Toys “R” Us Opens Massive New Store Near Rockford

The return of the great American toy store is upon us as Toys "R" Us is officially opening up a brand new store not too far from us in Rockford. If you grew up going back in the day, I can tell you're already singing their iconic jingle, and while it's not setting up shop in the Forest City, this new place at Chicago Premium Outlets in Aurora is massive. It's a 13,000 square-foot space packed to the gills with Geoffrey the Giraffe, face painting, balloon twisting, and even swag bags for the first customers to walk through the door.

READ MORE: Toys R Us Stores Have Reopened in Illinois

When and Where Is the Grand Opening?

That's because Toys "R" Us is celebrating its grand opening tomorrow, September 20, at 10 a.m., and they are giving away a bunch of free stuff to the first people who walk in.

What You’ll Find Inside the Store

Besides all of the freebies, the store is gonna be just like you remember with LEGO, Barbie, Hot Wheels, and NERF stuff, to name a few. They're also adding a few wrinkles, too, like an arcade section, complete with claw machines and more. They even have a Babies "R" Us section for parents who want to do a bit of shopping for baby gear in person.

READ MORE: Babies R Us Is Coming to Illinois Kohl's Stores

Nostalgia for Rockford’s Old Toys “R” Us

All this talk about a brand-new toy store is making me nostalgic for the old Toys "R" Us in Rockford. We used to have one here, and I believe people would be ecstatic to have one come back, but for now, Aurora is the closest shot at reliving our Geoffrey-filled childhoods. Who knows? Maybe this comeback means more stores on the horizon.

Until then, who wants to go to Aurora?