It’s the time of year when the sun beams through backyards, the smell of sunscreen wafts in the air, and all around us kids have traded their backpacks for — you guessed it — toys. And if there’s anything we know at The Toy Book and Adventure Media & Events, it’s new toys. We rounded up our personal favorite summer toys of 2023, from iconic rides to all-natural wooden playsets to all the chalk and outdoor accessories needed for a personal playground! So sit back, relax, and see how we stay on the pulse of play this season!

Snorlax Pokémon Summer Days Pool Float | Ages: 3+ | MSRP: $59.99

“Being in the pool is the best part of summer fun, but if you don't have a cool pool float the whole experience is basically pointless. The Pokémon Summer Days Pool Floats bring pop culture flair to fun in the sun and I am very here for laying on a giant Snorlax, and I can't think of anyone who wouldn't enjoy that – kid or adult.” — Marissa Silva, Co-Editor-in-Chief, The Toy Insider

Big Wheel 16-inch Big Spin | Ages: 3+ | MSRP: $129.99

“As a kid that grew up in the '70s and '80s, the red, yellow, and blue blur of Big Wheels zooming by is an unforgettable memory. I had one very similar to this back in 1978 and wish I could still do some of those killer spin-outs!” — James Zahn, Editor-in-Chief, The Toy Book

Adventure Camper | Ages: 3+ | MSRP: $349.99

“This playset re-invents the classic summer staple: the playhouse. This camper is fun and trendy, plus it provides lots of open-ended and imaginative play. It's awesome because multiple kids can play at once!” — Ali Mierzejewski, Co-Editor-in-Chief, The Toy Insider

Crayola Paint Your Own Bean Bag Toss | Ages: 5+ |MSRP: $29.97

“Cornhole is the perfect outdoor game in the summertime and I love playing it any chance I get. I also enjoy arts and crafts, so this set provides the best of both worlds for hours of play!” — Stephanie Infantino, Sales Executive

Craft-Tastic Nature Scavenger Hunt Journal | Ages: 6+ |MSRP: $19.99

“This toy may seem unassuming, but I'm obsessed with it. As a former crafty kid who was always collecting stickers, this activity journal would have been the perfect way to get me outside and engaged with nature (honestly, it still is!). I love how it encourages observation and creativity, and how self-directed the activities are.” — Madeleine Buckley, Senior Editor

Melissa & Doug Deluxe Grill & Pizza Oven Play Set | Ages: 3+ | MSRP: $169.99

“This set is an adorable way to get into the summer spirit! Kids can pretend to grill veggie burgers, hot dogs, and more with wooden pieces. I love that's good for summer fun indoors or out.” — Nicole Savas, Social Media Editor

Outdoor Sidewalk Chalk | Ages: 4+ |MSRP: $1.25-14.99

Chalk is the ultimate boredom buster, the solution to summer squirm, and a creative outlet that fits into any spontaneous summer soiree. From drawing roads for Matchbox cars, designing a bike path, or making creative colors for a 3D image that is shareable on social, it is the ultimate travel toy that transcends generations and is a last-minute solution to afternoon angst. It is the superhero of summer!” — Charlene DeLoach, Contributing Editor

American Girl x Jeni's Ice Creams Full of Flavor Truck | Ages: 6+ | MSRP: $325

“When I think summer, I think ice cream! The ice cream truck brings back such fond memories of childhood. Hearing the music coming down the street, begging mom for a dollar, and then sprinting down the street to get your favorite treat.” — Deborah Stallings Stumm, Co-Founder, FUNfluential

Visit our sister publication, The Toy Insider to see its extensive 2023 Spring & Summer Gift Guide.

A version of this article was originally published in the 2023 Licensing & Entertainment Issue of The Toy Book. Click here to read the full issue! Want to receive The Toy Book in print? Click here for subscription options!