Treehouse Gift Shop

I have to say, I am a fan… and I’ve never been to Treehouse Gift Shop. My friend’s daughter was in the Dell Children’s Medical Center for a few days (she’s been in and out for various reasons the past couple of years) and I knew she was very scared about this visit. When we got the «all clear» message, I decided to see if there was an easy way for me to get something delivered to her. I went on the Dell Children’s Medical Center’s website and saw that they had the gift shop link. I visited that link and it was easy for me to place an order online (I didn’t have to wait until business hours), provide them the amount I wanted to spend, her age and interests, and voila — a gift was delivered to her room the next morning (and I didn’t even have her room number — just gave them the patient name and they sorted it all out!). It was quick, seamless and really had an impact in brightening my favorite patient’s day. Thank you for the quick turnaround Treehouse Gift Shop — well done!

I recently wandered over to finally check out the new Dell Children’s Medical Center. As a parent whose child started out with some significant health issues, I had been avoiding the place — I’ve had enough of hospitals for this lifetime! Still, I thought it would be a good idea to get my bearings in case we ever need to utilize the services. Plus, I wanted to see all of the many innovative features I’d heard about, from eco-​friendly construction to an amazing gallery of sculpture and other artwork.
Wow! This place is the most gorgeous, welcoming hospital I’ve ever seen. If you must be in the terrible position of having your child under hospital care, there can’t be a more inviting one. The environment simply promotes calm & healing: no antiseptic odors or harsh lighting, soothing color palette, and many touches of whimsy to help one forget his/​her situation for a while.
After strolling through the public spaces and marveling at the many courtyards, fountains, gardens, atriums, playrooms, and art displays, I finally made my way to the gift shop. You know you’re almost there when you have found the huge open lobby with the giant chiming Rube Goldberg machine and guitar sculptures. Walk toward the faux tree trunk and you’ve arrived.
Like most hospital gift shops, the Treehouse is staffed by volunteers and all proceeds benefit the charitable work of the facility. Unlike most other hospital gift shops (at least the ones I’ve seen), the Treehouse has a truly awesome selection of high quality toys and gifts.
Understandably, their specialties are toys and games most appropriate for use in quiet, small spaces: books, puzzles, handheld-​games, dress-​up sets, etc. These are great for travel, too.
They also provide a decent selection of boutique-​style gift items for grown-​ups, cards & stationary, candy, and balloons, as well as a deals & steals table where sale merchandise is marked down by 50% or more.
I made off with a cool little reusable shopping bag that collapses into a roll the size of a lipstick, as well as two cool magnetic themed play sets that will make great birthday presents for my soon-​to-​be 2 year old.
If you happen to be in the neighborhood, the Treehouse is a swell place to pick up a special gift for a child. If you happen to be charity-​minded, you can feel extra good knowing that your shopping supports a great cause. And if you know a child in the hospital, you can find a nice diversion for that little one here.
Open: Mon-​Fri, 9a to 5p; Sat, 10a to 4p; Sun, 12p to 4p
Tip: You can order personalized gift baskets and gift certificates online at