EntertainmentLocalSpecial Feature

Gamers Unite: Long Island Retro Gaming Expo Returns August 8–10 at Cradle of Aviation

By Jessica Mcfadyen
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Gaming Expo
An attendee wearing a virtual reality headset and haptic feedback gear at a local gaming convention. The Long Island Retro Gaming Expo focuses heavily on classic arcade and console nostalgia; also embraces the evolution of gaming with indie titles, tech showcases, and hands-on demos. File photo: betto rodrigues, licensed.

GARDEN CITY, NY – Get ready to mash some buttons and relive your childhood because the Long Island Retro Gaming Expo is back next weekend at the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City. Running from Friday, August 8 through Sunday, August 10, 2025, the annual event brings together generations of gamers to celebrate classic consoles, vintage arcade cabinets, indie games, cosplay, and more.

Now in its 9th year, the expo has grown into one of the largest retro gaming events on the East Coast. Visitors can expect over 150+ free-to-play arcade machines and pinball tables, console setups spanning everything from Atari and NES to Dreamcast and GameCube, and a packed schedule of panels, tournaments, and live performances.

Vendors and exhibitors will line the show floor offering rare games, merchandise, collectibles, and modding services, while guest speakers from across the gaming world will host Q&As and live demos.

The event is known for drawing a loyal crowd of nostalgic adults and younger fans alike, with family-friendly programming, cosplay contests, and hands-on exhibits that bring the history of gaming to life.

And of course, being held inside the Cradle of Aviation Museum, attendees can also explore the museum’s full collection of historic aircraft, lunar landing replicas, and Long Island aerospace milestones – making it a unique hybrid of gaming and science history.

Event Information

  • Event: Long Island Retro Gaming Expo 2025
  • Dates: Friday, August 8 – Sunday, August 10, 2025
  • Location: Cradle of Aviation Museum, Charles Lindbergh Blvd, Garden City, NY 11530
  • Hours:, Friday: 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m., Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m., Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
  • Tickets: Available at LI Retro’s official website or at the door; Weekend passes and single-day tickets available; kids under a certain age often enter free with an adult (check official site for details).

Activities Include:

  • Freeplay arcades & pinball
  • Console gaming stations
  • Retro & indie tournaments
  • Cosplay contests
  • Vendor & artist alley
  • Developer showcase
  • Panels and special guests
  • Museum access included
  • Parking: On-site museum parking lot; additional parking available nearby

Top Questions About This Event

Is this event family-friendly?
Yes! The expo welcomes gamers of all ages and offers plenty of kid-friendly activities and exhibits.

What games can I expect to play?
Classic consoles (NES, SNES, Genesis, PlayStation, etc.), vintage arcade cabinets, and modern retro-inspired indie games.

Are costumes allowed?
Absolutely. Cosplay is encouraged, and there’s even a contest with prizes for the best characters.

Can I buy games and merch?
Yes, there will be dozens of vendors selling retro games, hardware, collectibles, apparel, and more.

Is admission to the museum included?
Yes. Expo tickets include full access to the Cradle of Aviation Museum and its exhibits.

Are tickets available at the door?
Yes, but they often sell out – especially for Saturday. Pre-ordering online is recommended.

Jessica Mcfadyen

Jessica Mcfadyen is a journalist for independent news and media organizations in the United States. Mcfadyen primarily spends her time scouting social media for the latest Local, US and World News for Long Island Guide. She also contributes to a variety of publications through involvement in the Society of Professional Journalists.

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