Netflix’s show, Stranger Things, is not slated to return until next year, but fans can still quench their thirst for the hit show by checking out the first-ever pop-up shops. They will be located in New York City’s Times Square and at The Americana at Brand in Los Angeles. The shops will immerse fans in a world of supernatural mystery, enduring friendships, and 80s nostalgia in a one-of-a-kind celebration of the Stranger Things universe. Both stores will open on Stranger Things Day, November 6, 2021.
I got a chance to get a sneak peek at the New York City location. The store transformed me into the tv show itself with replicas of all the Stranger Things decor, including a chance to experience the hidden Demogorgon in the Upside Down, take photos at Hawkins Middle’s Snowball Dance and in Joyce’s House, shop in the Starcourt Mall, avoid the Rift in the Russian Lab, play games at the Palace Arcade, and explore and shop exclusive merchandise only available at the pop-up.
Greg Lombardo, Head of Experiences at Netflix, says “This first-ever Stranger Things store sends them right into the heart of Hawkins, in a truly immersive retail experience, totally stoked with 80’s vibes and the chance to take home a piece of their favorite show with unique merchandise that isn’t available anywhere else. But be warned, you never know when things will turn Upside Down.” The store is produced by Netflix with store operations managed by Three Ten Merchandise Services and store design by Black Sky Creative. Although some merchandise will be exclusive to the pop-up locations, select merchandise will also be available for purchase online at Netflix.shop.
Once inside, you’ll forget you’re in the very busy Times Square area. There are plenty of photo opportunities and so many fun interactive stations. One of my favorites was the arcade, filled with old-school games like Ms. Pac-Man and Galaga. I also loved the famous alphabet wall. I only planned to hang out there for a few minutes before my next appointment but an hour later, I was hooked and ended up exploring all over again and discovering new things. When you visit, please pay close attention to the details, especially the merchandise. If you love old-school trinkets and treats like I do, this is the place to purchase them. Both pop-up shops are around for a limited time only, you don’t want to miss it! Tickets can be reserved exclusively at strangerthings-store.com.
Check out more details about the Pop-ups and my personal photos below…
Locations
● Los Angeles: The Americana at Brand, 889 Americana Way, Glendale, CA 91210
● New York City: 200 W 42nd St New York, NY 10036 (NW corner of 42nd St. & 7th Ave)
Opening times
● Los Angeles: Mon-Thur 10am – 9pm, Fri-Sat 10am-10pm, Sun 11am-9pm *special holiday hours may apply 10am-10pm daily
● New York City: Mon-Sun 10am – 10pm
Important Information to Note
● Custom pieces such as ‘Elegorgon,’ a collaboration between Netflix and iam8bit in the form of a vinyl masterpiece by Ecuadorian artist Chogrin that asks, “What would a half Eggo-eatin’ tween, half teethy demogorgon look like?” will be available to purchase. Sitting alongside them will be an exclusive General Mills Stranger Things Cereal, packaged in original boxes from the 80’s but set in the world of Stranger Things, the back of every box will have a pull-out panel with interactive elements. A wide variety of collectible Bandai Stranger Things Hawkins Action Figures including 16” Demogorgon Figures with interchangeable heads, will also be on sale, as well an assortment of specialized merch exclusive to the store featuring Palace Arcade, Hawkins High, and more. Stranger Things fans will also enjoy customizable apparel stations, where they can personalize their own creations.
● Following the smash-hit success of Stranger Things: The Drive Into Experience in Los Angeles, which sold out every day over seven months, the Stranger Things: The Experience tickets are now on sale and will open in early 2022 in New York and San Francisco, these will be the first-ever Stranger Things stores.
● Tickets are complimentary but limited. While walk-ins are welcome, guaranteed entry is preferred and available by reserving tickets at strangerthings-store.com which includes an exclusive gift. Attendees will be required to wear face masks at all times and must adhere to local COVID-19 guidelines. Hand sanitizer stations will be available to visitors
on-site.
See you on the Upside!!