About FAO Schwarz
FAO Schwarz is America's most legendary toy store, founded in 1862 and known for its iconic New York City flagship with the giant piano keyboard floor that Tom Hanks famously danced on in the movie "Big." The brand represents the apex of the toy shopping experience—wonder, imagination, and premium playthings for children who deserve extraordinary gifts.
FAO Schwarz carries a curated selection of premium toys, stuffed animals, educational games, collectibles, and experiential gifts that prioritize quality, creativity, and durability over mass-market alternatives. Their Build-A-Bear style animal creation stations and interactive experiences make FAO Schwarz a destination in itself beyond just retail.
FAO Schwarz's premium positioning means full prices are higher than mass-market toy retailers, but their seasonal sales and holiday promotions offer meaningful opportunities to purchase quality gifts at reduced prices. The brand's legacy and gift presentation quality justifies the premium for special occasions.
Quick Savings Tips
- Holiday season (November–December) promotions offer the best opportunities to save on premium toys
- FAO Schwarz-exclusive items are unavailable elsewhere—worthwhile for special occasion gifts
- Gift presentation and packaging is elevated vs. standard retailers—adds gifting value
- Compare with Learning Tree and Melissa & Doug for similar quality educational toy alternatives
- Clearance sales after holiday season offer the deepest discounts on prior-season inventory