Top of the World
Nestled in the heart of Colmar, the Toy Museum (Musée du Jouet) is a true hidden gem for families, nostalgia lovers, and curious minds alike. Housed in a former cinema building from the early 20th century, this charming museum invites visitors on a colorful journey through the evolution of play, from the 19th century to the present day.
With more than 1,000 toys on display, the collection spans generations and continents. You’ll find ceramic dolls with hand-painted faces, tin wind-up toys, classic model trains running on miniature tracks, and entire worlds built from vintage LEGO sets. There’s even an impressive lineup of Barbie dolls, stuffed animals, robot toys, and board games that many visitors will recognize from their own childhoods.
But the museum isn’t just a static display — it’s a living, breathing experience. Some games are interactive, allowing children (and playful adults) to touch, move, and explore. Temporary exhibits often dive into specific toy themes or brands, offering surprises with every visit.
What makes the Toy Museum special is not only its wide variety but also its emotional resonance. Each object carries the weight of memory, imagination, and joy — a small window into how children have learned, dreamed, and connected over the last 150 years.
Did you know? The museum’s model train room is one of its most loved features. Kids can press buttons to activate tiny mechanical scenes, from trains pulling into miniature stations to carnival rides spinning under blinking lights.
Travel tip: This is a perfect stop for a rainy day in Colmar or a relaxing break after exploring the more historical corners of the town. It’s not only for families — adults often leave with misty eyes and a smile.
From the timeless appeal of teddy bears to the retro charm of 80s arcade toys, the Toy Museum is a reminder that no matter how much we grow, part of us will always remain young.
