Review: FAO Schwarz

Let’s start with scale. Where are we between global flagship and neighborhood boutique?
After nearly 80 years on Fifth Avenue, the famous toy store closed in 2015, but was brought back to life just a few years later in Rockefeller Center. Kids flocked to the flagship to gaze up at the 28-foot tall clock tower and marvel at the toy soldiers in their bright uniforms; in the '80s and '90s, little ones came in droves to dance on the giant piano, just as Tom Hanks did in that famous scene in "Big." Well the piano is back, as is all the rest, and kids will love the fresh new world of toys.

What can we find here, or what should we look for?
The store carries all the top children’s brands, plus its own FAO Schwarz line of mementos and toys. You'll find everything from classic Steiff bears to a Melissa & Doug grocery store to a rocket ship, plus a kids’ spa and a sprawling candy shop.

If money’s no object, what goes in the cart?
Arrange for a personal shopping experience and full-on VIP experience. Or, just go for a ride-in a red Mercedes covered in 44,000 Swarovski crystals ($25,000).

And … what if we’re on a strict budget?
Go interactive; make you own stuffed animal at the Build-A-Bear Workshop or take home a doll from the baby doll adoption center. Or try something a little more educational. The STEM lab has a "professor" who leads fun experiences, and afterwards kids can take home construction and robotics projects.

Who else shops here?
The store appeals to the young-at-heart of every age, plus tourists who want to take home a reminder of a New York City icon.

Any secret tips?
"Secret" may not be the right word for the store's most famous piece, but don't miss the dance-on Grand Piano, which is now mirrored on the ceiling as well.