Cool is a pretty subjective term, one of those definitions that will vary depending on to whom we talk. So when a toy store calls itself the coolest in the world, well, you’d be forgiven if you were a bit skeptical. But…yep, there’s a but, you’ll likely overcome that skepticism within seconds of pulling into the parking lot at Playthings, Etc. in Butler, Pennsylvania, which bills itself as the world’s coolest toy store – and for good reason.

If you’ve never driven down the stretch of William Flynn Highway in Butler that leads to Playthings, Etc., you might do a double-take when you pass by the large, gleaming silver – a cross between a stealth bomber and a spaceship – building that sits on the side of a quiet road that’s defined by gentle hills. Even though I’ve been to this beloved Pennsylvania toy store countless times, I still love it when I get that first glimpse of the silver shimmering in the sun. While the outside exudes cool, the inside is somehow even cooler, promising a blast from the past for many of us.

What’s described as “engine doors” lead to this super-cool toy store that’s all about fun. We’ve always been encouraged to play with the toys and explore at our own pace. If you’ve got little ones, they’ll have a blast in the small play area that’s brimming with toys. Take your time, especially if it’s your first visit. While the inside isn’t as big as you might expect, there’s a lot to see and do – from shooting darts and bouncing moon balls to asking the Magic 8 Ball life’s most important questions. Playthings, Etc. says it stocks more than 7,000 toys, so you’re sure to find at least a few favorites from childhood - Pez, Frisbees, stuffed animals, lava lamps, hula hoops, and puppets.

If you like games or educational toys, you’ll find an impressive collection at Playthings, Etc, and there’s a section with Legos and model and toy cars. My favorites are the simplest – Chinese yoyos that were popular growing up in the 80s, slide whistles, and tambourines – while my daughter and her friends, at least when they were smaller,  gravitated to the oversized masks, the costumes, and the scooters. Every aisle promises more fun finds like funky socks, ice cream cone purses, and pocket-sized games.

Even on the rare times I’ve left Playthings, Etc. emptyhanded, I took something even more important with me – a unique experience each visit, photos that years later bring laughs, and memories of the childhood I had and the one my daughter is now experiencing.

Head over to the official website of Playthings, Etc., or stop by the Facebook page of one of the best toy stores in Pennsylvania for more information, including days and hours.

Have you been to Playthings, Etc. in Butler, Pennsylvania? Do you agree it’s the world’s coolest toy store? Let us know what you think in the comments! All of that fun might lead to a mighty appetite, so why not continue your stroll down Memory Lane with a meal at the last remaining Ponderosa in Pennsylvania? It’s just a 10-minute drive, give or take a few minutes, from Playthings, Etc. With all there is to do in Butler, you might even want to turn your visit into an overnight stay or a weekend getaway by booking a local Vrbo.