The National Toy Museum of Canada, located right here in Victoria, is finally open in its new location after two years in limbo.
The non-profit museum is run by the owners of the iconic Cherry Bomb Toys.
Cherry Bomb used to be a mainstay of Broad Street and had operated out of that location for 18 years, until being forced to leave in December, 2022.
They were able to find a new home at the former location of The Patch clothing store, 719 Yates Street.
Following Cherry Bomb Toys moving their wares and collectables to the new location, they started to get the National Toy Museum of Canada pieced back together, and are now finally holding a weekend-long grand opening, from Friday, October 10th to Sunday, October 12th.
“We’re so excited to finally open our doors and share this collection with the community,” says Candice Woodward, co-owner of Cherry Bomb Toys.
“Toys have a way of bringing people together — they spark memories, inspire creativity, and tell stories about our shared past.”
The museum’s exhibits highlight action figures, building sets, board games, dolls and rare pieces that you don’t see very often and will give you a jolt of nostalgia whether you were a born in the 60s or 90s.
Through the decades, visitors can follow the evolution of play across generations, including both well-known classics and unique, hard-to-find treasures.
In their previous location, visitors needed to climb a staircase to get to the museum, which was located in the mezzanine above the toy shop, but the newly reopened museum allows access to all.
“Accessibility was an essential part of our mission when looking for a new location,” said B. Woodward, co-owner of Cherry Bomb Toys.
“The museum is fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring that all visitors have the opportunity to explore and enjoy our exhibits comfortably and without barriers.”
The museum’s grand opening celebration will feature giveaways, a silent auction and fun scavenger hunts in the museum.
Admission is $10 for adults, $7 for seniors and $5 for youth who are 14-years-old and under. Additionally, the museum offers a family pass for $25 which includes two adults and up to four youth.
National Toy Museum of Canada’s grand reopening
- Where: Cherry Bomb Toys, 719 Yates Street
- When: Friday, October 10th to Sunday, October 12th
- Admission: $10 for adults, $7 for seniors and $5 for youth who are 14-years-old and under
