The best toy stores in NYC in 2026 are FAO Schwarz at Rockefeller Center for its giant floor piano and spectacle, the LEGO Store on Fifth Avenue, Nintendo New York and American Girl Place. For independent shops, Mary Arnold Toys on the Upper East Side, Kidding Around near Union Square, Books of Wonder and Brooklyn's Little Things Toy Store are favorites.
The legendary toy store, with the giant floor piano.
FAO Schwarz's Rockefeller Center flagship has the famous floor piano, a doll-adoption center, a candy shop and staff performing demos throughout the store.
Good to know: Visit early on weekdays to try the piano without a wait.
30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112
A flagship LEGO store with huge brick models of New York.
The LEGO flagship on Fifth Avenue has giant LEGO models of New York landmarks, a pick-a-brick wall and a mosaic maker that turns your photo into a LEGO portrait.
Good to know: Try the Mosaic Maker for a unique souvenir.
636 5th Ave, New York, NY 10111
Nintendo's only US flagship store.
Nintendo New York sells games, exclusive merchandise and plush across two floors, with displays of vintage consoles and play stations for the latest games.
Good to know: Lines form on weekends and release days — go early.
10 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10020
The doll flagship with a café and doll hair salon.
American Girl's New York store has dolls, accessories, a doll hair salon and a café where children can bring their dolls to lunch.
Good to know: Book the café ahead for birthdays.
75 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10019
A beloved neighborhood toy shop since the 1930s.
Mary Arnold Toys is an old-fashioned Upper East Side toy store packed with classic toys, games, crafts and books.
Good to know: A good pick for birthday presents; staff give great advice.
1178 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10028
An independent toy store near Union Square.
Kidding Around is a well-stocked independent toy shop with educational toys, puzzles, dress-up and games for all ages.
Good to know: Combine with Books of Wonder a few blocks away.
60 W 15th St, New York, NY 10011
New York's oldest and largest children's bookstore.
Books of Wonder specializes in children's books, with rare and illustrated editions, signed copies and regular author events.
Good to know: Check the events calendar for author readings.
42 W 17th St, New York, NY 10011
Park Slope's favorite neighborhood toy store.
Little Things is a cheerful Park Slope toy shop with a big selection of toys, games, crafts and party supplies.
Good to know: Walk to Prospect Park afterwards.
145 7th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215
Yes — FAO Schwarz's Rockefeller Center store has the giant walking piano made famous in the movie 'Big', and staff demonstrate it throughout the day.