(Travel)

The Zoe Report’s 2026 Readers' Choice Awards: Best Immersive Art Experiences

The future of art is immersive.

by Angela Melero

Art you don’t just admire, you step inside. The nominees for The Zoe Report’s Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Immersive Art Experiences are redefining how we engage with creativity, turning viewers into participants. From the boundary-pushing digital worlds of ARTECHOUSE to the whimsical, nostalgia-fueled rooms at Museum of Ice Cream, and the multi-sensory playground that is Hopscotch, these destinations blur the line between art, entertainment, and pure escapism.

Have questions? Read the official Readers’ Choice rules.

TZR’s readers have spoken, and their favorite Immersive Art Experiences of 2026 are:

1. WNDR Museum

Chicago, IL & Boston, MA

What TZR readers love about WNDR Museum:

  • Adore the Andy Arkley piece in Boston! So fresh and fun—really unlike any other museum I've visited. 👏 all around.
  • Unmatched vibes for the perfect photo op. WNDR is an immersive, family-friendly outing that feels totally one-of-a-kind.
  • Major Chicago spirit! The awesome staff makes exploring these interactive displays such a blast.

2. Cosm

Los Angeles, CA; Dallas, TX & Atlanta, GA

What TZR readers love about Cosm:

  • “Shared Reality” is a game-changer. Finally, deep immersion without those awkward headsets!
  • It’s so lifelike, I kept doing double-takes. You feel completely transported into the movie or front-row at the game.
  • The atmosphere is ⚡️! Top-tier food + unreal visuals = the ultimate night out.

3. Arte Museum

Las Vegas, NV & New York, NY

What TZR readers love about Arte Museum:

  • The blend of visuals, sound, and even scent is outstanding. A multi-sensory, out-of-the-box masterpiece in every sense!
  • The Musee d'Orsay showcase is a magnificent portrayal of French art history. Visually stimulative. Simply stunning.
  • Blown away! This breathtaking journey redefines what ‘immersive’ means. By far my favorite experience.

5. Otherworld

Columbus, OH & Philadelphia, PA

6. Meow Wolf

Las Vegas, NV; Denver, CO; Santa Fe, NM; Dallas, TX; Houston, TX & Los Angeles, CA

7. Artechouse

New York, NY; Houston, TX & Washington, DC

8. Hall des Lumières

New York, NY

10. Hopscotch

San Antonio, TX

Photos Courtesy of Artechouse/ATH Studio, Cosm Dallas, Culturespaces/Fabijian Vuksic, Meow Wolf Sante Fe/BrandonSoder, Otherworld Philadelphia & Otherworld Ohio/Catie Viox, University of Texas/Blanton Museum/Jamie Stukenberg, WNDR Museum Chicago/Kyle Flubacker