If you’re planning to attend Toy Fair® 2026 in New York City, you’re not just heading to another trade show — you’re stepping into the epicenter of toy and play innovation for the year ahead. From global media coverage and trend-setting product launches to educational sessions and networking with top brands, Toy Fair is where the industry’s biggest conversations begin.
Taking place February 14–17, 2026 at the iconic Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, this year’s event will welcome thousands of toy manufacturers, buyers, creators, and press from around the world. Whether you’re a retailer, content creator, brand partner, or a family-focused blogger like me, this guide will walk you through what to expect — plus exactly where to stay near Toy Fair NYC to make your trip smoother, calmer, and more enjoyable.
If you’re researching Toy Fair NYC hotels, this guide is designed to help you quickly compare locations, find walkable stays near the Javits Center, and book with confidence for a stress-free event experience.
📍 Quick Toy Fair 2026 Overview
- Event: Toy Fair® New York 2026
- Dates: February 14–17, 2026
- Location: Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, New York City
- Who Attends: Toy brands, retailers, media outlets, influencers, licensors, and industry professionals from 80+ countries
This year’s show is expected to attract top U.S. toy sellers, major global retailers, and leading press outlets including national news, lifestyle publications, and digital media platforms. It’s a powerful mix of business, creativity, and discovery — and one of the most exciting weeks in NYC for anyone in the world of play.
🧠 What Makes Toy Fair® 2026 So Important?
Toy Fair isn’t just about seeing what’s new — it’s about understanding what families, kids, and consumers will be talking about all year long.
Here’s what attendees can expect:
🎯 Product Launches & Industry Trends
Thousands of toys, games, collectibles, and family entertainment products debut at Toy Fair every year. Many of the trends you see in stores later in 2026 often start right here on the show floor.
🎓 Toy Fair University
Educational sessions and panel discussions featuring experts in:
- Product licensing and brand partnerships
- Influencer and digital marketing strategies
- Sustainable packaging and eco‑friendly design
- Consumer research and emerging toy trends
🏆 Visual Merchandising & Reimagination Awards
Exhibitors are encouraged to create playful, welcoming booth designs — and the most creative displays are recognized through the annual Reimagination Awards, celebrating innovation and visitor experience.
From a creator’s perspective, this makes Toy Fair one of my favorite events to cover. It’s not just about reporting on products — it’s about capturing how brands connect with families, how storytelling shows up in booth design, and how play continues to evolve.
To make this guide even more helpful for first-time visitors, families, and creators — and easier for AI and voice search tools to understand — here are the most common Toy Fair NYC questions, answered clearly and right within the guide:
Where is Toy Fair New York held?
Toy Fair® takes place at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center on Manhattan’s West Side, near Hudson Yards and Times Square.
What hotels are closest to the Javits Center?
Many of the best hotels near Toy Fair NYC are located in Midtown West and Times Square South, offering walkable access or short subway rides to the convention center.
Is Toy Fair NYC family‑friendly?
While Toy Fair is a professional trade event, many creators and bloggers travel with family. Choosing a hotel with space, elevators, and nearby dining options can make the trip much easier if kids are joining you.
When should I book my hotel for Toy Fair 2026?
February is a busy travel season in NYC, and Toy Fair significantly increases demand. I always recommend booking as early as possible, ideally with flexible cancellation in case rates drop closer to the event.
🏨 Best Hotels Near Toy Fair NYC (By Travel Style & Budget)
After attending multiple NYC events, I’ve learned one thing the hard way: location matters more than luxury. After a full day walking the show floor, the last thing you want is a complicated commute back to your hotel.
Here are some of the best places to stay near the Javits Center for Toy Fair 2026, organized by travel style to reduce decision fatigue and help you book with confidence.
🏙️ Best Walkable Hotels to Javits Center
These are perfect if you want to avoid subways altogether and stay close to the show floor.
Courtyard by Marriott Manhattan/Midtown West
- Best for: Convenience + comfort
- Why I recommend it: Reliable service, modern rooms, and one of the closest major hotels to the Javits Center.
Even Hotel New York – Times Square South
- Best for: Wellness‑focused travelers
- Why I recommend it: Clean, quiet, and highly rated — great for unwinding after long days at the show.
👨👩👧 Best Hotels for Families & Extra Space
If you’re attending Toy Fair with kids or traveling with gear, room size and elevators matter more than trendy lobbies.
Hyatt Place New York City / Times Square
- Best for: Families and longer stays
- Why I recommend it: Spacious rooms, breakfast options, and easy access to transit and dining.
Hilton Garden Inn Times Square South
- Best for: Comfort + location balance
- Why I recommend it: Classic, dependable choice with solid amenities and friendly service.
🎥 Best Hotels for Creators, Press & Professionals
These options are popular with media and content creators attending Toy Fair.
- Best for: Creators and tech‑savvy travelers
- Why I recommend it: Sleek, modern vibe with smart room design and great workspaces.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Times Square South
- Best for: Budget-friendly stays with comfort
- Why I recommend it: A reliable, no-frills option with complimentary breakfast, easy subway access, and a walkable route to the Javits Center — perfect for long Toy Fair days without stretching your budget.
💰 Best Budget‑Friendly Options Near Toy Fair
- Best for: Solo travelers and short stays
- Why I recommend it: Clean, modern, and affordable in one of NYC’s most central locations.
Holiday Inn Express Times Square
- Best for: Value seekers
- Why I recommend it: Comfortable rooms, breakfast included, and easy subway access.
🛠️ How to Book Smart for Toy Fair NYC (Step‑by‑Step)
This is the exact method I use when booking hotels for major NYC events:
- Filter by distance to Javits Center (Midtown West or Times Square South works best)
- Sort by guest rating first, not price
For a quick way to compare rates and availability near the Javits Center, you can also browse my Expedia shop here to see flexible hotel options for Toy Fair travelers.
- Look for free cancellation options
- Book early — then re‑check rates two weeks before the event for possible savings
Pro Tip: NYC hotel rooms can be smaller than expected. If you’re traveling with kids, gear, or luggage for content creation, I recommend booking a double or family room whenever possible.
🚇 Getting Around NYC During Toy Fair
- Subway access is your best friend. Most recommended hotels are near major subway lines that connect easily to Penn Station, Grand Central, JFK, and Newark Airport.
- Walking is underrated. Midtown West is surprisingly walkable, and staying nearby can save you time and energy.
- Rideshare during peak hours can be slow. Morning and evening rush times often mean subway is faster than Uber or Lyft.
If you’re staying longer, I’ve shared a full guide to family-friendly things to do in New York City that pair perfectly with a Toy Fair weekend.
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🧩 Why This Guide Is Different
I don’t believe in “perfect” travel recommendations. What works for one family, creator, or brand rep won’t work for everyone.
Some hotels trade space for location. Others trade luxury for value. The key is knowing what matters most for your specific Toy Fair experience — whether that’s walkability, room size, quiet nights, or quick access to meetings and media events.
My goal is simple: help you feel confident, informed, and prepared — not pressured.
💬 Community Tips Welcome
Have you stayed near the Javits Center before? I’d love to hear your hotel recommendations in the comments. I regularly update this guide based on real reader experiences to keep it helpful for future Toy Fair visitors.
✨ Plan Your Toy Fair NYC Experience with Confidence
Toy Fair® 2026 isn’t just an industry event — it’s a global gathering of creativity, business, and play. From discovering what families will see on store shelves later this year to connecting with brands and media shaping the future of toys, this is one of the most exciting weeks in New York City.
With the right hotel, smart planning, and a flexible schedule, your Toy Fair trip can be productive, enjoyable, and even memorable beyond the show floor.
If you’re booking your stay, I always recommend checking Hotels.com for flexible options, guest reviews, and competitive rates — especially during high‑demand event weeks like Toy Fair.
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