Grandparenting has certainly changed over the years—today we are video chatting with our grandkids across the country, texting pictures, and sending digital storybooks, as we work hard to keep up with the latest trends in their lives. But while technology evolves, some of the joys of childhood remain timeless. Many classic toys for grandchildren—building sets, dolls, board games, and outdoor play—continue to bring families together. Whether it’s the thrill of stacking Lincoln Logs, the excitement of an Etch A Sketch masterpiece, or the simple joy of tossing a Frisbee, these toys stand the test of time and are wonderful additions to any grandparent’s home.
If it’s time for you to begin or update your toy shelf, this list includes some of the most enduring and beloved classic toys for grandchildren that can still be purchased today, along with a few hidden gems from the past that might spark a wave of nostalgia. These toys remind us that some things never go out of style!
In This Post
Classic Toys You Can Still Buy & Where to Find Them
Building & Construction Toys
🪵 Lincoln Logs – Available at Amazon, Walmart, and Fat Brain Toys. (I was fortunate enough to pick up a set secondhand—don’t forget to check local markets!)
🔧 Tinkertoys – Found at Amazon and specialty toy shops. This set isn’t made out of wood like the ones I had as a kid, but it gets better reviews than the current wooden sets.
🧱 LEGO Classic Sets – Widely available at Target, Walmart, and LEGO stores. You can’t go wrong with LEGOs! We purchased our grandkids’ set at Costco, which usually has great deals before Christmas.
🔩 Erector Sets (Meccano) – Found at Amazon, hobby stores, and Meccano’s website. This wasn’t a toy I played with, but my husband has great memories of his set. It might be something that works best along with a grownup—what a great way to spend time together!
Dolls & Stuffed Animals
🎀 Raggedy Ann & Andy Dolls – Available on Amazon, specialty doll shops, and eBay for vintage versions. Looking for a slightly more modern version? Check out these two cuties and this one!
🧸 Teddy Bears (Steiff, Gund, Vermont Teddy Bear Co.) – Find them at Amazon, specialty gift stores, and brand websites.
Outdoor & Active Play
🚲 Radio Flyer Wagons & Tricycles – Available at Walmart, Target, and the Radio Flyer website. These aren’t cheap, so they’re another great thing to look for secondhand! But honestly, the real vintage fun is simply piling things into a pulled container, so this plastic version would work well too.
🏃 Hula Hoops – Available at sporting goods stores and Amazon.
🏆 Jump Rope – Easy to find at big box stores, Amazon, and sporting goods stores. Sold at Walmart, Target, and online toy shops. Google “jump rope rhymes and songs” for extra fun!
Classic Board & Card Games
- Candy Land – Buy it here
- Chutes and Ladders – Buy it here
- Uno – Buy it here
- Checkers – Buy it here
These timeless games can be found at Amazon, Target, Walmart, and any toy/game store.
Creative & Imaginative Play
📺 Etch A Sketch – I remember when Morgan found an old Etch A Sketch at our house—she was amazed and played with it for hours! Available at Amazon, Walmart, and toy retailers.
🌀 Spirograph – This is next on my list to purchase! Found at Amazon, Walmart, and craft stores.
🎨 Play-Doh – Sold everywhere, including Target, Walmart, and toy aisles in grocery stores. You just can’t go wrong with Play-Doh! Purchase the classic, or make your own!
Cars & Trains
🚗 Hot Wheels & Matchbox Cars – So many choices! Sold at Walmart, Target, and toy stores.
🚜 Tonka Trucks – There are metal versions and plastic versions that are both great! I’d give anything to have the one back we donated after the kids were done playing with it. Find yours at Amazon, Target, and Walmart.
🚂 Brio Wooden Trains – We have a huge box of Thomas train tracks and engines. I think wooden trains are one of the best purchases you can make. (Get the ones without batteries!) Hours of imaginative fun and creative building. Available at Amazon, boutique toy stores, and IKEA. These ones look amazing!
More Classics
🔴 Rail Twirler – I had one of these and loved it. Can’t begin to remember what they were called back in the day, but I’m going to give these a try!
🤹 Weebles – Remember? They wobble but don’t fall down! They can still be found today in quite a few variations—great for your littlest grandkids.
🦜 Balancing Bird – These fun birds balance just about anywhere!
🐦 Sippy Dippy Bird – I remember being completely fascinated with these silly birds as a kid.
🔄 Wooden Tops – Classic spinning tops make for fun competitions—whose will spin the longest?
🏀 Classic Jacks Set – Teach them how it was done in the old days!
Why Classic Toys for Grandchildren Are Still a Great Choice
No matter how much the world changes, the joy of play remains the same. Choosing classic toys for grandchildren means introducing them to the simple, imaginative fun that has entertained kids for generations. Whether you’re updating your toy shelf, picking out a holiday or birthday gift, or reminiscing about your own childhood favorites, these timeless toys continue to create special memories.
After all, the best part of play isn’t just the toys—it’s the moments we share with the ones we love.
