I sat inside the movie theater with my dad, my feet barely hanging off the end of the seat. Music began to play and words spread across the screen; “Star Wars: A New Hope.” I couldn’t read the words, so I sat and took it all in. Suddenly, a gigantic firing space ship flew into the picture. From that moment on, I was hooked. After we left, we bought a few action figures. A couple of years later, I saw the Empire Strikes Back, and I crossed the line from fan to super fan. My love of all things Star Wars continues to this day.
That love recently carried me to the Discovery Times Square Star Wars exhibit.
The exhibits at Discovery Times Square, an interactive museum, are tailor-made for super fans; my family has eagerly enjoyed many exhibits over the years, such as the Avengers’ exhibit, Harry Potter, Lego, and the current exhibits, Hunger Games and Body’s in Motion. Each one has been filled with unique items, curator notes, and interactive features that have engaged the whole family from oldest to youngest. And the Star Wars exhibit did not disappoint.
The Star Wars exhibit focuses on the movies’ costuming and its vital importance to establishing the story and atmosphere for the movies. Upon entering, visitors watch a brief video on the costumes of Star Wars. After passing through a blast door, you suddenly find yourself in a galaxy far, far away. Every notable costume – from Luke Skywalker’s original Jedi costume to Princess Leia’s slave bikini, from Queen Amadala’s regal gowns to Darth Vadar – can be seen in their vivid glory. In addition to seeing the costumes – a thrill in and of itself – you can read designer notes, listen to interviews with the actors and George Lucas, watch behind the scenes footage from the movies, and more.
I brought my whole family, consisting of an 11 year old, 9 year old, almost 4 year old, an infant, and my wife. My (let’s just call him a 4 year old now) enjoyed seeing the droids in person, as well as pushing any buttons he could find. My 9 year old loved the extravagant dresses and was especially thrilled to see the cast of Han Solo from The Empire Strikes Back. My 11 year old loved, well, everything. I loved staring at the costumes from the movies that I love so much and reliving my childhood.
Like other exhibits at the Discovery Times Square, it is what you make of it. You could fly right through in 20 minutes, or you can walk slowly and take it all in. We chose to take it all in and spent about 90 minutes enjoying the exhibits. As a bonus, we were able to catch glimpses of the bad guys from the new Star Wars movie, The Force Awakens.
If you are a fan and live in or are visiting NYC any time soon, I recommend checking it out. Be aware that once in the exhibit area, you can’t leave to use the restroom, so make sure you empty your bladder after getting your tickets, but before getting in line. And take some extra cash with you because, like all museums, the exit lies through the gift shop.
To check ticket prices, click here.
Discovery Times Square is located at 226 West 44th st.
Hours: Sunday – Tuesday 10am to 7pm / Wednesday – Thursday 10am to 8pm / Friday – Saturday 10am to 9pm
Disclaimer: I was given tickets in exchange for a review. The opinions in this post are my own.
