Yoda Guy Movie Experience — Star Wars Props and Hollywood Insider Tours
Private museum with original Star Wars props, lightsabers, and stormtrooper armor — guided by the man who helped build Yoda.
Why Go
Gary Schwartz spent years at Lucasfilm as a prop and creature maker, working on characters that became cultural icons. He retired to St. Maarten and brought the evidence with him. The Yoda Guy Movie Experience on Voorstraat in Philipsburg houses original Star Wars props — Yoda puppets, lightsabers, stormtrooper armor — alongside pieces from Indiana Jones and Harry Potter. Gary himself guides most tours, telling behind-the-scenes stories that you will not hear anywhere else.
The Experience
The guided tour format is what sets this apart from a typical museum visit. Gary walks you through the collection personally, explaining how each prop was built, what filming was like, and how the characters evolved from concept to screen. The Yoda puppets are the centerpieces — original pieces used in production, not replicas. Lightsaber construction is demonstrated with the actual components. Stormtrooper armor shows the engineering behind what looks simple on screen. Indiana Jones whips, Harry Potter wands, and other film artifacts round out the collection beyond Star Wars. Photo opportunities with props are encouraged, and the gift shop sells autographed items and collectibles that carry the authentication of the man who made them.
What to Try
The guided tour with Gary is the entire point — do not rush through. His stories about working with Jim Henson's team, building creatures under deadline, and the physical craft of prop-making are genuinely fascinating even for non-Star Wars fans. The photo opportunities with original props are unlike anything else in the Caribbean. If you are a collector, the autographed items in the gift shop carry provenance.
Insider Tip
Gary is present for most tours but not all — if meeting him is important to you, confirm when booking. Voorstraat in Philipsburg is walkable from the cruise port, making this a convenient excursion for ship passengers. The museum is closed on Sundays. Allow 45 minutes to an hour for the full guided experience. This is one of those places that surprises people who were not expecting to find something this unique on a Caribbean island.
The Practical Stuff
Open Monday-Saturday 10 AM to 6 PM, closed Sunday. Located at 19A Voorstraat, Philipsburg. Mid-range admission. Guided tours included with entry. Photo opportunities throughout. Gift shop with autographed items. Allow 45-60 minutes. Walkable from the cruise port.
Pair It With
- Pasanggrahan Royal Guest House Guide — Historic Philipsburg hotel next door for combining museum and old-town charm
- Pirana Joe St. Maarten Official Store — Voorstraat shopping neighbor for island-themed souvenirs