When we talk about places that make you feel like a kid again, FAO Schwarz is at the very top of the list. This iconic toy store in New York City isn’t just a shop; it’s a living, breathing wonderland of imagination, childhood nostalgia, and Christmas magic. To say we were in awe during our visit would be an understatement. For us, stepping into FAO Schwarz felt like stepping straight into a Christmas movie.
The Magic Begins Before You Step Inside
Even before entering the store, the magic was apparent. The window decorations were joyful works of art, bursting with twinkling lights, colorful displays, and holiday cheer. But the most magical moment? A toy soldier greeted us—yes, you read that right—a real, live toy soldier! Dressed to perfection, he welcomed us with a smile, warmly held open the door, and enthusiastically invited us into the store. Talk about making an entrance!
The excitement on the faces of both kids and adults around us only added to the enchantment of the moment. Clearly, we weren’t the only ones about to relive our childhood dreams that day.
Inside FAO Schwarz: A Christmas Wonderland
The moment we stepped inside, we were completely mesmerized. Every inch of the store was a feast for the eyes, lovingly decorated with toy displays, garlands, and Christmas accents that screamed “holiday magic.” It felt as if someone had sprinkled fairy dust everywhere. It wasn’t just a store; it was an experience.
From the bustling energy of children’s laughter to the soft hum of Christmas music playing in the background, every sensation hit at once. FAO Schwarz truly knows how to bring imagination to life.
A Store Full of Adventures
As we wandered through the multi-level toy haven, we stopped at every display, our mouths agape like two giddy kids on Christmas morning.
Some highlights included:
- The BIG Piano
- This floor piano is a must-try, and it was made famous in the movie Big. Naturally, we couldn’t resist—off came the shoes, and we took turns playing some chaotic but hilarious notes. Yes, it’s as fun as it looks, and this giant instrument is still one of the most iconic features of the store. Pro tip: Get there early to avoid too many “competitors” for your turn!
- The Giant Teddy Bears
- We stumbled upon life-sized teddy bears towering over us, their soft fur begging to be hugged. These oversized companions literally stopped us in our tracks. Seriously, have you ever seen a teddy bear taller than you? It’s both magical and slightly humbling!
- The Doll Adoption Center
- This was one of the cutest parts of the store! Nestled in a cozy little corner, the FAO Schwarz Baby Adoption Center lets you choose (and “adopt”) a doll to take home. It’s also adorable to watch children signing adoption certificates with big smiles on their faces.
- Live Demonstrations Everywhere
- Across the store, enthusiastic staff members brought toys to life through demonstrations. One performed an impressive mini magic show with a magician kit for us. (Spoiler: there was a lot of “how-did-you-do-that” amazement!)
- In another section, flying gadgets zipped through the air, a captivating sight that delighted both kids and adults. The staff’s energy made the experience even better as they interacted and played with visitors.
- Classic Toys Galore
- FAO Schwarz truly caters to every kind of childhood dream. We admired colorful wooden train sets, delightful stuffed animals, nostalgic board games, toy robots, and so much more.
Is FAO Schwarz the Toy Store from Home Alone 2?
Like many fans of holiday movies, we’d always associated FAO Schwarz with Kevin McCallister’s dream-come-true visit to a toy store in Home Alone 2: Lost in New York. While the store Kevin visited in the movie was actually called Duncan’s Toy Chest and wasn’t filmed at FAO Schwarz, it was inspired by FAO Schwarz, cementing its connection in pop culture. So, in a way, our visit still felt like part of the movie magic!
A Cannot-Miss NYC Holiday Destination
FAO Schwarz is an absolute must-see if you’re visiting New York City around the holidays. Whether shopping for gifts, looking for family fun, or taking a solo nostalgia trip, this store offers something magical for everyone. Plus, the décor and festive atmosphere make it the perfect complement to the city’s holiday vibe.
While we were thrilled with everything we saw and did, there are even more experiences at FAO Schwarz that we’ll have to try next time:
- Build-A-Bear Workshop: Create your very own custom stuffed animal with special holiday outfits.
- Personalized Engraved Toys: Some toys, like train sets, can be customized and engraved with a name or special message. These are perfect for gifting or keeping.
- Candy Department: We missed the candy section (oops!), but they have a sweet assortment of treats, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while you explore.
Final Thoughts: Pure Holiday Magic
We couldn’t stop smiling as we left FAO Schwarz with hearts full of wonder and a few small souvenirs in hand (yes, we bought something, we couldn’t resist!). This was more than a store visit; it was a magical adventure that transported us back to our childhoods and rekindled our holiday spirit. If you plan a cozy Christmas trip to New York City, add FAO Schwarz to your must-visit list. Trust us, it’s the kind of place where memories are made, magic is real, and the holiday season feels extra special.
