January 7, 2016 Dana

The 5 OTHER best toy stores in Connecticut!

Toy stores in southern Connecticut have really stepped up their game since my childhood down there in the ‘80s!* Of course, the number one spot for toys today is Magic Beans, nestled into the cute downtown shopping district in Fairfield (and a stone’s throw from the Metro-North stop, making it an easy trip for our fans in New York City): we’re the new kids on the block but we already have plenty of fans (including my mom). Our friendly and enthusiastic toy experts will help you find exactly what you need, and our selection has something to please every kid – it’s the same formula that has won Magic Beans accolades from Best of Boston, Boston A-List, and other Boston institutions year after year.

With that said: maybe you’re in a rush and aren’t near Fairfield, and in that case, you’ve got some other great options. We’re all about shopping local and supporting independent businesses, and these stores also have a selection and philosophy that we love.

Geppetto’s Toy Store, Woodbury, CT

Named for the kindly old man who built Pinocchio, this delightful little nook is a Mom n’ Pop shop just like Magic Beans, and has served Connecticut families for over 20 years. Their delightful selection includes favorite brands like Corolle, Bruder, Gund, Thomas the Train, Calico Critters, and more.

The Wooden Toy, Wethersfield, CT

Shopping for toys near Hartford? This sprawling specialty toy store has a selection of over 10,000 products for kids from infancy through tweens, and kids will enjoy the play tables set up around the store to keep them busy while you shop. They initially sold just wooden toys, but now you’ll find a lot of other favorites on their shelves, including LEGO, Peaceable Kingdom, and Scientific Explorer.

Over the Rainbow Toys, Glastonbury, CT

Another family-owned toy store that demonstrates how shopping local gives you more: customers love how passionate and knowledgeable these folks are about their toys. No need to bother with big box stores – you’ll find everything you need right here.

Necker’s Toyland, Simsbury, CT

This quaint little toy store has serious New England character, and some deep roots in the community – it’s been around since 1948! You’ll find all of the birthday gifts and holiday presents you need in their wide-ranging selection of dolls, puzzles, toy cars, instruments, games, books, and more.

Time Machine, Central Manchester, CT

It’s a blast to browse this giant toy store and hobby shop, built in an old mill. One floor is all kid-stuff, with great toys and gifts for ages 3 and up; the second floor caters to train and dollhouse hobbyists, and includes a huge, incredibly detailed train setup. Here’s just a little chunk of it:

They’ve also added a “Portal” for hardcore gamers – think Dungeons & Dragons, Warhammer, Magic: The Gathering, and more current variations of the above.

*Nothing says “fun” like helmet hair and a menacing silent panda minion, am I right?