Who needs a vacation idea with immersive art? Yes please!! Otherworld is a magical place located in Columbus Ohio and Philadelphia Pennsylvania. This is my personal experience with this immersive art and mixed reality installation. It can be best described like exploring an explosion creativity that calms your mind. With the music and visuals it was easy to practice some mindfulness while in the moment.
There is so many things to discover and absorb. It is truly incredible how it is designed and you will not regret visiting. It's also a magical playground where large-scale art meets adventure, with over 40 vibrant scenes to be explored and 32K square feet which is perfect for all ages. I saw many children running about and coming in and out of different holes and doors having so much fun.
Each corner you turn reveals a new universe of color, light, and imagination. I don't know how many times I said oh wow as I went into the different rooms. Trust me, if you have ever gotten lost in virtual reality or art exhibits this is your rabbit hole. Whether you’re an art expert or just someone looking for a weekend escape from the ordinary, Otherworld promises a journey you won't forget.
It's been two and a half years at the time of this writing and I still think and talk about my time at Otherworld. They also have concerts there now and it is a perfect venue for a family outing, date night or just a solo date. They also play calming music throughout the exhibits that really just nail the whole vibe of the place.
This was in the middle of one of the rooms they had.
This is the entrance when you come in.
Cool graphic in the entrance area.
This room kind of looked like lava.
They had these cool swinging chair things in this room. Swinging/Rocking is my go to stimming/coping mechanism so it was cool to swing and take in all the colors and sounds. There was a weird creature that popped out of one corner but it wasn't scary.
Weird Monster/Goblin head that I believe moved and you could crawl through
Immersive Exhibits
What is an immersive exhibit? In order for an exhibit to be immersive, it needs to engage the participants entirely making them feel a part of the design. Stepping into Otherworld is like it says stepping into another world. It's not just a place to look at art; it's a playground where art comes alive. With each step, you're greeted by colors and textures, inviting you to become part of the art. It's where imagination and interaction dance together, an experience unlike any other. Also when I was there there were surprise things that came out but not in a scary way whatsoever it was like oh ok that is cool.
The Experience
Walking through the rooms felt like walking through a portal into another dimension, where art isn't confined to frames but breathes around you. It's truly an experience of no other. Each installation is designed to stimulate your senses, from the squishy floor of the cloud room to the explosion of colors that flood your vision in the mirror room. Whether you're wandering through a glowing forest or a cosmic void, the art demands and the venue encourages you to touch, listen, and explore. It's art that speaks my language for sure.
Vibrant Visuals
Get ready to be immersed in stunning visuals that leaves a lasting impression. Within Otherworld, certain exhibits capture the imagination spectacularly. Picture a room bathed in neon light, where geometric shapes pulse and throb in time with your heartbeat. Or maybe a cavern filled with crystals that shimmer and shift like living rainbows. These visuals don't just catch your eye; they grab your soul and take you on a journey of awe. I mean it really really does.
Kind of looked like Jellyfish tentacles
Hall of mirrors and lights
This was my favorite exhibit. I think I visited it 3 times while I was there and it still wasn't enough. Its hard to hear the music in the video but I loved zoning out to it while staring at the moving wall. I was definitely in my happy place.
Diverse Themes and Scenes
One of Otherworld’s most enticing attributes is its eclectic assembly of over 40 distinct scenes and themes. It's like wandering through a vivid dreamscape where each room tells a new story, waiting for you to discover its magic. Imagine stepping into a forest where the trees glow with an ethereal light or a techno-utopia thrumming with digital beats. The vibrant visuals and interactive elements ensure there's something unique in every corner. Standout installations like these create a bustling atmosphere that keeps the experience fresh and exhilarating.
They also have moving projections that are utterly mesmerizing. I revisited some of my favorites at least a couple of times while there.
This room was pretty cool. I wandered around here for a bit enjoying all the colors.
Entrance to one of the rooms
Finding Your Own Path
In Otherworld, there's no right or wrong way to explore – it's about the journey, not the destination. You can take as much time as you want to. Let your curiosity guide you as you navigate through the artistic labyrinth. You can hop from one exhibit to the next at random or linger in an area that captures your imagination. I revisited several of my favorites before leaving. Without a set route, each visit is a unique experience shaped by your own choices.
Events and Gatherings
Events at Otherworld transform this magical space into a lively social hub. From nighttime performances to children's arts and crafts classes, there's something for everyone. Special gatherings like concerts and themed nights create memories that linger long after the event ends. The events calendar provides options to partake in unforgettable experiences, ensuring every visit offers something new and exciting. Who doesn't love an immersive dance party?
Creating Lasting Memories
When visitors step into Otherworld, they form connections with the rooms and the displays within them. Personal stories, with guests recounting their delight at interacting with the exhibits or the joy of watching their kids explore. Testimonials from happy visitors reveal how Otherworld has woven itself into the community's fabric, creating lasting memories that people cherish.
Best Time to Visit
Choosing the right time for your visit can make all the difference. While Otherworld is an indoor venue and open year-round, it's best to go during weekday afternoons to avoid crowds and get the most interactive experience. This strategy helps sidestep weekend rushes when timed tickets sell out quickly, ensuring a more relaxed exploration. Plus, visiting on a non-peak day means shorter wait times and more opportunities to engage with the exhibits. And most of all it's quieter and you can enjoy the exhibits without as much sensory overload from other people.
What to Bring
- Comfortable attire: Wear comfortable clothing, as you might be climbing through interactive exhibits. Loose outfits are a good choice.
- Socks: It's a shoe-free area in some parts, so socks will keep your feet cozy and clean.
- Camera or Smartphone: Capture the magic! With so many Instagram-worthy sites, you’ll want to document your journey.
- Curiosity and a sense of adventure: This is your chance to unleash your inner explorer and delve into the mysteries waiting around every corner.
Otherworld in Ohio isn't just an art exhibit; it's a vibrant adventure that captures imagination, created by local artists that turned an old abandoned building into something amazing and fantastic. Every visit promises a unique journey. I can't wait to go on another journey there. I live in another state but plan on making a weekend trip back to see it again. But don’t just take my word for it, experience it for yourself! And please let me know what you think!
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