A complete guide to visiting Madame Tussauds New York

What do Taylor Swift, Elon Musk, RuPaul and Pennywise the scary clown have in common? That’s right: you’ll find all of them immortalized in wax at Madame Tussauds New York.

By <a href="#author-bio">Stuart Bak</a>
By Stuart Bak
Anna Wintour in the Glow Gala at Madame Tussauds

You’ve seen them on stage, on screen, in the latest copy of Marie Claire and pretty much all over your socials. Now here’s your chance to meet some of the planet’s most famous faces in real life. Well, kind of. Tay-Tay, Timothée Chalamet, Gaga, Bieber, the Kardashians: they’re all here at Madame Tussauds New York. Or, at least, their wax doppelgangers are.

We’ve got the lowdown on...
 

  • What to expect when you visit this Times Square landmark
  • Must-sees in each of the different zones
  • Interactive fun with your fave A-listers
  • Where it is and how to get in
  • The VIP add-on options

Ok, gimme the backstory…

Everybody knows Madame Tussauds, the famous London waxworks museum that’s been producing and showcasing wax effigies of the rich, famous and infamous for nearly 200 years. But did you know it now operates in a further 19 locations across four continents? Well, now you do.

Opened in 2000, New York’s Madame Tussauds outpost is located smack bang in the heart of Times Square and boasts a collection of some 200 figures over five floors. We’re talking Hollywood giants like Audrey Hepburn, Angelina Jolie and The Rock, pop icons Drake, Beyoncé and Dua Lipa and sporting heroes Vini Jr and Yao Ming. And that’s just for starters. You can also take a seat in the Oval Office, strut your stuff on the catwalk and enter the Hunger Games with Katniss.

Give me five good reasons why I should visit…

Groot at Madame Tussauds

In our humble opinion:

  1. Glow Gala: For party-time A-list selfies with megastars including RuPaul, Priyanka Chopra, Anna Wintour, Kim Kardashian, Tom Cruise and Katy Perry (dressed as a chandelier, obvs).
     
  2. MARVEL Hall of Heroes: Say hey to Groot, Hulk, Loki and the gang.
     
  3. Seasons of New York City: Because who doesn’t want to go walking in a winter wonderland with Queen of Christmas Mariah Carey?
     
  4. Warner Bros. Icons of Horror: Are you brave enough to face off with Pennywise the clown, creepy doll Annabelle, a demonic nun, or Regan from The Exorcist with her cute lil’ head-rotating trick? Well, are you?
     
  5. The Oval Office: See that big red button under the desk? Whatever you do, don’t press it…

How do I find the place?

Easy. It’s on 42nd Street right in the heart of Times Square, between 7th/8th Avenues. 

Bus: take the Downtown route to Stop 1 or the Uptown route to Stop 20.

Subway: hop off at Times Square 42nd Street, 42nd Street Bryant Park or Grand Central 42nd Street.

How do I get in with my New York Pass?

No need to book in advance. Just pitch up, flash your pass at entrance staff and take the elevator straight up to the A-list rooftop schmooze-fest.

Ok, tell me a bit more about what I can see and do there…

Mariah Carey at Madame Tussauds

Sure. There are several zones included with your New York Pass, plus a few add-ons that will cost you extra. Here are the main areas you can expect to encounter…

Glow Gala

Rub shoulders with Hollywood’s brightest stars for the ultimate Insta bragging rights. Grab a drink at the bar and – oh! – is that Kris Jenner over there? This rooftop shindig gets the party started in style with a strictly A-list guest list that includes Anne Hathaway, Johnny Depp and Katy Perry trapped in a chandelier, all set against a glittering Manhattan skyline backdrop.

Star on Broadway

Dance on a giant piano, accompanied by none other than Andrew Lloyd Webber, before diving into scenes from two of the maestro’s most beloved musicals: Cats and Phantom of the Opera. There’s also a chance to recreate several iconic Hollywood moments here: enter the Hunger Games arena with Katniss and take to the skies on E.T.’s magic flying bicycle.

Guest Star on the Tonight Show

Grab selfies with Oprah and Good Morning America’s Michael Strahan, before sitting down to a grilling from the big kahuna: Jimmy Fallon himself. Well, wax Jimmy Fallon. The good news is he’s likely to go easier on you with the questions – and patiently suffer more selfies – than the real deal would. 

Sit in the Oval Office

Meet the current POTUS which – at time of writing – is Donald Trump. Ponder just how the waxperts managed to color-match that trademark mahogany tan, before taking your seat at the massive Resolute Desk and signing executive order after executive order with a sharpie.

Warner Bros. Icons of Horror

Buckle up for the next section, in which horror fans can board a freaky-looking subway car to enter the terrifying world of Hollywood’s most-feared characters. We’re talking shapeshifting clown Pennywise from IT, head-spinning sweetie-pie Regan from The Exorcist, and Annabelle and the utterly demonic Nun from The Conjuring universe. Accordingly, this one is recommended for ages 13+. Indeed, anyone of even a vaguely nervous disposition might want to consider giving this frightfest a wide berth.

Seasons of New York City

There’s Insta gold to be had here, where you can pose for selfies beneath pink cherry blossoms with Selena Gomez, perform with the famous Radio City Rockettes, hail a classic yellow cab with Drew Barrymore, have breakfast with Audrey Hepburn and – surely the pièce de résistance – hang out with Mariah in her winter wonderland. It’s all you ever wanted for Christmas… and then some.

MARVEL Hall of Heroes

Meet your favorite Marvel superheroes (and some of the bad guys, too) before catching them on the big screen in full 4D effect. The movie – complete with wind, water and other wild effects – runs every 10 minutes, meaning you’ll have plenty of time beforehand to get smash-happy with the Hulk, go barking up the wrong tree with Groot, and strike a selfie pose or six with Spidey, Loki and Captain Marvel. Marvelous.

Walk the Runway

Ready for your close-up? Strut your stuff on the catwalk as flashbulbs pop just for you. Bit camera shy? Fear not: Brazilian supermodel Alessandra Ambrosio is there to boost your confidence with fashion tips and runway knowhow. Your catwalk strut will be captured for posterity on video, meaning you can share it with your thousands of adoring Insta followers or, y’know, quietly delete it and pretend it never happened.

Music

Your dream festival line-up is right here at Madame Tussauds. Well, it is if your dream festival line-up includes Beyoncé, Harry Styles, Elvis, Johnny Cash, Bad Bunny and Megan Thee Stallion which, quite frankly, why wouldn’t it? Dazzle with Dua, dance with Drake and shake it with Shakira: the stage is yours.

Anything else to see? 

Of course. With over 100 figures in the collection there’s always something or someone else you can goggle at. Presidents, Hollywood royalty, actual royalty, moon landers, sport stars and giants of art and science: they’re all here. You can even take a deep dive into the life and times of Madame Marie Tussaud herself, complete with death masks and the story of how she first discovered her aptitude for wax art (and nearly got herself beheaded) during the French Revolution.

What other facilities are there? 

Shop at Madame Tussauds
  • There’s a bar in the Glow Gala zone, and you can get snacks and drinks with Leo DiCaprio at the Park Corner Café and Bar in the Seasons of New York City area. There are also a couple of other concession stands inside the attraction.
     
  • The gift shop carries a veritable treasure trove of (mainly) I Love NYC products – everything from socks to keychains and tumblers. You can also stock up on NYC apparel, backpacks, ornaments and more here.

I’m done here, where should I go next? 

The Times Square location puts you handily close to several other Big Apple big-hitters. Not only does your New York Pass get you into Madame Tussauds and the Marvel Universe 4D movie, it also grants you access to the following (very) nearby attractions:

You mentioned optional extras…

Jimmy Kimmel at Madame Tussauds

Wait, all that wasn’t enough for you? Ok, here are some of the add-ons you can book…
 

  • Photo Pass: buy this for unlimited digital downloads at Madame Tussauds photo kiosks. You can download straight to your mobile and share your celeb selfies right there on the spot.
     
  • Wax Hands: Incurable souvenir hunters, rejoice! For here’s a chance to immortalise your fingers (and thumb) in wax. Simply stump up the required $18 (per hand), select a colour, strike your favorite hand pose (peace sign, devils horns or clenched fist for the win) and hey presto: your own fair hand, perfectly preserved in wax for all eternity.

Enjoyed this little slice of New York? 

Take your trip to the next level with our complete guide to using The New York Pass or check out our local expert's NYC must-sees, all filled with visitor hacks and money-saving tips. 

With The New York Pass®, you can skip the stress and save big on Empire State Building tickets plus dozens of other must-see attractions, all with one easy-to-use pass. 

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Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
Freelance travel writer

Stu caught the travel bug at an early age, thanks to childhood road trips to the south of France squeezed into the back of a Ford Cortina with two brothers and a Sony Walkman. Now a freelance writer living on the Norfolk coast, Stu has produced content for travel giants including Frommer’s, British Airways, Expedia, Mr & Mrs Smith, and now Go City. His most memorable travel experiences include drinking kava with the locals in Fiji and pranging a taxi driver’s car in the Honduran capital.

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Where to Spend a Wednesday in New York City

So you’ve found yourself in New York City on a Wednesday. Lucky you! There’s a certain midweek buzz in the air—cafés are humming, museums feel friendly, and you get all the thrills of the city without the weekend crowds. Whether you’re looking for postcard-worthy views, world-class art, outdoor escapes, or foodie stops, Wednesday in NYC has your itinerary covered. Ready to make the most of every New York minute? Let’s dive into diverse adventures, from uptown icons to downtown surprises, and discover what really makes midweek in Manhattan unforgettable.  Our must-try Wednesday activities in NYC include:  Empire State Building  American Museum of Natural History  Central Park  Top of the Rock  The High Line  MoMA  Greenwich Village Walking Tour  Statue of Liberty  Edge Hudson Yards  Enjoy a Broadway matinee  Empire State Building: Elevate Your Wednesday  If there’s one building that symbolizes NYC’s energy and ambition, it’s the Empire State Building. Beating the crowds on a Wednesday morning feels like a well-kept secret—the lines move quickly, and you’re whisked up to the 86th-floor observatory before you know it. Up here, the city unfurls in all directions: Manhattan’s neat grid stretching toward the rivers, tiny yellow taxis moving below, and skyscrapers shimmering in the sunlight.  What makes this spot so special? It’s the sheer thrill of standing in the middle of the sky, with the wind in your hair and the city’s heartbeat below. The 360-degree open-air deck puts you right in the thick of things, and on clear days, you can spot landmarks in four different states. Don’t miss the immersive exhibits on the lower floors—they trace New York’s architectural history and the Empire State Building’s starring film roles.  Whether you want to capture sunrise photos, catch a spontaneous saxophone performance, or soak up sunset colors, this visit sets the tone for a classic NYC Wednesday. There’s a reason people come from all over the world for this experience—it’s a true New York rite of passage.  American Museum of Natural History: Dinosaurs, Space, and So Much More  Wednesdays at the American Museum of Natural History feel just right. The crowd thins, so it’s easy to roam beneath a life-sized blue whale, meet T. Rex face-to-face, or journey from ocean depths to outer space. This Upper West Side gem is more than a museum—it’s a playground for curious minds, no matter your age.  You’ll want to spend hours ogling dazzling gems in the Allison and Roberto Mignone Halls of Gems and Minerals, touring ancient cultures, and tracing human evolution. The updated planetarium is a must: recline in cozy seats while stars, planets, and galaxies swirl overhead. The animal dioramas are legendary, thanks to their detailed craftsmanship and immersive scenes.  With a light, airy feel and grand architecture, the museum makes science and history come alive. And if all that exploring works up an appetite, grab lunch at the museum café or take your treats to Central Park, right across the street. Wednesdays are for discovery—and this museum always delivers an adventure.  Top of the Rock: NYC Views with a Twist  Craving another sky-high adventure? Head to Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center—a Wednesday favorite for locals and travelers alike. The vibe is cool, elegant, and less crowded than weekends, so you can move at your own pace from the art deco lobby all the way to the open-air observation decks.  The best part? Unbeatable views straight down Fifth Avenue, with the Empire State Building front and center, Central Park to the north, and the shimmering river in the distance. Multiple decks mean you get different vantage points, each just as striking as the last.  Top of the Rock always feels a bit more relaxed—thanks to timed entries and plenty of space to linger. There’s lovely seating for photo ops and a generous staff happy to share fun facts about the city. If you can visit at golden hour, the city glows; by dusk, the twinkling skyline feels almost cinematic. It’s an easy way to fall deeper in love with NYC.  The High Line: Midweek Urban Wandering  If you want to see New York’s artistic side—and enjoy a fresh-air walk above the city—the High Line delivers. This park, built on a historic elevated railway, snakes its way through Chelsea and the Meatpacking District. Wednesdays hit the perfect balance: there’s a local crowd, less jostling, and the gardens are in full bloom from spring to fall.  Curved wooden benches invite lounging, while public art installations pop up every few blocks (don’t miss the ever-changing sculptures and murals). You’ll spy the Empire State Building peeking over rooftops and catch glimpses of the Hudson River.  What keeps us coming back? The infectious energy, the blend of city grit and greenery, and the super-convenient access to Chelsea Market for coffee, tacos, or the best brownies in town. The atmosphere is always welcoming, whether you’re a solo explorer or out for a group adventure. Detour off the High Line for the nearby Whitney Museum of American Art if you want to extend your art fix—two gems in one neighborhood!  MoMA: Modern Art, Endless Inspiration  Art lovers, rejoice—Wednesdays at MoMA feel tailor-made for leisurely discovery. The Museum of Modern Art’s bright, airy galleries showcase everything from Van Gogh’s swirling “Starry Night” to cutting-edge installations that spark conversation. There’s a hum of excitement, but crowds stay manageable enough for you to linger and let inspiration strike.  Take your time with Picasso, Matisse, Pollock, Kahlo, and a whole roster of modern masters. Don’t miss the sculpture garden—a sanctuary filled with greenery, sunlight, and larger-than-life artwork. Rotating exhibits keep things fresh, often featuring up-and-coming artists, photography, or timely installations that capture the spirit of right now.  MoMA’s sixth-floor café offers surprisingly good eats (we’re partial to their smoked salmon tartine)—plus a sleek design that’s half the fun. Whether you’re a first-timer or devoted art fan, there’s always something bold and unforgettable waiting for you around the next gallery corner.  Statue of Liberty: Midweek Icon, Maximum WOW  Wednesdays are the savvy traveler’s secret for visiting the Statue of Liberty—the city’s most enduring symbol of welcome and resilience. Ferries to Liberty Island hum along with easygoing energy, and the midweek schedule means more elbow room to enjoy Lady Liberty’s striking silhouette against the blue harbor.  The views out on the water are unmatched: as you sail past the skyline and Ellis Island, you get that quintessential New York feeling—big dreams, wide horizons, and history beneath your feet (and camera lens). Once ashore, you can stroll the scenic paths around Liberty Island, snap stunning selfies from every angle, and check out the museum, which brings the statue’s story to life with original torch, artifacts, and interactive exhibits.  Feeling energetic? Climb to the pedestal for sweeping panoramas. Prefer a leisurely pace? The grounds are dotted with shady benches and offer unbeatable skyline views—the kind that make your NYC photo album shine. Wednesdays mean less hustle, so you can slow down, soak up the salty breeze, and appreciate those immortal words at the statue’s base. It’s New York on a grand scale—and a moment you’ll never forget.  Edge Hudson Yards: Step into the Sky  Ready for an outdoor observation deck with a bold twist? Edge at Hudson Yards doesn’t just offer top-of-the-world city views—it lets you stand on a glass floor, 100 stories above the streets! Wednesdays at Edge balance buzz and breathing space, giving you the chance to linger, gaze, and snap jaw-dropping photos at your own pace.  Edge is all sleek lines, sharp angles, and soaring energy. Step out onto the triangular terrace and you can peer straight down if you dare, or lean into the angled glass walls for unobstructed panoramas. The vibe up here feels both futuristic and celebratory, especially as the sun dips behind the Hudson River. The Champaign bar offers drinks with a view—a toast up here is the epitome of New York cool.  Bonus: Hudson Yards is packed with restaurants and shops. Grab a bite at Mercado Little Spain (tapas, churros, and more) or stroll over to The Vessel sculpture for a quick Instagram stop. If you want to combine adventure with urban style, Edge is a Wednesday favorite you’ll talk about for years.  Enjoy a Broadway Matinee: Theater Magic in the Afternoon  Who says the curtain only rises at night? Wednesdays in NYC mean an entire afternoon of razzle dazzle, thanks to Broadway’s famous matinee shows. Step into a grand historic theater, settle into plush seats, and watch the magic unfold—whether you’re catching a blockbuster musical or a smart, snappy comedy.  Midweek matinees are a New York tradition shared by savvy locals and excited visitors alike. Bonus: you often find easier ticket availability on Wednesdays, and sometimes the best seats in the house pop up at the last minute. Whether it’s the choreography of “Hamilton,” the nostalgia of “The Lion King,” or the wit of a classic comedy, you’ll buzz with excitement as the lights go down and the orchestra strikes up.  Before or after the show, lunch options abound: Sardi’s is a star-studded haunt for theater-goers (order the cannelloni and soak up the caricatures); Joe Allen feels equally legendary for a pre-show bite and Broadway gossip. Matinee days let you have the Broadway dream and pack plenty more adventures into your Wednesday evening.  Bonus: Explore Chelsea Market—Food, Shops, and Flavor Galore  Craving a little variety on your Wednesday? Make your way to Chelsea Market, a thriving indoor food hall and shopping destination in the heart of the Meatpacking District. The atmosphere is lively, the smells are irresistible, and every stand offers something tempting: think spicy Thai noodles, fresh lobster rolls, artisanal doughnuts, and Japanese tacos.  Wednesdays bring in a steady flow of regulars alongside wide-eyed visitors—the best of both worlds. Grab a hot bagel at Black Seed, slurp creamy clam chowder at Lobster Place, or treat yourself to seriously rich brownies from Fat Witch. The market’s industrial-chic ambiance makes wandering a pleasure, with exposed brick, twinkling fairy lights, and heaps of seating for people-watching.  Added bonus: Chelsea Market sits just below the High Line, so you can satisfy your cravings then stroll the park with dessert in hand. Shopping here tempts with indie boutiques, unique jewelry, and thoughtful souvenirs. It’s the sort of relaxed-yet-bustling experience that makes you want to linger—and maybe come back for dinner.    And there you have it—a Wednesday in NYC packed with dazzling skylines, cultural icons, neighborhood wanderings, irresistible eats, and just enough off-the-beaten-path surprises to make your trip unforgettable. Whether you stack your itinerary with skyscraper views and museum masterpieces, or savor slow strolls and spontaneous shows, New York in the middle of the week has its own unbeatable rhythm. Let the city surprise you—because Wednesdays here are anything but ordinary!    Enjoyed this? Check out our guide to the Upper West Side, and get travel tips from real New Yorkers.   Step up your sightseeing with The New York Pass®    We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.   See more, do more, and experience more with The New York Pass® – just choose a pass to get started! 
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48 Hours in NYC: Squeeze Every Drop from the Big Apple

Planning a whirlwind weekend in New York City? We’ve got just the plan to help you see, taste, and experience the very best of the Big Apple—even if your time is short. Think: skyline views that fit the city’s fame, world-class art, urban parks, and a parade of excellent eats. In this 2-day itinerary, you’ll hit everything from cloud-skimming observatories to the leafy calm of Central Park, with plenty of pit stops for bagels, pizza, and maybe a secret speakeasy. Ready? Let’s get moving—NYC doesn’t wait!  Our favorite picks for a jam-packed New York City adventure include:  Empire State Building  The High Line  Statue of Liberty  Central Park  Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)  Top of the Rock  American Museum of Natural History  DUMBO & Brooklyn Bridge  Times Square  A perfect bagel spot  A classic slice of New York pizza  Day 1: Uptown to Downtown—Skylines, Parks, and a Taste of Classic NYC  Lunch: UWS Flavors  Wander to Jacob’s Pickles (509 Amsterdam Ave) for hearty Southern comfort—fried chicken biscuit sandwiches and house-made pickles, in a rustic, buzzing setting.  Afternoon: Midtown Marvels & Top of the Rock  Jump on the C subway down to 50th St for your next stop: Rockefeller Center. If the weather's nice, grab a scoop from Van Leeuwen Ice Cream (1250 6th Ave). Then, soar to the Top of the Rock for wide-open skyline vistas—this is the spot for that perfect shot with the Empire State Building front and center, flanked by rivers and rooftops.  After snapping your fill, make a quick detour across the street to St. Patrick’s Cathedral and marvel at the gothic spires before wandering south on Fifth Avenue for some window-shopping at flagship stores or goodness at Tiffany & Co.  Evening: MoMA, Dinner & Times Square After Dark  Ready for more culture? Walk a few blocks to the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), where Warhol, Monet, and Picasso beckon. Even if you’re not an art buff, this place has plenty of “wow” moments—from the dizzying design wing to the serene sculpture garden.  When hunger calls, duck into The Modern Bar Room (inside MoMA) for elevated American bites or hunt down Joe’s Pizza (1435 Broadway) for a slice that defines New York.  Top off your first night in the city by wandering through the neon-bright bustle of Times Square—sure, it’s touristy, but the energy is contagious. Alternatively, sip a creative cocktail at The Rum House, a cozy, old-world bar just off Broadway.  Day 2: Downtown Legends, The High Line & Brooklyn Bridge Views  Lunch: Stone Street & Seaport Energy  The cobbled Stone Street brims with lively restaurants. Adrienne’s Pizza Bar is beloved for its rectangular pies with crispy crust, while Leo’s Bagels is your spot for a quick salmon-and-schmear hit. Sunshine? Nab an outdoor table and soak up the city.  Afternoon: The High Line & DUMBO  Jump on the 1 train to 14th St and meander to the High Line—a lush, elevated park built on old railway tracks, now green with gardens, murals, and art installations. Head north along the path and descend at Chelsea Market for artisanal shopping, or Slurp Ramen at Mokbar or try tacos from Los Tacos No.1—both have cult followings for a reason!  Next, make your way to Brooklyn for the late afternoon. Take the A/C subway from 14th St to High St–Brooklyn Bridge. From here, stroll into DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass). The riverfront parks offer dazzling views of lower Manhattan, dotted with picnic tables, playgrounds, and the famed Jane's Carousel.  Evening: Pizza, Skyline Sunsets & Big Apple Farewell  As the sun dips, walk the Brooklyn Bridge back to Manhattan (about 40 minutes). It’s a city experience like no other, with sunset hues hitting downtown’s skyscrapers and the river glinting below.  For your final dinner, try Juliana’s Pizza in Brooklyn right by the bridge—a pie topped with fresh mozzarella, pepperoni cups, and basil in a cozy, brick-walled space. Alternatively, back in Manhattan, dig in at Eataly NYC Downtown for handmade pasta and gelato, with sweeping city views if you grab a table near the windows.  Toast your whirlwind trip with a nightcap at Manhatta, a sleek bar 60 floors up in the Financial District, where the city sparkles below. Raise your glass—two days, and you’ve covered all the showstoppers.    That’s a New York minute! In just 48 hours, you’ve ventured from the leafy expanses of Central Park to neighborhood bridges, historic harbors, sky-high observatories, and the vibrant pulse of downtown’s dining scene. Roll out of town with that singular city buzz that only NYC delivers—full of stories, snapshots, and just a little bit of pizza sauce on your shirt.    Enjoyed this? Check out our comprehensive guide to the 9/11 Memorial, or explore the city’s top neighborhoods.  Step up your sightseeing with The New York Pass®    We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.   See more, do more, and experience more with The New York Pass® – just choose a pass to get started! 
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Things to do in New York on Labor Day Weekend

Think fireworks, parades, major sporting events, beach fun and some of the world's top museums.
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