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Hobby Heavens in the Big Apple: NYC’s Top 3 Hobby Shops

New York City is a bustling metropolis that offers endless opportunities for fun and entertainment. Whether you're a local or a tourist, there's always something new and exciting to discover in the city that never sleeps.

For those looking for a unique way to spend their free time, there are plenty of hobby shops scattered throughout the city that cater to a wide range of interests.

From model trains and planes to rare comic books and vintage records, hobby shops in NYC offer a treasure trove of items that are sure to delight collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, these shops offer a chance to explore new interests, meet like-minded individuals, and find rare and unusual items that can't be found anywhere else.

In this blog post, we'll be taking a closer look at some of the best hobby shops in New York City. Whether you're looking for a specific item or just want to browse through a wide selection of unique and interesting products, these shops are sure to have something that catches your eye.

So, whether you're a lifelong collector or just looking for a fun way to spend an afternoon, read on to discover some of the best hobby shops in NYC.

1. The Compleat Strategist

The Compleat Strategist
11 E 33rd St, New York, NY 10016 (Google Maps)

The Compleat Strategist is a hobby shop that every gamer should visit. They have an extensive collection of board and card games, including rare finds.

The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, making customers feel welcome. It's an old-school game store that caters to all your tabletop gaming needs.

The cramped space may be a downside, but the treasures found here are worth the visit.

Whether you're into role-playing games or miniatures, The Compleat Strategist has something for everyone. It's a great place to nerd out and find your next favorite game.

2. Playing Mantis

Playing Mantis
32 N Moore St, New York, NY 10013 (Google Maps)

Playing Mantis is a unique hobby shop that offers a creative selection of wooden toys, puzzles, costumes, and other hand-crafted playthings for kids.

The store has a friendly and attentive proprietor who loves the place and travels to different countries to pick out wonderful toys. The toys are inventive and different from what you would find in an ordinary toy store.

It's a great stop for those looking for unique or personalized gifts for the kids in their life. The place has a very homey feel, making it a pleasure to visit.

The customer service is competent, which adds to the overall great experience. If you're looking for creative toys and craft items for kids, Playing Mantis is definitely worth checking out.

3. Warhammer

Warhammer
55 E 8th St, New York, NY 10003 (Google Maps)

Warhammer is a hobby shop that caters to those interested in Games Workshop miniature games.

They have a great selection of supplies and models, and their staff is knowledgeable and friendly. The regular player base is newbie friendly, and the store has a space for painting figures.

The store is conveniently located near public transportation and always has the newest releases in stock. The manager, Scott, is very helpful and can advise on paints, rules, and anything else you might need.

The only downside is the limited space, but that's to be expected in a city location. All in all, if you're interested in Games Workshop games, Warhammer is a great place to go.