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Explore the fascinating illusions at Salt Lake City's Museum of Illusions. Perfect for families and friends seeking a fun, interactive, and mind-bending experience.
If you’re on the hunt for a quirky, engaging activity in Salt Lake City, the Museum of Illusions offers a playful break from the usual sightseeing. While we haven’t personally wandered through its corridors, the glowing reviews, detailed descriptions, and a solid 5-star rating suggest it’s a hit among visitors. The museum promises over 50 interactive exhibits that challenge your sense of reality — an ideal spot for families, couples, or groups of friends eager for a dose of visual fun.
What draws us in is the promise of hands-on exhibits that don’t just look cool but make you question what you see. We love the idea of gravity-defying installations and life-size kaleidoscopes, perfect for those Instagram moments. However, potential visitors should note that the experience is quite short—anywhere from just a few minutes to about an hour and a half—which makes it a quick but highly memorable stop. If you’re after an attraction that combines education with entertainment, and you’re in downtown Salt Lake City, this could be just the ticket.
This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy quirky, interactive fun and are curious about how illusions work. It’s especially good for families with kids or older visitors who appreciate hands-on science. Keep in mind, the non-refundable policy and the requirement for good weather mean you should plan your visit with flexibility in mind.


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This museum isn’t your standard art gallery; it’s a playground for the senses. Over 50 exhibits are designed to trick your eyes and mind, ranging from gravity-defying rooms to holograms that seem to float in midair. Located within the bustling Gateway shopping and entertainment complex, the museum offers a compact, approachable experience that invites you to question your perceptions and have some good-natured fun.
The core appeal lies in its interactive nature. Unlike static displays, you get to touch, pose, and interact with the exhibits, making it ideal for families or groups who want more than just to look. For instance, walking into a life-sized kaleidoscope or attempting to grow or shrink your body at certain installations makes the experience memorable and often hilarious. It’s a fantastic way to shake up a day of sightseeing with something unexpectedly playful.
The exhibits are designed not only for entertainment but also to educate about optical illusions and the science behind perception. They reveal how our brains interpret visual cues and why our eyes can be fooled. We loved the way the museum combines visual tricks with educational insight, making it perfect for those curious about how perception works.
One visitor, a grandfather, shared that he and his wife found it “very interesting, hands-on,” praising the friendly staff for assisting with photos. This suggests the staff are accommodating and eager to enhance your visit. The overwhelmingly positive ratings imply that most visitors find the exhibits engaging and worth the price.
The museum’s location in The Gateway means it’s easy to reach via public transportation or car, and the surrounding area offers plenty of other dining and shopping options. Admission costs $35 per person, which for an interactive, engaging activity is quite reasonable. The visit can last anywhere from a few minutes if you’re passing through, to up to an hour and a half if you take your time exploring all the exhibits.

While the museum doesn’t follow a strict itinerary, the experience centers around exploring various illusion rooms and installations. You’ll encounter areas where gravity seems reversed, where you can walk into a giant kaleidoscope, and holograms that seem to float just out of reach. Each exhibit is designed to deceive your senses and make you question what you see—an excellent way to engage both kids and adults.
It’s worth noting that this isn’t a traditional museum with static displays; the emphasis is on interactive fun. If you’re expecting a detailed historical narrative or traditional art, this isn’t it. But if you appreciate visual tricks and science-backed illusions, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

One reviewer, a couple of grandparents, expressed initial hesitation but ended up “very interested, hands-on,” and appreciated the helpful staff for assisting with pictures. Their experience underscores that the museum is accessible to a wide age range and is friendly for those unfamiliar with illusions.
Although only one review is available, the perfect 5.0 rating signals high satisfaction. Visitors especially liked the friendly staff and the engaging, interactive exhibits, which are key ingredients for a memorable visit.


This museum is perfect for families with kids, groups of friends, or couples looking for a playful outing. If you enjoy science, puzzles, or optical illusions, you’ll find the experience both fun and surprisingly educational. It’s also a suitable activity for those who appreciate interactive exhibits but don’t want to spend hours on a single activity.
However, if you’re seeking a lengthy, in-depth attraction or something more historical or cultural, this might not satisfy those interests. Its brief duration combined with its focus on visual and sensory illusions makes it an excellent quick stop.

The Museum of Illusions Salt Lake City offers a unique blend of entertainment and education, making it a worthwhile addition to your travel plans. Its interactive, hands-on exhibits transform a simple visit into a playful experience that challenges perceptions and sparks curiosity. At just $35, it delivers good value for a memorable, fun outing.
This attraction shines brightest for those eager to play with perception, enjoy visual tricks, and capture fun photos. It’s especially suitable for families, couples, or groups of friends who want a lighthearted break from more traditional sightseeing. Just remember to book ahead, plan your visit around the weather, and prepare to question what you see—and perhaps even have a few laughs along the way.
In the end, the Museum of Illusions is a refreshingly different experience in Salt Lake City that encourages you to see the world—and yourself—in a new way.
“My husband and I are grandparents and we were concerned if we will like it.”

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, the museum’s interactive nature appeals to visitors of most ages, including children. It offers hands-on exhibits that are safe and engaging.
Can I bring service animals?
Absolutely. The museum allows service animals, making it accessible for visitors with disabilities.
How long does a typical visit take?
Most visitors spend between a few minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on how thoroughly they explore the exhibits.
Is the experience wheelchair accessible?
While specific accessibility details aren’t provided, the museum’s location in a busy downtown, and the fact that most travelers can participate, suggest it’s likely accessible for wheelchair users.
What is the cost of admission?
The ticket price is $35 per person, offering a good value for the interactive and educational experience.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Since most travelers book in advance and the experience is indoors, weather doesn’t directly affect your visit. However, the policy states that if weather cancels your visit, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
This detailed review aims to help you weigh whether a visit to Salt Lake City’s Museum of Illusions deserves a spot on your itinerary. Its playful approach to perception and visual trickery ensures a fun, memorable, and surprisingly educational experience for all who venture inside.