Mary Arnold Toys456

My parents used to shop here and now I do for my children. Mary Arnold Toys is a staple in the Upper East Side, with the same owners from 20 years ago still taking care of the place. The staff is great: knowledgeable, friendly and efficient. I wouldn't travel to any other toy store.

It was with some trepidation that I went to Mary Arnold Toys after reading some of the reviews. I cannot begin to express my highest regards for the overall experience I had! It was late afternoon, the store was crowded, yet I received polite, thorough, professional assistance with my shopping needs. The selection was far better than FAO Schwartz (as was the knowledge level and competence of staff)...the bonus is that they wrap and ship out of the city! Ruth and Doris cannot be beat! Exceptional in every way. What a delight. Mary Arnold Toys will be my "go to" store henceforth for any children's gifts I need. I remain a loyal customer for life.

Back in our New York days, my wife's first job was from Pam and Howard Hirsch at Mary Arnold Toys. We also bought great toys from there for Christmas for our son. This is a small neighborhood store, in a high rent area. If the markups are steep, remember that low volume stores do not get the same price breaks as chains from the wholesalers. What they do offer is the convenience of a local neighborhood store, and, when we were there anyway, a good and varied selection.

A very good selection of toys, though as another reader mentioned, their markup can be steep. On a recent Sunday, I spent a frustrating 20 minautes or so trying to call them before giving up.

Great service and fast lines, even when crowded. A nice break from generic tv toys but not limited to totally wooden, granola-esque toys.

This was the toy store of my childhood and now I buy many of my daughter's toys here as well. Good selection of toys for all ages and a neighborhood institution.