If you’re a parent in the Lake Travis area, you’ve likely experienced the chorus of excited pleas at Hill Country Galleria, “Mommy, we wanna go to the toy store! Toy store! Toy store!”
A quintessential “neighborhood toy store,” Learning Express has been an irresistible haven for children since they opened in 2007, brimming with an array of engaging games, clever gadgets, educational marvels and the cutest stuffed animal. From beloved toys to oversized plush companions, plasma cars, puzzles, books, crafts, and collectibles, the store offers something special for every child.
The History of Learning Express in Bee Cave
Owners Lisa and Mike Schlateger opened Learning Express in the Hill Country Galleria in October 2007. Both Lisa and Mike worked corporate jobs in California and then they made their way to the Lake Travis area. Lisa had previously worked with Learning Express for various fundraisers when she lived in California and she was always impressed with the brand. When Lisa and Mike decided they wanted to be small business owners, its just made sense to open a Learning Express in Bee Cave.
The Lowdown on Toys
The toy selection at Learning Express is just one of the reasons the store is so popular. The store is always inviting and perfectly curated. They offer a wide variety of toys that are not only geared at fun, but geared towards learning. Hence the name! Educational items are so important to Lisa, because she feels children can learn from every toy.
They carry toys from newborns to “kids at heart” like teens. In fact, teens are great customers at Learning Express because they love their slime! Lol. From the good old toys that have been around forever to the newest toys, there’s a toy best suited to any child.
Hassle-Free Toy & Gift Shopping
Beyond its capacity to captivate young hearts with ceaseless fun, Learning Express also brings joy to parents by ensuring a hassle-free shopping experience. Their offerings include complimentary gift wrapping, a valuable VIP program, a free birthday box registry, personalized touches, and more.
The knowledgeable and helpful staff stands ready to assist, ensuring you find the ideal gift, whether it’s for a 2-year-old princess bedazzled by bling or a 7-year-old football enthusiast enchanted by magic tricks. From the moment you walk into the store to the moment you leave, the whole experience is top-notch.
How Learning Express Gives Back to Lake Travis
For those living in the Lake Travis area, Learning Express is more than a store—it’s a community supporter. Actively engaged in local events, the store has participated in so many fundraisers over the years, it’s impossible to list them all. Learning Express donates beautiful gift baskets to a variety of fundraising events, whether it’s supporting locals school and programs, local organizations or helping out a family or child in need.
The store’s ongoing commitment to the Lake Travis community and its participation in meaningful causes make it a cherished destination for both shopping and community connection. It has definitely earned its spot as the best toy store in Lake Travis. Happy Sweet 16, Learning Express!
Hop over to The Hart of Lake Travis where I interviewed Lisa & Mike and we chatted more about their awesome business. Be sure to follow them on social media @learningexpressbeecave
About Amber Hart Homes
An Austin native who has been earning accolades as a top performer since her first year as a Realtor, Amber Hart is an expert when it comes to Austin real estate. With over 15 years of experience, she is one of the top agents in Austin, earning membership in Luxury League Austin, Elite 25 Austin, Million Dollar Guild and recognition like Austin Business Journal’s Top Five Agents in Austin. As a certified Luxury Specialist, Amber actively pursues professional development opportunities to stay current with her business, earning credentials like Certified Negotiation Expert, which less than 1% of Realtors have and a member of the Keller Williams Luxury Home Division since conception. Amber is widely known for her dedication to the Lake Travis community as the founder of A Kind Hart Foundation and The Hart of Lake Travis.