15 Things Every Boomer Grew Up With — And a Few That Totally Deserve a Comeback

Ah, the good old days — when life was simpler, music was groovier, and cars didn’t need seat belts (how did we survive?!). The TV remote? That was you. And kids played outside until the streetlights flickered on.

If you’re a Boomer, you’ll remember when rotary phones, vinyl records, and Saturday morning cartoons were the highlights of childhood. Get ready for a fun trip down memory lane — full of laughter, nostalgia, and a few “how did we survive?” moments.

Here are 30 things you absolutely had growing up — like it or not!

1. Rotary Phones

Remember the days when dialing a number took practically a lifetime? You’d twirl that rotary dial with the patience of a saint, and heaven forbid you mess up a number! Each click, tick, and whirl of the dial was a mini workout for your index finger. Calling your best friend to gossip meant committing to a workout, but boy, was it worth it! And when you finally got through, the satisfaction was immense.

Rotary phones were more than just communication devices; they were the centerpiece of the living room. The cord stretched from the kitchen to the hallway, a lifeline for endless conversations. Remember the fun of winding that cord around your finger or untangling it after a marathon chat? And the joy of hearing the mechanical ring—you’d sprint from the backyard, hoping to answer before the last ring!

Oh, the thrill of picking up that receiver, feeling connected to the world. It was a different era—no caller ID, no spam calls, just genuine human interaction.

2. Vinyl Records

Ah, the crackle of a needle meeting vinyl! Nothing says nostalgia like the warmth of a record spinning its tunes. Vinyl records were our gateway to musical heaven. You’d flip through your collection, pull out a record, and carefully place it on the turntable. Every scratch and pop was a character, telling a story as it played.

The album covers were works of art, sometimes more exciting than the music itself! You’d sit cross-legged on the shag carpet, scrutinizing every detail of the cover while the music filled the room. Oh, the joy of liner notes and lyrics, eagerly absorbing the artistry of your favorite band.

Then there was the meticulous process of flipping the record over—an art in itself. The anticipation of hearing the next side created a palpable excitement. In a world before playlists, vinyl was king, turning every listening session into a personal concert experience.

3. Saturday Morning Cartoons

Saturday mornings were sacred, weren’t they? You’d wake up early, tiptoe to the living room, and plop yourself in front of the TV. Cereal bowl in hand, you’d immerse yourself in the colorful world of cartoons. Bugs Bunny, Scooby-Doo, and the gang were your weekend pals, taking you on all sorts of wild adventures.

The joy of lounging in your pajamas, glued to the screen, while parents enjoyed a rare moment of peace was unmatched. Each cartoon was a delightful escape, filled with laughter and lessons wrapped in animated fun. You’d giggle at the antics of your favorite characters and sometimes even find yourself quoting their catchphrases.

Those lazy mornings were pure bliss! As the morning sun streamed through the windows, you’d lose track of time, engrossed in the antics of animated critters. Those memories still bring a smile, reminding us of a time when life was simple and animated.

4. Polaroid Cameras

Shake it like a Polaroid picture! These cameras were the magical gadgets of our youth, capturing memories with a click and a whir. You’d snap a moment and anxiously wait for it to develop before your eyes. The excitement was real as you watched the image gradually appear, like magic.

Each photo was a keepsake, a snapshot of life frozen in time. No filters, no edits, just pure, unaltered moments. Family gatherings, birthday parties, and vacations were all immortalized in those little squares of joy, cherished in photo albums or pinned on walls.

Remember the thrill of shaking a Polaroid, coaxing the image to life faster, even though it didn’t actually speed up the process? It was all part of the fun! Polaroids taught us to appreciate imperfections, with their faded colors and occasional blurs. They were the Instagram of our era, capturing the essence of our carefree days.

5. Drive-In Theaters

Ah, the magic of the drive-in theater! Piling into the family car, armed with blankets, popcorn, and soda, was the highlight of any weekend. You’d find the perfect spot, roll down the windows, and settle in for a night under the stars.

The giant screen glowed as twilight descended, and the air buzzed with excitement. Cars formed rows like eager filmgoers, engines off, windows open, ready for the show. The sound crackled through the old metal speaker hooked to your window, adding a rustic charm to the experience.

Movies at the drive-in were an immersive experience. You’d laugh, cry, or cringe with your friends and family, sharing snacks and stories between scenes. And when the film ended, you’d drive home under the starry sky, hearts full from a memorable night. Drive-ins were more than just movie venues; they were community gatherings, woven into the fabric of our youth.

6. Slinky Toys

Remember the simple joy of a slinky tumbling down the stairs? This metal marvel, a coil of endless possibilities, was entertainment gold. You’d perch it at the top step, give it a nudge, and watch in awe as it gracefully cascaded down, step by step.


Slinkys were mesmerizing, capturing our attention for hours. We’d have competitions to see whose slinky could descend the furthest or make it down the entire staircase without faltering. It was like a mini Olympic event, with excitement and laughter ringing through the house.


The slinky wasn’t just a toy; it was an engineering wonder that taught us about physics and gravity in the most delightful way. These simple coils of metal brought endless amusement and were a staple in every Boomer household. They were a reminder of the pure, uncomplicated joy that defined our childhood days.

7. Jiffy Pop Popcorn

Oh, the thrill of Jiffy Pop! It wasn’t just popcorn; it was an event! You’d place the foil-covered pan on the stovetop, eagerly watching as it expanded with every pop. The anticipation was half the fun, as the aroma filled the kitchen, a prelude to a tasty treat.

Jiffy Pop was more than a snack; it was a performance. The grand reveal—tearing open the foil to reveal fluffy, buttery kernels—was a family affair, met with cheers and applause. Who needs a popcorn machine when you have stovetop magic?

Each kernel was a golden nugget of happiness, perfect for munching during family movie nights or backyard campfires. It was a time when simple pleasures brought families together, creating cherished memories that linger to this day. Jiffy Pop was a rite of passage, a delicious reminder of carefree childhood days.

8. Hula Hoops

Do you remember the hula hoop craze? Those brightly colored plastic circles were more than toys; they were a challenge, a test of coordination and endurance. You’d wiggle your hips, hoping to keep the hoop spinning longer than your friends.

Hula hoops were a social activity, bringing kids together in backyards and parks. We’d create competitions, choreograph routines, and form friendships over those spinning circles. It was a dance of joy, each spin a testament to our youthful energy.

And oh, the satisfaction when you finally mastered it! The hoop would whirl around your waist, a hypnotic blur of color. There was something magical in its simplicity—a toy that got us moving, laughing, and bonding. It was a symbol of a time when fun was spontaneous, and happiness was a hoop away.

9. Cassette Tapes

Ah, the mixtape era! Cassette tapes were our soundtrack, capturing the essence of a moment, a feeling, or a friendship. You’d spend hours recording songs off the radio, perfecting the art of pausing just right to avoid the DJ’s chatter.

Each tape was personal, a curated playlist of your favorite tunes. You’d decorate the case with doodles, lyrics, or messages, transforming it into a unique work of art. Trading tapes with friends was the ultimate social exchange, a musical bond that transcended words.

Remember the frustration of a tangled tape? You’d carefully extract it, winding it back with a pencil, praying it would still play. Cassette tapes taught us patience, creativity, and the joy of sharing music. They were more than just audio; they were the heartbeat of our youth, a reminder of simpler, analog days.

10. Beanbag Chairs

Ah, the comfort of a beanbag chair! These squishy seats were the epitome of cool, offering a cozy cocoon to sink into after a long day. You’d mold it to your shape, finding that perfect spot to lounge with a book or chat with friends.

Beanbag chairs were a staple in every hip teenager’s room, adding a splash of color and a touch of whimsy. They were the ultimate chill-out zone, perfect for lazy afternoons or sleepovers, where secrets were shared, and dreams were spun.

The beauty of a beanbag was its simplicity—no angles, no edges, just soft, enveloping comfort. It was a seat that welcomed you with open arms, inviting you to relax and unwind. In a world of hard lines and straight edges, beanbags were a reminder of the softer side of life, where comfort was key.

11. Skateboards

Skateboards were more than just a mode of transport; they were a ticket to freedom and adventure. You’d zip down the street, the wind in your hair, feeling like the king or queen of the pavement.

Skateboarding was an expression of rebellion and creativity. You’d practice tricks, wipe out, and get back up, determined to master the art. Each board was a blank canvas, covered in stickers and scuffs—a testament to countless rides and daring stunts.

The neighborhood was your playground, every curb a challenge, every hill a thrill. Skateboards let us explore, test our limits, and bond with fellow skaters over shared aspirations. They were the wheels that carried us through the ups and downs of youth, teaching us balance, resilience, and the joy of rolling with life’s twists and turns.

12. Pet Rocks

Whoever thought of turning rocks into pets was a genius! Pet rocks were the ultimate low-maintenance companion, requiring no feeding, grooming, or walking. Each one was unique, adorned with painted faces, googly eyes, and quirky personalities.

They sat proudly on desks or countertops, a constant presence in our daily lives. You’d share stories, introduce them to friends, and even give them names—they were more than rocks; they were confidants.

Pet rocks taught us that companionship could be found in the most unexpected places. They were symbols of creativity, simplicity, and humor in a world that sometimes took itself too seriously. It was a reminder that joy could be found in the smallest, most mundane things, and sometimes, a rock was all you needed to make life a little brighter.

13. Record Players

The gentle hum of a record player spinning was the soundtrack of our youth. You’d carefully place the needle on the groove, holding your breath as the music began. Each track crackled with life, filling the room with warmth and nostalgia.

Record players were more than music machines; they were the centerpieces of our living rooms. You’d gather around, sharing your latest finds, discussing the lyrics, and losing yourself in the melodies. It was an experience, a ritual that drew people together.

The act of flipping a record, discovering B-sides, and admiring album art turned listening into an art form. Record players taught us to appreciate music in its purest form, a reminder of a time when life moved at a slower, more deliberate pace, where every note mattered.

14. Tinker Toys

Tinker Toys were our gateway to engineering dreams, colorful sticks and spools that sparked our imagination. You’d spend hours building towers, bridges, and contraptions, each creation more elaborate than the last.

These toys taught us the joy of construction, the thrill of seeing an idea come to life. You’d work with friends, discussing plans, and collaborating on projects that stretched the limits of our creativity.

Tinker Toys were more than just playthings; they were lessons in teamwork, problem-solving, and innovation. They encouraged us to think big, dream bigger, and always have a plan—even if it was just for the next play session. They were a reminder that with a little imagination and a lot of sticks, anything was possible.

15. Transistor Radios

The transistor radio was our lifeline to the world, a pocket-sized miracle that brought music and news wherever we went. You’d slip it in your pocket, the tiny speaker crackling to life with the latest hits or important updates.


Transistor radios were the ultimate companion, accompanying us on beach trips, picnics, and lazy afternoons in the park. You’d tune the dial, searching for your favorite station, the static adding to the charm of the experience.


These radios were more than gadgets; they were portals to a larger world, connecting us to distant places and people. They taught us the power of technology and the joy of discovery, reminding us that sometimes, the best things come in small, noisy packages.

16. View-Masters

View-Masters were windows to the world, magical devices that transported us to far-off places with a click. You’d insert a reel, hold it to the light, and marvel at the 3D images that came to life before your eyes.

Each reel was a new adventure, exploring famous landmarks, cartoons, and stories. You’d share them with friends, swapping reels and swapping dreams, each click revealing a new wonder.

View-Masters were more than toys; they were gateways to imagination, inspiring wanderlust and storytelling. They taught us to see the world differently, to find beauty in every frame, and to cherish the small moments of wonder that filled our days.

17. Bell-Bottom Jeans

Bell-bottom jeans were the epitome of cool, a fashion statement that defied conventions with flair. You’d strut your stuff, the wide hems swishing with every step, turning sidewalks into runways.

These jeans were more than just clothing; they were an attitude, a celebration of freedom and self-expression. You’d pair them with bold shirts, funky accessories, and an air of confidence that said, “I am here.”

Bell-bottoms taught us to embrace individuality, to stand out in a world that often preferred uniformity. They were a reminder that fashion was fun, a reflection of our personalities and the times we lived in. With every swish, they whispered the rebellious spirit of a generation ready to change the world.

18. Mood Rings

Mood rings were like emotional barometers, capturing our feelings with a flash of color. You’d slip one on, watch it shift hues, and wonder at its mysterious ability to read your mood.

These rings were more than accessories; they were conversation starters, sparking debates about feelings and the science behind them. You’d compare colors with friends, each shade revealing a different aspect of your personality.

Mood rings taught us to be mindful of our emotions, to embrace the colorful spectrum of human experience. They were a playful reminder that feelings were complex yet beautiful, much like the ever-changing kaleidoscope of life itself.

19. Lava Lamps

Lava lamps were mesmerizing, liquid sculptures that danced with light and color. You’d sit for hours, entranced by the blobs of wax that floated and collided, a hypnotic ballet of form and motion.

These lamps were more than decor; they were mood-setters, infusing rooms with ambiance and a touch of magic. Each lamp was a unique performance, a never-ending show of creativity and wonder.

Lava lamps taught us to appreciate the beauty of the moment, to find calm in the chaos of life. They were a symbol of the free-spirited 70s, a time when imagination flowed as freely as the wax inside. They reminded us to let go, to flow with the rhythm of time, and to find joy in the ever-changing dance of life.

20. Platform Shoes

Platform shoes were the height of 70s fashion, elevating us—literally and figuratively—to new heights of style. You’d strut in those chunky heels, feeling taller, bolder, ready to take on the world.

These shoes were more than footwear; they were statements, declarations of individuality and flair. You’d pair them with flared pants, groovy shirts, and an attitude that screamed confidence.

Platform shoes taught us to stand tall, to embrace our quirks, and to walk our own path. They were a reminder that fashion was fun, a means of expression and empowerment. With each step, they echoed the spirit of a generation unafraid to reach for the stars.

21. Sea Monkeys

Sea Monkeys were the ultimate science experiment in a packet, promising instant pets with a sprinkle of magic dust. You’d pour the sachet into water, watching with anticipation as life emerged from crystals.

These tiny creatures were more than pets; they were lessons in biology and patience. You’d observe their tiny antics, marvel at their growth, and share their progress with friends.

Sea Monkeys taught us to appreciate the wonders of nature, to find joy in the smallest of beings. They were a reminder that life was full of surprises, that sometimes the most incredible transformations happened in the tiniest of aquariums. They sparked our curiosity, fed our imaginations, and brought a splash of life to our desktops.

22. Raggedy Ann Dolls

Raggedy Ann dolls were more than toys; they were companions, stitched with love and stories. You’d hold her close, sharing secrets, dreams, and adventures, her fabric heart a comforting presence.

These dolls were symbols of innocence and kindness, with their bright red yarn hair and wide, stitched smiles. They sat on our beds, accompanied us on trips, and listened to our tales.

Raggedy Ann taught us the value of friendship, empathy, and imagination. She was a reminder of simpler times, when a doll was more than a toy; it was a confidant, a muse, and a cherished friend. In her presence, we found comfort, creativity, and the timeless magic of childhood.

23. Etch A Sketch

Etch A Sketch was the original tablet, a canvas of endless possibilities limited only by your imagination. You’d twist those knobs, creating lines and curves, erasing with a simple shake.

This toy was more than an art tool; it was a challenge, a test of patience and precision. You’d strive to draw perfect circles, intricate designs, or playful doodles, each creation a testament to your artistry.

Etch A Sketch taught us to embrace mistakes, to start fresh with a shake, and to enjoy the creative process. It was a reminder that art was about the journey, not the destination, and that every line was a step in the dance of discovery. It brought out the artist in all of us, one twist at a time.

24. Beanie Babies

Beanie Babies were more than toys; they were collectibles, each one a treasure with its tag and story. You’d hunt for the rare ones, trade with friends, and display them with pride.

These plush creatures were companions, each with a personality, a name, and a special place in our hearts. They adorned our rooms, joined us on adventures, and sparked our imaginations.

Beanie Babies taught us the joy of collecting, the thrill of the hunt, and the value of memories. They were a reminder that sometimes, the smallest things brought the greatest joy, and that every plush friend was a story waiting to be told. In their soft embrace, we found comfort, creativity, and the magic of childhood dreams.

25. Magic 8 Ball

The Magic 8 Ball was the oracle of our youth, a mysterious sphere that offered answers to life’s burning questions. You’d shake it, watch the answer appear, and take its wisdom as gospel.

This toy was more than a novelty; it was a decision-maker, a fortune-teller in a plastic shell. You’d consult it for guidance, reassurance, or just for fun, its answers sparking laughter or contemplation.

The Magic 8 Ball taught us to embrace uncertainty, to find fun in the unknown, and to take life’s questions with a grain of salt. It was a reminder that sometimes, the answers we seek are more about the journey than the destination, and that a little mystery adds spice to life.

26. Jukeboxes

Jukeboxes were the heartbeats of diners, pulsing with music and memories. You’d drop a coin, select a song, and watch as the machine whirred to life, filling the room with sound.

These machines were more than music players; they were social hubs, bringing people together over shared tunes and stories. You’d gather around, sway to the rhythm, and let the music transport you to another time and place.

Jukeboxes taught us the power of music, the way it connected us and colored our lives. They were a reminder that every song was a story, a memory waiting to be relived, and that sometimes, all it took was a coin and a melody to create magic.

27. Rubik’s Cubes

The Rubik’s Cube was the ultimate puzzle, a colorful conundrum that challenged our minds and patience. You’d twist and turn, seeking the perfect alignment, each move a step toward victory.

This puzzle was more than a toy; it was a test of logic and perseverance. You’d spend hours solving, learning patterns and techniques, or sometimes just marveling at its complexity.

The Rubik’s Cube taught us the value of persistence, the joy of problem-solving, and the thrill of a challenge. It was a reminder that life’s puzzles were meant to be explored, that every twist and turn was a lesson, and that sometimes, the journey was as rewarding as the solution.

28. Lincoln Logs

Lincoln Logs were the building blocks of our imagination, wooden pieces that let us create rustic log cabins and frontier forts. You’d stack and connect, building and rebuilding, each structure a testament to your creativity.


These logs were more than toys; they were lessons in architecture and storytelling. You’d create elaborate scenes, crafting stories of pioneers and adventurers, each log a part of your narrative.


Lincoln Logs taught us to dream big, to see possibilities in every piece, and to build without limits. They were a reminder that play was a form of learning, that creativity knew no bounds, and that sometimes, all you needed was a pile of logs to create a world of wonder.

29. Pez Dispensers

Pez dispensers were the sweet delight of our childhood, candy holders disguised as playful characters. You’d flip the head, revealing a piece of sugary joy, savoring each treat like it was the first.

These dispensers were more than candy holders; they were collectibles, each with a unique design, a personality, and a story. You’d trade them with friends, display them proudly, each one a piece of your collection.

Pez taught us the joy of small pleasures, the thrill of collecting, and the art of anticipation. They were a reminder that sometimes, the simplest things were the sweetest, and that every flip of the head revealed a moment of happiness. In their colorful company, we found joy, nostalgia, and the magic of childhood memories.

30. Easy-Bake Ovens

The Easy-Bake Oven was a culinary dream come true, a chance to bake mini masterpieces with a lightbulb’s glow. You’d mix, pour, and wait patiently as your treats cooked to perfection.

This oven was more than a toy; it was an introduction to the joys of baking, a lesson in patience and creativity. You’d present your creations with pride, marveling at the magic of baking.

The Easy-Bake Oven taught us the joy of cooking, the excitement of creating something from scratch, and the satisfaction of sharing our creations with others. It was a reminder that sometimes, the simplest ingredients made for the best memories, and that every little cake was a sign of love and imagination.