The Museum of Illusions is ready to thrill those who wander its halls. The newly-opened New Orleans location of the internationally-adored attraction is the 63rd installment, and visitors will absolutely notice the local touches everywhere. "One of the great things that we do when we go to a location is incorporate some of the culture, iconic landmarks, and things like that. The moment you walk in here, you have this illusion. The interesting thing about that is if you walk across, his eyes will follow you, and this is clearly inspired by a jazz musician. And we have this beautiful iron work that is very New Orleans-specific," said PR Manager Pien Koopman
The museum winds you through to see all of the more than 80 exhibits. Some are brain teasers while others are fully immersive experiences that are perfect for taking mind-bending pictures. You can scale a French Quarter building with ease or become a part of an eye-popping kaleidoscope. "This is very much gymnastics for the brain. The whole idea is that you learn something as well. If you just want to come through for a fun date night or do something fun with the family, all that is fine. You want to learn a little bit more, you can read about it and really understand what's going on. And also we have the best photo and video suggestions listed," Pien explained. Some of the more complex exhibits have an Illusion Expert standing by to help you figure out the best angles for photos. But it seems that the best poses come from kids. Pien said, "Sometimes the kids are way better than the parents at them. They're so creative. It's really fun for adults too because you do get a little bit jaded and then you see people saying, 'How did they do this? I can't figure this out!' It's a lot of fun seeing people having fun and trying to figure out how it all works and how it's all pulled together."
The almost 10,000 square feet museum features tilted rooms, sideways rooms, forced perspective rooms, an infinity mirror room, and so much more. The vortex tunnel is a throwback to when the Ripleys Believe It or Not Museum took up this space. You may find yourself sucked into some of the exhibits like I did, staring at them for a long time and becoming fascinated by the beauty and mystery. Pien continued, "We also have this area called our Brain Gym where you can play all these games and puzzles if you want to chill or you want to hang out. We pride ourselves on the fact that we have some toys that make kids leave their screens for a while which is quite a big task."
Museum of Illusions focuses on fun alongside education. The museum is STEM.org Certified, and educators can attend for free. Museum of Illusions welcomes field trips and will provide age-appropriate curriculum to help children deeply understand the scientific principles behind the illusions.
The New Orleans Museum of Illusions is a permanent attraction that hopes to entertain and educate tourists as well as locals young and old. Just enter the Jax Brewery mall and head to the second floor to have your mind expanded. Be ready to get some pictures!
