Where to Buy Pokémon Cards in 2026? The Ultimate Retail Guide

Tired of driving to the store only to find empty shelves? Wondering if you can grab a booster pack while picking up hardware supplies? We have analyzed the stock of every major retailer to answer the burning question: Do they sell Pokémon cards?

Based on current 2026 stock levels, here is your definitive guide to finding cards, avoiding fakes, and knowing exactly where to look in-store.

The Big 3: Walmart, Target & GameStop

1. Walmart

• Verdict: YES
• Where are Pokémon cards in Walmart? (High Volume Query)
  • Location 1: The Toy Aisle (usually the back wall) for Box Sets and Tins.
  • Location 2: The dedicated Trading Card Section near the front Self-Checkout lanes. This is stocked by a third-party vendor (MJ Holding), not Walmart employees.
• Warning: Walmart allows third-party sellers on their website. Be careful when buying online; ensure it says "Sold and shipped by Walmart" to avoid fake packs.

2. GameStop (Buying & Selling)

• Verdict: YES
• Does GameStop buy Pokémon cards? (High Volume Query)
  • YES. As of 2026, GameStop accepts PSA Graded Slabs (Grade 8+) and high-value Raw Singles.
  • How to sell: Bring your cards to the counter for an appraisal. You receive Cash or Trade Credit (Pro Members get a bonus).
• Does GameStop sell fake cards? NO. They are an official retailer.

3. Target

• Verdict: YES
• The Deal: Target is often the cleanest place to shop. Look for the dedicated card wall near the front registers. They often limit purchases to "5 items per guest" to stop scalpers.

Dollar Stores: The "Cheap Pack" Confusion

Dollar Tree

• Verdict: YES
• The Catch: Most packs at Dollar Tree are $1.25 "Sample Packs" containing only 3 cards.
  • Are they real? Yes.
  • Are they worth it? Only for kids. You cannot pull guaranteed rares like in a standard 10-card pack.

Dollar General & Family Dollar

• Verdict: YES
• The Deal: Unlike Dollar Tree, these stores often sell full 10-card blister packs (usually older sets) for $4-$5. They are located in the Toy Aisle, often hanging on strips.

Five Below

• Verdict: YES
• The Deal: They sell standard packs. Stock sells out extremely fast. Check the bins near the checkout line.

Unexpected "Hidden Gems"

Hobby Lobby & Michaels

• Verdict: YES
• Why go here? Both craft stores have started stocking "Checklane Blisters" (1 pack + promo card) near the registers.
• Bonus: They are the best places to buy Shadow Boxes and frames to display your cards.

Barnes & Noble

• Verdict: YES
• The Secret: Because people go there for books, the Pokémon stock (behind the counter) often lasts longer. It is a great spot to find Elite Trainer Boxes (ETBs).

Ace Hardware

• Verdict: YES (Varies)
• The Deal: Many locally-owned Ace Hardware stores now feature a "Toy & Gift" section with Pokémon Tins. Check your local store's inventory online first.

Costco

• Verdict: YES
• The Deal: Costco sells exclusive heavy bundles (e.g., 5 Tins for $40). They do not sell single packs. Great for Christmas/Birthday gifts.

Grocery & Pharmacies (Quick Check)

• Walgreens, CVS, Rite Aid: YES. Located in the toy aisle. Note: Prices are usually $1-$2 higher than MSRP.
• Kroger / Fred Meyer / Smith's: YES. Usually have a small section near the Gift Cards or Checkout.
• Aldi: Seasonal ONLY. They sometimes have Pokémon Tins in the "Aldi Finds" aisle (middle of the store), but it is not permanent stock.
• Publix / H-E-B / Wegmans: YES. often on a spinning rack in the Greeting Card or Toy aisle.
• 7-Eleven / Wawa / Sheetz: YES. Many convenience stores stock single packs behind the counter, but markups are high.

The "NO" List (Don't Wasted Your Time)

We confirmed that these stores do NOT sell Pokémon cards in store:

• Home Depot & Lowe's (Tools only)
• IKEA (Only sells IKEA brand toys)
• Dick's Sporting Goods (Only sells Sports Cards: NFL, NBA, Topps)
• Whole Foods & Trader Joe's (No branded toys)
• Tractor Supply (Generally No, stick to farm toys)

Buyer Beware: Ross, TJ Maxx & Marshalls

• Verdict: YES... but be careful.
• The Risk: These discount stores sell overstock. We frequently see Pokémon boxes at Ross/Marshalls that have been tampered with, opened, and returned. Check the seals carefully before buying.

FAQ

Does Amazon sell fake Pokémon cards?

Sometimes. If you buy from a random third-party seller on Amazon, there is a risk. Always make sure the item says "Sold by Amazon.com" to guarantee authenticity.

Does McDonald's sell Pokémon cards?

Seasonal. Only during their specific "Happy Meal" promotions (usually once a year). You cannot buy packs separately at the counter.