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FAO Schwarz in New York

FAO Schwarz in New York

FAO Schwarz in New York is the biggest toy shop in the city. Located in Rockefeller Center, the store is a wonderful experience for both young and old alike. When you step into FAO Schwarz, you’ll feel like a kid again! All around you, employees are demonstrating the toys, and you can also try the toys out for yourself.

FAO Schwarz Toy Store in New York

FAO Schwarz in New York is a toy shop like you see in the movies; the staff demonstrate all sorts of things, and everything can be tried out. There are planes flying around, racing cars can be tested on the track, and there’s even a small toy supermarket.

There’s also a Barbie World and a candy department. This famous toy store in New York is a feast for your eyes. It’s the place to buy souvenirs and gifts, as there are many New York-related items on sale. There are several departments, so there’s something for everyone at FAO Schwarz.

FAO Schwarz in New York - Gifts FAO Schwarz in New York - Toy Store

Opening Ceremony

Every morning, FAO Schwarz has an official opening ceremony. The toy soldiers (employees of the shop) give a small performance before the doors open.

Jellycat Diner

Jellycat offers plush toys in all sizes and shapes with a smiley face! FAO Schwarz is home to an exclusive Jellycat Diner, where their food plushies are ‘prepared’ on site and packaged in a unique way.

Build-A-Bear Workshop

Create your own teddy bear at the Build-A-Bear Workshop. Choose which bear you want, fill it yourself and personalise it with costumes and accessories!

Dance on Piano

There is also a giant piano mat in this New York toy shop, which you may recognise from the film “Big” starring Tom Hanks. This is your chance to show off your musical talent!

Eric’s Tip: “You can find other toy shops around FAO Schwarz at Rockefeller Plaza. The LEGO Store, for instance, is one block away. And the American Girl shop is also in this area, so you can visit them all in one go.”

Hey there, I'm Eric!

I'm a true New York fan with over 20 years of experience visiting and living in NYC. Here on my website, I share all my tips and valuable information to help you make the most of your trip. I personally test and regularly re-test everything on my site to ensure that what I write is useful, honest, and always up-to-date.

If you have questions, are unsure about something, or want me to check your itinerary, please email me at eric@newyork.co.uk. You can also follow me on Facebook or Instagram to get daily updates from New York.

FAO Schwarz in New York - Rockefeller Plaza FAO Schwarz in New York - Departments

History of FAO Schwarz

FAO Schwarz toy shop was founded in 1862 by German immigrant Frederick Schwarz. His full name was Frederick August Otto Schwarz, abbreviated to FAO Schwarz. His dream was to sell unique toys from all over the world in his shop. More than 150 years later, his toy store is still doing just that.

Practical Information

FAQ

Is FAO Schwarz still open in New York?

The FAO Schwarz toy store is still open in New York. You can find the biggest toy store in New York at the Rockefeller Center.

Is FAO Schwarz worth visiting?

FAO Schwarz is worth visiting, no matter what age! The store is just like you see in the movies, where the staff demonstrate all sorts of things and all toys can be tried out.

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