Toys “R” Us is making a comeback in Chicago, nearly a decade after filing for bankruptcy and shuttering all US locations.
The beloved toy store will open its first brick-and-mortar location in Chicagoland at Harlem Irving Plaza Mall in Norridge, according to NBC. Described as a “modern retail concept,” the store will carry time-honored toy brands including LEGO, Barbie, Hot Wheels, Nerf, and more.
Chicagoland’s Toys “R” Us is the fourth US store to open since the company went bankrupt in 2018, with additional locations having opened since in Dallas, New Jersey, and Minnesota.
The company previously operated pop-ups in Macy’s stores during the holiday season, including one in Chicago. For many shoppers, however, the original Toys “R” Us experience can only be captured by its full-sized stores.
For those who grew up in the late 20th century and early 2000s, Toys “R” Us was an iconic part of childhood, making its long-awaited return even more exciting. As it expands its footprint, the brand will once again bring joy to a whole new generation of children.
Toys ‘R Us will officially open its doors this Saturday with a ribbon cutting ceremony beginning at 9:30 a.m. The free public event includes face painting, balloon animal making, giveaways, and a visit from Toys “R” Us mascot Geoffrey the Giraffe.