Fabled toy store reopens
From Mary Snow
CNN
NEW YORK (CNN) -- There was fanfare and fans. And the way the lines looked, you'd think something was being given out for free. But you'll be hard pressed to find anything free, or cheap for that matter, at FAO Schwarz.
One of its attractions is a gas-powered child-size Ferrari that can go up to 15 mph. The price tag: $50,000.
Any takers?
"No, not this year; maybe next. I will have to ask Santa Claus," said one prospective shopper.
Maybe he didn't buy one, but FAO Schwarz says actor Colin Farrell did.
The storied toy store on Manhattan's Fifth Avenue reopened Thursday after filing for bankruptcy last year.
Touted as the oldest toy store in America, FAO Schwarz succumbed to the fierce competition sparked by the likes of Wal-Mart.
Now it's back with a new look, and it's not worried about capturing crowds looking for cheap. Hence the offering of items like a $150,000 dancing piano, similar to the one Tom Hanks made famous in the movie "Big."
There's also a $3,000 motion simulator that costs $5 just to try it at the store.
In a world where discount stores are king, you won't find any bargains here. But for some, that's the attraction.
"I hate Wal-Mart," says one shopper.
"We have something for everyone," says Kim Richmond of FAO Schwarz.
You can create a new best friend and make her look just like you -- the Madame Alexander dolls go for $40 a pop.
"It's really cool," says one young shopper.
And a cool $135 will not get you not just any Barbie, but one decked out in designer duds from Versace and Kate Spade.
But if you are interested in babies, not Barbies, there's a nursery complete with nurses for these newborn dolls for $80.
Snacks cost a pretty penny, too. One California family splurged on a $100 ice cream sundae --12 scoops of ice cream with 26 ounces of Belgian chocolate complete with mining hats, a hammer and pick to eat the giant confection.
The family agreed: "It was worth it."
If you really can't find the right gift for that special little someone and a $3,600 stuffed polar bear won't do, you can give gift certificates for $50,000 -- and if you really want to splurge, the store has them for $100,000.
