It starts as another quiet, wintry Saturday – 12/13/14.  On this auspicious day, the last sequential date of the 21st century, you have embarked upon grand plans.  You and your companions are almost there: the National Museum of Mathematics!  Beckoned by the pi-shaped door handles, you pass through the glass cube and into the Museum.  As you check in for your tour, you notice that something doesn't seem right...

You learn that tours leave from the lobby at the top of each hour, taking groups on an hour-long adventure through the Museum.  You pause as you read the fine print: “Return passage not guaranteed.”  Is that a warning?

As you wait for your tour guide, the walls shift before you (is it a sine?).  Your tour guide arrives to take you away.  Math illuminates your path as you venture deeper into the Museum.  You cross a plane of lasers, and suddenly the room darkens.  Your guide vanishes.  Where are you?  How do you get back?  The doors are locked tightly.

You notice a shimmer in the distance.  Is that...an octahedron?  It morphs into a cube, and you soon realize that you'll need your wits, some math, and the help of your companions to find the solution to your freedom!

“Escape the Museum” is designed by puzzles creator Victor Blake, founder of Escape the Room NYC, in collaboration between Escape the Room NYC (escapetheroomnyc.com) and the National Museum of Mathematics.

Event Fees:

• Regular ticket: $39 per player, games starting before 6 pm (includes Museum admission)
• Premium ticket: $74 per player, games starting after 6 pm, ages 21+ only (includes admission to Unbounded: an Evening at MoMath, one free alcoholic beverage, and a special preview of the new Robot Swarm exhibit)

Scroll down for FAQs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is “Escape the Museum”?

“Escape the Museum” is a fun, interactive game taking place in MoMath, a museum full of wondrous mathematical puzzles.  While the exhibit hall may look like any other ordinary exhibit hall, it's actually a mystery puzzle.  Find the hidden objects, figure out the clues, and solve the puzzles to earn your freedom and “Escape the Museum.”  You have 40 minutes once the door locks, so be quick!  Come with your friends, family, and colleagues, and have a great time.

How long will the game take?

The game itself will take 40 minutes, but plan for at least 60 minutes of adventure through the Museum.  We request that complete parties check in at least 10 minutes prior to their scheduled start time.  You are also welcome to come early or stay after the game to explore the rest of the Museum; your ticket includes full-day admission to the Museum (open 10 am to 5 pm).

How many players should we bring?

Games will be held hourly, with groups of up to ten players per game (group size is subject to change).  Tickets are sold individually and for specific times.  You may bring up to ten players in your group, but expect to play with others if you have less than ten players.  You may also book the entire room by purchasing all ten tickets; groups that have purchased the entire room will be guaranteed a private room regardless of actual attendance.

Is Museum admission included in the ticket price?

Yes.  Full-day admission to the Museum ($16 for adults and $10 for children) on 12/13/14 is included in the price of a ticket to "Escape the Museum."  The Museum is open from 10 am to 5 pm.

What if my group is struggling to solve a puzzle and needs help?

A puzzle hunt staff member will be stationed with your group as you solve.  This person will be available to give hints and guidance as needed.  As much as we would love to host a Night at the Museum someday, we too want you to escape!

Can my child play, too? How much math is required?

The structure of the game allows for a wide range of ages to participate, including children.  While “Escape the Museum” is not recommended for very young children, there is no strict, minimum age limit.  Groups with children are strongly encouraged to book the entire room.  In lieu of booking the entire room, groups with children are encouraged to book morning slots.  With regard to math knowledge and skills, this game is intended for a general audience.

What if I can't make it? What is your refund policy?

Rain or shine, whether you are here or not, the game will go on.  Both the gameboard and reception area are entirely indoors, so the game will remain unaffected by inclement weather.  The Museum will do its best to accommodate any parties running late, but cannot guarantee rebookings due to late arrivals.  Tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable.