An Otherworldly Experience:

When my husband Mr. Reilly surprised us with a family trip to WonderSpaces, I was intrigued but unsure of what to expect. He had heard rave reviews about this immersive art experience, and we decided it would be a fun adventure for our family. Our sons, Neil and Leon, are always up for exploring new places, so we packed up and headed out, eager to see what this unique attraction had to offer.

A Brief History of WonderSpaces

WonderSpaces began as a pop-up art show in San Diego in 2017, created by founders Jason Shin and Patrick Charles. Their vision was to make art more accessible and engaging for everyone, providing a platform for artists to showcase interactive and immersive works. The success of the initial exhibitions led to the expansion of WonderSpaces to other cities, including Austin. Each location features a rotating selection of installations, ensuring that visitors always have something new and exciting to experience.

Location and Cost

WonderSpaces Austin is located at 1205 Sheldon Cove, Suite 2-A. The venue is nestled in a vibrant part of the city, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists. As for the cost, tickets are reasonably priced considering the quality and diversity of the installations. Adult tickets are $24, while children’s tickets (ages 3-12) are $15. They also offer discounts for seniors, students, and military personnel. We found it best to book our tickets online in advance to ensure our preferred time slot, as the venue can get quite busy, especially on weekends.

The Experience

As soon as we walked into WonderSpaces, we were greeted by a world of color and light. The atmosphere was electric, with an air of anticipation as visitors of all ages explored the various installations. Each piece was carefully designed to engage the senses and invite interaction, making the experience feel both personal and communal.

Mesmerizing Hanging Lights

One of the first installations we encountered was a breathtaking display of hanging lights. Neil and Leon were immediately drawn to the shimmering strands that changed colors in a mesmerizing dance. The lights responded to movement, creating an interactive play of illumination that captivated us all. The boys ran through the hanging lights, their laughter echoing through the space as they tried to catch the changing hues. It was a magical start to our visit, and we spent quite a bit of time there, watching the lights shift and sparkle.

Illusions and Interactive Art

Next, we moved on to a series of illusions and interactive artworks that challenged our perceptions and sparked our imaginations. One of the standout pieces was a magnetic sand clock, which fascinated both adults and children alike. The magnetic sand formed intricate patterns as it flowed through the clock, creating a mesmerizing display that changed with each turn. Neil and Mr. Reilly were particularly intrigued by this installation, asking questions about how it worked and trying to predict the shapes the sand would form next.

Shifting Floor Tiles

Another highlight of our visit was the shifting floor tiles, an installation that quickly became a favorite for our boys. The tiles moved and shifted underfoot, creating a sensation similar to bouncing on a trampoline. Neil and Leon couldn’t get enough of it, jumping and laughing with pure joy. The interactive nature of the tiles made it a fun and engaging experience for all of us, and we spent a good amount of time playing and exploring this installation.

Trippy Spinning 3D Objects and Light Show

One of the most “trippy” and captivating installations we encountered was the spinning 3D objects paired with an immersive light show. This installation featured a series of three-dimensional shapes suspended in mid-air, rotating in a hypnotic dance. The objects, coupled with the dynamic light patterns that shifted and pulsed in time with ambient music, created an otherworldly experience that was both visually and auditorily stimulating.

As we watched the objects spin and the lights change, we felt as though we had been transported to a different dimension. The combination of motion, light, and sound was mesmerizing, making it easy to lose track of time. Neil and Leon were particularly fascinated by the spinning objects, trying to reach out and touch them, and giggling as the lights changed color around them. This installation perfectly captured the surreal and immersive essence of WonderSpaces, leaving a lasting impression on all of us.

Artistic and Surreal Installations

Throughout WonderSpaces, we encountered a wide variety of artistic and surreal installations. Each piece was unique, offering a different perspective and experience. From rooms filled with swirling colors and patterns to quiet spaces that invited reflection and contemplation, there was something for everyone. The diversity of the artworks ensured that our visit was constantly engaging and never monotonous.

I think the most particularly striking installation was the room filled with strings of light that created a dreamlike atmosphere. The lights changed colors and intensity, creating a sense of movement and fluidity that was both calming and exhilarating. We all found ourselves mesmerized by the beauty and intricacy of the installation, and it definitely became one of our favorite parts of the visit.

The Atmosphere

WonderSpaces is not just about the individual installations, it’s about the overall atmosphere they create. The space is designed to be immersive and interactive, encouraging visitors to engage with the art in a personal and meaningful way. The use of light, color, and sound throughout the venue creates a surreal environment that feels almost otherworldly. It’s a place where art comes to life, and every corner holds a new surprise.

The artistic quality of the installations is impressive, with each piece thoughtfully crafted to inspire and provoke thought. The use of technology in many of the artworks adds an extra layer of intrigue, blending traditional art forms with modern innovations. This combination of old and new, tangible and intangible, creates a unique and captivating experience that stays with you long after you leave.

Family-Friendly Fun

WonderSpaces is a fantastic destination for families, offering something for visitors of all ages. Our boys, Neil and Leon, had an absolute blast exploring the different installations, and we enjoyed watching their excitement and curiosity. The interactive nature of many of the artworks made it easy for them to engage with the pieces, and there was plenty of room for them to run around and explore.

For parents, WonderSpaces provides a great opportunity to introduce children to the world of art in a fun and accessible way. The hands-on experiences and sensory-rich environment make it a perfect place for kids to learn and play. The staff were also incredibly friendly and accommodating, making sure that everyone had a positive and enjoyable visit.

Practical Information

If you’re planning a visit to WonderSpaces Austin, here are a few practical tips to help you make the most of your experience:

• Book in Advance: As mentioned earlier, it’s a good idea to book your tickets online in advance to secure your preferred time slot, especially on weekends and holidays.
• Allow Plenty of Time: There’s a lot to see and do at WonderSpaces, so make sure to allow plenty of time for your visit. We spent a couple of hours there and could have easily stayed longer.
• Comfortable Shoes: Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a fair amount of walking and exploring.
• Bring a Camera: There are plenty of photo-worthy moments at WonderSpaces, so don’t forget to bring a camera or smartphone to capture the memories.
• Check for New Installations: WonderSpaces features a rotating selection of installations, so it’s worth checking their website for information on current and upcoming exhibits.

Our visit to WonderSpaces Austin was a pretty cool experience, especially for the kids. The combination of mesmerizing lights, interactive art, and surreal installations made for a day filled with wonder and joy. Neil and Leon had the time of their lives, and we all left with a newfound appreciation for the power of art to inspire and engage.

Whether you’re a local or just visiting Austin, WonderSpaces is a must-see destination that offers something for everyone. It’s a place where art comes alive, inviting you to explore, play, and dream. We can’t wait to go back and see what new wonders await us next time.

So, if you’re looking for a unique and captivating experience that the whole family can enjoy, head to WonderSpaces Austin. You won’t be disappointed!