When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
The Tutoring Toy
Why The Tutoring Toy is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Tutoring Toy, established in 1988 by Bill and Diane Sartain, is a unique, family-owned toy store located in Salt Lake City's Foothill Village. Renowned for its expert focus on child development and carefully curated selection, this shop offers a standout experience for families and friends seeking the perfect toy. Unlike typical stores filled with mass-produced products, The Tutoring Toy specializes in quality, timeless toys that have proven their developmental value. Their inventory is thoughtfully organized by developmental age categories, helping shoppers easily find toys that foster both creative and cognitive growth. Highlights include their expert-curated selection of top toys like the Spooner Board, Magformers, Brio trains, Playmobil, and Lego sets, all chosen for their ability to engage and educate children. The family atmosphere extends beyond shopping, with Bill, Diane, and their sons actively involved in assisting customers and sharing their toy expertise, creating a welcoming environment that feels like a neighborhood gathering spot. This hands-on approach ensures that each visitor finds a toy that not only delights but supports learning and confidence-building in children, making it a fantastic place to meet up with friends and celebrate the joy of play and discovery.
Here's what people think of The Tutoring Toy
As of recent, The Tutoring Toy holds a 4.7-star rating based on 61 reviews.
Customers overwhelmingly praise The Tutoring Toy for its knowledgeable and friendly staff who deeply understand child development and toy selection. Many reviews highlight the personalized service provided by the Sartain family, especially noting Casey's expertise and passion for toys, which adds an insightful dimension to the shopping experience. Positive reviewers appreciate the store's unique selection of high-quality, educational toys not found in big-box retailers, often mentioning how the developmentally targeted organization makes choosing gifts much easier and more satisfying. The family-run atmosphere creates a warm, inviting place where customers feel valued and well-advised. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to the higher price points compared to mainstream toy outlets, which some customers find limiting. Additionally, a few reviews mention the smaller store size might mean fewer options compared to larger chains. Despite these minor drawbacks, most customers agree that the exceptional expertise, quality of toys, and personalized shopping experience justify the premium and make The Tutoring Toy a beloved local treasure. In conclusion, The Tutoring Toy enjoys a stellar reputation as a place where customers return for expert advice, quality gifts, and a friendly, knowledgeable shopping environment that truly supports children's growth and enjoyment.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Joshua Richard
Tutoring Toy in Salt Lake City is an absolute gem! They have an amazing collection of toys for all age groups, making it the perfect place to find something special for kids of all interests and learning stages. Whether you’re looking for educational toys, creative playsets, or unique gifts, this store has it all! What truly sets Tutoring Toy apart is their incredible staff. They are kind, knowledgeable, and take the time to explain the different types of toys available and how each one benefits different age groups. It was fascinating to learn how certain toys help with development and engagement, and their guidance made it so much easier to choose the perfect gift! One of the best perks? They offer gift wrapping! This little extra touch makes the entire shopping experience even more amazing because you walk out with a beautifully wrapped present, ready to be gifted. If you're searching for unique, high-quality gifts for kids or looking to surprise your little one with something special, I highly encourage you to stop by Tutoring Toy. It’s a fantastic experience, and you won’t be disappointed!
Dede V
I wanted to buy everything here. The owners are so nice and wrapped the items I got for free! I asked for no bow since I’ll be putting these in a suit case. They have an amazing selection.
Heidi Perkins
I really like this toy store in the Foothill shopping center. Pleasant employees that are very helpful along with a huge Lego selection makes me a very happy customer! Didn't even know that this place existed till I took my son to get a haircut the other day. It was two stores down so we wandered in and were pleasantly surprised.
J T
Why on Earth would you shop online when you could just go in to Tutoring Toy? Bill and Diane are both extremely nice, friendly, and helpful. Prices are very reasonable and they have everything in here! Such a great experience being able to shop here and interact with the wonderful owners.
Meg Frost
Their sensory toys kept my 7- and 9- year olds occupied on a 13-hr road trip (plus podcasts:) This is my go-to spot for birthday gifts, unique toys for my speech therapy practice, and Christmas shopping for my own kids. The complimentary gift wrap is so helpful (and so cute!). But the best thing about this place are the owners and staff who know their store inside and out and are just lovely people to interact with.
How to reach The Tutoring Toy
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Website: None
Why The Tutoring Toy may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Tutoring Toy with your friends?
When seeking a unique and enriching place to host a meetup with friends or family, The Tutoring Toy in Salt Lake City stands out as an exceptional choice. Not just a store but a hub of creativity and learning, it offers a warm, intimate environment where visitors can explore thoughtfully curated educational toys. Gathering here is more than just a casual hangout—it’s an opportunity to engage with interactive, brain-boosting playthings designed to inspire all age groups. The friendly and knowledgeable owners enhance the atmosphere with their welcoming presence and personalized guidance, making your group feel genuinely valued. Whether you are parents wanting to exchange ideas, teachers seeking resources, or friends interested in playful learning, the store’s unique focus encourages connection through discovery. Though cozy in size, this shop’s charm lies in its carefully selected products that blend education with fun, sparking conversations and shared experiences that linger far beyond the visit. This combination of warmth, expertise, and meaningful interaction makes The Tutoring Toy an ideal venue for rallying your group for a stimulating and memorable meetup.
What kinds of activities can you do at The Tutoring Toy?
At The Tutoring Toy, activities revolve around hands-on exploration of educational and developmental toys that captivate a wide range of ages. Your group can dive into an engaging play session with toys purposefully designed to enhance cognitive skills such as problem-solving, spatial reasoning, and fine motor coordination. The store provides a tactile experience where visitors can test and compare puzzles, building blocks, and creativity kits right on site. This interactive environment invites friends to challenge one another in cooperative games or friendly competitions, fostering teamwork and laughter. Additionally, the expert owners frequently offer personalized recommendations and explanations of how each toy benefits different developmental stages, sparking insightful discussions among your group members. For families with kids in tow, this becomes an entertaining outing as children try out various playthings, encourage each other’s abilities, and enjoy learning through fun. Whether your meetup focuses on educational growth, creative inspiration, or just playful socializing, these hands-on activities at The Tutoring Toy provide something engaging for everyone involved.
Why is The Tutoring Toy a perfect place for group meetups?
The Tutoring Toy’s intimate size contributes to a cozy, focused atmosphere perfect for small groups seeking meaningful engagement rather than overwhelming crowds or impersonal shopping. Its passionate staff foster a community feel by taking time to connect individually with visitors, answering questions and facilitating thoughtful exploration of their offerings. This personalized attention makes each meetup feel special, empowering your group to bond over shared learning interests and discovery. Because the store specializes in toys that challenge the mind and encourage creativity, it naturally stimulates conversations and collaborative experiences among your friends or family. Moreover, located conveniently in Salt Lake City’s University/Foothill area, its accessibility makes it easy for local groups to gather after school or work. Unlike generic venues, The Tutoring Toy offers a purposeful space that supports your group’s curiosity and interaction, making it not just a place to shop but a place to connect, create, and celebrate friendship through fun educational exploration.
How does The Tutoring Toy cater to different age groups in a meetup?
One of the standout attributes of The Tutoring Toy is its diverse selection designed to suit a broad spectrum of age ranges, ensuring that everyone in your meetup group can find something both challenging and enjoyable. From toddlers building their fine motor skills with simple manipulatives to older children and adults who appreciate complex puzzles and strategic games, the store offers something for all developmental stages. The staff play a critical role in matching toys to the interests and abilities of each visitor, explaining the developmental benefits and uses in detail. This inclusivity ensures that your meetup remains dynamic, with cross-generational appeal that keeps younger attendees engaged alongside their parents or friends. For anyone interested in teaching or child development, the experience doubles as an informal workshop on how thoughtfully designed toys can foster growth. This multi-age friendliness transforms The Tutoring Toy from a typical retail spot into a collaborative environment where everyone learns from one another while having a great time together.
What unique benefits do the owners bring to The Tutoring Toy experience?
The Tutoring Toy’s owners contribute significantly to the inviting and enriching atmosphere with their extensive knowledge, passion, and dedication to educational play. Unlike large stores where staff may be less familiar with product details, these proprietors take the time to engage personally with visitors, sharing insights on how specific toys aid skill development and cognitive growth. Their kindness and patience create a relaxed space where questions are welcomed and curiosity is nurtured, perfect for groups wanting to deeply understand the educational value behind each item. They also guide customers through selecting the best toys tailored for their group’s interests and needs, enhancing the overall meetup experience by making it thoughtful and customized. This expert assistance distinguishes The Tutoring Toy as more than a retail destination—it’s a learning resource and community hub where expertise meets warmth, helping your gathering feel purposeful and enriching beyond simple shopping.
What are some practical reasons The Tutoring Toy is a great meetup location?
Pragmatically, The Tutoring Toy offers an ideal combination of accessibility, size, and specialty that suits group meetups looking for a relaxed yet engaging environment. Its location in Salt Lake City’s University/Foothill neighborhood makes it easy to reach, especially for locals wanting a convenient spot to connect after school or work hours. The relatively small size of the store encourages a focused visit with minimal distractions, allowing your group to engage deeply without the overwhelm found in larger stores. The curated, educational toy selection means everyone can find something interesting to interact with, ensuring your meetup remains lively and stimulating. Furthermore, the owners’ willingness to support personalized, informative visits helps your group maximize the experience without feeling rushed, fostering meaningful time well spent. For groups seeking an alternative to typical cafes or public spaces, The Tutoring Toy provides a purposeful setting where fun, learning, and social bonding come together seamlessly.