shopping in the states can be very hit and miss, some places will be empty and other places will be loaded. it might be worth reminding your friend that s/he shouldn't stop by every potential toy store to look for you or they might miss out on actually having a hliday.
having said that,
TRU, Target, Walmart are the best bet for current product, (more recent [3-6months] generations and Movie toys.)
Five Below, Big Lots, Marshalls, T.J Maxx can be a great opportunity for items that have been moved on from mainline department stores and are being clearanced. they have small toy sections that are a mess but their prices are marked to clear. Product is inconsistent from store to store. they are usually in the larger outdoor mall type areas so can be hard to get to without a car.