Display assemblies with thermal management features are provided. The display assemblies include an image assembly, a housing for the image assembly having an intake and exhaust. A first, continuous airflow pathway is located within the housing, and includes a first portion located forward of the image assembly and a second portion located rearward of the image assembly. A second airflow pathway extends within the housing between the intake and the exhaust. A heat exchanger located within the housing and rearward of the image assembly includes a first set of ducted passageways forming part of the first airflow pathway and a second set of ducted passageways forming part of the second airflow pathway. The first set of ducted passageways extend alongside, in an alternating fashion with, the second set of ducted passageways.