Toy Joy, Austin

Toy Joy is one of the most character-filled, beloved local spots in town, doing its part to keep Austin weird. Known locally as a cluttered clearing house for all manner of children’s toys and unsung oddities, the store is nearly overflowing with games, figurines, novelties, candy and brightly-colored fun things of all shapes and sizes. Employees are praised for their enthusiasm and hand-drawn signs, as well as free gift wrapping for anyone who asks. In the past few years, the store has expanded to include an entire Tokyo section, and abandoned their long-beloved location on the Drag to more spacious digs on the southwest corner of Guadalupe and Second Street. Toy Joy prides itself on being fun and safe for all ages; it's impossible to visit without finding something to make you smile.