Service // This toy store is nestled in a cute street in La Jolla. We were greeted when we walked in and saw that the staff members were assisting others so we did not have a chance to ask questions. Selection // I have seen some complaints on here regarding their selection and I can't seem to understand why there is frustration/confusion. This is a small store, which means they will have limited products. Overall I think they had a nice selection of toys for babies, toddlers, teens and yes even adults. Some of the most popular items right now are blind boxes from Smiski's, Monchichi and Miffy. I was pleased to see a variety of Snoopy products as well. Again, it is not a large toy store so if you are expecting a vast selection, maybe consider visiting Geppetto's at least for the experience. Value // I would say that this is subjective and will vary depending on each person. Yes, some of the items were a bit expensive and you can find them on "Amazon" for maybe a few dollars cheaper. But I would say if you value supporting local businesses & enjoy the experience of shopping in person, then you will see value in visiting this store. As for the quality of the actual toys, I would say again, that is subjective because the toys are made by different businesses (manufacturers), I would recommend doing research on a specific product it before you buy. read more

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Top tier location because they had Needohs!! The staff was so friendly and let me see a display of the needohs they have. I have been looking for months!! They had the fuzz ball edition but still great selection! I got the 4 pack for only $8.99, such a steal! read more

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Kind employees and sells genuine smiskis for fair prices. Also has a great selection of toys and trinkets. read more

Geppetto's - La Jolla - Toy Stores Near Me - La Jolla, California

Not a great experience, would not return or recommend. Stopped in today while walking through the area after visiting Parisien Gourmandises, and found some Blockees Transformers for my son. We usually buy them at comic bookstores, and was surprised to find them at this toy store, happy to support a local business, My son decided to buy a box which has 12 individual boxes in it... there was another box of 12 behind it so he wasn't cleaning out their inventory and there wasn't a sign saying there was a limit per customer (these aren't Pokémon cards, nor are they a limited production product. It's is a mystery toy box) when we get to the register, as the clerk was ringing us up the other employee comes over and says they can't sell us the whole box of 12 because she doesn't want to get in trouble with her manager for selling them... weird... she says she can only allow us to buy half. I was confused and she says it wouldn't be fair to other people who want to buy them, again a whole other box of 12 is sitting on the shelf. I said ok, I'll buy half and my husband can buy the other half, she says no, the limit is per family... what? I said ok, at this point you're just making up your own rules (which they are allowed to do, but at the register it seems unfair and unprofessional) There was no sign posted saying there is a limit and there's a whole other box set on the shelf. That's when I asked to speak to the manager and she says she's the asst manager and the highest ranked in the store. Insert eye roll! Luckily another woman in the store said she'd buy the other half and I paid her outside the store. We are from Northern California and we like to support independent bookstores, TCG card stores and comic bookstores. WHENEVER there is a limit per customer that information is POSTED and we respect it, this was NOT THE CASE. On many occasions my son has purchased these mystery toy blockee boxes and NEVER has a limit been implemented, let alone implemented AT THE REGISTER! Tbh I would have left them all there and not spent a penny at the store, but that wouldn't have been fair to my kid. It's simple, if you have a limit per customer, it needs to be posted! read more

As an African American customer, I had a very disturbing and uncomfortable experience at this store. While shopping, I was met with inappropriate comments, stares, and an overall atmosphere that felt discriminatory and unwelcoming. Instead of being treated with respect, I felt singled out and judged because of who I am. No one should have to experience racism while simply trying to shop-especially in a place that is supposed to bring joy to children and families. I hope the management takes this seriously and makes real changes, because creating a safe and respectful environment should be the bare minimum for any business. I would not recommend this store to anyone--especially African Americans--until they address how they treat their customers. read more

First time at Geppetto's toy store in La Jolla. What a find on Yelp! We stopped in to get gifts for the grandkids but I found quite a few things that I wanted. Geppetto's had games, toys, fidgets, gadgets, plushies, dolls, and everything else that a little toy maker could imagine. We bought a travel game for the grandkids called Guess Who. We also got some stocking stuffers for future use. Really had a good time perusing all of the toys. read more

Walking into the store with my friends and was looking at calico critters. I turned around and was itching my wrist. A RUDE teenage girl worker shouted from the cash register asking "DID YOU JUST SHOVE SOMETHING UP YOUR ARM?" clearly I was itching my wrist and fixing my bracelets, told her I didn't steal and she gave me a dirty look. Terrible worker. Should be fired... Her Name was Alyssa had a nose piercing. read more

Cool old school toy store. Great leave to bring kids. They have a very wide variety of toys and hard to find items too. Wide variety of toys and comparable to online sales. But gives the toy store experience read more

Geppetto's - La Jolla - Toy Stores Near Me - La Jolla, California

Selection is good, lots of high quality educational toys. Some items are overpriced. Good place to look for ideas for gifts or to take a child to shop for gifts. Staff were oddly bothersome and rude. read more

We love Geppetto's, even if corporate! We found so many treasures here, from Spooners, grow-a-pet (butterflies), cars/trains to many, and I mean many, Jellycat bunnies. My son has the largest bunnies, and one medium-sized one, and now we've come across the baby bunnies for the first time. His steadfast love for bunnies meant we had to expand our existing collection of bunnies. They are offered in a few colors here, as well. Shopped here on three consecutive days, and found bags of goods for kids each day. Great store, great staff, great treasures! They have just under 10 stores, and they're all in the San Diego area. read more

We're first time parents and Alex made this such an enjoyable experience. She helped us pick items for our daughter and she was so sweet and funny. We can't wait to come back. Love the customer experience. read more

What an amazing shopping experience--in every good way possible. I just bought 3 toys on-line. One went to SFO and 2 to my home. They all arrived early. The shopping experience, SELECTION OF TOYS, and shipping speed were top flight. I asked for gift wrap. Guess what...They wrapped the boxes beautifully--like old days Neiman Marcus--and...they HAND WROTE gift cards for each. Hand written..it's amazing. What a beautiful mix of modern convenience with old school quality and thoughtfulness. Thanks Geppetto's! read more

Geppetto's - La Jolla - Toy Stores Near Me - La Jolla, California

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Such a fun store with so many great gifts. I really enjoy shopping here for my grand daughters. An amazing variety of toys for boys and girls. I am glad to see such a great store here. I know I will be a loyal customer for years to come. read more

We loved stumbling upon this great little toy store! The shop itself is not as large as many of the toy stores I've been to in the past so the selection isn't crazy huge, but that being said, they make such great use of their space! There were so many great toys here. My toddler was in heaven and pitched a (literal) fit when we had to leave. The prices weren't ridiculously high but nothing was cheap either. I truly believe with most things in life you get what you pay for, and Geppetto's seemed to offer plenty of quality toys. I'd rather spend the money on buying my son one or two great new toys that will stand the rest of time rather than five or six cheaper toys that will break easily. Come for the Yelp review and leave with a life lesson. But anyway, my husband was also a huge fan of this store and would have stayed for hours himself if he were able to. So kids of all ages should check it out when you're in La Jolla! We left with a stuffed otter puppet, a stuffed taco (it was so freakin cute!), some Lego figurines, a Lego puzzle (okay so the Lego items were for my husband and not my toddler), and a big toy plane for my son to play with in the bath. read more

I am not going to lie, the cute storefront and name called me. Upon entering I was in my own world of fascination. And, truthfully, the prices are high but I bought some stuff anyway. There was a customer who just bought a foam airplane and explained that her son dropped it on the floor about 5 times before the wing broke. She wanted her money back. At first I was thinking, 'it is foam, what do you think was going to happen?' Then I heard how much and thought to myself, 'Wow, lady, get your money back.' All other toys, board games, puzzles, and books seem of quality, and many things are nostalgic. I enjoyed perusing the shelves, and as I mentioned, bought a few things. I simply appreciate this small sore as oppose to the larger chains. Oh, and the customer service, well...I made one round around the store before I was assisted, and I was assisted by the more cheerful and colorful one of the two girls. I would return for memories, but it will take me a few walk arounds before I decide to buy something or nothing. read more

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Stopped in today while walking down Orange Street. Well, didn't actually stop in as the entrance was blocked by tables, but the store seemed like it wanted to be open, but just not have any one actually walk in. Not sure how that was supposed to work, but my parents were in town on the Island for Mother's Day and we were looking for a board game to play while watching the boats outside. A really nice red-headed girl helped us, and we ended up buying a 1960s re-issue of the Game of Life. She was super sweet and friendly, and it was obvious she was doing her best given the circumstances to help us. Glad we stopped in and can't wait to actually shop within the store once this craziness is over. read more

Went there at 7:39 p.m. they close at 8:00 the workers were rude even though we were shopping and planning to buy some toys they would not let my child use the restroom for his emergency situation. Completely ridiculous. It's unfortunate we decided not to buy anything as a result they lost out on the big sale. Someone needs to teach them about customer service. read more

If you're in La Jolla there's a good chance you're shopping local at one of the many boutiques. Most too upscale for me, I opted to go inside the town's only toy store. As if the name weren't enticing enough, the goodies inside were. Lots of unique items inside for babies, toddlers, boy, girls and the young at heart. Sure everything in this store could be found online, but there's something fun about picking up a book, stuffed animal or toy and holding it in your hands. They have your usual big sox store toys like Legos, but I left with a few "Scratch & Sniff" greeting cards---something I'd never seen before! Who doesn't love scratch & sniff? Totally worth the stop if you're in the area. read more

I've been a Geppetto's customer for years. If your looking for a unique toy store, Geppetto's has got you covered. They have educational and fun toys for every age 0-100! The staff is always friendly and if you need help picking out a gift, they can help you pick out any toy or item for any age group! This is a great place to find retro toys, baby toys, games, books, science project ideas, bikes, arts and craft materials...etc.. Indeed, some of the prices of certain items are a little more than your average Walmart, but Geppetto's carries tons of items you'll never even find at Walmart! Plus their service and the quality of toys you'll find at Geppettos can't compare. They offer free gift wrapping, and if there's a toy you can't find and another store location has it, they'll transfer it to your nearest geppetto's for you and let you know when it's arrived. Geppettos has also worked with me on special ordering specific toys from some of their vendors when they didn't carry an item in their store. Add yourself to their mailing list, (they will not solicit your name to outside companies) because once a year they send out a fantastic toy catalog for the holidays. They also take website and phone orders and will ship anywhere for you! It's perfect for the holidays and when you need to ship gifts for people outside of San Diego! read more

We came in to the store 10 minutes ago, as my son was so excited about his new airplane. We took out of the box and realized it was broken. Walked back to the store and the doors were locked. I kindly knocked at the door to tell them we don't live here and to ask if they could replace it. The girl with blue or purple hair shook her head at me told me no waved her finger at me telling me no. I signaled one minute can I talk to you showed her the airplane. I seriously cannot believe this. A broken plane and can't even answer the door. She and the gentleman who works there turned their backs to me. Dont shop here!!!! buyers beware!!! Junk and poor customer service read more

One of the best toy stores in San Diego! Unusual, novel and quality toys and everyone is friendly. Prices are also much better than one might think. read more

I frequent Geppetto's once a year before my little cousin's birthday since it's close by and I always end up not having enough time before her birthday. Geppetto's is pricier, however, I am always able to find a gift for around $20 that allows her to be creative and have fun. They offer free gift wrap with purchase as well. The girls who work here are very sweet and helpful too. I have seen coupons for Geppetto's on occasion; the recent one I used was $10 off $40. Keep an eye out in the local paper/magazines for these. read more

Let me preface this by saying that my friend and I visit this geppettos multiple times a week and have been going here our entire lives. Each time we have terrible experiences with the workers. We are treated like shit and have been accused of stealing multiple times. It is clear that because we are both young girls (15) they assume that we are unable to pay for items on our own. One time they asked to see my receipt from an item i had bought at a different store to see if we had stolen it or not. It's plain disrespect and unprofessional. Also they have continually surveyed us and follow us around the store in order to see if we are going to steal. Overall, the service is terrible and they should have better attitudes and stop making assumptions about people based off their age or if they look like they are financially able to pay for their items. Lovely store but the staff ruins it read more

Such a fun shop with an outstanding selection of toys for all ages. It's organized well and the shopkeepers are happy to help and offer suggestions. Definitely worth a stop if you need a gift--especially if you want to find something that won't be in a mega store. read more

I was in town from the Bay Area and it was nice to walk around in La Jolla. Wow, this store was awesome! I really felt like like a kid again. I took one step into the store stood in one spot and spent 15 minutes look all around me at all the toys that cover the walls from the floor to the ceiling. The small store was fully stocked with a plethora of toys. Wish there were more of these back at home. read more

Education, construction, art and pirates' games are all part of the fun in this child's dream store. Wooden marionettes and stuffed animals also add to the whimsy and the charm of this toy boutique. I have found that Geppetto's employees know how to assist you well in your search for the relevant toy. read more

Geppetto's - La Jolla - Toy Stores Near Me - La Jolla, California

Geppetto's is an old-fashion toy shop. The prices are little steep compared to say, Wal Mart, but this is one of the few non-chain toy shops and it is exclusive to San Diego County. Many of the toys at the shop are educational. The theme of the store is that it is every child's fantasy, but adults can relish in the magical theme of the toy boutique. Plus, you need an adults bank account to afford the goodies here. read more

One of our favorite toy stores. Just bought our second puppet for our youngest. Love it.

A very nice local toystore with a few nice toys for children to play with while the parents browse. Our son had a blast in here while we were on vacation, so we bought a couple of things in compensation. A little small compared to our local store in Houston (everything in La Jolla is small compared to anything in Houston) but excellent selection across a nice range of ages. Of course, like any independent toy store, expensive! Don't come here for deals. read more

This is a cute store nestled in a prime location in downtown La Jolla. The staff was friendly and helpful and the store was warm and inviting and had a lot of cute stuff. Unfortunately the store seemed a mite on the small side and somewhat specialized for littler munchkins, so i would probably have to hit a larger toy store or department store for more of my needs. read more

A whole new world ... A dazzling place I never knew ... Hakuna Matata. What a wonderful phrase ... all these wonderful songs are spilling out of the speakers in Geppetto's. Like a kid I was mesmerized by the tunes - I only wish there was a video accompanying the music. But that's just me. ;) So much to choose from, so many fun toys to waddle with, shake, cuddle with, rev up and roll down the aisle. The staff was super friendly and seemed to know about all the toys they carry. I can't wait to place the absolutely adorable AniMails in the mail for my B and goddaughter! Look them up, AniMails - so fun! read more

I love this store! They have a fabulous selection of unique toys, they help you pick age appropriate gifts, and they wrap for free. And the employees are always very friendly and helpful. What's not to love? (And they mail for you or do curbside pick up!) read more

I too thought Geppettos was a really cool store which is why I chose to do my Christmas shopping with them on their online store. But what they did was just wrong and now a little girl will not get her toys for christmas... I ordered my 5yr old niece toys from Geppettos for Christmas. They are a store located here in San Diego. I placed my order on the 14th of December and was so excited because I knew she would love what I had ordered. So I went to check the status of my order yesterday (the 20th) and the website said there was no record of my order....strange I thought.....so I called one of the stores to find out what was going on. Come to find out and make a long story short, they CANCELLED my entire order!!! The reason you ask? Because they said they could not guarantee Christmas delivery!!!! Actually, all orders placed after the 12th were cancelled!!! NO NOTICE WAS EVEN SENT TO ME!!!! And there is no telling how many kids will not get their toys this year because of their cancellations... So the owner called me today and offered his apologies, but offered nothing to keep my business. He didn't even offer to resubmit my order!!! NO deals for shipping, NO discount on my items, just an "I'm sorry". Well, now my niece is not getting any toys this year and since I only found out yesterday, and today is already the 21st, I have no time to order anything else and have it arrive on time. Tell all your friends that if they are ever online and come across a store called Geppettos to not order from them. And if you are visiting here in San Diego and see the store while you are out and about, just keep on moving. They obviously do not care about the importance of a child's Christmas. At least they didn't care about my niece. How do you explain that to a 5yr old.....one should never have to.... Please forward... Thank you. read more

Overpriced toy store. The storefront is a nice touch to the Cove shopping scene, but I do not buy my child any toys here. Update: The toy train set in the back of the store has provided my son with hours of free entertainment. Increasing rating to three stars even though all the toys are about 50% more expensive than what you'd pay for them on amazon. read more

Best staff and awesome classic toys! I love I never have to think about where to go or what to get! They gift wrap beautifully and always help me pick gifts when I am out of ideas!!! Family owned , support small business!!! read more

I wish I could give them 0 stars. I shop here all the time as I am a La Jolla Resident and have a 3.5 and 1.5 year old (Birthday parties every weekend). Staff is NOT friendly or helpful. How else can I say it, the staff is just plain rude. Please know this is not a one time experience. I try to support the local La Jolla Village businesses. However, after the latest experience I will never shop here again. I am taking my business to the big boxes. Hopefully management reads this and makes changes in their customer service training. read more

I recently gave a very bad review for Geppetto's based on a few run-ins with one (former?) employee. Since that review, the owner has reached out to me and been kind enough to look into the matter. My family and I have returned to Geppetto's a few times since the incident and the problem staff member didn't seem to be working there anymore. Now, we're always greeted with smiles and enthusiasm each time we come in, and my son has not been afraid to go in anymore. read more

Love this store! I found great Christmas gifts for my kids at reasonable prices while visiting. Cashier (young man) was very helpful and polite. Best part... he wrapped my gifts for free!! This is a great perk of shopping here! read more

Don't let the cute storefront "fool" you. OVER-priced toys. Unfriendly staff. Saw an adorable wood alphabet puzzle - Gepetto price tag $90 versus amazon $30 - I'm all about "shop small" but seriously??! That price difference/markup is ridiculous! read more

cute concept but limited in stock.