Madame Tussauds New York isn’t just about snapping selfies with famous faces. On my visit, I realised it’s actually a full-on experience – complete with bars, cafés, interactive scenes, and even the chance to make your own wax souvenir.
Whether you’re visiting with a New York Pass or a general admission ticket, here are five things you might not realise you can do inside Madame Tussauds NYC. Plus, what’s included and what’s an optional extra.
1. Get a drink with Kris Jenner at an A-list party
Your first stop is an A-list party scene, complete with a working bar. Kris Jenner is casually seated at the counter, while Jennifer Hudson and Anna Wintour mingle nearby. It’s a fun way to start – grab a drink, ease into the experience and immediately lean into the celebrity fantasy.
It sets the tone nicely: this isn’t a rushed walk-through. You’re encouraged to hang out, interact and enjoy the space.
Included with the New York Pass? This area is included; drinks can be purchased at the bar for an extra cost.
Yes, we did feel nervous sitting so close.
2. Have a Broadway moment (and live your theatre kid fantasy)
One of the most playful sections is the Broadway zone, which feels like a love letter to musical theatre fans.
You can go the full Tom Hanks and play oversized piano keys alongside musicals legend Andrew Lloyd Webber; get ‘stage-ready' with a ‘Cats’ makeup screen; and hop aboard the instantly recognisable spooky boat with the Phantom and Christine.
It’s interactive without being cringe and it’s surprisingly easy to lose time here. If you’re even mildly Broadway-inclined, this section alone is worth lingering in – and it nicely bridges the gap between celebrity spotting and full-on immersive scenes.
Included with the New York Pass? This area is fully included.
We weren't sure this look was for us!
3. Take a festive food break… whatever time of year it is outside
Later in the route, you ‘enter New York”' and experience the city through the seasons – and this was one of my favourite surprises.
You’ll move through Autumn, with Thanksgiving parade vibes and the Radio City Rockettes; Christmas, complete with Santa’s sleigh, nutcrackers and obviously, Mariah Carey; and Spring, featuring cherry blossoms and a delightfully turquoise ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’ moment.
Tucked into this area is the Park Corner Café and Bar, with proper tables and seating. It’s the perfect place to take a breather, grab a drink or snack, and enjoy the fact that yes – you’re having Christmas vibes in the middle of summer. No judgment here.
Included with the New York Pass? The area is included; food and drinks can be purchased for an extra cost.
Turns out it can be Christmas everyday.
4. Meet your heroes
Step into the Marvel Hall of Heroes, where you’ll come face-to-face with a lineup of iconic superheroes — including Captain America, Iron Man, Hulk, Groot, Loki and Captain Marvel.
This section feels more like walking onto a movie set than through a traditional museum, with dynamic poses, dramatic lighting and plenty of opportunities to jump into the action yourself (yes, that means striking your best superhero stance next to your favourites). It’s one of the most interactive-feeling parts of Madame Tussauds, and easily one of the most photographed.
Included with the New York Pass? The area is fully included.
He's super tall... honestly!
5. Make your own wax hand (a very literal souvenir)
If you want to go beyond photos, there’s the option to cast your own wax hand – a hands-on (get it?) experience that’s a nice nod to the craft behind Madame Tussauds itself.
You’ll choose a pose, dip your hand and walk away with a completely unique wax replica. It’s an optional add-on, but if you’re travelling with kids, into quirky souvenirs or just embracing the weirdness of it all, it definitely promises to be a memorable extra.
Included with the New York Pass? No, this activity is a paid extra, available to purchase on the day.
Final thoughts
Madame Tussauds NYC is far more layered than people expect. Between cocktails with celebrities, Broadway playtime, festive cafés, superhero action and hands-on extras, it’s an attraction that rewards curiosity and taking your time. It’s a full experience and one that’s surprisingly easy to spend a couple of hours enjoying.
Enjoyed this little slice of New York?
Take your trip to the next level with our complete guide to Madame Tussauds New York or check out the strange history of Madame Tussaud, all filled with visitor hacks and money-saving tips.
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