If trudging through big box retailers and looking for the elusive toy for your kid makes you want to take a long winter’s nap, read on. We found 13 independent toy stores that will get you excited about tackling that long list. All of these store’s owners are passionate about toys: the selections are impeccable, and the displays and presentations are artistically imaginative. After visiting these shops, you may just start to feel that this truly is the most wonderful time of the year.

5. Jan’s Hobby Shop: The owner of Jan’s Hobby Shop may refer to his merchandise as “collectibles,” but to plenty of kids, these model airplanes, motorized boats and trains are only one thing: toys. This tiny Upper East Side store is stacked from floor to ceiling with everything and anything to do with building and recreating your kids’ favorite vehicles in miniaturized form.

Jan’s Hobby Shop
1435 Lexington Ave.
New York, Ny
Phone: 212-987-4765
Hours: Open daily, call for hours. (No website.)
What is your favorite NYC toy store?
 
-Alice Perry
 
All photos courtesy of Alice Perry except Norman & Jules.
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