Lark Toy Store Ultimate Toy Store Experience
Lark Toy Store is rated as one of the Best Toy Stores in the World. Knowing this and Christmas was just around the corner, we had to check it out. I had read a lot about the store online and in books, but I was still not really clear as to what to expect.
When I think of a toy store, I was thinking a cross between a Toys R Us and a mom-and-pop store. I even had a vision of the toy store featured in Home Alone Two, FAO Schwarz in New York. I was completely wrong.
Better yet blown away by what I found inside. Located in Kellog MN, this small-town Toy Store is well worth the drive.
Inside Lark Toy Store
Unlike most stores that filter people into the shopping area, the main door to Lark Toy Store is a hallway. It’s here where you have to make a decision: Memory Lane? Straight to the toys, perhaps?
We opted to go to Memory Lane first. Because why not! There are tons of great toys to make you smile!
Vintage toys from your childhood were lined up behind the glass cases. It was a treasure to see some of those toys.
My husband and I had just started the Dr. Who series, so when we saw the Tardis replica, we both geeked out a little.
My daughter also spotted a Hoggle and the Goblin King figurine from the Labyrinth. I couldn’t believe all the different things they acquired.
Riding the Carousel
At the end of this side of the building, they have a carousel ride. It’s fully operational, and they offer rides every 30 minutes. Because Lark Toy Store is a little off the beaten track, they make sure to take care of your stomach as well.
The room contains a delectable array of fudge and an assortment of mouthwatering candies. They even sold full-fledged lunches. You could easily spend half a couple of hours there wandering around.
Love finding unique sweet treats? You need to check out the best Candy Stores in Minnesota. How many have you been to?
The Toy Store
As you walk in the other direction, you find the store. Unlike traditional toy stores, they do not try to pack in their merchandise into every available space on the floor. In each room of the store, they had little play stations set up with samples of the toys.
My son and daughter had so much fun trying out all the different toys. It was so nice. Not only could I peruse the shelves grabbing things without the watchful eyes of children… I didn’t have to worry about them destroying the store.
Each section of the store had a different theme of toys which I loved. The puppet room was one of my favorites because they had what seemed like the whole cast of the Fraggle Rock gang.
The collections of wooden toys made just by Lark Toy Store were great. They were the kinds that you pull on a string and something moves.
I found that the selection of toys is really great because it encouraged kids to use their imaginations. I don’t think I saw anything in there that required you to purchase batteries.
The only brand name toys I saw were the Melissa and Doug brand. Otherwise, everything else was different. The rooms went on for an eternity.
What surprised me what how busy they were. But not in a, I can’t get around busy. In most sections of the toy store, we were the only ones in the room.
It was probably the most relaxing and fun experience I had picking out presents. It is definitely why it made my 10 of the Top Toy Stores in Minnesota list. For being a little off the beaten path, they are really well known.
Mini Golf
Outside the store, you’ll find a mini golf course, perfect for getting the wiggles out before heading back on the road. Unfortunately, we trimmed it wrong and were not able to explore it ourselves. Darn winter time!!! Oh Well.
Make sure to check out the other great 24 Best Mini Golf in Minnesota | Fun any time of year!
Would I go back to Lark Toy Store?
Yes most definitely. Before you make the drive make sure to check their hours out. While they are open year-round, Lark Toys Stores’ hours change seasonally.
If you want something unique or need a gift for someone who has everything, this is a great place to visit.
