Texas is home to five unique toy museums dedicated to retro and vintage toys, offering a nostalgic trip through pop culture and childhood memories. Here’s a look at these exciting destinations:
1. The Best Little Toy Museum in Texas
Location: 3509 Aztec Trail, Wylie, TX 75098
A Veteran’s Dream Turned Reality
Opened in 2023, this museum was founded by a retired veteran and passionate toy collector who began his journey in 1995. With over 20,000 toys and collectibles, the museum offers visitors a chance to dive into a vast collection of action figures and pop culture memorabilia.
What to Expect
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Extensive Collection: See rare and iconic toys from franchises like Star Wars, Marvel, DC Comics, G.I. Joe, and more.
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Interactive Game Room: Enjoy unlimited play on classic arcade games, including PAC-MAN, Star Wars, Marvel vs. Capcom, and a pool table.
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Pop Culture Nostalgia: The museum is a tribute to beloved movies, TV shows, and comics, celebrating decades of cherished memories.
Museum Highlights
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Massive Toy Collection: Over 20,000 toys and collectibles, spanning decades of pop culture and featuring characters from your favorite TV shows and movies.
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Game Room Access: Admission includes unlimited play on classic arcade games and pool.
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Scavenger Hunt Fun: Embark on a toy-themed scavenger hunt to find 20 hidden figures and win a prize!
Game Room Arcade Line-Up
Play timeless arcade hits like:
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PAC-MAN
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MS. PAC-MAN
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Rampage
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Marvel Vs. Capcom
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Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
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Centipede
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Mortal Kombat II
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Star Wars
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Tron
Plan Your Visit
Location
3509 Aztec Trail, Wylie, TX 75098
Hours
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Thursday–Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Admission
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Adults: $10
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Children (4–12): $5
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Children (3 and under): Free
Admission includes access to the museum, unlimited arcade play, and the scavenger hunt.
Relive Your Childhood and Make New Memories
Whether you’re a toy collector, a gaming enthusiast, or just looking for a unique day out, The Best Little Toy Museum in Texas offers something for everyone. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a journey through toy history and indulge in arcade fun—all under one roof!
For more details, visit us in person or call ahead to plan your nostalgic adventure.
2. The National Videogame Museum
Location: Frisco, TX
Highlights:
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Focus on retro gaming consoles, accessories, and memorabilia.
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Interactive exhibits where visitors can play vintage games.
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Iconic collections showcasing the evolution of video games and their cultural impact.
Hours: Open daily, hours vary.
Admission: Adults $12, Children $10, Free for ages 3 and under.
3. Toy Joy Retro Toy Museum
Location: Austin, TX
Highlights:
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Curated selection of vintage and rare toys, featuring collectibles from the 1980s and 1990s.
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A charming blend of history and play, with interactive displays.
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Located inside Toy Joy, a popular Austin toy store.
Hours: Open daily, hours vary.
Admission: Free to browse the museum, located within the store.
Each of these museums celebrates the magic of retro toys and games, making them perfect for families, collectors, and anyone looking to relive their childhood!
4. Houston Toy Museum
Location: 321 W. 19th Street, Houston, TX
The Houston Toy Museum is a charming destination for toy enthusiasts of all ages, showcasing an incredible array of vintage toys and childhood treasures from various decades. Whether you’re a collector or just looking to relive your favorite childhood moments, this museum is sure to bring a smile to your face.
Highlights
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Extensive Collection: Featuring toys from the 1950s to the 1990s, including action figures, dolls, board games, and more.
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Interactive Displays: Learn about the history and cultural significance of toys over the years.
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Family-Friendly Fun: Perfect for kids and adults, offering a nostalgic trip through the evolution of playtime.
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Special Exhibits: Rotating exhibits that spotlight iconic toy brands, characters, and trends.
Admission & Hours
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Hours:
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Wednesday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
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Closed Monday and Tuesday.
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Admission:
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Adults: $10
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Children (4-12): $7
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Children under 3: Free
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Additional Features
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Gift Shop: Find unique toy-themed gifts and collectibles.
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Event Space: The museum hosts birthday parties and private events.
For more details or to plan your visit, check out their official website or contact the museum directly. A trip to the Houston Toy Museum is a delightful journey into the past, perfect for toy lovers and families alike!
5. Texas Toy Museum
Location: 312 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
Why Visit?
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Classic Toys and Dioramas: Explore a vast collection of toys from the ’80s, ’90s, and beyond. Highlights include:
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A 24-foot G.I. Joe display
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Epic Star Wars battle scenes
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Various intricate toy setups showcasing iconic moments in pop culture.
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Free Play Arcade and Pinball: Enjoy a selection of classic arcade games and pinball machines, all set to free play! Relive your childhood and finally beat those classic games.
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Local Craft Beers and More: Savor Austin’s finest craft beers, wines, and ciders while immersing yourself in nostalgia. (ID required for alcoholic beverages.)
Features and Amenities
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Day Pass Access: Start your Austin adventure at the museum and return anytime during the same day.
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Free Parking: Skip the hassle and cost of downtown parking. Limited spaces available—call ahead to confirm.
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Family-Friendly Fun: All ages are welcome to experience the magic of toys and arcades!
Hours of Operation
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Sunday–Thursday: 10:30 AM–9:30 PM
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Friday: 10:30 AM–Midnight
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Saturday: 10:00 AM–Midnight
(Closed Thanksgiving Day)
Contact Information
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Phone: 512-201-9139