The Squid Games Experience – Do You Have What it Takes to Survive?
Squid Games Experience
New York City
If you are like the majority of the population, you have been captivated by the fan favorite Netflix Series Squid Games. An interesting series based around deadly children’s games and paying off debts, it’s a show that really makes you think – and the deadly competition makes it hard to look away.
Every wonder if you’d make it in The Squid Games?
Located in Harold Square (right near Macys!) in the old Manhattan Mall is a pop-up Squid Game Experience. Take the subway to 34th or walk from your location and enter right at the corner of 32nd Street and 6th Ave. It’s a fun and thrilling experience for most ages – kids and adults alike. (I’d say kids about 8 and up, but more of an adult crowd from my experience. Use your discretion, the games may be more difficult for young kids).
Get ready to see if you have what it takes!
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Assume any links on this website are affiliate links with companies that I use and trust. I may earn a small commission at no cost to you, I just enjoy sharing my favorite finds with my readers.
What to Expect at The Squid Games Experience
As fans of Squid Games, we made sure to rewatch the first season and watch the whole second season to be ready for whatever was coming our way when we entered. We wanted a good shot at winning all of the games! All I can say is that the games are similar (obviously not the same), they are difficult and a bit nerve-wracking, and there is an overall excitement and nervousness around even knowing you won’t be shot if you lose.
The Overview
Prices
- Standard Admission $39-$49
- VIP Admission $65-$90
- Anytime VIP Admission $89-$115
- VIP Admissions come with a complimentary drink, front of the line access, and some other perks like anytime admission, masks, and special games
Hours
- Hours and availability vary and are limited, with more dates and times being added in April and throughout the summer
- Open mostly Thursdays through Sundays
- The total experience takes about an hour
Extras
- Coat Check is available (included with VIP, $3 per person for standard admission)
- Visit the Night Market with arcade games, photo ops, drinks & snacks, a bar, and merchandise
- Group Visits (15+) and Private Events available
Entering the Squid Games Experience
Upon entering, you will have a chance to take a few photos in the entry area. You will then be escorted into the Night Market. Here you can check your coat, use the restroom, and check out some of the merchandise available.
When it’s time for the games to begin you will be sent to line up. VIP Admissions will have their own line. The others will simply line up in their section and show their tickets or barcode. Everyone will be given a wristband with a number.
You will also put your number into a screen and get your photo taken, similar to on Squid Games. This photo along with your number will be displayed in each game and will hold your ranking throughout the experience.
Squid Games Photo Ops
Merchandise for Sale
Your New Name is Your Number
Get Ready!
Let the Squid Games Begin
There will be a “host” to guide you through the experience. They will lead you into different rooms and briefly explain the games and rules to you. The host we had was fun! Just make sure you pay attention! (Even if you lose right away, you are still able to continue through to play all of the games).
The first game is similar to the glass tile game in the Netflix show. You will be shown a pattern of lights distinct to your row and have to remember the sequence. If you step on a wrong tile, your row turns red and you lose! You will then wait off to the side and watch the rest of the players go. Feel free to cheer them on, but don’t take a picture when the pattern shows and tell them where to go, that’s no fun!
In the next game you will be asked to stand on a circle around a table with a shape. Each player will receive a tin with marbles. You will go around the circle of players, throwing the marbles onto the table. The idea is to get your marble in or on the shape and take all of the marbles on the table. The player with the most marbles at the end wins.
For the next game the host has everyone divide into 2 teams. You will then be led into separate rooms and play battleship! I don’t remember this one being in the series, but it was still a fun idea. You get into your “boat” and the “captain” enters where to shoot. It works better if you work as a team to really attack the enemy! You will hear cheering from the other side when they hit you, so get LOUD! Once your ship sinks you are unable to continue shooting.
Then you get to play Red Light Green Light! The Young-hee doll is CREEPY to see in person after watching the show. There are boxes to hide behind, but there’s not really enough time to even hide and get back up. The green light is very quick and you will be out before you even realize it. I didn’t think I moved but I would’ve been shot in the show apparently…remember that slow and steady wins the race!
The last game I will leave as a surprise! It was something I wasn’t expecting and not everyone gets to be involved technically, but the guy in the black mask is there and it’s a bit scary!
Tips for The Squid Games Experience
Get There Early
Make sure you know where it is and where to go in. Enter on the corner of 6th Ave and 32nd Street. You can check your coat and look around the Night Market beforehand. It's right in Herald Square so there's plenty of shopping and dining around too.
Get Into Character
It's fun to be a little scared! Play like your life depends on it, like you're really in the game. You only get one chance at these games and then the experience is over! Take your time and listen to the directions - and keep an eye on your ranking!
Check Out the Night Market
The Night Market has some great authentic Korean treats and fun cocktails! There's also a lot of cool game-inspired merchandise and souvenirs to remember your trip.
Want to get into character before you get there?
Check out these great Squid Games Costumes and Accessories!
Some Info to Remember:
- They will not shoot you!
- There are bathrooms
- There is no touching permitted (be competitive but not crazy)
- You only get ONE chance per game and it only lasts an hour
- In the tile game, player’s rows would turn red even when they were right and they were able to stay if the host caught it – so be aware of that
- Listen closely in red light green light – they will call your number for being out and you may not realize
- VIP and Group Admissions are available
- Purchase your tickets in advance HERE
You May Also Like
Top 6 Best Toy Stores in NYC
6 Fun Things to Do in DUMBO – Brooklyn New York
