It’s not only towering high rises, pizza by the slice and iconic department stores on my New York bucket list; the city is also home to many incredible interactive exhibitions.
Whether you’re planning a quirky date idea or an afternoon for the whole family, this vibrant hub of multi-sensory events offers residents and visitors a plethora of unique events that blend art, creativity, technology, and storytelling. Read my curated list of the best immersive experiences in NYC for 2026.
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Interactive Museums & Galleries In NYC
Summit One Vanderbilt: Air by Kenzo Digital
Take immersive art to new heights – literally – with Air by Kenzo Digital at Summit One Vanderbilt. This ethereal, mirror-filled creation is set against the breathtaking NYC skyline. Expect a multi-sensory installation created around reflections, light, and space.
Easily one of my favorite places to visit in the city thanks to its aesthetic design, gorgeous views and rooftop bar, Summit One is undoubtedly among the best immersive art experiences NYC has seen in years. My top tip: wear comfortable shoes and bring sunglasses as it can get very bright.
Buy Summit One Vanderbilt tickets here.
Watch my video here.
📍45 E 42nd Street, New York, NY 10017.
🎟 adult tickets from $43, children under 5 go free.
📅 bookings open now.
♿️ wheelchair accessible. Guests with low vision or no vision can request a sighted guide in advance.
👶 multiple family restrooms. Strollers must be foldable and kept with you as there is no storage.
Arte Museum
An day out for all ages, Arte Museum is the sensory journey that landed in Manhattan this September. Far from a boring institution, this fun museum in NYC will surround you in nature with scents and sounds to accompany.
There’s the Waterfall Infinite room – a surreal space where wall-to-wall screens meet floor-to-ceiling mirrors and crashing waves – as well as rooms that span Forest, Sun, Moon, Aurora, and other themes. Easily among the best immersive art New York has right now. Also, you won’t want to miss the interactive Arte Cafe; think matcha lattes and Asian-inspired desserts.
📍61 Chelsea Piers, New York, NY, 10011.
🎟 adult tickets from $45; $35 for NY/NJ residents; children under 3 go free.
📅 bookings open now.
♿️ wheelchair accessible, service animals allowed.
👶 stroller-friendly.
Mercer Labs Museum of Art and Technology
Mercer Labs takes you on a journey through surreal and thought-provoking immersive environments designed by contemporary artists. This experience features a mix of sound, visuals, and interactivity that plays with perception and emotion.
Expect 15 ultra-sensory rooms, a unique 4D sound gallery, and the opportunity to bring your own animal creation to life through a 3D video. You won’t want to miss this immersive museum in NYC.
Buy Mercer Labs immersive art New York tickets here.
📍21 Dey Street, New York, NY 10007.
🎟 adult tickets from $52, children under 3 go free.
📅 bookings open now.
♿️ Mercer Labs has elevators, accessible restrooms, some exhibits with braille, and service animals are welcome.
👶 strollers are not permitted.
Museum of Illusions New York
More of a TikTok-worthy destination than a traditional museum, this unique name originated in Croatia and has since made its way to Las Vegas and NYC. There is the Tilted Room, an Infinity Room and many more photo opportunities.
The Museum of Illusions New York is a place for young and old; ideal for everything from group field trips to quirky date ideas. Keep an eye out for special events, for example October is dedicated to Halloween – complete with sweet treats and discounted tickets.
Buy tickets for Museum of Illusions in New York here.
📍77 8th Ave, New York, NY 10014.
🎟 adult tickets from $35, children under 4 can claim a free ticket.
📅 bookings now open.
♿️ ADA compliant, although only 75% of the museum is wheelchair accessible (second floor accessed via stairs).
👶 stroller accessible, but no storage available.
Unarthadox
From therapeutic wellness workshops and immersive paint ‘n’ sip, to a sculpture class done blindfolded, Unarthadox is the sensory art studio offering a different kind of day out.
Planning a private event? Ideal for birthdays, bachelorette parties and more, this adults-only environment should be on your radar.
Buy Unarthodox New York tickets here.
📍547 W 27th St #300, New York, NY 10001.
🎟 tickets from $55.
📅 bookings now open.
♿️ ADA compliant, mobility devices are welcome.
👶 18+, not suitable for children.
RiseNY
An immersive museum and flying theater rolled into one, RiseNY is a thrilling tribute to the city. Soak up the history, culture, and landmarks of the Big Apple with photo opps throughout.
Not only are there 7 interactive galleries and a replica of the first subway which includes a short documentary narrated by Jeff Goldblum, but also a simulated flight ride that takes you over the NYC skyline in 4D.
📍160 W 45th St, New York, NY 10036.
🎟 adult tickets from $45, children under 3 go free.
📅 bookings now open.
♿️ wheelchair accessible (including the RiseNY ride).
👶 child-friendly and stroller accessible expect for the ride; there is a 40” (1 meter) height requirement for this part.
Museum of Ice Cream
I remember when the Museum of Ice Cream landed in California to a huge fanfare, and almost a decade later it’s still creating a stir on the East Coast. Dive into ice cream or swim sherbet shores… this isn’t your typical museum.
Whether you have a sweet tooth or you just came to unleash your inner child, there is plenty to explore. That means 13 exhibits set across 3 floors, with unlimited ice cream to sample at the coolest interactive museum in New York City.
Buy Museum of Ice Cream tickets here.
📍558 Broadway, New York, NY, 10012.
🎟 adult tickets from $49, children under 2 go free.
📅 bookings now open.
♿️ wheelchair accessible; contact the team here if you require special accommodations.
👶 single strollers are permitted but no storage or coat check; there isn’t a huge amount of space so you may want to leave them at home.
ARTECHOUSE
Is Artechouse, NYC worth it? If you’re after something a little different, this creative space is a must-visit. This mind-expanding exhibition ‘SUBMERGE: Beyond the Render’ features work from leading 3D artists – think Emmy winners, emerging voices, and music from Zedd,
ARTECHOUSE’s signature floor-to-ceiling projections on state-of-the-art displays provides the ultimate close-up view. There are 12 hyperreal experiences, including an immersive concert experience and surreal anime battles.
My top tip: leave some time to check out the XR Bar for beer, wine, XR cocktails and mocktails.
📍439 W 15th Street, New York, NY 10011.
🎟 adult tickets from $26, children under 3 go free.
📅 bookings now open.
♿️ wheelchair accessible.
👶 stroller accessible.
Sensory Experiences In NYC
Bubble Planet
Looking for interactive experiences near NYC? A fun and playful space inspired by the spherical shape, Bubble Planet is one for the whole family.
Visit American Dream in New Jersey, to discover pastel landscapes, join the hot air balloon flight simulator, dive into a giant “bubble bath” or venture inside sensory domes filled with projections.
Immersive art in New Jersey: buy Bubble Planet tickets here.
Watch my video here.
📍1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ 07073.
🎟 adult tickets from $24 children under 2 go free.
📅 bookings now open.
♿️ wheelchair accessible, though some areas are not step free.
👶 strollers need to be parked in a designated area at the entrance.
Color Factory
Easily one of the best immersive experiences NYC has to offer, Color Factory should be on your radar. Each area offers a new adventure; from pastel ball pits and confetti parks to moving walls, surprise giveaways and even sweet treats.
A multi-hued homage to the city, the space has been designed with the input of both local and international artists. For example, Salt-N-Pepa’s Spinderella, Queens-based Won McIntosh and Molly Young of the New York Times.
Buy Color Factory tickets here.
📍251 Spring Street, New York, NY 10013.
🎟 adult tickets from $29, children under 2 go free.
📅 bookings open now.
♿️ ADA service animal are permitted.
👶 strollers are not permitted. There is storage available in the lobby and they must be folded.
Sloomoo Institute
Have you been searching for ‘immersive experience near me’? Look no further. Sloomoo Institute is the hands-on adventure that celebrates all things slime in Houston, Chicago, Los Angeles, and now Broadway.
Firstly, there are massive vats of slime you can literally step in. Secondly, ASMR soundscapes and interactive installations make this space is a colorful, textural wonderland that implores you to unleash your inner big kid.
📍475 Broadway, New York, NY 10013.
🎟 adult tickets from $40.
📅 bookings open now.
♿️ wheelchair accessible. Noise-canceling headphones are available on request.
👶 recommended for ages 5 and over. Stroller accessible; complimentary coat check and stroller check.
Candlelight Concerts
Organizing a date to remember? Between Adele, ABBA and Lauryn Hill, Candlelight Concerts have something for every music taste. This is a unique series of events that takes you to stunning locations (think churches, catacombs and more) set to candlelight – of course – that transforms each location into a sensual space.
Whether you’re into old-school hip hop or want to experience movie soundtracks like never before, this is an event that will truly impress. So, book this immersive experience in NYC for 2025.
Buy Candlelight Concert tickets here.
📍 multiple New York locations.
🎟 tickets from $30.
📅 bookings open now.
♿️ most venues are ADA compliant, but I recommend checking the FAQ.
👶 children under 8 are not permitted.
Immersive Dining Experiences in NYC
Nona’s Supper Club
The Abalafia family restaurant is reopening its doors for a grand celebration… and you’re invited. An elevated musical taking place at Chelsea Table & Stage, Nona’s Supper Club will draw you in with a soundtrack of pop anthems and show-stopping ballads.
Dishes range from crispy arancini to spaghetti and meatballs smothered in a homemade tomato sauce. Aa an audience member, you can expect an interactive performance from actors who engage with you while you wine and dine.
📍Hilton Fashion District Hotel, 152 W 26th St, New York, NY 10001
🎟 tickets from $33.
📅 weekend bookings open now.
♿️ please check with the venue.
👶 suitable for adults.
Fork N Film
Foodies, this one is for you. For a unique immersive dining experience, NYC restaurant experience Fork N Film brings movies to life with a culinary twist. Disney fans can catch the likes of Ratatouille, Toy Story, Moana and more; with courses inspired by the big screen. For instance, bubbling cocktails, creative dishes and an electric atmosphere as you find out why this concept is so popular around the world.
📍multiple New York locations.
🎟 tickets from $189, children under 3 go free.
📅 bookings open now.
♿️ please check with the venue.
👶 children are welcome, though infants under 3 without a ticket will not receive a meal.
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