PALEYEXHIBIT
45 Years of PAC-MAN
January 16 – May 31 • Wed – Sun, 12 – 6 pm
The Paley Museum, 25 West 52 Street, NYC
Waka Waka into 45 years of fun!
This exhibit, 45 Years of PAC-MAN, drops you straight into the Maze that changed gaming forever. Since 1980, PAC-MAN has captured hearts with simple design, bold personality, and irresistible play. Created in partnership with Bandai Namco, this exhibit is packed with playful installations, nostalgic moments, and fascinating fun facts that trace PAC-MAN’s journey from arcade sensation to global icon.
Play classic arcade cabinets, dive into gameplay, explore a colorful timeline filled with key milestones, and go behind-the-scenes—including pages of original PAC-MAN game design.
Discover iconic artifacts like the PAC-MAN Atari 2600 box and game cartridge, the first PAC-MAN metal lunchbox (1981), “PAC-MAN FEVER” vinyl, and more—plus artwork from Bandai Namco Entertainment and many contemporary artists worldwide.
Along the way, catch gameplay footage spanning decades of PAC-MAN history as well as a complication of materials created and used previously in The City of Irvine’s exhibition, Journey Through the Maze: 45 Years of PAC-MAN.
Celebrating 45 years of chasing Ghosts, chomping Pac-Dots, and making an impact on gaming and pop culture, this exhibit honors PAC-MAN’s lasting legacy and proves that when it comes to fun, PAC-MAN never goes out of style.
Paley Members: FREE I General Public: Included with Admission (children under 12 are free)
PAC-MAN™& ©Bandai Namco Entertainment Inc.
Ready to play?
Exhibit Highlights
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Play the Classics—Play classic arcade cabinets and dive into classic PAC-MAN gameplay that started it all. No quarters required.
- PAC-MAN Through the Years—Explore a colorful timeline filled with key milestones, fun facts, and behind-the-scenes stories from PAC-MAN’s 45-year journey.
- Behind the Maze—See pages of original PAC-MAN game design and discover how simple ideas became revolutionary game mechanics.
- On the Big Screen—Watch iconic gameplay footage spanning decades.
- Family Arts & Crafts—Kids of all ages can get creative at a hands-on activity station for PAC-MAN–inspired creations.
- Rare Artifacts on Display
- PAC-MAN Atari 2600 box and game cartridge
- First PAC-MAN metal lunchbox (1981)
- “PAC-MAN FEVER“ vinyl
- PAC-MAN vacuum drink bottle
- PAC-MAN: The Card Game (2020)
- Plus more collectibles worth chasing
PAC-MAN 45th Anniversary Family Day!
Saturday, January 31, 2026 | 12 – 5 pm
Waka Waka your way into a chomptastic celebration as PAC-MAN turns 45! Join us for a retro-cool family day packed with games, creativity, and classic arcade fun. From photo-ops with the world’s favorite hungry hero to hands-on activities and exciting giveaways, this is one milestone party you won’t want to miss. Get ready to Power Up and play—fun is always on the menu!
What’s Happening:
- Meet PAC-MAN: Snap a photo with the arcade legend himself during our PAC-MAN meet & greet! (advance sign-up required for a specific time slot: 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, 3:30, 4:30 pm)
- Game On! Jump into PAC-MAN gameplay and relive the thrills that made him a gaming icon.
- Giveaways: Walk away with a PAC-MAN special gift for all kids (while supplies last)
- Raffle Time! Chomp up a chance to win awesome PAC-MAN prizes—every visit is a chance to win!
- Get Crafty! Get creative with PAC-MAN-inspired arts & crafts and coloring activities perfect for kids and families.
Celebrate 45 years of endless fun chomping Pac-Dots and Ghosts—it’s a Power Pellet–powered party for PAC-MAN fans of all ages!
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PaleyFamily Membership
Become a Member: Annual Paley Family Memberships are available for just $125 and give you year-round complimentary Museum access, including to Paley Family Days for two adults and up to four children. Plus, Members get FREE admission to PaleyGX Gaming Studio & VR Experience. A Family Membership is the best way to experience the magic of Paley all year!
Paley Members enjoy FREE admission to The Paley Museum. Join now for this and many other benefits.
Ticket Info
Choose your entrance date between January 16 – May 31, and the time you expect to arrive, and stay all day!
- Advance purchase of timed-entry tickets is recommended. Walk-ups are also welcome on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Paley Members, enter your Member ID (including dashes) or code in the access key field, then click the UNLOCK key.
Visit us:
The Paley Museum
25 West 52 Street, New York City
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