Paley Museum exhibit celebrates 50 seasons of 'Survivor'

The Paley Museum's exhibition, "Outwit, Outplay, Outlast: Celebrating 50 Seasons of Survivor," in honor of the iconic competition series's landmark 50th season, is currently on view through May 31. Credit: The Paley Museum
"Survivor" fans don’t have to travel to a remote island to feel like they’re part of the game — just Midtown Manhattan.
A new exhibit at The Paley Museum (25 W. 52nd St., paleycenter.org, 212-621-6600), "Outwit, Outplay, Outlast: Celebrating 50 Seasons of Survivor," is open Wednesdays through Sundays noon to 6 p.m. until May 31, offering Long Islanders an easy, nostalgia-filled day trip into the city as the long-running reality competition marks its milestone 50th season.

The exhibition drops fans into the "Survivor"experience, including a recreation of Tribal Council. Credit: The Paley Museum
Once inside, the experience drops visitors straight into the world of the show. Fans can pose with a "Survivor" torch or take a seat at a recreated Tribal Council, stepping into one of the series’ most recognizable settings. From there, the exhibit expands into a deeper look at the game’s history, with original artifacts spanning all 50 seasons — including immunity idols, necklaces, a torch snuffer and other iconic pieces.
"People are loving the opportunity to immerse themselves on the island and feel like a castaway, right down to sitting at Tribal Council and decide who to vote out," said Jason Lynch, curator at The Paley Museum. "It is the closest you can get to Survivor without traveling to Fiji and competing on the show."
There are also wardrobe items worn by host and executive producer Jeff Probst and former castaways, alongside original sketches of the show’s sets and logos. A mix of photos, videos and a detailed timeline walks visitors through some of the most memorable blindsides, alliances and challenges that have defined the series since its 2000 debut.

See original artifacts spanning all 50 seasons, including immunity idols, necklaces, a torch snuffer and other iconic pieces. Credit: The Paley Museum
The museum’s Bennack Theater is also screening classic episodes, giving both longtime viewers and newcomers a chance to revisit pivotal moments from across the franchise.
“Whether you are a die-hard Survivor fan, have only watched a few seasons, or are simply aware of the show, there is something in this exhibit for you," Lynch said.
Beyond "Survivor," admission includes access to the rest of the museum, making it easy to turn the visit into a full afternoon. "45 Years of Pac-Man" is also on view through May 31, where visitors can play classic arcade games and explore the design history behind the iconic character. The PaleyGX Gaming Studio offers additional interactive experiences, including video games and VR, while the museum’s broader programming features curated screenings, rotating exhibits and occasional live events with industry talent.
Located within walking distance of Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall, Bryant and Central Parks and Fifth Avenue shopping, The Paley Museum is a convenient add-on to a day in the city for Long Islanders, whether you’re a dedicated "Survivor" fan or just looking for something different to do.
Admission to the museum, which includes the exhibit, is $21.50 for adults and $17.50 for students, seniors, teachers, veterans and first responders. Children under 12 are admitted free with a paying adult. Timed-entry tickets are recommended, though walk-ups are accepted based on availability.
For more information or to reserve tickets, visit paleycenter.org.
Plan your visit to the world of 'Survivor'
- Where: The Paley Museum, 25 W. 52nd St., Manhattan
- When: Through May 31; Wednesday to Sunday, noon to 6 p.m.
- Cost: $21.50; $17.50 students, seniors, teachers, veterans and first responders; free for children under 12 with adult
- Tickets: Timed entry recommended; walk-ups first come, first served
- Also on view: "45 Years of Pac-Man," plus screenings, gaming and VR experiences
- More info: 212-621-6600, paleycenter.org