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National Videogame Museum

4.3
·1k reviews·, United Kingdom

UK's only museum dedicated to video games, offering over 100 playable classics and interactive exhibits for all ages.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more playtime

CrowdLow
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National Videogame Museum - Image 1

National Videogame Museum

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more playtime

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

UK's only museum dedicated to video games, offering over 100 playable classics and interactive exhibits for all ages.

4.3
(1k reviews)

"A fantastic place to visit, especially if you grew up playing classic games. It's a real nostalgia trip!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Year-long return visits! :ticket:

Your ticket is valid for a whole year, so you can come back anytime!

⏰ Check lunch closure times

The museum closes briefly for lunch, plan your visit accordingly.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Playable Arcade Classics

Playable Arcade Classics

Arcade Area

Relive your youth with over 100 playable games, from Space Invaders to Donkey Kong. Instant nostalgia!

Instagram
Giant Pong

Giant Pong

Interactive Exhibits

Experience the iconic game like never before on the world's largest Pong console. A true spectacle!

Instagram
1980s Bedroom Exhibit

1980s Bedroom Exhibit

Historical Exhibits

Step back in time to a classic 80s bedroom, complete with retro gaming setups. Pure nostalgia!

Instagram
Make it! Play it! Exhibition

Make it! Play it! Exhibition

Special Exhibitions

Discover how games are made with creative materials like clay and LEGO. A unique, hands-on experience.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Year-Long Access for Endless Fun

Your ticket to the National Videogame Museum grants you free returns for a whole year! This means you can revisit your favorite retro consoles and exhibits whenever the mood strikes, making it an incredible value for repeat visits and a fantastic option for locals or those on extended trips. Instagram

Plan for Lunchtime Closures

While the museum offers no time limit for your visit, be aware that they do close briefly for lunch. It's a good idea to check their specific closing times to avoid any disruption to your gaming marathon. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more playtime
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons (avoid lunch)
Why
Most exhibits open
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends & Holidays
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Back in 2021 we helped launch an exhibit at the @National Videogame Museum in Sheffield, UK. For eagle eyed visitors, it was the first announcement that we'd be bringing the game to the Nintendo Switch later that year! #gangbeasts #gaming #museum #nintendoswitch
@gangbeastsgame
7.4K likes • 117K views

🎯 Year-long return visits! :ticket:

Your ticket is valid for a whole year, so you can come back anytime! Instagram

⏰ Check lunch closure times

The museum closes briefly for lunch, plan your visit accordingly. Reddit

#PlacesToVisit #daysoutwithkids #museumtok #sheffield #classicgaming #dateideas #retrogaming #GamingOnTikTok
@allthingshistorical
6.8K likes • 126.8K views
NATIONAL VIDEOGAME MUSEUM 🎮🕹 The perfect rainy day activity for gamers, this museum is a must-try trip for anyone wanting to reminisce old video games or explore the inner workings of interactive game tech. 👾 Whether you want to bust some moves on the dance machine or nostalgic Donkey Kong- you’ll have a lot of fun here … #thingstodo #sheffield #sheff #southyorkshire #yorkshire #sheffieldissup...
thesheff.uk
220 likes • 10.2K views

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Fun for all ages! :family_man_woman_girl_boy:

From kids to adults, everyone finds something to love here. Reddit

🚗 Parking & Transport :bus:

Close parking available, and Castle Square tram stop is nearby. Reddit

Did You Know? The National Videogame Museum is the UK’s only museum dedicated entirely to videogames! Making it the perfect place for families, gamers, and curious minds to explore the past, present, and future of play. Inside you’ll find: Over 100 playable games – from arcade classics like Space invaders to modern favourites like Rock Band A brand-new exhibition: Make It! Play It! – celebrating ...
thenvmuk
7 likes • 283 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Year-long return visits! :ticket:

Your ticket is valid for a whole year, so you can come back anytime! Instagram

⏰ Check lunch closure times

The museum closes briefly for lunch, plan your visit accordingly. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Fun for all ages! :family_man_woman_girl_boy:

From kids to adults, everyone finds something to love here. Reddit

🚗 Parking & Transport :bus:

Close parking available, and Castle Square tram stop is nearby. Reddit

📸 Capture the nostalgia :camera_with_flash:

Plenty of photo ops with classic consoles and exhibits. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.3
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the National Videogame Museum for its extensive collection of playable retro games and interactive exhibits, making it a fantastic nostalgic trip for all ages. The year-long return ticket policy is highlighted as excellent value, and the friendly staff contribute to a welcoming atmosphere. While some wish for more modern gaming options, the focus on classic gaming history is a strong draw.

"Really enjoyed a morning here with a group ranging in age from 12 to 50. Something for everyone. Clean toilets and good facilities including lockers. Parking is close by and also the bus station is a short walk away. The staff were all friendly and welcoming. We loved that the tickets are valid for return visits for a whole year! Excellent value. Highly recommend."

Lauren G

"Good place to visit with kids. You can play the classics like Sonic, Mario, Donkey Kong and Space Invaders on different devices. You can also team up with your family/friends on certain games. We spent about an hour here. Small gift shop selling branded merchandise from various games. Would be good if they had Xbox consoles playing COD etc in an adults only area."

stacey brooks

"The National Videogame Museum is a fantastic place to visit, especially if you grew up playing classic games. They have a great collection of old, traditional arcade and console games that instantly bring back childhood memories. It’s a real nostalgia trip and also a lot of fun for anyone new to retro gaming.

What I really liked is that there’s no time limit on how long you can stay, so you can take your time exploring and playing as much as you like. Just note they do close briefly for lunch, but it’s easy enough to plan around.

The facilities are good too, with toilets available on-site, which makes it convenient if you’re spending a few hours there. Overall, it’s a fun and unique activity for both adults and kids, and I’d happily recommend it for a day out."

A A

What People Like

Nostalgic playable classics
Interactive exhibits
Year-long return tickets

What People Dislike

Limited modern games

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The National Videogame Museum in Sheffield is easily accessible. If you're using public transport, the Castle Square tram stop is a short walk away. For drivers, there is parking available nearby. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available close to the National Videogame Museum, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

Absolutely! The museum is well-served by public transport. The Castle Square tram stop is within easy walking distance, making it a convenient option for many visitors. Instagram

Yes, there are National Videogame Museums in both Sheffield, UK, and Frisco, Texas, USA. Ensure you are looking up the correct location for your travel plans. TikTokInstagram

The National Videogame Museum in Frisco, Texas, is located at 8004 Dallas Pkwy. It's a popular indoor activity in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While specific pricing isn't detailed in the provided content, reviews highlight that tickets offer excellent value, especially since they are valid for return visits for a whole year. InstagramReddit

Yes, a fantastic perk is that your ticket is valid for free return visits for a whole year! This makes it an incredible deal for repeat visitors. InstagramReddit

One summer deal mentioned allows visitors to ride the Supertram to Castle Square tram stop and get free returns for the summer. It's worth checking for any ongoing promotions. Instagram

The provided information doesn't specify if advance booking is required, but it's always a good idea to check the official website, especially during peak seasons or for special events. Reddit

The museum does close briefly for lunch, so it's advisable to check their official opening hours before your visit to plan your time effectively. Reddit

🎫 🕹️ Onsite Experience

You can play over 100 playable games, including arcade classics like Space Invaders, Pac-Man, and Donkey Kong, as well as console favorites like Mario and Sonic. InstagramReddit+1

Absolutely! It's a great place for kids, with many interactive exhibits and classic games that are fun for all ages. Families consistently praise it as a top day out. TikTokReddit

Yes, the museum features numerous interactive exhibits, including Giant Pong, the Head to Head Wall, and the chance to play classic arcade and console games. Instagram+2

Definitely! The museum is a huge nostalgia trip for adults, offering a chance to relive childhood memories with retro games and exhibits. Reddit

No, there's no time limit on how long you can stay and play. You're encouraged to take your time exploring and enjoying all the exhibits. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, visitors are encouraged to take photos and share their experiences. It's a great place to capture nostalgic moments and fun with friends and family. TikTok

While generally permitted, it's always a good practice to be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography that might disrupt their experience or the exhibits. TikTok

Iconic spots like the Giant Pong, the 1980s bedroom exhibit, and the rows of playable arcade machines offer fantastic photo opportunities. Instagram+1

Many creators share videos of their visits on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, so filming is generally allowed. Just be respectful of others. TikTokInstagram

The 'Make it! Play it!' exhibition, showcasing game development through various crafts, and the extensive collection of retro consoles are particularly photogenic. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The National Videogame Museum is a top-tier destination for families. With over 100 playable games, including classics like Mario and Sonic, kids can dive into the fun immediately. InstagramReddit The interactive exhibits, such as the Giant Pong and the 1980s bedroom, offer engaging experiences that capture children's imaginations. Instagram+1 Many families rave about the museum being a perfect indoor activity, especially on rainy days, and appreciate that the tickets offer year-long return visits, providing excellent value. InstagramReddit

Parents often note that the museum is great for a range of ages, from younger children to teenagers, and even adults enjoy the nostalgic trip. Reddit The staff are consistently described as friendly and helpful, contributing to a positive and stress-free family outing. Reddit Consider planning your visit around their brief lunchtime closure to maximize your playtime. Reddit

🕹️ Retro Gaming Enthusiasts

For those who grew up with joysticks and cartridges, the National Videogame Museum is a pilgrimage site. It's a treasure trove of classic arcade and console games, offering an unparalleled opportunity to relive cherished gaming memories. Reddit You can spend hours playing iconic titles like Space Invaders, Pac-Man, and Lemmings on their original hardware. TikTokReddit The museum's dedication to preserving and showcasing these retro gems makes it a truly special place for enthusiasts. Reddit

The '80s bedroom exhibit is a particularly poignant exhibit, transporting visitors back to a simpler time of gaming. Instagram+1 The sheer volume of playable classics ensures that you'll find your favorites and discover new ones. The fact that tickets are valid for a year means you can return whenever nostalgia strikes, making it an invaluable resource for any retro gaming fan. Reddit

📅 Day-Trippers & Tourists

If you're looking for a unique and entertaining day out, the National Videogame Museum is an excellent choice. It offers a fun and interactive experience that stands out from traditional museums. TikTok The chance to play classic video games is a major draw, providing hours of entertainment for individuals and groups. Reddit The museum's accessibility, with nearby parking and public transport links, makes it convenient for visitors exploring Sheffield or the Dallas-Fort Worth area. InstagramReddit

Consider taking advantage of the year-long return ticket policy if you're staying in the area for an extended period, or if you simply want the option to revisit. Instagram It's a great way to break up a trip with some lighthearted fun and a dose of nostalgia. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through Gaming History

The National Videogame Museum is the UK's only museum dedicated solely to video games, offering a comprehensive look at the medium's evolution. TikTok Visitors can explore a vast collection of over 100 playable games, spanning from the earliest arcade classics like Space Invaders and Pac-Man to beloved console titles such as Mario, Sonic the Hedgehog, and Donkey Kong. TikTokInstagram The museum meticulously curates exhibits that showcase the history and culture of video games, making it a fascinating destination for both seasoned gamers and newcomers alike. Instagram

Beyond just playing games, the museum delves into the development and creation of video games. The 'Make it! Play it!' exhibition, for instance, highlights how games are made using various creative mediums like clay and LEGO, offering a unique insight into game design. Instagram This educational aspect is crucial, as many visitors, including families, appreciate the opportunity to learn about the industry's past, present, and future. Instagram The museum aims to educate and inspire, emphasizing the importance of game education and its cultural impact. Reddit

Real visitors often highlight the nostalgic element as a major draw. Stepping into exhibits like the 1980s bedroom, complete with a retro gaming setup, instantly transports people back to their childhoods. Instagram+1 The chance to play these classic games on original hardware provides an authentic and memorable experience. Reddit The museum's commitment to preserving and showcasing this history makes it a vital cultural institution for the gaming community and beyond. Reddit

Interactive Fun for Everyone

The National Videogame Museum excels in providing an interactive and engaging experience for visitors of all ages. A standout attraction is the world's largest Pong console, offering a playful and impressive way to experience a foundational video game. Instagram Visitors often receive complimentary tokens to play in the classic arcade section, allowing them to try their hand at a variety of beloved retro games. Instagram This hands-on approach ensures that the museum is not just a place to observe, but a place to actively participate and have fun.

Beyond the arcade, the museum features numerous interactive exhibits designed to immerse visitors in the world of gaming. These include displays like the 'Head to Head Wall' and the 'Timeline of Consoles,' which allow for direct engagement with gaming history. Instagram The museum also hosts special events and workshops, such as stop-motion animation sessions, adding another layer of interactive learning and entertainment. Reddit The variety of activities ensures that there's something to capture the interest of every visitor, whether they are looking to compete, learn, or simply reminisce.

Many reviews emphasize that the museum is a fantastic day out for families. The ability to play games together, like teaming up on certain titles, creates shared experiences and lasting memories. Reddit The friendly and helpful staff further enhance the visitor experience, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. Reddit The combination of playable exhibits, educational content, and a fun, interactive environment makes the National Videogame Museum a highly recommended destination for a family outing. Reddit

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