New York Dearest
The guide, $35
A place · Store · Upper East Side · on 1 of my list

Mary Arnold Toys.

Worth it, says Antonina. Ask any New Yorker about the most charming toy stores in New York City and someone will definitely mention Mary Arnold Toys in the Upper East Side.

Antonina Pattiz
Antonina PattizI went myself · from my Best toy stores in New York
Where Mary Arnold Toys appears on New York Dearest

It's on 1 of my list. Each entry below is what I wrote about it there, with my verdict on that list, the fullest first.

Best toy stores in New York

No. 6 on that list
Worth it
  • Address1178 Lexington Ave, New York, NY
  • From my guide, updated September 2026.

Ask any New Yorker about the most charming toy stores in New York City and someone will definitely mention Mary Arnold Toys in the Upper East Side. In operation since 1931, this the second-oldest toy store in New York City. Plus, it’s the oldest continuously run toy store in America (because FAO Schwartz temporarily closed in 2015).

They offer a great variety of high quality toys that span the gamut, from nostalgic classics to the newest craze. Plus, a lot of the toys are centered around education, making this a great place to shop for toys in NYC if your kiddo is learning a new skill.

Read it on the list
Worth it, says Antonina. Been? Say if you agree.
Mary Arnold Toys

Nearby, from my lists

Worth it, within a ten-minute walk
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Mary Arnold Toys

Upper East Side