When wax sculptor Marie Tussaud established her museum in London featuring sculptures of famous figures in the 1700s, it is unlikely she foresaw the legacy she would leave behind. Now, the famous Madame Tussauds museums are located in over 20 cities spanning the globe. Visitors are treated to up close and personal views of their favorite celebrities and popular icons. The New York location features American presidents, Hollywood actors, and social media mavens. Be sure to check your calendar for exclusive temporary exhibits such as Ghostbusters Dimension.
Madame Tussaud's New York Wax Museum is open year round, although hours vary depending on the season so be sure to check the online calendar. A typical day sees the museum opening at 9:00 am and closing at 10:00 pm. Located in the heart of Times Square, coordinate your two-hour visit to the museum with sightseeing in the area. Purchase tickets online for a discount on ticket price.
From Beyoncé to Jon Hamm, Madame Tussauds has lifelike wax figures of all your favorite A-list celebrities. There are no velvet ropes or glass cases surrounding the statues, allowing you to get up close and personal. Make sure to bring your camera to get selfies with all your favorite actors, actresses, and musicians.
Madame Tussauds New York has teamed up with Walkers Shortbread to bring you a traditional high tea experience. Tickets are $49.75 per person and that gets you a butler escort to the tea room. There you will sip hot tea and enjoy light snacks in the presence of the new Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
The newest addition Madame Tussauds New York is Ghostbusters: Dimension. This exhibit brings you face to face with virtual reality inspired by the 2016 film. The most interactive exhibit to hit Madame Tussauds, Ghostbusters: Dimension is a ride, a show, and a haunted house all in one. And entrance to the exhibit is included with your ticket.
If TV and movies aren't your things, take a stroll through the sports exhibit at Madame Tussauds New York. There you will see tennis star Serena Williams decked out in her uniform, basketball player Carmelo Anthony preparing for a jump shot, and Derek Jeter about to hit a grand slam.
Regular gift shops don't hold a candle to the store inside Madame Tussauds New York Wax Museum. Dylan's Candy Bar brings Willy Wonka to life and has everything from chocolate to sour confectionaries. If you need to rest your feet for a bit, pull up to the Dylan's soda shop and treat yourself to a sweet drink.
One of the most beloved exhibits is the Marvel superhero section, bringing characters like the Hulk to life before your very eyes. All ticket holders can view the wax figures, but for an additional cost you can purchase a ticket to the Marvel 4D Experience. The 4D film adventure incorporates all your senses in bringing the heroes to life.
Travel to the tropical environment of Kong: Skull Island where you will witness terrifying spiders, ancient artifacts, and King Kong himself. Make sure to snap a photo with Kong: Skull Island actor, and famous ex of Taylor Swift, Tom Hiddleston. Then bravely come face to face with an animatronic Kong head that breathes, snarls, and growls.
There's a certain category of celebrities that don't fit into the traditional boxes of movie star, musician, or sports star. And you will find all of these zany characters at Madame Tussauds. Take a spin on a bike with E.T., keep up with the Kardashians, and snap a selfie with YouTube star Jenna Marbles.
Madame Tussauds is home to many past American presidents, and even includes the Donald himself. Don't miss the Pope Francis wax figure that looks identical to the real-life religious leader. And study up on your history as you chat with Abraham Lincoln and George Washington. Just like the other wax figures at the museum, you are encouraged to get as close as you'd like to the leaders of the free world.