The Gathering and Pokémon. We have grown our community through years of service and always doing right by the customers who have since turned into our family here at Media Men.
MIAMI, FL - At Pro-Play Games, we've always believed that a card shop should be more than a place to buy and sell, it should be a sanctuary for players, families, and anyone who loves this hobby. For us, being a "Hobby Shop" isn't about product lines or tournaments alone, it's about building a community that feels safe, respected, and valued. That's why we've made it our mission to open our doors to people who are too often overlooked.
SANFORD, NC - We provide a highly community driven store, servicing all sectors of the tabletop gaming industry, including trading card games, board games, role playing games, and miniatures. Our store is the much needed third space for so many people in Sanford and beyond.
ALBANY & COLUMBUS, GA - The Cool Place provides a home to all hobbyists and gamers in Georgia between our two locations. We ignite passion within souls and welcome every unique voice by creating a community of inspired, curious, and unique personalities that build something extraordinary, together.
HUNTSVILLE, AL - The DeeP Comics and Games features an array of different hobbies. From comics to TCGs to toys to board games, we have it all. A game room that is constantly packed with new and returning players every week. A place where you can always find someone who shares a similar interest in hobbies as you!
LEXINGTON, SC - The Side Deck exists to bring people together through a shared love of trading card games, board games, and community. From our café-style retail locations to major conventions, we create welcoming spaces that blend fun, competition, and connection.
RALEIGH, NC - TATC Cards is a thriving hub for the TCG community in Raleigh, North Carolina. Over the past two years, we've built a space where collectors, players, and families come together to celebrate the games they love. From high energy monthly trade nights packed with giveaways, to robust league play and a nonstop calendar of tournaments, we've created a welcoming, inclusive environment that brings people back week after week. Our commitment goes beyond just selling cards. We focus on building community, fostering connection, and creating unforgettable experiences for every guest who walks through our doors. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or brand new to the hobby, you'll find support, excitement, and camaraderie at Triangle Area Trading Cards. We're proud of the vibrant community we've cultivated!
BENTON, AR - Here at Zehtty's we believe cards are a window into a universe of fun and enjoyment for millions around the world. We strive to provide excellent customer service and lightning fast shipping to get the cards into our customers hands as soon as possible.
Nominated Hobby Shops Southwest
SAN ANTONIO, TX - BattlePub Games in San Antonio is one of the largest tabletop gaming destinations in the city and it's not just big in square footage, it's big in heart. With rows upon rows of battle tables and enough space to host major tournaments, painting seminars, and casual game nights, it's a place where the community doesn't just gather, it thrives.
DALLAS, TX - In 2025, we celebrated 12 years of being a gaming staple in Dallas, Texas. We are a WPN shop, a Bandai Gold store, and a Pokémon Premium stop. For 12 years, our store has celebrated the many voices of gaming, be it card, board, or tabletop.
PHOENIX, AZ - Our mission is to provide a safe, inclusive, and fun gaming space for EVERYONE. Specifically, due to it not frequently being, for minors, LGBTQ+, persons of color, and women. View our full Mission and Code of Conduct.
CASTLE ROCK, CO - Located in the heart of historic Old Town Castle Rock, Colorado, Hidden Gemz focuses on supporting our local TCG and retro video gaming community.
GLENDALE, AZ - J and J Gaming Factory is a friendly, community-focused game store in Glendale, Arizona, built for people who love to play. From Magic: The Gathering and Pokémon to board games, minis, and RPGs, we bring players together for great games, good company, and plenty of laughs. Whether you're here to shop, compete, or just hang out, you'll always have a place at our tables.
RIBERTON, UT - We are a community focused store that specializes in trading card games. We opened in 2021 and have grown to nearly 4000 square feet of space. Come find new best friends and create lifelong memories.
HOUSTON, TX - Our close-knit band of friends, united by a passion for TCG, created this project to serve players, collectors, and hobbyists. Despite full-time jobs and family lives, we remain committed to offering a sanctioned, welcoming space where every patron feels valued, comfortable, and at home in our realm.
WACO, TX - We're a new LGS that is focused on community building, unique experiences, and giving back. Our motto is Play, Connect, Shine. We strive to be the 'third place' for casual and competitive players alike.
Nominated Hobby Shops West
GOLETA, CA - BAM Cards is the premier destination for all things TCG on the central coast. BAM offers the largest selection of singles in the area.
SAN DIEGO, CA - Bards & Cards is Downtown San Diego's friendly local game shop where everyone belongs - whether you're cracking packs, rolling dice, or battling friends over coffee. We're a community hub for collectors and storytellers, celebrating games, laughter, and the people who make them great.
THE DALLES, OR - Brick City & Games is a family-oriented shop in The Dalles, Oregon. We are a hobby shop and toy store in one and pride ourselves in being a safe space that's inclusive of all who enter! We are a TCGplayer Pro and Direct seller.
LANCASTER, CA - Funhouse 51 Collectibles isn't just a card shop, it's a community. From the beginning, our mission has been to create a space where players, collectors, and fans can come together to share their passion for trading card games and collectibles. What makes us truly special is our FunFam, the incredible community that has supported us and helped us grow every step of the way.
BAKER CITY, OR - A family owned game store in the middle of a historic town. We treat everyone like family.
THE DALLES, OR - Gorge Pokeshop is The Dalles' premier destination for Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering, Yu-Gi-Oh!, Disney Lorcana, Digimon, One Piece Card Game, and more. With welcoming events, fair pricing, and amazing prize support, we bring players together across every TCG to celebrate the games they love.
REDDING, CA - Matrix Cards and Games is the longest running game-store north of Sacramento in California. Matrix is owned by Drew & Kaylee Silva. The store offers 3000 sq ft of retail space, offering everything from TCGs, board games, hobby accessories, miniatures, Dungeons and Dragons, Gunpla, dice, and a local vendors section. Matrix also has 1200 sq ft of play space, where we feature the following games for locals and competitive play: Magic: The Gathering, Pokémon, Yu-Gi-Oh, One-Piece Card Game, Disney Lorcana, Star Wars Unlimited, Grand Archive TCG, Gundam Card Game, Flesh and Blood, Digimon Card Game, Dragon Ball Card Game, Beyblade, Warhammer 40k, Warmachine, and board game night. The play side at Matrix runs events seven days a week. Matrix also recently squired 2400 sq ft of space across the street called 'Guild Matrix' focused on hosting Dungeons & Dragons every Friday and Saturday night in five uniquely designed rooms, painted by local artists.
ALHAMBRA, CA - We are a one-stop shop for all TCG needs, offering a wide variety of products at great prices and competitive buyback rates. Our welcoming environment and dedication to our community make us a true hub for collectors and players alike.
PORTLAND, OR - Red Castle Games is Portland's friendly neighborhood game store and café. We bring people together through board games, card games, RPGs, and puzzles, plus great food and drinks from Ruby Brews. It's a welcoming space to play, connect, and feel at home.
HILO, HI - Slow Your Roll is a local game store and board game lounge that is committed to providing a community focused gaming experience for anyone and everyone.
SEATTLE, WA - U Wine Bar is a 21+ wine bar and community space for individuals who love tabletop gaming and are unwilling to compromise on experience. We've ditched the plastic chairs and windowless basement for a sleek modern wine bar. Here client comfort and experience is central.
Nominated Hobby Shops Canada
TORONTO, ON - We specialize in Rare & Vintage games.
KITCHENER, ON - Born from adversity and built on love, Chimera Gaming has become a home for gamers across Ontario. Through loss, hardship, and triumph, our community has stayed united - proving that the heart of this hobby isn't the games we play, but the people who play them.
OAKVILLE, ON - Game 3 TCG & Hobby in Oakville is a premier trading card and hobby store offering Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering, Bandai, and Yu-Gi-Oh! products. Game 3 hosts tournaments, buys and sells singles, and provides a welcoming community space with knowledgeable staff and quality gaming accessories.
QUEBEC, QC - The Mythic Store (La Boutique Mythique) is Quebec's premier TCG destination. A thriving hub where players, collectors, and newcomers unite. With over 200 unique players weekly and a passionate bilingual staff, we build community through top-tier events, innovation, and inclusivity in every TCG we carry.
GUELPH, ON - Here at TKO Toy Company, we strive to deliver expert knowledge, personalized care, and a diverse selection of product assortment to collectors, gamers, and enthusiasts alike. Our rapid growth is backed by our strong community support and enduring passion for what we do.