10 Department Store Experiences Kids Today Will Never Know
Department stores used to offer unique experiences that have mostly disappeared from modern shopping.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 4 min read
In past decades, department stores were more than just places to buy things — they were part of family outings and local culture. Kids often spent hours exploring with their parents, enjoying in-store attractions that no longer exist. These experiences slowly faded with the rise of online shopping and changes in how people shop.
1. Visiting the Toy Department for Hours
Keizers on Wikimedia Commons
Department stores often had entire floors or large sections just for toys. Kids would test out demo versions, push buttons, and play freely while parents shopped nearby. It was one of the few places where toys could be experienced before being bought. Today, most toy aisles are smaller, quieter, and often limited to boxed items.
2. Getting Dressed Up to Go Shopping
upyernoz on Wikimedia Commons
Going to a department store was considered a special event, especially in the 1960s and 1970s. Families often dressed neatly, and children were expected to behave politely. It wasn’t just about buying things, but about spending the day somewhere important. Now, most shopping is casual or done online without leaving home.
3. Eating at the Store Cafeteria
U.S. Department of Agriculture on Wikimedia Commons
Many department stores had full-service cafeterias or diners inside. They served simple meals like grilled cheese sandwiches, milkshakes, and pie. It was common to take a break from shopping and eat right there, sometimes even on real plates with metal utensils. These in-store restaurants are now rare or have disappeared completely.
4. Getting Shoes Fitted by a Salesperson
National Library of Australia on Wikiemdia Commons
Buying shoes often meant sitting down while a staff member measured your feet with a metal sizing device. They brought out multiple boxes and helped kids try on pairs, sometimes lacing them up for you. It was a slow, hands-on process. Today, most shoe shopping is self-service or done online with size guesses.
5. Riding the Escalator Just for Fun
AgnosticPreachersKid on Wikimedia Commons
For kids, riding escalators was one of the highlights of a trip to the department store. Many stores had several floors, and the moving stairs felt like an adventure. Some children rode up and down just for fun while parents shopped. Today, many stores are single-level, and escalators are less of a novelty.
6. Window Shopping During the Holidays
antonio on Wikimedia Commons
Big department stores created detailed holiday displays in their front windows. These featured moving parts, characters, snow scenes, and music. Families made special trips just to walk by and see them during the winter season. Most modern stores no longer invest in elaborate window displays.
7. Getting Lost in the Clothing Racks
Radu Juster on Wikimedia Commons
Before modern store layouts, clothing sections featured large circular racks that children could easily hide behind. It was common for children to crawl in and play while their parents browsed through the items. Staff didn’t usually stop them unless they caused trouble. Most racks today are open or spaced out, making this kind of hiding spot rare.
8. Using the Store’s Elevator with an Operator
Baron Maddock on Wikimedia Commons
Some older department stores had manual elevators run by an operator. The operator greeted customers, opened the door by hand, and called out each floor. It added a formal and personal touch to the shopping trip. These types of elevators are almost completely gone from stores now.
9. Trying Out Products with No Security Cases
Mehliug on Wikimedia Commons
Items like makeup, watches, and small electronics were often left out for customers to test freely. There were few alarms or security tags, so people could handle and compare products without barriers. Today, many of these items are locked in cases or behind counters to prevent theft.
10. Getting a Gift Wrapped Right There
Staff Sgt. John Zumer on Wikimedia Commons
Many department stores offered free or low-cost gift wrapping right after purchase. Staff would wrap items in seasonal paper and tie them with ribbons while customers waited. It saved time and added a personal touch to the shopping experience. Now, most stores offer gift bags or charge extra for this service.