Features Reporter
“Toys for The Fun of It,” is a unique toy store located at 519 Main Street. Because the shop has very unique and classic toys, it is not easy to pass up.
“We are a fun, hands-on toy store,” owner Mike Allem said.
The toy store has been open for 13 years. Allem and his wife Karin are both owners and involved in the store. Allem’s original store was located in Montrose but he closed it two years ago.
“My family and I were out here on vacation and decided it was a good place to raise our kids,” Allem said. “It was my wife’s idea to open the toy store.”
The store offers toys for all ages and There is something for everybody.
“Some of my favorite toys in the store are the yo-yos, brain teasers and a 3-D maze ball. A ‘mobil play’ is a good imagination toy for kids as well as the stomp-rocket,” Allem said.
Allem has a number of favorite toys in the store and many that he recommends. The store also offers free gift-wrap for toys bought as a present. They offer help to parents in finding toys that are appropriate for their kids and children with learning disabilities such as autism. Everything in the toy store has been specifically chosen by the Allems. Customers are welcome to test out toys when they come in. Allem explained that he encourages his customers to interact with the toys.
“I hope we mature into an ongoing business and a fun, educational place,” Allem said.
The store usually sees 40 to 50 people a day. When there is a big event in Grand Junction, the will usually see a lot more. During Oktoberfest the store saw about 1,500 people in one weekend. “Toys for The Fun of It” is open seven days a week. Monday through Saturday it is open from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. and on Sundays, 11 a.m. until 3 p.m.
During Christmas season the Allems usually keep the shop open until 8 or 9 p.m.
“Grand Junction is a great place to have a toy store,” Allem said. “It’s a happening place to have your own business.”
If you are ever downtown stop by “Toys for The Fun of It” to entertain yourself with the large variety of toys.
cbuckle@mavs.coloradomesa.edu
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