My first experience in a real hobby shop was in 1955 when I was 11 yrs old and moved to Boulder Colorado.
Airplanes hanging from the ceiling, little engines, and a flying circle a couple of blocks away.
I could not afford those flying models but could watch and dream.
Later my dreams were fulfilled, and am still building - little cars now,
and that more than makes up for my 1:1 automotive fantasies.
That shop was PURE HEAVEN for this kid from the country, and led to a life-long "affliction".
Cheers,
Steve