When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Toybrary Austin
Why Toybrary Austin is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Toybrary Austin is a distinctive community-oriented business that combines a toy lending library, an engaging play space, and a kids' birthday party venue all under one roof. Founded in 2013 by Liza Wilson, a former preschool teacher and director, the business emphasizes the importance of play in early childhood development. Located at 2001 Justin Lane, Austin, TX, Toybrary operates Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, welcoming children and their families to explore a carefully curated collection of educational and sustainable toys. It offers members the opportunity to borrow toys, promoting eco-friendly play options and reducing waste by reusing high-quality toys. Beyond lending, Toybrary Austin hosts a full calendar of events including parenting workshops, playdates, and drop-in childcare services, fostering a supportive and interactive environment for kids aged 1 to 5 years and their caregivers. The venue also serves as a unique space for memorable birthday parties, making it a multi-purpose destination that supports the social and cognitive growth of young children while providing adults with a welcoming spot to connect and relax.
Here's what people think of Toybrary Austin
As of recent, Toybrary Austin holds a 4.3-star rating based on 239 reviews.
Customer reviews for Toybrary Austin generally reflect strong appreciation for its innovative concept and community focus. Parents praise the variety and quality of educational toys available for lending and highlight the convenience of the membership-based toy rental service combined with drop-in play. Positive reviews often mention the friendly, knowledgeable staff, the inviting environment, and the flexible options for children's activities and birthday celebrations, which make it an ideal gathering place for families. Reviewers appreciate the emphasis on sustainable toys and the clean, well-organized space that caters especially well to toddlers and preschoolers. However, some negative feedback points to issues such as occasional limited availability of popular toys, the pricing relative to other childcare or play options, and operational aspects like limited hours of operation or drop-in childcare availability. Some reviewers noted the business is not accredited by the BBB, although it maintains an A+ BBB rating despite that. Overall, the balanced feedback suggests Toybrary Austin is well-regarded as a valuable resource for families seeking quality play and learning opportunities, with room for enhancement in service breadth and accessibility.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Wiz Dev Technologies
If you haven’t tried this place yet—man, you’re seriously missing out! It’s an incredible child play area that offers unlimited play with a wide variety of shared toys, plus developmental toys you can borrow that align with your own child’s development plan. There’s also access to outdoor play, which is such a bonus. It’s the perfect spot for kids to make new friends, celebrate birthday parties, or just burn energy while having tons of fun. No hard selling, but lots of quality items available if you want to purchase something. They also offer gentle parenting support, a drop-in service, and loads of engaging activities. My daughter enjoyed every bit of it—and honestly, she left me alone (in the best way). She was totally immersed, having a blast, and I could tell she felt safe and stimulated the entire time. Highly recommend!
Dmitry Alexin
We love the Toybrary! One of the best places in Austin to bring your kids. Liza runs a fantastic facility that is safe, clean, and FUN. I wholeheartedly recommend bringing your kids here.
Ana Raab
I really wanted to like this place. I was really excited to visit. But it wasn’t a great experience pretty much from the minute I walked in. My first issue, I have sensory issues and the place was very cluttered. It was very overstimulating. And there were no kids there when we got there, so all the toys were put away and it was still overstimulating. Not at all aesthetically pleasing. In addition to the clutter. I thought it really sucked that they put toys that were membership only and toys for purchase easily within arms reach of the little ones. Either the owner knows nothing about children or they set it up that way purposely to charge their customers extra. Which is gross. Kids don’t understand that they need a membership to play with that toy or mommy needs to pay $20 to purchase that other toy. We came to play and I felt like I was spending the whole time telling my kids to put things down. They were cool toys, my kids wanted to play with them, but I didn’t go there to buy toys or a membership. I wanted to see how it went before I made any type of membership commitment. If you’re selling toys and have toys that can’t be played with by everyone, put them somewhere the kids can’t just grab them. It’s not a very kind thing to do. If a parent comes in with only one child, it might be easier to keep them out of those toys, but parents of multiples aren’t going to be able to keep all of their kids from touching them. When I first came in, I had mentioned to the owner that the events page didn’t really give much information about the events and I wanted to know more about them. Literally just says the title of the event and the date. And she snapped at me about it. If I’m going to an event, I would like to know what it’s about. It’s not clear with just a title. I also didn’t like the way she spoke to my friend either. She had this weird attitude with her the entire time we were there. I don’t know if she just couldn’t understand what she was saying because her accent was thick or what, but she definitely didn’t speak to me that way. I will not be returning. If I want a stressful shopping experience, I’ll just take my kids to Walmart. It’s way cheaper. Edited to add: The owner’s response to my issues is incredibly manipulative as she didn’t say any of that when I was there and I went back to her events section just now and noticed she added to it. The gaslighting is incredibly mind blowing. Also, toybrary is not marketed as a toy store. It’s marketed as a kids play place. You have membership fees to play with the toys in your business. We have been to many, many kids play places with membership fees. Yes, they too sell toys. Behind glass. So children cannot reach them. The membership only toys are absolutely within reach of the children. And my friend has zero interest in coming back either. Before your response, I was just disappointed. Now I am blown away by the arrogant gaslighting response. And don’t you worry, I took a screenshot. I will actively be telling everyone I know about my experience here. My mind is just blown right now.
Taylor Jones
This is a unique concept and a great resource for families in Austin - definitely a top thing to do in Austin with kids. They offer drop in childcare, programming like music singalongs, and it's a great place to bring your kid to come and play with new toys and make new friends. Our daughter had a blast, and we'll be back!
Claire McCaslin
I’ve been coming here for a year with the kiddo I nanny and he just loves it! It’s a great place to make friends, and explore new toys and activities. There is an outdoor and indoor area (both with lots of toys!) so it’s a great place to get energy out and then cool off. Ms. Liza is very sweet with the kids, and there are snacks, water, and coffee. Lots of events as well!
How to reach Toybrary Austin
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Website: None
Why rally at Toybrary Austin with your friends?
Gathering a group of friends or family at Toybrary Austin is an ideal choice for a memorable, joyful, and engaging experience, especially if your group includes children. This venue offers a unique blend of fun, learning, and social interaction in a safe, welcoming environment. Whether your friends are parents eager for their kids to play and explore or adults wanting a relaxed space where children can happily entertain themselves, Toybrary Austin satisfies all desires. The blend of a spacious indoor play area filled with a diverse collection of toys and engaging activities ensures there is never a dull moment. Its atmosphere fosters connection—not only among adults chatting while keeping an eye on their children—but also among kids who quickly make new friends playing side by side. The ability to host birthday parties and special events adds to the appeal, making it a versatile hub for group celebrations. Plus, parents can unwind in a stress-free zone knowing their children are happily occupied, making socializing at Toybrary Austin a genuine pleasure for everyone involved.
What activities can you and your group enjoy at Toybrary Austin?
Toybrary Austin excels in offering a variety of activities that keep children entertained and stimulated, making it perfect for group meetups. The core attraction is the extensive toy lending library, filled with toys categorized for different developmental stages. Kids can freely explore educational toys, puzzles, building sets, and imaginative play items. Beyond the toys, the play space itself is thoughtfully arranged to encourage diverse styles of play, from quiet reading corners to lively interactive zones. Regularly scheduled events such as music singalongs, holiday-themed crafts, and storytime sessions keep each visit fresh and exciting. For outdoor fun, there is a playground area where children can expend energy climbing and running. Additionally, Toybrary offers drop-in childcare services, allowing parents in the group to enjoy some downtime while their kids are safely supervised. This mixture of open-ended play, organized activities, and childcare services ensures a seamless and enriching visit tailored to the needs of families and groups.
Why is Toybrary Austin perfect for hosting group meetups or parties?
When planning a group meetup or birthday celebration, Toybrary Austin offers a unique combination of convenience, fun, and child-friendly amenities. The venue provides party room rental options that include access to the entire toy collection and play space. This makes event planning easier because hosts do not need to worry about sourcing entertainment; the engaging environment is already set. The space is designed to accommodate multiple children comfortably, allowing for energetic play without feeling crowded. For parents, this means they can relax, socialize, and enjoy the event without constant logistics management. Toybrary also offers customizable party packages tailored to children's interests, including decorations and themed activities, which elevate any celebration. The location's consistent operating hours, Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, make it accessible for weekend or weekday gatherings. Altogether, these features create a stimulating and hassle-free party experience that appeals to parents and delights kids.
What membership options and fees does Toybrary offer for groups?
Toybrary Austin functions both as a toy lending library and an open play space. While you do not need a membership to come and play at the venue during operating hours, there is a membership option available that enables toy borrowing for home use. This membership saves money and space by providing access to a wide range of toys without having to purchase and store them permanently. For groups, this can be particularly advantageous: parents can rotate toys at home, keeping children engaged over time. Membership also supports the Toybrary’s mission, sustaining the variety and quality of toys on offer. However, for group meetups at the venue itself, visitors can enjoy the facilities without a membership, creating flexibility for attendees who may not be regular customers. This system of both membership and drop-in play ensures Toybrary Austin caters well to diverse group needs.
What makes Toybrary Austin a safe and educational environment for kids?
Parents prioritize safety and meaningful stimulation when choosing venues for their children, and Toybrary Austin addresses both with care. The space is designed to be child-friendly and supervised, with staff monitoring activities to maintain a safe environment. Toys and play equipment are selected for quality and developmental appropriateness, supporting cognitive, social, and physical growth. Beyond simple play, the venue regularly hosts educational programs such as craft sessions, storytime, and music classes tailored to various age groups, facilitating learning through fun. This focus on combining education with play helps children develop creativity, coordination, and social skills. Moreover, the safe environment offers parents peace of mind, which enhances their ability to relax and enjoy their time with friends and family while their children thrive. This thoughtful balance of safety and education makes Toybrary Austin an outstanding place to gather.
How does Toybrary Austin accommodate the needs of parents during group visits?
Toybrary Austin understands that parents accompanying children want to enjoy adult time as well, so the facility includes amenities intended to support their comfort. The venue’s layout encourages parents to relax and socialize while keeping their children in clear view, fostering a community atmosphere. Furthermore, drop-in childcare services are available, giving parents the option to leave their children in trained care for short periods, enabling them to recharge or focus on the social aspect of meetups. The staff’s welcoming and attentive approach helps parents feel confident and supported throughout their visit. Additionally, the overall environment is designed to be stress-free — with clean, well-maintained indoor spaces and organized activities reducing chaos. This attention to parent needs improves the group experience by making Toybrary Austin a convenient and pleasant venue for everyone.
What challenges might visitors face when visiting Toybrary Austin with a group?
While Toybrary Austin has many strengths, some visitors note occasional challenges, especially during peak hours or high-demand periods. With its popularity, the venue can sometimes feel crowded, which may limit access to certain toys or play zones. This can require groups to be patient or plan visits during less busy times, particularly if specific toys or activities are important to your gathering. The indoor space has a capacity limit to ensure safety and comfort, so large groups might need to coordinate accordingly to avoid overcrowding. Additionally, as the venue is closed on Sundays and Mondays, scheduling weekend or midweek meetups requires some planning. Understanding these logistical aspects can help groups maximize their experience and enjoy everything Toybrary Austin offers with minimal inconvenience.
Where is Toybrary Austin located, and how accessible is it for group meetups?
Toybrary Austin is conveniently located at 2001 Justin Lane in Austin, Texas, a region accessible to local families and visitors alike. The venue sits in an area that is easy to reach by car, with parking options nearby, which is essential for groups traveling together. Its address and clear operating hours from Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, allow groups to plan meetups with ease. Accessibility is also supported by Toybrary’s welcoming policies that allow drop-in visitors without membership, making it approachable for spontaneous group gatherings. The central location means parents coming from different parts of Austin can meet without excessive travel time, further encouraging group socialization. This combination of location and accessibility enhances Toybrary Austin’s appeal as a hub for family-friendly group meetups.
How does Toybrary Austin promote social interaction among children and adults?
One of the standout features of Toybrary Austin is its emphasis on social interaction in a playful context. For children, the abundance of toys and activities naturally encourages them to explore together, share resources, and engage in cooperative play, which develops important social skills. The organized events like storytime and music singalongs facilitate group participation and communal enjoyment. For adults, the venue’s design promotes conversation and interaction by offering comfortable areas where parents can gather while keeping an eye on their children. Regular visitors often report forming friendships and building community ties through shared experiences at Toybrary. This social dimension enriches visits, transforming simple playdates into opportunities for connection and support among families and friends. Overall, Toybrary Austin effectively serves as a vibrant social hub for children and adults alike.
What events and special programming does Toybrary Austin offer to enhance group visits?
Toybrary Austin hosts a variety of events throughout the year that add unique value to group visits. Special events often include seasonal crafts, holiday-themed parties, music sessions, and storytime tailored to different age groups, enhancing the educational and entertainment experience. These events provide structured activities that complement the free play environment, offering engaging ways for groups to celebrate occasions or simply enjoy shared experiences. Birthday parties, a popular option, can be customized with decorations and guided activities, making group celebrations seamless and memorable. Monthly programming also fosters community involvement, giving families something new to look forward to regularly. This combination of ongoing and special programming makes Toybrary Austin much more than a typical play space—it becomes an event destination perfect for group gatherings.
How can you plan a successful group meetup or party at Toybrary Austin?
Planning a group meetup or party at Toybrary Austin benefits from the venue’s established party packages and flexible space rental options. You can start by selecting a suitable date within their Tuesday to Saturday operating hours and coordinating with staff via phone or email to customize the event details. The Toybrary team can assist with decoration ideas, activity scheduling, and toy access to suit your group’s preferences and ages. It’s practical to consider the number of attendees relative to the space capacity to ensure comfort and smooth flow during the event. Including time for both organized activities and open play offers ideal stimulation and freedom for children. Additionally, communicating clearly with your group about timings, location, and any membership or fees will help ensure everyone arrives prepared. By leveraging Toybrary Austin’s resources and staff support, group meetups and parties can be stress-free, fun, and memorable for all involved.