When beloved toy store FAO Schwarz closed its NYC doors two years ago, more than a few grown-ups mourned the loss. After all, the commercial playground was more than just a place to buy stuff—it had become the ultimate symbol for childlike fun for over 150 years. But the retailer just announced that it will return to a brand new location in 2018, making all of our Christmas wishes come true—and our Christmas shopping next year much more epic.
FAO Schwarz first opened its doors back in 1862, and solidified its fame with the piano-dancing scene from the 1988 film Big. It was a Manhattan institution on par with pastrami on rye from Katz's Delicatessen—and the oldest toy store in America—when it shut down in 2015, with then-owner Toys 'R' Us citing high real estate costs. And while every New Yorker can understand the plight of sky-high rent, many a whimsical dream was still crushed when those famous toy soldier doormen and giant floor piano hit the road. Where would we buy all of our toys now? How could we hug life-sized stuffed giraffes on Amazon? What kind of Santa would let this happen?!
Thank goodness that period of grief didn't have to last for too long. Following its sale to ThreeSixty Group last year, the iconic toy store has found new, less expensive real estate to occupy. According to Commercial Observer, the retailer is setting up shop at Rockefeller Center, replacing the current NBC Experience Store. The space is considerably smaller than the Fifth Avenue building FAO Schwarz called home for 30 years (shrinking from 61,000 square feet to 19,000 square feet), but the reportedly long-term lease on the primo location ensures the institution will remain just as popular as ever.
While many details have yet to be provided, Commercial Observer does know that the new 30 Rock store is expected to open in the fall of 2018. That means you'll have to wait a little longer to fully re-stock on Lego train sets and $30,000 dollhouses, but fear not: The store has other ways to get you through this holiday stopping season. Travelers need only visit the FAO Schwarz pop-up store in Bergdorf Goodman (located on 5th Avenue at 58th St,), which is open now through December 31.
As for 2018? We suggest you use next year's waiting period to practice "Chopsticks" on your nearest piano. You never know when Tom Hanks might show up for an impromptu performance.