Looking up a list of fun toys for adults might feel a little childish at first, but fear not:
You’re not alone.
Anyone who still has to stifle a giggle when someone farts (which is to say, pretty much everyone) knows that, despite the relentless passing of time, some small part of us never really grows up.
Sure we get older, grow wiser, and become more responsible… for the most part.
But do we ever fully shake off that childish sense of adventure that calls us to capture imaginary robbers, dance like a ballerina, or fly like Superman?
Despite what we tell our boyfriends and girlfriends, the answer is no, not really. (Though something tells me they’ve figured it out.)
Fortunately, there’s no reason why growing up has to mean getting boring.
We may not have Peter Pan’s eternal youth, but we do have something that Peter and the Lost Boys never could: disposable income.
So whether you’re looking for the perfect gift for the holiday season, or just a little something to give to yourself, I’ve taken the liberty of rounding up some of the most fun toys for adults that are so entertaining, they could make even Rufio relish adulthood.
Because there’s no damn reason why adulthood can’t be just as much fun as childhood.
43 Freakin’ Cool & Fun Toys for Adults
(Not to be confused with “fun and freaky adult toys” — this is not that kind of blog)
Electronic Toys for Adults
A lot of grown ups tend to find that our love for toys and gadgets doesn’t go away, it just grows up with us.
When we’re young that love manifests itself in the form of action figures and race cars.
As we get older and our tastes change, it morphs into an appreciation for electronic devices.
That’s why some of the cool toys for adults that provide the most fun are not only entertaining, but practical and helpful, too.
Playstation VR
The Playstation video game console has come a long way since I used to rock Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater and Crash Bandicoot on my PS1.
(Though fortunately the price point is still pretty comparable.)
As the name implies, Playstation VR uses virtual reality technology to immerse you into a virtual world, so that you’re no longer forced to imagine what it would feel like to live there — you get to experience it.
While there are other cool VR products on the market, including both the Oculus Rift and Oculus Quest, the best part about the Playstation is that it allows you to play games from their impressive game lineup.
Apple Watch
The Apple Watch is that rare example of a sci fi gadget come to life.
When I was a kid in the early 90s I loved Dick Tracy, and marvelled at his radio watch.
If you had told me then that by the time I was Dick Tracy’s age I could have a watch that was not just a radio, but a phone, a GPS device and an actual computer, my mind would have been blown (especially after you explained to me what a GPS device is).
Shower Speaker
Call it a hold over from the days when even a light sprinkling of rain could ruin an electronic device, but a waterproof anything still seems impressive to me.
Add in Bluetooth capabilities that allow you to listen to your favorite podcast or playlist as you rinse yourself off (or whatever else it is you do in the shower) each morning, and you’ve got a gadget that’s as essential as it is impressive.
These make for excellent gift ideas since pretty much everyone has something they’d like to listen to in the shower.
Alexa Fire TV Stick
While the competition between Apple, Google and Amazon to take over the tech world (and possibly just the world, full stop) certainly has its downsides, one of the upsides is the race to create the coolest, most consumer-friendly smart devices.
In another example of sci fi becoming reality, with Alexa Fire, you can turn practically any device with a USB port and a screen into a smart device that not only lets you access Amazon Prime, Netflix, YouTube and other apps, but lets you do it with voice control.
Holy Stone HS440 Foldable Drone
We live in a world where anyone who wants to can buy a remote control helicopter that doesn’t just fly for miles, but also beams what it sees straight back to you thanks to its high-definition camera.
Let that sink in for a minute.
Crazy, right? Just as crazy is the fact that that the Holy Stone HS440 is one of the best beginner-friendly drones on the market.
It comes with a 112° wide-angle, 1080P HD camera that shoots hi-def photos and beams live video back to you over 5G wifi from 98 ft.
This really is a golden age for geeks.
GoPro Hero5
And speaking of high-definition cameras, why settle for asking someone to take a picture of you on vacation, or practicing your favorite hobby or sport, when you could mount an HD camera directly to your head and capture the moment in real time?
3D Printer
Why buy cool toys when you can just print them yourself at home?
3D printers can be both very large and very expensive, but this one is kind of like a 3D printing starter kit.
It offers ease of use that makes it perfect for beginners, with clear instruction manuals that make it easy to assemble, allowing you to start making some super cool stuff without much fuss.
Desk Toys for Adults
As kids, my friends and I were always trying to sneak our Lego sets into the classroom so we could play with them whenever our teacher turned her back.
(As you can probably tell, we were real bad boys.)
But inevitably she would catch us, take our toys away, and banish us to the corner or, worse, the principal’s office.
So it’s no surprise that, as adults, one way that we like to assert our independence is to adorn our desks with a collection of toys that no one’s going to punish us for.
And much like when we were smuggling Legos into the classroom, if you choose your desk toys wisely, you might just find that the person you have a crush stops by your desk a lot more often.
(But – spoiler alert – adult coloring books didn’t make the cut. While they may be something you do on a desk, they’re not exactly what I would consider a “toy.”)
Bullitt Mustang Model
Model cars are a classic men’s toy, and a great way to adorn your desk or bookshelf with a masculine conversation piece.
Personally I’m partial to Mustangs, and specifically to the 1968 Ford Mustang 390 GT, famously driven by Steve McQueen in the classic cop movie Bullitt.
As one of the most famous Mustangs of all time, the real one sold at auction for $3.4 million dollars, but fortunately you only need to shell out a couple bucks for a miniature version that will make you the King of Cool at your office.
Rubiks Cube
What started as one of the favorite toys of the 1980s has become an absolute classic for kids of all ages.
There are few toys as simple, and yet simultaneously as mentally stimulating and challenging.
Sure, you could cheat by watching a YouTube video, or removing the colored stickers from the square and simply putting them all on one side (as I once tried to do as a kid).
But there are few better feelings than actually, legitimately, finally conquering the cube the right way.
Fidget Cube
If you’re looking for less mental stimulation and more of a distraction, the fidget cube fits the bill perfectly.
It’s kind of like a fidget spinner on crack:
Instead of only one, monotonous activity for your fingers to focus on, it offers six different ways to keep your hands busy, which also helps you improve your fine motor skills.
But be warned:
Unlike a fidget spinner, which is silent, this one makes some clicking noises that might annoy people working next to you at the office or coffee shop.
Desktop Mini Billiards Table
Some toys, like the Mustang mentioned above, evoke cool Hollywood icons. Some evoke legendarily hilarious sitcom losers. Few do both in equal measure.
A desktop pool table occupies this rarified air. Equally evocative of both Paul Newman’s legendary pool shark in The Hustler, and Steve Carell’s legendary Regional Manager of Dunder Mifflin Scranton, desktop pool is a great way to add both a bit of fun and a bit of class to your desk.
As Michael said to Stanley when gifting his dektop table to him, “I bestow upon you, my felt. May you never lose the fun loving quality in life.”
(And, sure, Stanley immediately pointed out that Michael had lost both the mini cues and all the balls, but that really seems like more a Michael issue than the toy’s fault.)
Twisted Nail Puzzle
Think it’s easy? Think again.
The Twisted Nail Puzzle is a deceptively challenging little puzzle that’s designed to look simple and straightforward, but requires an intelligent trick to figure out.
Getting annoyed by the office know it all? Invite them over to your desk to try to separate the two nails. Go ahead, smarty pants… we’ll wait.
Sky Bounce Rubber Ball
Sometimes the best toys are the most classic, and there are few things more classic than a rubber spaldine ball.
Made famous by The West Wing’s Toby Ziegler, the rubber Sky Bounce ball is the perfect desk toy for relieving stress after a long day, annoying anyone you share a wall with, and summoning your underlings without having to say a word.
Indoor Putting Green
OK fine, this isn’t exactly a desk toy, but it’s an office toy, which is close enough.
Sometimes you need to get up from your desk, stretch your legs and clear your mind, so you can shake off that boring meeting and be a more productive employee.
And if you should happen to improve your short game while you’re doing that, well, what is it they say about two birds…?
Want more great indoor putting options? Check out our round up of the best office putting sets for a ton of great options.
Fantasy & Superhero Toys for Adults
As a lifelong geek and lover of all things Marvel and DC, my inner kid has somewhat mixed feelings about the fact that my favorite characters have become billion-dollar enterprises.
On the one hand, the good news is that the superhero blockbuster has ushered in something of a golden era for “genre” fare of all kinds.
As a result, longtime fans are able to see many (like, so damn many) of their favorite characters come to life on the big screen.
On the other hand, now that fandom has gone mainstream, it’s lost a lot of the underground appeal that used to make it feel rare, and therefore special.
But if there’s one thing that tips the scales towards the positive and might make it all worth it, it’s the swag.
Previously, most superhero toys were limited to action figures and plush toy models that were (almost) as childish as teddy bears.
But thanks to the mainstreaming of sci fi and fantasy properties, today you can get your hands on a ton of super cool props.
These impressively well-made props are the best ways to make you feel like you’re the one destined to save the world, reverse Thanos’ snap, or kill your crazed aunt/lover.
(Good God, Game of Thrones really got weird toward the end).
Jon Snow’s Sword, Longclaw
In the world of Game of Thrones, there’s no weapon as iconic.
Famously wielded by Jon Snow – née, Aegon Targaryen – in both the books and the show, Longclaw is the weapon with which Jon fought to the death so valiantly (then returned to keep fighting again).
While our world’s supply of Valyrian steel is even sparser than that of Westeros, you can get a pretty awesome looking replica on Amazon.
Captain America’s Shield
The thing about this shield is, it can do this all day.
When it comes to comic book weaponry, there are few items as iconic.
Whether you think of yourself as more of a Steve Rogers, a Sam Wilson or (controversial pick) a John Walker, whoever bears the mantle of Captain America has come to be associated with his unmistakable – and indestructible – star-spangled shield.
Thor’s Hammer, Mjölnir
At least, it used to be Thor’s hammer—I guess it depends who you ask.
No matter who owns it, Mjölnir is an equally iconic piece of Marvel lore, which doubles as an ancient piece of mythic lore:
While many elements of the Norse God of Thunder were changed and/or added when he was adapted into a comic book character, Mjölnir is actually mentioned in the original Norse stories.
Iron Man’s Mask
Rounding out Marvel’s big three is the mask of the man who kicked off the MCU, and eventually saved it.
While Tony Stark’s armor has taken all sorts of shapes in the comics, onscreen his helmet has remained fundamentally unchanged since Robert Downey Jr. debuted as the character in 2008.
As a result, it’s one of the most recognizable – and just outright bad-ass – pieces of collateral from the whole Infinity Saga.
If you’re a billionaire, genius industrialist, you can probably design your own mask that’s just as cool. But if not, this is definitely the next best thing.
Star Wars Lightsaber
I may be an Avengers fan, but by no means are my interests limited to the MCU.
For those whose tastes tend toward a galaxy far, far away, why not pick up the preferred weapon of both Jedi and Sith alike?
R2-D2 App-Enabled Droid
If you’ve ever wished that you could have a beeping, chirping and fiercely loyal robot sidekick of your own, then this, my friend, very much is the droid you’re looking for.
R2D2 is one of the characters who appears in both the new Star Wars movies and the original trilogy (he even made a cameo in The Mandalorian), so Star Wars fans of all ages will appreciate this one.
With an app on your phone you can send this tabletop R2D2 all sorts of commands, and explore holographic environments like the Millennium Falcon.
Lego Batmobile
Why settle for buying an iconic model car when you can build it yourself, out of an equally iconic toy?
Just like the actual Batmobile, there are multiple Lego variations out there, but personally I prefer the one from the 1989 Tim Burton classic.
That’s wehre Michael Keaton debuted both the first rubber batsuit, and this bad-ass and unforgettable version of the Caped Crusader’s famous car.
Lego sets can be considered educational toys, and they can be great for younger kids and even have plenty of benefits for kids with special needs.
But make no mistake: Lego is also a great toy for fully grown adults, which (let’s be honest) is one of the reason it’s been on the best sellers list for decades now.
Nerf and Dart Gun Toys for Adults
The reasons why Nerf guns appeal to kids is obvious:
They provide them with all the fun of shooting high powered weapons and the satisfaction of hitting their targets, but they do so using foam projectiles that keep anyone from getting hurt.
The reasons why Nerf guns appeal to adults is…
…well, pretty much exactly the same (and probably just as obvious).
No matter your age, if you’re looking to launch an all out war on your friends (without actually hurting anyone, of course), then having a good Nerf gun on hand is a great thing.
Nerf Rival Nemesis Blaster
This is the foam dart gun I wish they would have made when I was a kid. My biggest frustration back then? Running out of ammo after just a handful of shots, and then having to run all over the room to pick up my foam bullets.
With the Rival, Nerf has solved that problem by switching from foam darts to foam balls, allowing you to squeeze off a lot more shots before you have to go pick up your ammo.
Nerf N-Strike Elite Rhino-Fire Blaster
Whether you picture yourself manning the machine gun of a WWII-era tank or firing at TIE fighters as they chase the Millennium Falcon, this Nerf gun gives you a sense of what it’s like to mow down the enemy with a mounted weapon.
NERF Ultra One Motorized Blaster
You know what’s faster than constantly pumping and re-cocking your weapon so it’ll fire again? A (mothafuckin’) motor. Plus, the Utlra One doesn’t just fire any old dart. The darts in Nerf’s Ultra line are designed to fly further than the standard variety, and reach distances of up to 120 feet.
Nerf Zombie Strike Wrathbolt
Want to channel Darrell from The Walking Dead, but hesitant to shoot someone with an actual crossbow? Well, first of all, thank God. And secondly, you’re in luck!
With the Nerf Zombie Strike Wrathbolt, you can have lots of fun firing foam-tipped arrows, without having to worry that you’ll get your face bitten off if you miss.
Fun Toys & Games for Men
I firmly believe that guys shouldn’t stop playing when they grow up, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they have to play with toys.
In addition to the rest of the toys listed here, there are also plenty of games that will keep men of all ages—and all levels of maturity, which are definitely not the same thing—amused, engaged and entertained for hours on end.
Lightning Reaction Shocktato
One thing you realize as you grow up is that some of the best games are the most classic—but that doesn’t mean they can’t be kicked up a notch.
This game takes Hot Potato to a whole new level by adding an (actual, though relatively harmless) electric shock!
Air Hockey
Full disclosure: as a born-and-raised Canadian and a diehard fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs, I probably would have been kicked out of the country if I created a list of the best games for men and didn’t find a way to work hockey in.
But my current passport status aside, Air Hockey deserves to be included on this list in its own right. If you have a smaller space where you can’t quite fit a ping pong table or a pool table, Air Hockey makes for a more-than-worthy substitute.
Cards Against Humanity
If you’re looking for fun family games like Monopoly, Jenga and other old favorites, this admittedly isn’t for you.
But if you’re looking for an easy way to entertain your friends, this might just be the coolest thing you can bring to your next games night.
If you haven’t heard of this game by now, you might have been living under a rock. (It was even endorsed by the Today Show, of all places.)
One part Mad Libs, one part filthy-mouthed truck stop, Cards Against Humanity is one of the few board games that doesn’t just help you kill time, but will actually make you laugh your ass off.
Foosball
I know what you’re thinking, and the answer is yes:
I’m kind of just covering my ass here, and including Foosball to make up for the fact that I know not everyone loves hockey as much as me.
If you’re not into Air Hockey (although personally I don’t see how that’s possible…) you might like this miniature version of the beautiful game, which, unlike soccer itself, fits beautifully into your condo or apartment, and can be played by people of any skill level.
F*ck I’m Bored! Activity Book For Adults
Let’s just call crosswords, sudokus and word searches what they are: boredom busters.
They’re not exactly thrilling, but when you’re drowning in a sea of boredom and need something to occupy your mind, puzzle games that require you to flex your critical thinking muscles can feel like life rafts.
This activity book comes replete with Coloring, Sudoku, Dot-to-Dot, Word Searches, Mazes, Fallen Phrases, Math Logic and more.
And it all has a tongue-in-cheek humor that’s particularly appealing to a gent like me, who has a well-documented appreciation for irreverence.
Buzzed
The Drinking Game That Gets You and Your Friends Tipsy
If you’re less concerned with keeping your mind active and more concerned with giving your brain a buzz, this is the game for you.
The rules could hardly be simpler (which is always important if you’re having a few drinks): You and your friends take turns drawing a card from the top of the deck. When it’s your turn, read the card out loud and either you or the group will drink based on the prompt on the card, depending on what it is.
Game of Thrones Monopoly
Littlefinger famously once said that “When you play the game of thrones, you win or you die”…
…so you probably won’t be shocked to learn that Hasbro decided against hiring Lord Baelish to do the marketing for their Westeros-themed edition of Monopoly.
Escape Room in a Box
Escape rooms are great because they put both your mind and your body to work as you try to solve clues and break out before time runs out.
And with this “Escape Room in a Box,” you can do it all without having to fork over big money to help the Escape Room cover its rent.
Mechanical 3D Puzzle Safe
For the detail-oriented, the cool thing about these is that they’re kind of like two toys in one: a model that you have to assemble yourself, and a puzzle that you have to solve.
Fun Outdoor Toys for Adults
Fun knows no bounds—nor any particular identity.
Just as there’s no reason why we should let age stop us from having fun and playing with toys, there’s also no reason why releasing your inner child is an activity that should be limited to the four walls of an indoor structure.
All of which is to say that you’re probably going to have a whole lot of fun getting outdoors and playing with the stuff below.
Giant Jenga
I once went to a wedding where the cocktail hour was outside.
It was one of the nicest weddings I’ve ever been to, at a fancy golf course that offered a gorgeous view out over the 18th hole.
But almost no one at the wedding ever saw that view.
Why? Because on the front lawn of the course, the bride and groom set up some outdoor games for people to play, including a giant Jenga building toy!
The majority of the guests spent the entire cocktail hour stacking wooden pieces on top of each other and playing other yard games, and we all agreed it was one of the best weddings we’ve ever been to.
If you have a lawn, and a heartbeat, you’re going to love this.
Ladder Golf
Another game they offered at that wedding? Ladder golf. I had never played before, but it couldn’t be easier:
You throw a rope with two balls tethered to the end of it at a ladder, with the goal being to wrap your rope around the highest rung.
It may sound simple, but it’s quite a bit harder than you might think (particularly after a few drinks), and a lot more fun.
Giant Connect Four
Rounding out the wedding games was a giant, grown-up sized Connect Four board.
Giant Connect Four is the perfect game to play in the backyard – it’s just challenging enough to provide some mental stimulation, but not so hard that you feel like you’re doing homework.
Plus, the giant pieces and board kind of remind me of watching Price is Right when I was a kid, and my main dream was to play plinko with Bob Barker.
Floating Poker Table
I love relaxing in the pool on a hot day, but it can get a little… well, boring.
Enter floating poker, which takes the traditional pool float to the next level.
If you, your friends or family member are looking for a way to keep your minds engaged while laying back and getting some sun, floating poker is perfect.
Inflatable Chicken Fight
Another in a long list of fun pool toys for adults, the whole family can enjoy these floaties, which let you take chicken fights to the next level.
They offer a better way to do chicken fights than having to get up on someone’s shoulders.
Instead, you and your friends can each mount one of these fightin’ fowls and start battling to knock each other off.
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