How to Play Pop to the Shops Board Game
By Orchard Toys | Published: 2026-10-28
Category: How-to Guides
Learn the rules of Pop to the Shops, a fun shopping board game for kids. Discover setup, gameplay, and tips for teaching money skills.
Quick answer
Set up the board, each player picks a 3D character and collects play money, then race around the shops to be the first to collect six items on your board.
Why this game is different
Pop to the Shops offers longer and more varied gameplay than traditional matching games, making it a great next step for older Orchard Toys fans. The focus on handling money and giving change adds a practical learning layer that keeps kids engaged.
The game encourages imagination as players take on shopkeeper and customer roles, which extends play beyond the board.
Step-by-step instructions
- Set up the board: Place the game board in the center. Each player chooses a 3D character and places it on the start space. Shuffle the item cards and deal one to each player to create their shopping list. Check that all players have a character and a shopping list before starting.
- Distribute play money: Give each player a set amount of play money as indicated in the instructions. Make sure everyone has the same denominations to keep the game fair. Count the money together to practice coin recognition.
- Take turns rolling the dice: On your turn, roll the dice and move your character that many spaces. Follow any instructions on the space you land on, such as moving forward or backward. If you land on a 'miss a turn' space, don't forget to skip your next go.
- Buy items at shops: When you land on a shop space, you can buy one item from your shopping list using your play money. Pay the correct amount and place the item on your board. Double-check your change to make sure you get the right amount back.
- Win by collecting six items: The first player to collect all six items on their board wins the game. If you run out of money, you may need to wait for your next turn to earn more. Keep an eye on other players' boards to see who is close to winning.
Game details
- Pop to the Shops Board Game: Race and count your 3D character from shop to shop, using play money to buy lots of different items. This hands-on counting and money-handling practice builds real-life math skills in a fun, low-pressure way.

Pop to the Shops Board Game
