When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Toy Joy
Why Toy Joy is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Toy Joy in Austin, Texas, is a vibrant and eclectic toy store that stands out as a fantastic place to meet up with friends or family for a fun outing. Recognized by USA TODAY as one of the 10 BEST TOY STORES IN THE WORLD, it offers an immersive experience packed with unique, nostalgic, and collectible toys that appeal to visitors of all ages. The store is renowned for its playful atmosphere filled with weird and fun items, making it more than just a shopping destination—it's a place to rediscover joy and childhood memories. Located at 403 West 2nd Street, Toy Joy provides a welcoming environment with a helpful and friendly staff ready to assist customers in finding perfect gifts or treats. This shop is highly praised for its vast variety of toys, from vintage finds and indie selections to unusual knick-knacks and an impressive Sanrio Hello Kitty collection. Whether you’re catching up with friends or hunting for that perfect toy, Toy Joy’s unique inventory and lively vibe make it a memorable experience worth lingering over.
Here's what people think of Toy Joy
As of recent, Toy Joy holds a 4.7-star rating based on 701 reviews.
Visitors consistently rate Toy Joy very highly, averaging 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 700 reviews, highlighting it as one of Austin's premier shopping destinations. Many customers express how enjoyable and captivating the store is, often spending an hour or more exploring its intriguing and extensive collection. Positive reviews commonly praise the store's eclectic mix of toys, the nostalgic factor that connects adults with their childhoods, and the friendly, knowledgeable staff who enhance the shopping experience. The variety of unique, hard-to-find, and collectible items also receives frequent mention, with some reviewers appreciating the store's role as a perfect place to find gifts or indulge in playful exploration. On the flip side, some negative reviews note that the store can be crowded and sometimes pricey, with a few customers finding the layout somewhat cramped or challenging to navigate. Regardless, these drawbacks rarely overshadow the overwhelmingly positive feedback. Overall, the reviews suggest that Toy Joy offers a joyful, quirky, and one-of-a-kind shopping experience that appeals to both locals and visitors seeking a distinct and delightful toy store in Austin.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Santiago
They have a nice variety of toys of all genres. In the back, they have a candy and ice-cream shop. I really liked this place. We were able to find some items that were a tiny bit difficult to get. The place was clean and tidy.
Liz “Liz”
Toy Joy – A Fun and Whimsical Experience! Toy Joy is such a cool and unique experience! It’s the perfect place to bring your kids—or just relive your own childhood. The store is filled with fun, quirky, and nostalgic merchandise that makes you feel like a kid again. They have an awesome selection of toys, collectibles, and unique finds that you won’t see just anywhere. Whether you’re shopping for a gift or just exploring, it’s definitely worth a visit. Highly recommend checking it out!
Hector Chavez
This is a Must See store in Austin. Lots of crazy stuff, i felt as if i was in Pee Wee's playhouse! Loved it here!
Neelou Malekpour
🎉🧸 Pure Joy at Toy Joy! 🧸🎉 I’m not usually a toy store person, but Toy Joy completely won me over! This place is so much fun—packed with cool, unique finds, including rare and international toys you won’t see anywhere else. And the snacks! They have snacks on snacks on snacks, which was such a fun surprise. The staff was incredibly kind, funny, and welcoming, making the whole experience even better. Whether you’re shopping for a gift or just want to browse and feel like a kid again, this is such a fun place to visit. Highly recommend!
Brandon Morgan
While it was certainly fun/nostalgic to browse the toy shop a bit, my purchases were all from the candy shop, so this review is really more for that. And given that I picked up some of the best truffles ever, it's any easy 5 stars! I've actually found it surprisingly uncommon to find a sizeable, varied collection of white chocolate truffles at a lot of candy shops, but toy joy had quite a few amazing looking/sounding options to choose from, and I ended up getting a handful of different ones and thoroughly enjoyed them all. My 3 favorites were key lime, strawberry shortcake, and one that I thought was called "celebration," but looking back at some pictures might have been "wedding cake." At any rate, the white chocolate outside was consistently terrific on all of them, and the truffle centers were as good as it gets! They are a bit pricey, but they are also quite large, and more importantly quite tasty, so well worth it in my opinion!
How to reach Toy Joy
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Website: None
Why Toy Joy may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Toy Joy with your friends? Toy Joy in Austin, Texas is much more than a typical toy store—it's an immersive, joyful experience that invites groups to explore, discover, and have fun together. With a stellar 4.7-star rating from over 700 reviews, this store has earned a reputation as one of the best toy stores in the world, attracting visitors of all ages who want to relive nostalgic memories or uncover quirky, unique items. When you bring your friends here, you’re not just shopping; you’re stepping into a wonderland full of colorful, eclectic, and often weird toys and collectibles that spark creativity and conversation. The store’s atmosphere, packed with thousands of items and staffed by playful and helpful team members, makes it easy to spend over an hour leisurely browsing, chatting, and sharing laughs with your group. Whether you’re looking to find that perfect nostalgic toy or simply want a vibrant spot to enjoy a lively outing, Toy Joy offers a unique social setting where fun and discovery go hand in hand, making it an excellent choice to rally friends for a memorable meetup.
What activities can groups enjoy at Toy Joy? Toy Joy is a treasure trove for any group looking for interactive and playful experiences. The store’s extensive variety of toys spans multiple categories, from quirky novelties and collectibles to classic toys that evoke fond childhood memories. Groups can have fun hunting for rare collectible figures, testing out interactive toys, or sharing stories prompted by nostalgic finds. It’s a place that encourages exploration; the store is densely packed with fun surprises, which makes it perfect for scavenger-hunt-style adventures or challenges among friends. The staff’s enthusiasm and knowledge enhance the experience, as they assist in uncovering hidden gems or providing interesting background about specific items. Beyond shopping, Toy Joy is a great environment for socializing—laughing over silly toys, debating favorite childhood games, or even snapping fun photos with unusual items that are sure to spark amusement. Such interactive and joyful activities create an engaging group experience that’s far from ordinary.
Why is Toy Joy perfect for group meetups? Toy Joy’s unique combination of nostalgic charm, eclectic inventory, and lively atmosphere creates an ideal space for friends and family to gather and enjoy each other’s company. The store’s vibrant and somewhat whimsical environment encourages lighthearted interaction, making it easier for groups to bond over shared memories or new discoveries. Its location in Austin’s bustling area adds convenience for meetups, with plenty of other dining and entertainment options nearby to continue your outing after exploring Toy Joy. The space also accommodates browsing as a relaxed group activity; you can wander the aisles together, helping each other spot interesting toys or debating the quirkiest items. Moreover, the friendly and approachable staff contribute to a warm and inclusive vibe, ensuring groups feel welcome and engaged. For hosts wanting to plan a unique, fun, and interactive gathering, Toy Joy provides a setting that blends shopping, nostalgia, and social interaction in an unforgettable way.
How does Toy Joy cater to diverse interests within a group? One of Toy Joy’s greatest strengths is its wide-ranging selection of toys, collectibles, and novelties that cater to both children and adults, making it perfect for multi-generational groups. Whether someone is into pop culture collectibles, classic wooden toys, or obscure nostalgic memorabilia, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and discuss. This diversity invites lively conversation and sharing of interests, as group members teach one another about their favorite finds or reminisce about toys from their past. The store’s assortment also ranges in price and rarity, accommodating casual curiosity as well as serious collecting. Because of the varied inventory, Toy Joy becomes more than just a place to buy toys—it’s a cultural experience where groups can explore different tastes and hobbies together, enhancing social bonds through learning and play. This inclusiveness makes it a natural choice for groups that want a diverse, entertaining, and interactive environment.
What makes the Toy Joy staff an asset for groups visiting? The helpful and playful staff at Toy Joy are a key reason many visitors enjoy their experience, especially when visiting in groups. They are knowledgeable about the products and are enthusiastic about sharing the store’s story, making them excellent guides through the vast and sometimes overwhelming inventory. For groups, friendly staff members can suggest items based on group interests, offer recommendations for fun or unusual toys to check out, and facilitate engaging scavenger hunts or challenges. Their warmth and readiness to assist foster an inviting atmosphere that encourages exploration and interaction among group members. The presence of attentive staff also means groups can enjoy a smooth experience, easily finding rare or sought-after items without frustration. This personalized touch transforms a simple visit into a memorable group adventure, reinforcing Toy Joy’s reputation as more than just a retail space but a destination for joy and connection.
How accessible and convenient is Toy Joy for a meetup? Located at 403 West 2nd Street in Austin, Toy Joy benefits from a central location that’s easily accessible by car or public transit, making it convenient for groups coming from different parts of the city. Its proximity to popular dining spots and other entertainment venues means that groups can easily extend their meetup into a full day of fun activities, such as grabbing a meal or exploring nearby attractions after browsing the store. Toy Joy’s layout, although packed with items, encourages slow and casual strolling, making it suitable for groups to move together comfortably while enjoying the treasures on display. While the store can sometimes feel crowded due to its popularity, that vibrant energy also contributes to the overall excitement of visiting. Ample parking options nearby and the walkability of the surrounding area further enhance convenience for group meetups, ensuring that arriving and leaving is hassle-free.
What kind of lasting memories will a group make at Toy Joy? Visiting Toy Joy offers friends and family a rich, sensory experience that goes beyond traditional shopping, resulting in lasting memories forged through shared joy, laughter, and discovery. The tactile experience of handling oddball toys, the surprise of finding collectibles from childhood, and the animated conversations inspired by nostalgic and whimsical items all contribute to a memorable outing. Photo opportunities abound with colorful displays and amusing novelty items, giving groups digital souvenirs to relive the visit. The playful environment fosters spontaneous games and challenges, creating inside jokes and stories that strengthen friendships and family bonds. For groups looking to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a unique social outing, Toy Joy offers a vibrant backdrop for creating joyful memories that endure long after the trip ends. This blend of fun, curiosity, and camaraderie makes Toy Joy a destination that groups return to and recommend enthusiastically.
In what ways does Toy Joy reflect Austin’s local culture and vibe? Toy Joy embodies the quirky, creative spirit Austin is famous for, making it an inspiring spot for groups wanting to experience local character. Its eclectic mix of unusual, nostalgic, and collectible toys mirrors Austin’s embrace of individuality and offbeat fun. The store’s longstanding presence in the community and its recognition as one of the best toy stores worldwide highlight its role as a beloved local institution. Visitors can immerse themselves in a distinctly Austin kind of playful rebellion—a celebration of imagination, humor, and retro-cool. For groups visiting from out of town or locals wanting a fun social spot, Toy Joy offers a slice of Austin’s unique cultural identity through its playful merchandise and energetic atmosphere, enhancing the sense of place and shared enjoyment.
What practical tips should groups consider when planning a meetup at Toy Joy? To maximize enjoyment, groups should plan to spend at least an hour at Toy Joy to fully soak in the vast selection and playful atmosphere. Since the store can be crowded, visiting during weekday afternoons or early evenings might provide a more relaxed experience. It’s helpful to wear comfortable shoes due to the store’s size and the time spent standing or walking through aisles filled with toys. Bringing a camera or smartphone for photo opportunities adds an extra layer of fun for group members who enjoy documenting their outings. Finally, budgeting is wise since the eclectic inventory includes both affordable novelties and pricier collectibles, allowing everyone in the group to find something within their price range without pressure. Following these tips will ensure the visit is smooth, enjoyable, and memorable for everyone involved.
What makes Toy Joy stand out among other group outing destinations? Unlike typical recreational venues or dining spots, Toy Joy combines retail, nostalgia, and interactive entertainment into a unique multi-sensory experience that appeals deeply to groups. Its reputation, backed by outstanding reviews and accolades, highlights a consistent level of quality and customer satisfaction. The variety of toys and collectibles creates endless opportunities for discovery and conversation, engaging group members intellectually and emotionally. Furthermore, the store’s commitment to playful customer service and its embrace of weird and wonderful merchandise make it a vibrant, dynamic place to gather. For groups seeking something different—where fun, exploration, and social connection merge—Toy Joy offers an unmatched destination that leaves lasting impressions and repeated visits.
With its unbeatable mix of nostalgia, playful ambiance, inclusive variety, and supportive staff, Toy Joy is undeniably an exceptional venue for rallying with friends or family. It turns a simple meetup into a delightful adventure filled with laughter, surprises, and memorable moments. Whatever your group's interests or ages, Toy Joy invites you to reconnect with the simple joy of play, making it a must-visit in Austin for social groups looking to create joyful experiences together.