Great places to buy puzzles in New York.

New York Stores by City

New York City

FAO Schwarz

We couldn’t write this blog post without acknowledging one of the most famous toy stores in the world. FAO Schwarz has been around since 1862, and with all those years of experience, they know exactly what to stock when it comes to puzzles. FAO Schwarz carries a huge range of Ravensburger puzzles, which are a fan-favorite brand. Their offerings include Disney Princess themed kids puzzles, 3D models of famous world landmarks, and even an 18,000 piece challenge!

Playing Mantis

Playing Mantis is a charming specialty store in New York City focused on puzzles and creative play. From its location in Tribeca, the shop welcomes puzzle enthusiasts and casual shoppers alike. The store’s shelves feature a rich collection of jigsaw puzzles that appeal to various ages and skill levels. Whether you’re browsing for a fun family activity or a thoughtful gift, Playing Mantis delivers a welcoming in‑store experience.

Photo Source: https://www.instagram.com/faoschwarz/

CAMP

CAMP is a totally unique shopping experience that mixes display with play and has rotating themed experiences at their locations across the country. They work with big names, like Disney, to offer exclusive and limited edition toys, games, and puzzles. There are options for children and adults, so everyone can find a puzzle at this store! Their online shop is also stocked with puzzles from Galison, Mudpuppy, and Ridley’s.

Photo Source: https://camp.com/

Mary Arnold Toys

Mary Arnold Toys, located on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, is New York City’s longest continuously operating toy store, founded in 1931 and full of neighborhood charm. Inside its inviting space, you’ll find a thoughtfully curated mix of beloved classics and unique finds, from toys and games to children’s books. The store’s personal touches like local delivery, personalized service, and free gift wrapping make every visit warm and welcoming.

Photo Source: https://www.usatoday.com/picture-gallery/travel/destinations/10greatplaces/2018/12/14/great-independent-toy-stores-across-usa/2265243002/

Kidding Around

Kidding Around NYC stands out in the vibrant Chelsea neighborhood as more than just a toy store, it’s a destination for puzzle lovers of all ages. With an inviting storefront and knowledgeable team, the store showcases a broad variety of jigsaw puzzles, from classic scenic landscapes to challenging 1000‑piece masterpieces. Visitors can browse through thoughtfully arranged displays and ask for help picking the right puzzle difficulty level or theme. Whether you're shopping for a family night activity or seeking a thoughtful gift, the store makes the selection process enjoyable and personalized.

Strand Book Store

Strand Bookstore in NYC is a beloved destination for both bibliophiles and puzzle lovers. Known for its vast collection of books, Strand also offers a carefully curated range of literary-themed puzzles. From classic book covers and famous authors to New York City-inspired artwork, their puzzles provide a thoughtful and engaging challenge for all ages. Whether you're a puzzle enthusiast or looking for a unique gift, Strand’s selection is a must-see in the city.

Photo Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strand_Bookstore

The Museum of the City of New York Shop

The Museum of the City of New York Shop features a thoughtfully curated selection of New York City-themed puzzles that celebrate the city's rich history, art, and architecture. Perfect for locals and visitors alike, the shop offers jigsaw puzzles showcasing vintage maps, iconic landmarks, historic photographs, and vibrant cityscapes. It's an ideal stop for puzzle enthusiasts looking for unique, design-forward puzzles that reflect the energy and culture of NYC.

Photo Source: https://shop.mcny.org/products/new-york-city-mini-puzzle

Greenlight Bookstore

Greenlight Bookstore is a beloved independent bookstore located in Brooklyn, New York. Known for its thoughtfully curated selection of books for all ages, it also features a standout puzzle section, offering titles from popular brands like Galison and Mudpuppy. The store combines a warm, inviting atmosphere with knowledgeable staff, making it a favorite destination for both book lovers and puzzle enthusiasts. Whether you’re browsing for the latest bestsellers, children’s books, or a challenging jigsaw puzzle, Greenlight provides a welcoming space to explore, discover, and enjoy.

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Photo Source: https://friendlymantis.com/ten-years-after/playing-mantis-the-store-in-tribeca/

Photo Source: https://www.nyctourism.com/shopping/greenlight-bookstore/

Buffalo Area

Clayton’s Toys

Clayton’s Toys is a beloved, independent toy store with deep roots in Western New York, offering generations of families a treasure trove of toys, games, and puzzles. Their shelves are filled with everything from classic puzzles and plush toys to science kits, dolls, and creative crafts, ideal for kids of all ages. Whether you visit the Williamsville or Hertel Avenue store, you’ll find staff ready to help you pick out something special or wrap a gift. The store’s welcoming, old-school charm makes it a standout for anyone looking for toys and puzzles beyond the typical big-box selection.

Photo Source: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1087862146652385&set=a.505886408183298

Hyatt’s All Things Creative

Hyatt’s All Things Creative is a spacious, well‑stocked art and craft store in Buffalo that caters to a wide variety of creative needs. In addition to paints, papers, framing supplies, and graphic tools, they also carry puzzles. A nice option for families or anyone seeking a creative, relaxing activity. The store’s knowledgeable staff help shoppers pick the right materials, whether for a painting project, craft session, or a quiet puzzle night at home. With such a diverse selection, Hyatt’s makes it easy to find gifts or supplies for artists and hobbyists of all ages.

Photo Source: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1256889986445952&set=pcb.1256890013112616

That 80’s Toy Shop

That 80’s Toy Shop is a nostalgic treasure in Tonawanda, blending vintage charm with toys from decades past. Among their offerings are smaller piece-count vintage puzzles, ideal for collectors or kids looking for a quick and fun activity. Shelves are filled with retro action figures, classic collectibles, and modern toys, making the store a delight for all ages. Friendly staff help visitors explore both nostalgic favorites and new finds, creating a playful and welcoming experience.

Photo Source: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=5040258496044390&set=pcb.5040258632711043

Thin Ice

Thin Ice is a charming boutique in Buffalo that offers an eclectic mix of handcrafted gifts and souvenirs and yes, they also carry jigsaw puzzles. Whether you’re browsing for unique jewelry, pottery, or locally inspired souvenirs, their jigsaw puzzles stand out as fun, thoughtful keepsakes or gifts. The store’s cozy, welcoming vibe makes it a pleasant stop whether you’re shopping for yourself or looking for something special for someone else. Thin Ice delivers a friendly and personal shopping experience you won’t forget.

Cardsmart Greetings

Cardsmart Greetings is a warm, family‑run gift and card shop in Buffalo where you can find greeting cards at half price or at budget friendly rates, a great fit if you’re looking to send birthday, holiday, or special‑occasion cards without breaking the bank. Their inventory goes beyond cards: you’ll also find gift‑wrap, trinkets, and Buffalo‑themed gifts, making it easy to pick up a full gift package in one stop. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the store’s layout makes browsing simple and enjoyable. If you want a personal touch while gift shopping, Cardsmart Greetings delivers.

Photo Source: https://thiniceonline.com/

Alice, Ever After Books

Alice, Ever After Books is a cozy, family-friendly independent bookstore in Buffalo that specializes in children’s literature, from picture books for toddlers to engaging chapter books for older kids. They also carry thoughtful toys, games, and yes, puzzles, giving families a one-stop shop for gifts and fun. The welcoming atmosphere, organized shelves, and friendly staff make browsing easy and enjoyable whether you come alone or with little ones in tow. For anyone looking to support a local, woman‑owned bookstore while finding books and playful items for kids, Alice, Ever After is a wonderful choice.

Photo Source: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=3372674029458642&set=pcb.3372674586125253

Photo Source: https://stepoutbuffalo.com/business/alice-ever-after-books/

Rochester

Hobby House Toys

Hobby House Toys is a friendly, locally owned toy store in Rochester that offers a wide variety of toys, games, and puzzles, perfect for kids, families, or anyone young at heart. Their puzzle selection is especially notable, offering many styles and themes alongside traditional toys, board games, and arts & crafts kits. The store’s knowledgeable staff, convenient location, and welcoming vibe make it easy to browse for gifts, family games, or educational toys. Whether you're shopping for a birthday present, a cozy weekend puzzle, or a unique toy, Hobby House Toys is a comfortable, unpretentious shop worth visiting.

Photo Source: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=3372674029458642&set=pcb.3372674586125253

Just Games Rochester

Just Games Rochester is a vibrant, community‑centered game store that carries a wide variety of games, from board games and card games to RPGs, miniatures, and importantly, jigsaw puzzles. If you’re into puzzles, you’ll find a selection alongside their standard gaming inventory, making it a great stop whether you’re gaming or just want a relaxing puzzle night. The store’s friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere make browsing easy and enjoyable, whether you’re a seasoned tabletop gamer or someone looking for a new puzzle. For anyone in Rochester searching for games or puzzles, Just Games offers a comfortable, inclusive space to shop.

Photo Source: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1028482585050381&set=a.738967820668527

Dan’s Crafts & Things

Dan’s Crafts & Things is a beloved craft and hobby store in Rochester that offers a broad mix of supplies, from model kits, art materials, and toys to a strong selection of jigsaw puzzles. Whether you’re browsing for a new puzzle to enjoy solo or a creative craft project, you’ll find a wide variety at Dan’s. The welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff, and organized aisles make it easy to find what you’re looking for, whether you’re a casual shopper, parent, or a longtime hobbyist. It’s a great spot to explore puzzles, crafts, and hobby supplies all in one place.

Photo Source: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1242050864602541&set=a.453854320088870

Millennium Games

Millennium Games is a vibrant and welcoming game store in Rochester that stocks a huge variety of products, from board games, role‑playing games, and miniatures to trading cards, hobby supplies, and yes, puzzles. If you enjoy working on a jigsaw puzzle alone or with friends, their puzzle selection sits alongside their games and hobbies section, giving you great options for quiet or social downtime. The staff is known for being friendly and helpful, and the store layout makes browsing easy whether you’re hunting a specific game or just exploring. For anyone in Rochester looking to shop for games or puzzles or both, Millennium Games is a top spot.

Photo Source: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1066136470085878&set=pcb.1066136683419190

Hammergirl Anime

Hammergirl Anime is a vibrant anime and hobby store in Rochester that carries manga, TCGs, figures, apparel, and a fun selection of puzzles along with other merchandise. Whether you’re browsing for a new manga series or want a puzzle featuring anime art, Hammergirl Anime offers variety and a laid‑back, welcoming atmosphere. Their mix of items, from trading cards to collectibles and puzzles, makes it a good stop for anime fans, hobbyists, and anyone looking for a unique gift or addition to their collection. The staff is known to be helpful and knowledgeable, which adds to the comfortable shopping experience.

Photo Source: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1082537880539888&set=pcb.1082539123873097

Geektopia

Geektopia is a fun, all‑in‑one geek shop in Rochester where fans can browse a variety of items, from toys and collectibles to board games, plush, and yes, jigsaw puzzles. If you’re into puzzling or want a puzzle featuring your favorite fandom, Geektopia often carries themed puzzles alongside other geek‑culture goods. The shop’s welcoming vibe and broad selection make it a good stop whether you’re hunting for a gift, collecting items, or just browsing for something fun. For lovers of puzzles and pop culture, Geektopia offers a friendly, casual shopping experience.