Confession: I’ve never been to the Statue of Liberty. Ditto, the Empire State. Or any NYC tourist destination for that matter. I’m just not into it. So when my friend Rory sent me a link to this thing called Destination Cosmos: The Immersive Space Experience, I was like, no way.
Rory kept raving about how Hall des Lumières is housed in an elegantly restored building in Lower Manhattan. Its newest exhibition – Destination Cosmos – is a voyage through the solar system and outer space created in partnership with NASA.
Whoa, back up, I thought. What’s with this immersive thing?
Apparently – according to Rory – digital immersive experiences provide a level of accessibility that’s second to none. It transports you inside the story. We have to go. TBH, when I set foot inside the Hall des Lumières itself I was completely awestruck.
Video projections are perfectly integrated with the rich interior decor. They’re exquisitely overlaid on the former bank’s walls, columns, bronze counters, skylights, and original decorative elements.
From the swirling visuals on the marble floor to the eclectic soundtrack, including The Rolling Stones and David Bowie, my spirit and senses were lifted as Rory and I started our journey through – and within – outer space.
Destination Cosmos begins in darkness. The Hall is filled with a starry sky and constellations as we’re transported through a maze of stars, planets, nebulae, and supernovae. What a trip. This unique voyage then takes us to the frontiers of our solar system and the mysteries of our universe.
A ticket to Hall des Lumières grants you a virtual front-row seat to a mesmerizing landscape. Adult admission starts at $25, and there are group rates and family rates, so you won't break the bank. There are also discounts for students, seniors, and those who’ve served – or currently serve – in the military. For best availability, book online in advance.
With unparalleled quality and scale, this is a must-see for those living in – and visiting – the New York metro area.
The majestic building is fully accessible to visitors with reduced mobility and is located in Lower Manhattan at 49 Chambers Street New York, NY 10007 – AKA the restored Emigrant Industrial Savings Bank. It’s super easy to get to, you can take just about every train (A, C, J, Z, 1, 2, 3, R, W, 4, 5, 6), the bus, ferry, PATH, or by walking.
Head to Google Maps to finalize your journey.
Expand your mind. Expand your world. Go beyond – with Hall des Lumières’ mind-expanding Destination Cosmos!