Nestled in Manhattan, FAO Schwarz opened its doors in 1870, relocating to its iconic Fifth Avenue location in 1986—just two years before Tom Hanks and Robert Loggia famously danced on its giant floor piano in the beloved film, Big. If you’ve caught glimpses of this magical store in films like Mighty Aphrodite, Baby Boom, Big Business, or even the latest Smurfs movie (which, honestly, I haven’t seen), then you’ve witnessed its enchanting allure.
I fondly recall playing on that grand piano myself, and watching my little brother leap into a mountain of plush puppies, arms wide open for a furry embrace. Each stuffed animal felt softer and cuter than any we’d ever known. The store was a wonderland of giant Lego creations, craft stations, and the chance to personalize dolls and Muppets, all topped off by a gigantic candy department.
I’m not alone in my nostalgia. After settling in New York, the flagship store became a must-visit spot for friends, kids or no kids. It was also a prime location for celebrity sightings—likely because they were among the few who could actually afford to shop there! I spotted a young Gwen Stefani shortly after No Doubt hit the charts. I even trailed a familiar figure around the store, trying to place him until it hit me: it was Al Franken, who had indeed transformed since I’d last seen him on television. Once I recognized him, I let him enjoy his shopping in peace, adding another amusing memory to my collection (which I hope he doesn’t remember).
Yet, celebrities weren’t the main draw. FAO Schwarz on Fifth Avenue embodies the quintessential toy store of our imaginations, allowing us to channel our inner children. Stepping inside, you instantly understand why that iconic scene in Big has lingered in our memories. Just like Tom Hanks, you feel a wave of nostalgia wash over you, leaving behind the harsh realities of life. You gaze in awe at the towering stuffed giraffes and the flurry of flying toys, losing yourself in the sheer magnitude of it all. In those moments, thoughts of rising prices and commercialism fade away; all that remains is the joy of play.
And that’s what will be missed the most.
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In summary, FAO Schwarz was not just a toy store; it was a cherished experience that allowed us to relive our childhoods, a place where imagination and wonder thrived.
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