Artwork jumps off the paper and into reality through immersive experiences that let you walk through real-life versions of art and history. Your kids will find these larger-than-life museums to be interesting, educational and fun since the colors are bold and attractive. Many are pop-ups so it’s best to buy your tickets in advance. Others have rotating exhibits in permanent locations that are sure to leave a lasting impression!
Beyond King Tut: The Immersive Experience
Pier 36, New York
Through Jan. 1
You’ll have a chance to experience the lore of Ancient Egypt by traveling 3,300 years back in time to experience the story of King Tut. Walk the kids through nine different galleries that discuss his rule as a child pharaoh, his family, the discovery of his tomb, the mysteries surrounding his early death and his journey to the afterlife. This celebrates the 100th anniversary of King Tut’s tomb discovery on Nov. 4, 1922.
Beyond Van Gogh
American Dream, East Rutherford
March 3 – April 30
Imagine being completely immersed in hundreds of the greatest works of post-Impressionist artist Vincent Van Gogh by walking through his paintings. You’ll see more than 300 of his iconic masterpieces up close, including such instantly recognizable classics as “The Starry Night,” “Sunflowers” and “Café Terrace at Night,” as well as many revealing self-portraits.
Frida Kahlo: The Immersive Biography
261 Water St., Brooklyn
Through Jan. 8
Frida Kahlo is one of the most influential artists in modern history. You can learn about her life story through a combination of digital art, historical photographs, projections, installations and virtual reality experiences.
Gustav Klimt: Gold in Motion
Hall des Lumières, New York
Through Dec. 31
Hall des Lumières is a permanent digital art center showcasing entirely new, custom-curated experiences based on the works of different world-renowned artists. The debut exhibition features the works of Gustav Klimt, plus an exhibition featuring works by Friedensreich Hundertwasser, an Austrian painter inspired by Klimt and more.
Monet’s Garden
Financial District, Wall Street, New York
Through March 26
Claude Monet is the Founder of Impressionism, and this experience is sure to impress your kids, your date or your fellow art lovers since not only do you see his paintings in life-sized versions, but you also get to hear classical music and smell lavender as you walk through the gardens! Plus, there is narration in several languages.
The Golden Girls Pop Up Kitchen
Fulton Street, New York
Through Feb. 26
Are you more like Dorothy, Blanche, Rose or Sophia? Find out at this awesome pop-up where you will find yourself in the middle of the iconic TV show. Order a Nylund Negroni, Sophia’s lasagna and definitely some cheesecake. There are plenty of photo ops to make you feel like you’re in the girls’ Miami home.
BATMAN x SPYSCAPE
928 8th Ave., New York
Through March 1
Your teens will love this experience, mostly because it involves a phone app and lots of texting! You’ll be transported into the heart of Gotham City where you’ll have to become your own superhero to solve the mystery! You’ll infiltrate an underworld organization and figure out who is responsible for the kidnappings.
Night Forms: Infinite Wave
Grounds for Sculpture, Hamilton
Through April 2
The incredible 42-acre garden and sculpture park brings art and nature together. Its immersive Night Forms exhibit gives families a whole new way to look at the park after dark. This after-hours, multi-sensory light and sound experience uses projection mapping that enhances the art park, creating a dynamic show to stimulate the senses.