My grandchildren, like most children whose age is a single digit, think that every store should…read moresell toys and that more is better. They have a point. Grocery stores stock toys at kids' eye level. Target has several aisles stocked with toys that have their own television shows. Best Buy displays toys next to the checkout line. Gepetto's in Carlsbad is a small store stocked with top-quality toys, and in my experience staffed with people who are always eager to help and often able to help. The place is insane during the week before Christmas, but the staff somehow copes. I try not to go there at Christmastime. Shopping with a child for toys in a store whose inventory is not advertised on television is much simpler and more satisfying than taking the same kid to Target. Trust me, I've done both. Since in general the toys at Gepetto's are unknown to the child, there is far less of the "gimme gimme" that happens at Target. And whether a toy is still interesting and unbroken the next day is unrelated to its advertising. A 5-year-old in my family was astonished that there were no Minecraft toys at Gepetto's, and asked if we could go to the nearby bookstore because it would for sure have Minecraft toys. I find Gepetto's selection of child-compatible art supplies to be superior to what's in stores like Michael's, but they cost more. I don't mind.

I am a great fan of Gepetto's. It is not a toy store but it is a magical world of creativity…read more It is my first time here at the Gepetto's Forum. There are ample parking spots in the Forum. The shop is spacious and well organized. They have a lot of great merchandise to explore. For example; puzzles, board games, Legos, gel pens and other stationary items. In addition to an amazing collection of toys,stuffed animals, dolls, arts and crafts. The staff were very nice. The service was efficient. It is just an awesome place to shop at or buy some gifts.