FAO Schwarz

Toy store · Midtown West

FAO Schwarz

Toy store · Midtown West

1

30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111

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FAO Schwarz by Richard Cadan
FAO Schwarz by Richard Cadan
FAO Schwarz by Richard Cadan
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FAO Schwarz by null
FAO Schwarz by null
FAO Schwarz by null
FAO Schwarz by null
FAO Schwarz by null
FAO Schwarz by null
FAO Schwarz by null
FAO Schwarz by null
FAO Schwarz by null
FAO Schwarz by null
FAO Schwarz by null
FAO Schwarz by null
FAO Schwarz by null
FAO Schwarz by null
FAO Schwarz by null
FAO Schwarz by null
FAO Schwarz by null
FAO Schwarz by null
FAO Schwarz by null
FAO Schwarz by null
FAO Schwarz by null
FAO Schwarz by null
FAO Schwarz by null
FAO Schwarz by null
FAO Schwarz by null
FAO Schwarz by null
FAO Schwarz by null
FAO Schwarz by null
FAO Schwarz by null
FAO Schwarz by null
FAO Schwarz by null
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FAO Schwarz by null
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Highlights

Iconic toy store with giant piano, toy demos, and fun.  

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30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111 Get directions

faoschwarz.com
@faoschwarz

$$$

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30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111 Get directions

+1 800 326 8638
faoschwarz.com
@faoschwarz

$$$

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Last updated

Oct 15, 2025

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15 Fun Things to Do With Kids in NYC | Condé Nast Traveler

"After nearly 80 years on Fifth Avenue, the famous toy store closed in 2015, but was brought back to life just a few years later in Rockefeller Center. Kids flocked to the flagship to gaze up at the 28-foot tall clock tower and marvel at the toy soldiers in their bright uniforms; in the '80s and '90s, little ones came in droves to dance on the giant piano, just as Tom Hanks did in that famous scene in "Big." Well the piano is back, as is all the rest" - Sunshine Flint

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Kara Lee

Google
Can’t say enough about this experience. My son had demo encounters by 4 different staff members. Andrew was so much fun! This man LOVES his job and is truly working in his purpose of adding happiness to the minds of small children. We saw the famous keyboard and soooooo much more. You have to go for yourself. My son loved it. The staff are excellent! This was a great experience.

Janet Marroquin

Google
Our girls were excited about the Jellycat experience. The staff is really in character and excited to be there. There is such a huge variety of stuffed animals. There is something for everyone. Although it is busy you move quickly.

Liz Withers

Google
I’ve been through as an adult a few times, but going through it with a toddler is a different and magical experience. Every staff member we encountered was kind, there’s a lot of interactive displays, options to completely customize toys, and so many cool toys. Definitely worth the stop if you’re in the area.

Ana Torres

Google
FAO Schwarz is hands-down the most amazing toy store I’ve ever visited! It’s huge, magical, and filled with the most beautiful and high-quality toys. It truly feels like stepping into a dream. We were especially excited about the Jellycat Diner experience, which is beyond adorable. Just a heads-up: it books out fast! It was completely sold out for the next two months, so be sure to reserve your spot well in advance. Whether you’re a kid or just a kid at heart, FAO Schwarz is an absolute must when visiting NYC!

Raphael Sebban

Google
Really fun experience at FAO Schwarz! The store has such a great atmosphere, lots to see and do, and it really brings out your inner kid. There was a bit of a line and some waiting, but it wasn’t too bad. Overall, a great visit and definitely worth checking out!

Stephen Flores

Google
This has been the best toy store I’ve been to for Jelly Cats! So happy to stop by and get exclusive NY editions for the little ones. They have a wide selection of other toys as well!

Gönenç Köroğlu

Google
Whether you’re a kid or just a kid at heart, you can easily spend hours here. The “Build-A-Bear” section is especially fun and full of charm. The only downside—if you’re someone who grew up in the ’80s or ‘90s like me—you might be a bit disappointed to see that classic action figures are no longer part of the lineup. Still, it’s a magical place worth visiting!

Naomi Naihe

Google
Such a fun toy store! They have options for kids and the kids at heart. Really appreciated that there was a nursing room. It was nice to be able to nurse the baby in a quiet, private place.
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Jennie M.

Yelp
Magical place. You might think a toy store is just for kids, but the store is so much more. It's a place of joy and play and there is something for everyone. I came to see the jellycat diner. I didn't realize you needed a reservation for the full experience, but I got to watch. The people behind the counter cooked a waffle jelly cat, and asked the customers on the other side if they wanted their waffles fluffy or firm. Then they made the hamburger jelly cat in a fake pan over a stove. It was literally the cutest thing I've ever seen in my entire life. I had to also see Patrick and Penelope, which are the iconic stuffed dogs. When I was younger, I had a Patrick who was literally like over 6 feet long. I was really disappointed that they've discontinued the large size and now only have small versions. But they're still adorable. Lastly, a trip to FAO Schwartz is incomplete without visiting the large floor piano that you step on to play. You have to remove your shoes and there's usually a line. But you have to do it no matter what age you are! It's straight out of so many movies. May this store never go out of business and keep bringing joy for generations to come.
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Fenny C.

Yelp
Gish. If it's not because of my friend asking for jellycat diner experience collection, I would not be even close to this place. JELLYCAT DINER EXPERIENCE NYC: original: pizza, hotdog and burger New breakfast items: waffle, bagel and pancake $55 per item experience. It comes with the jellycat, box, bag, wrapping paper, stickers, pin. I booked a reservation jellycat diner experience experience few days before I flew into nyc. Jellycat fao schwarz announced via ig that they required reservations starting Dec 5. I booked it for the 11th of Dec. I asked my niece In new york to get it some items because I'm afraid they might ran out of stock due to holiday season. She booked and went on the 7th. They ran out of the Pancake, she only can get waffle and 3 different macarons. Oh no. During my time in nyc, I happened to pass by on the night before my reservation tomorrow morning, there's no line. So I went in, I saw they have the pancake back, so I asked if I can do the experience now instead of tomorrow morning. She said I can't all their reservation for that night all booked. So 11th morning I went in line and found our there's 2 line, one to enter the fao schwarz and one for jellycat diner experience. My appointment was for 9:30am, I got there 9am, so I have to wait till 9:30 before I can enter. Finally went inside, crazy it feels like a Zoo. So they limit 1 jellycat pancake per group. But she let's me get 2 pancake as long as it is in 2 separate transactions. Awesome! There's a bunch of non diner jellycat surrounding the diner area on 1st floor and some on 2nd floor. Even more than when I was there the night before. To pay for other regular jellycat, you have to do it on their regular line cashiers...which was crazy long too. Overall experience is fun but crazy. Ps: I found other stores also sell the hotdog, burger, and pizza at the regular price. So yeah, I am kinda upset, I could've pay $30 instead of $55.
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Lise H.

Yelp
FAO Schwarz is a great toy store - they have unique toys - mostly geared towards kids. I found some that even I wanted for myself as an adult. They have staff demonstrating the toys live which made for an immersive experience - the boomerang plane and Marvin's magic zipstring were some of the interesting ones. Note these special toys are definitely pricier than your everyday toys - but great for gifts! Some tips especially for the holiday season: there was a line extending out the door for the cafe (not for the toy store) - skip the line if you don't care for the food. We went on a Sunday and it was packed to the brim - worse than Times Square tbh. If you are claustrophic, come in the off season or a weekday and leave any huge bags at home. It took a while for us to make it up and down the stairs and to get to the cashier and exits after perusing the store.
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Jan K.

Yelp
It's not what it used to be.... But it was okay.... Plenty of people on the floor demonstrating how to use the toys..... Way too many people in the store... don't go on Saturday's....
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Cassidy H.

Yelp
What an awesome toy store! This place was out of a dream. Oh how I wish I could have gone here while I was a child. This was one of the best toy stores I have ever stepped foot in. They had a huge variety of toys in different sections with live demonstrations along the walking path. I stepped in just to live out the BIG scene on the big piano. I was worth the short wait outside the store to go in just to see. I can't wait to return one day with my kids.
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Rosi A.

Yelp
Ok, well, coming here in December was probably not the brightest idea as it seemed every kid in New York aged 1-92 wanted to do the same. Either way, we found ourselves in the line for the store (mind you, there is a separate, line for the Jellycat diner that you book time slots for [impossible around the holidays]). The wait is long, but you get plenty of time to see NYC's main Christmas tree from all angles. Adn the place is extremely crowded. But then your kid finds that one unicorn (shhhh we don't talk about it) and you get more Jellycats than you can reasonably fit in your luggage, and you still have a blast at the end of the day.
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Lawrence S.

Yelp
Best toy store hands down. Quality selection they may not have certain mainstream brands but you'll find something for a boy or girl that's even better. I love the Barbie section for my niece. I got a limited edition Bowie Barbie for her that's only available here and in Milan. I also met the author of the Barbie book in store and she signed a book for my niece. The toy car section is like walking into Manhattan motor cars lol. Christmas time is very hectic the lines are long but it moves. Build a bear is a zoo. Some of the employees don't want to work in that section. You can spend hours walking around in here. Thank God they are back in business
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Niño B.

Yelp
I came here to explore the space and find some souvenirs for my son. Having recently watched Big, I was excited to check out the store, even though it's no longer in the original location. The space is definitely more cramped than what's portrayed in the film, but it's still packed with amazing toys, which is really what matters. Upon entering, we were greeted by staff dressed in their iconic toy soldier costumes, which was a fun and nostalgic touch for a toy store. As we walked around, we saw tons of awesome toys--many of which were too large to fit in our suitcase! Even though the store is primarily for kids, it brought me right back to my own childhood. We didn't end up buying anything, but it was an incredible place to experience, especially if you're in the city. A great stop for toy lovers and families alike!
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David N.

Yelp
Obviously I had to check out FAO Schwarz during our New York City trip, and so it was that I popped in for an hour on our last day there. It's a huge, impressive place. I've been to a lot of oversized toy stores in my life, but FAO Schwarz is an obvious cut above because it's just fun. (It's crazy how uncommon that is in toy stores!) In addition to the various areas and multitudes of toys, the place is full of folks putting on little shows for kids. I saw magicians and people flying drones, among others. It was just all so cool. (And then, of course, there's that famous piano from Big, which is as impressive and neat as you'd hope.) I wound up buying a few things and the prices were all surprisingly reasonable, too. All in all, FAO Schwarz lived up to its place as an iconic toy shop.
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Amanda B.

Yelp
From the moment you walk in, it's like a children's wonderland! I've been here personally a couple times but this was the first time bringing my 10 year old and her eyes were popping out of her head! It can definitely get a bit crowded and overwhelming and for being as large inside as it is, it can feel cramped but every level has so many amazing things! My daughter was over joyed that they had a Jelly Cat area and for a few bucks you can make a "reservation" to "eat" at their kitchen and they will "cook" your new stuffed animal in front of you and put it in a "take-out" bag! Super cute!! Some things are a bit pricey but they have some great deals too! My daughter ended up making 3 Build-a-bears with outfits and the price was no different than a stand alone store. The employees are fantastic as well! Each one was engaging and some stayed "in character". All in all this place has something to offer for everyone and we had a wonderful time!
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Stan L.

Yelp
World class toy store. I've never been to a toy store where people demonstrate how to play with toys and let customers try things out. It was almost like going to a trade fair. The presenters were very charismatic and engaging. It almost compelled me to buy something. The toys here tend to be quite expensive. They do carry some mainstream toys, but they also had some unique offerings that I've never seen elsewhere. We went here on a weekday afternoon in the summer, and we were surprised how busy and crowded it was. Luckily, there were multiple floors and sections so we could roam around to avoid congestion. If you are in Manhattan, add FAO Schwarz to your list of destinations to visit. It's definitely worth a look.
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Albert K.

Yelp
Iconic store with limited edition Jellycat experience. Well worth the experience and cost.
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Chrissie W.

Yelp
Its the worlds best toy store. its crowded, theres a wait. its a kids heaven on earth...so go & be patient with lines. its worth it
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Betty C.

Yelp
Loved our experience here with our 6 year old! What a dream toy store. We came for the jellycat experience which was a ton of fun! Expect a line! We waited 30 mins and that's with us arriving at store opening. Besides the jellycat collab they have so many cute displays and we even got our cinnamoroll life size plush that has been sold out at our local build a bear. Highly recommend if you have kids although must set a spending limit!
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Travis T.

Yelp
I never got the opportunity to visit the original FAO Schwarz store on Fifth Avenue when they permanently closed after Toys "R" Us Inc. acquired them. But I recently stopped by this one at Rockefeller Center. FAO Schwarz reopened in this smaller location in 2018. They still have the iconic toy soldiers outside to greet you. FAO Schwarz was founded by German immigrant Frederick August Otto Schwarz in 1862. The store is full of life-sized stuffed animals and figures, high-end toys and candy. Even the prices can be a little high, it is still fun to walk through the store and feel like a kid again. Make sure you check out the large dance-on piano made famous and featured in the Tom Hank's movie "Big".
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Anand P.

Yelp
This is a really fun place to visit while on vacation in NYC. FAO Schwarz in NYC is a magical wonderland, offering a unique blend of nostalgia and modern fun. Its iconic piano, cool displays, and delightful staff create an unforgettable experience, making it a must-visit destination for all ages! A must visit !
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farrah f.

Yelp
I am so happy to write a 5 star review for this store because of their JellyCat Diner experience! The staff at the Diner were exceptional, witty, sweet, and welcoming! These ladies were serving it up allllll day long yet every presentation was unique! I watch our video over and over again because such a great memory. As a tourist who myself dislikes tourist experiences, I wasn't sure what to expect, but was pleasantly surprised with everything from check in to check out! Thanks FAO and especially JellyCat Diner staff for making a memorable visit for my daughter's first time in NYC! We ll definitely be back!
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Starr D.

Yelp
One of the best toy stores in Manhattan. Great size, Energetic customer service with interactive games throughout the shop. Located in Rockefeller Center with high walking scores. Very convenient. They have Jellycat and build a bear inside the same shop. These are not cheap toys, range from $$ - $$$. But if this is what you or your family likes, then it's worthwhile it.
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Heather R.

Yelp
Been a life time since I was in FAO Schwartz, we all have a kid in us. This store was amazing the showcase of the DC characters was incredible. I love the Batman stuff. The miko display was fantastic it was something I order for my little cousins. The store was lively truly a fun experience
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Denise A.

Yelp
Housed in Rockefeller Center, this well known toy store surely holds a place in many hearts (although it did move from its original location). They did bring all the toys, so don't despair! The staff was interactive and friendly. There are 3 levels packed with all kinds of toys, stuffed animals, Barbies, dolls, magic tricks, boomerangs, drones, candy and more! And of course we had Zoltar read our fortune (remember Tom Hanks in 'Big"?) I don't know how anyone with children in tow will ever get to leave this store, but a visit certainly brings out the inner child in adults!
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Lina A.

Yelp
It's sad to admit this but it was my first time visiting this store as a native New Yorker. There is definitely something special about this store. There are so many toys and games to appeal to anyone. Staff were very friendly and helpful. The candy section had candy that I haven't seen in years. I enjoyed my personal tour of FAO Schwarz and will definitely visit again.
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Ashley S.

Yelp
In a world of online shopping, FAO Schwarz can be a nostalgic experience. Located in the walkable area of Rockefeller Center, the two-story building has a great location. We have visited multiple times. Walking in, we are always greeted with the walls lined with stuffed animals, display towers of stuffed animals, drones, and more. (Trust me, it's not hard to spend more than you wanted so I would recommend coming in with a budget in mind). The reason I removed a star is because some of the demonstrators of the toys can be pushy to tell kids that they need the toy, art kit, roller shoes.... whatever they are trying to sell. Unfortunately, sale pitches at children vs demonstrations did take away from the experience.
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Emma W.

Yelp
My friend and I came for the Jelly Cat Diner Experience and it didn't disappoint! So cute and fun for kids and adults alike. The line is well marked and staff friendly as long as you don't stop on the stairs. I do think they need more guidance at the front of the line because it gets a bit confusing as you wait for your "order", it was a bit hard to hear and maneuver around the other shoppers. But my bagel jelly cat was worth walking around with a big bag for the rest of the day.
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Steph C.

Yelp
I went to the F.A.O. Schwarz on 5th Avenue a few times, though I'm not sure why I went, in those years between childhood and parenthood. I visited the Rockefeller Center location a few weeks ago with my four-year-old Leo B. and his very indulgent halmoni. I have a very distinct memory of my mom denying me a stuffed dog at the F.A.O. Schwarz in San Francisco because it cost $23 in early 90s dollars. Now, she tries to buy her grandson anything he wants. My mom actually brought Leo to New York around the holidays and he came home with a giant, stupid, expensive F.A.O. Schwarz train set as a Christmas gift from my parents. It's a horrible toy, huge and pointless, with three branded motorized plastic train cars going around an ovular track. There's nothing to build once the track is put together, and the train just goes around in a loop, basically a toy built for a large display window and nothing else. It's also not that well made, so the train cars self-derail. Leo has definitely thrown more than one tantrum over this. He has also fought over the train set with his baby brother, so I guess in all fairness, it did hold their interest for the month or so we let it sit out in our living room. It now lives disassembled in a storage closet. I was afraid Leo would demand some other ridiculous toy on our visit, and stood ready to say no so I could take the blame in lieu of another big box monstrosity ("Your MOM says you can't have this" is one of Halmoni's signature moves). I was extremely pleased when he passed on all toys in favor of a bag of candy from the sweets department. This section of the store had dozens of varieties of candy, which you could scoop into a bag and pay for by weight, a tidy $19.99 per pound. Leo picked all kinds of gummies and jelly beans and chocolates and scooped them into his bag. This activity was good for almost half an hour of entertainment. The rest of the store was nice, too, even if my primary objective was to leave with as few things to take home as possible. Definitely a large selection of toys and plenty of entertainment for visiting children. There was a car racing area and a Build-a-Bear workshop, and of course that iconic floor piano, which my child refused to play with, demanding I put his shoes back on. I come to New York often enough that I'm sure he'll get another chance. I don't need more toys in my house, but it is fun to bring a kid to F.A.O. Schwarz.
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Betancourt E.

Yelp
The heavens when it comes to toy stores , the staff is very helpful and the selection of toys is immense . I could spend half a day in here just looking at all the different toys and all the things these toys do . My daughter had a blast , we ended up going back for more toys in the end. A must when visiting New York City .
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Becky D.

Yelp
Definitely a staple in NY and highly recommend while visiting. My boys had a gift certificate to use so we were there the day before Christmas. We expected it to be busy, and the line outside moved quickly. The staff is so kid friendly and welcoming. Jelly cat, Barbie, and build a bear are a few options in here. There's candy, cars, and the famous piano. I do find that some things are marked up and then there are some that are decently priced. My kids are 11 & 9, but I do feel like the store itself is a bit too "kiddish" for them.
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Jessica R.

Yelp
We went for the Jellycats and they didn't disappoint! It was a fun store but the Jellycats area is definitely small and they are preforming. If you even slow for a second someone gets on to you loudly to keep moving. There is no space for a line which definitely forms and you can't shop, watch and pay without feeling like you are going to get in trouble or really enjoy yourself downstairs. Jellycats are pretty pricey but the value for the dinner type experience is pretty good and adorable even if you're not a little kid. I'd just suggest giving them more space.
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William H.

Yelp
This store has pretty good service and felt like the staff was always there and helpful. What really angered me was the rudeness of a lot of other customers in the store but what can I say it's New York City. They seemed to have a good selection.
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Jay P.

Yelp
I absolutely love shopping at this store--it's a treasure trove of unique toys and one-of-a-kind souvenirs! From adorable stuffed animals to action figures and fun games, there's something for everyone. I never leave empty-handed, as there's always something new to discover with each visit. Whether you're hunting for the perfect gift for kids or adults, this store is the ultimate destination. The selection is constantly updated, so it's always a fresh experience every time I stop by. Perfect for finding special keepsakes and fun surprises!
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Jo W.

Yelp
It's so nice to see a FAO Schwarz here in New York. As a child, I was enchanted by the ones in San Francisco and Las Vegas before they closed and disappeared, taking away the magic of childhood away with them. But here in New York, some of that magic still remains. I visited the New York FAO Schwarz for the very first time as an adult, and it was worth a visit. Yes, there is the iconic giant piano keyboard mat that one can walk and dance on while looking out down into the streets. It was fun to explore the floors and see the myriad of toys in stock, and see the costumed toy soldiers standing in front of the store entrance. They're very friendly and let you take photos of them. Nice to stop by here for a bit of childhood whimsical magic!

Tony Z.

Yelp
This is a spot I frequent every year for Christmas. They have a large selection of toys and do demos of interesting toys so you can view how they work before you purchase it. The service was excellent as well as the line kept moving despite it being super busy due to the holiday season. It is a decent value considering you can't find some of these toys in other retail stores so it's unique. Definitely a place Santa visits to pickup some last minute gifts. I saw him doing some last minute shopping with his elf's on the 3rd floor of the store.
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Danielle P.

Yelp
They do a really good job here of making it very interesting and interactive. There's A LOT to see and there are employees demonstrating some of their cool products throughout the store. Similar to Costco, but with toys lol! The stuff is marked up a bit as you can find the same or similar items elsewhere for cheaper, but I think you're paying for the experience as well. All in all, it's fun to visit and it's memorable to play the huge piano from the movie Big!
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Jorge R.

Yelp
The most delightful toy story in New York and probably anywhere. It's full of magicians and other toy experts and they're doing demonstrations and shows and all kinds of awesome stuff all over the store. Whether you are a kid or a kid at heart you need to check this place out in Rockefeller center. Also you can go upstairs to the second floor and recreate the movie Big and jump on the life size piano and play the keys overlooking all the tourists and Rockefeller Center. The magicians are especially talented and can really get you psyched up to buy a magic kit and our son loved it. They also have like some really cool unique toys and there are two floors and so much to look at it will really bring out your inner kid. I'd say it's definitely valuable because there's a lot of toys here that you won't find anywhere else, my brother and I bought some really cool German collectible toys that you just don't find in most places and they make great souvenirs. My son bought a really cool magic kit and the super friendly staff gave him many lessons on how to use it. When we went there were even toy soldiers dress up in full costume outside the store promoting it. I saw that it was supposedly closed on Wednesdays but we went on a Wednesday and it was open and raring and going for business.
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Anthony S.

Yelp
FAO Schwarz is every kid's dream! If you've ever seen Home Alone 2, many feel that FAO Schwarz was the inspiration behind the toy store from the movie. This toy store has almost everything a kid could want from candy, stuffed animals, remote controlled cars, action figures, Barbies, and more! The atmosphere of the store during my holiday visit was insane as there were staff demonstrating and highlighting a lot of the popular models and kids enjoying every bit of it! The store also overlooks Rockefeller Plaza so you can get an unobstructed view of the tree if you head to the second floor. I would definitely visit FAO Schwarz even if you have no interest in toys as it will bring out the inner kid in you!
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Winnie H.

Yelp
Lots of stuff toy selection. Lots of toy demo. Jelly cat is sold there. Barbie is sold there. Custom stuff toy to build. It is like wonderland for kids . Service is great and the staff explains well on the toys. It is quite expensive but some toys is not found in toys r us.
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Alison D.

Yelp
FAO Schwarz at Rockefeller Center is an absolute wonderland, and my recent visit was made even sweeter by the Jellycat Diner pop-up! This experience is perfect for kids and anyone with a playful spirit. For $55, you not only get the joy of exploring newly released Jellycat items styled after classic NY diner fare, but you also receive a beautifully packaged keepsake. I couldn't resist Franny the Pancake - an adorable and soft addition to my collection. The diner theme is so well-executed, adding a touch of nostalgia and fun to the shopping experience. Plus, the packaging, sticker sheet, and pin that come with it make the purchase even more special. FAO Schwarz never disappoints when it comes to sparking joy and imagination, and the Jellycat Diner is a must-visit!
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Erika A.

Yelp
This store should have 5 star reviews ONLY!!! I felt like a child in a candy store but I was an adult in a toy store and I couldn't get enough of it. My son and I went to every single corner and inch of this store. We played with all of the toys! Like come on, how could you not? They have employees that demonstrate a lot of the toys and are very interactive with the children. To be honest...the moment I saw the toy soldier outside, I was sold hahahahah On the top floor there is a Barbie section...a Barbie section. Every Barbie you could think of, Barbie heaven. Just amazing. I was gleaming non stop and taking as many videos as I could lol!! I love love love love this store! We need one on each coast because having to wait to go to NY just to be in this store, tragic. They have the original piano from 'Big' with Tom Hanks and OF COURSE WE GOT ON IT!!! It was the highlight of the visit, if you're an 80's baby like me, then you know what I'm talking about lol I can't say enough positive things about this place. I cannot wait to go back! I had added hella pictures and videos and this app force closes and deleted them. I may add them back later. Who knows. That irritated me. Do better Yelp.
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Alexander G.

Yelp
Growing up, there was no more magical place than FAO Schwarz in New York. I got to visit many times over the years, when it was located near the Plaza Hotel. FAO Schwarz has seen dark days, being reborn in various forms. Thankfully they're making a comeback and have opened a new store worth checking out in Rockefeller Center. It's a fun place, with classic large stuffed animals, and toys you won't find anywhere else. This store has two floors, with stairs and elevators to go upstairs. It's organized by type and there's also fun NYC exclusive merchandise to peruse. They also have candy, that other childhood pastime. Restrooms are upstairs. The staff here was friendly and welcoming. It's a place everyone should visit due to their history in NYC. While it was fun, it just doesn't live up to the glory days. But I'm thankful to see the new location.
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Teresa K.

Yelp
Brought my nieces here during their recent trip to NYC. It was a great experience. The staff is so kind and sweet, especially to the children. The store is packed to the gills with every kind of toy imaginable. They were even able to walk on the iconic piano from the movie, "Big" and make their own slime. I'm only taking one star away because the bathroom was a bit messy and we were one of the first people in the door when they opened so it should have been super clean. It's a bit pricey, so be prepared for it. Highly recommend if you want to give the kids in your life an iconic NYC experience.
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Jonathan R.

Yelp
The only reason we ventured into Fao was for Jellycats that my adult children are infatuated with....overpriced stuffed animals created by a London company The store was a zoo on Thanksgiving as expected with nearby Rockefeller center around the corner. One and done for me
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Cassie R.

Yelp
This place is amazing! Honestly, it's super sensory overload, but like in a good way. It is immaculately clean and organized with every type of toy you can imagine. Each floor (I believe there are 4) has different sections, and there are about a dozen different interactive areas. My favorite was the giant piano - yes, the one from the movie Big. Walking/dancing on that piano has been a lifelong dream, and it was incredible!!! They even have a snack area where we bought tons of candy for a reasonable (NYC reasonable) price. We spent about 2 hours here total, and it was worth every minute! Also, they do have bathrooms, they are hard to find, but if you ask one of the associates they are super friendly/helpful and will walk you all the way there so you don't get lost.
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Greta S.

Yelp
I have been wanting to visit for the jellycat diner experience & am overall happy that I did. I was prepared for the fact that this place is a tourist attraction and that the diner itself was a bit small. While the store was definitely packed, I was able to get in and get out under 20 minutes. The jellycat experience itself was cute & im overall happy about it but i do wish i was able to explore more of the store itself.
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Kenny I.

Yelp
I was at LaGaurdia and realized they had a FAO Schwartz. I wanted to purchase something for my great niece that's turning two. I dealt with the kindest sales person who walked me through the store and we finally decided on a chocolate FAO teddy bear with a gold bow tie. Absolutely Adorable. Grateful for this location. And always grateful for a toy store. On my way back I stopped and thank the salesperson today. She was so kind.
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Tate C.

Yelp
This was my first time at this store, and I was surprised by the selection of different toy brands I recognized and loved. While some prices made my eyes pop out, I realize where I'm at and the quality of the products. The cashier was very sweet and quickly cashed out my singular purchase, and I would absolutely come here again! However, be prepared for the loud volume and crowded spaces as that is a given in toy stores.
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Victoria M.

Yelp
We came here during our trip to New York, and it's such a cool place! It's located right inside the Rockefeller center. It's two stories, and has so many sections dedicated to certain toy brands. We were excited to see the "Big" piano. It was cool that we were able to play with the piano, and it was not just for display. We also loved their selection of Barbies, and took a beautiful Día de Los Muertos one home with us. The staff was really friendly, and it was an awesome experience. We will definitely come again next time.
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Craig F.

Yelp
Be prepared for crowds! We stayed in NYC for a vacation. Figured why not take the kids (and ourselves) to the famous FAO Schwarz we remembered from Home Alone. Granted it's not the same location but still, FAO Schwarz in New York! It was packed! So many people it was a bit annoying trying to navigate the store. Did appreciate the employees who had little demo stations of certain toys. One of them convinced my son he HAD TO HAVE some UFO flyer thing. We bought it like dummies, he tried to play with it, it was too complicates, and now it sits in the bin of unplayed with toys. Would recommend for the tourist aspect but otherwise I would not go back again next time we are in NYC.
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Winny L.

Yelp
Conveniently located in Rockefeller Center and easy to get to by transit... Also a big tourist attraction especially during the holidays. Be a kid again when visiting FAO Schwarz to see and purchase toys... get there early to avoid long lines esp during the weekends and holidays. Store windows are always update for the latest movie or theme. Holiday theme for 2022 was Puss in Boots. There is also a Build-a-Bear (BAB) section inside along with the Big Piano from the movie Big.
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Carroll N.

Yelp
11.26.22 This is the largest toy store I have ever been to. It's every child's dream or if you are an adult, but a kid at heart like me. It's a bit overwhelming and you could easily spend hours there. Prices are a bit pricy so be prepared. My niece wanted this costume dress, which was probably around $200. They had a Barbie selfie, which was fun for my nieces. Also saw the big piano similar to the one as seen in the classic movie, Big, with Tom Hanks. If you have children or are a kid at heart make sure to drop in while in NY.
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Janice K.

Yelp
I was here on a Friday morning in July, and it was pleasantly not busy. I am sure it is jammed packed the couple weeks before Christmas. There was a white variety of toys that are separated by theme. if you have kids, this would be a fun place to come and look around. it's in a great location in Rockefeller Center.