I recently happened upon an article titled “17 Stores That You Forgot About That No Longer Exist.”

Back in the good old days, shopping meant browsing through aisles of physical stores rather than scrolling through endless online options. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and reminisce about some stores that were once staples but have since vanished from the retail landscape.

• Toys “R” Us

For many, Toys “R” Us was the ultimate childhood paradise. With its massive selection of toys, games and bicycles, it was every kid’s dream come true. The iconic giraffe mascot, Geoffrey, welcomed store-goers with open arms as shoppers rushed through the aisles, eagerly searching for the latest action figure or Barbie doll.

Also, Toys “R” Us held a special magic, making kids’ birthdays and even holidays more exciting. It’s no wonder that the store’s jingle, “I don’t wanna grow up, I’m a Toys “R” Us kid,” became an anthem for generations.

• Blockbuster

Friday nights in the ’90s and early 2000s were synonymous with a trip to Blockbuster. The anticipation of browsing through endless rows of VHS tapes and DVDs, hoping to snag the last copy of the latest release, was cutting edge back in the day.

Blockbuster was more than just a video rental store; it was a cultural institution. It’s where we discovered new movies, rediscovered old favorites, and spent hours debating which film to rent with our friends and family. The distinctive blue and yellow logo was a beacon of entertainment, promising a night of laughter, tears or thrills.

• RadioShack

In an era before smartphones and tablets, RadioShack was the go-to destination for all things electronic. From calculators and remote-controlled cars to speakers and computer accessories, RadioShack had it all.

It was a haven for tech enthusiasts, DIY-ers and anyone looking to fix or upgrade their gadgets. The store’s knowledgeable staff, often clad in their signature red shirts, were always ready to help, whether you needed a specific type of battery or advice on building your own radio. My Dad loved that place.

• Tower Records

Before the days of streaming and digital downloads, Tower Records was the mecca for music lovers. With its vast selection of CDs, vinyl records, and cassette tapes, it was a place where you could easily spend hours browsing and discovering new artists.

Tower Records wasn’t just a store; it was a cultural hub. It was where music fans gathered to attend in-store performances, get autographs from their favorite bands and connect with like-minded individuals.

• Borders

For bookworms and coffee aficionados alike, Borders was a slice of heaven. The bookseller’s cozy atmosphere, complete with plush armchairs and in-store cafes, made it the perfect spot to while away an afternoon.

Borders was more than just a place to buy books; it was a destination for discovery and relaxation. Its extensive selection of titles, from bestsellers to obscure gems, made it a favorite for readers of all ages and interests. The store’s staff was always knowledgeable and helpful.

• Warner Bros. Studio Store

The Warner Bros. Studio Store was a specialty retailer that offered a unique selection of merchandise inspired by the iconic characters and franchises of the Warner Bros. entertainment empire. From classic Looney Tunes characters to beloved DC Comics superheroes, the store’s inventory was a celebration of the magic and nostalgia of Warner Bros.’ rich history. I remember getting my little niece a stuffed animal from there back in the day!