At a Glance
Art In Paradise Pattaya is an interactive museum of optical illusions where every visitor becomes part of the artwork using a smartphone and a special app.
Place Description
This 3D art museum in Pattaya is a popular spot to escape the midday heat and snap hundreds of fun photos. The space is filled with immersive paintings on the walls and floors that ‘come to life’ on your phone screen via an AR app. Families with kids and tour groups flock here, so be prepared for lines during peak times.
The gallery is located on Second Road, just steps away from Terminal 21 shopping mall. The atmosphere is more like a bustling attraction than a quiet gallery. Important to know: there’s an area with live lion cubs in glass enclosures, which attracts criticism and may be an unwelcome surprise for some. This could influence your decision to visit this 3D art museum in Pattaya.
Basic Information
- Address: หมู่ที่ 9 78/34 Pattaya Sai Song Rd, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150. North end of Second Road, near Dolphin Circle and Terminal 21.
- Opening Hours: Daily, from 9:30 AM to 9:00 PM (ticket office may close earlier).
- Best Time to Visit: Weekdays in the morning, right after opening. It gets crowded in the afternoon and on weekends.
- Budget: Entry ticket for tourists ≈ 400 ฿. Photo with a lion cub ≈ 500 ฿. Payment is often cash-only at the entrance.
Why Go
- Hundreds of photo zones for creative selfies and social media updates.
- Great for a family outing, as kids usually love the interactive elements.
- Perfect for avoiding the midday heat or a tropical downpour in an air-conditioned space.
- Some dioramas, like those with Bangkok views, are impressively detailed, even without the AR effects.
Insider Tips
- The main attraction is the AR app. Download it in advance (called “Art In Paradise”) and fully charge your phone. Wi-Fi in the museum is unstable, and the app drains the battery quickly.
- You’ll be asked to remove your shoes upon entry. Floors can be slippery in socks, so move carefully.
- The controversial lion cub attraction. If animal exploitation concerns you, this part of the exhibit might ruin your experience.
- Beware of taxi drivers offering ‘discounted tickets for points.’ If issues arise, refunds through such intermediaries are impossible.
Logistics
- Tuk-tuk (Songthaew): Ride along Second Road (Pattaya Sai Song Rd) on any blue songthaew (10 ฿). Get off at Dolphin Circle, before reaching Terminal 21.
- Taxi (Bolt/Grab): Search for “Art In Paradise Pattaya.” Easy access, and traffic is usually light in this area.
- Private Transport: Parking is available for bikes and cars, but it can be full on weekends. It’s easiest to arrive by bike – there’s always space for one.
The Unique Factor
This isn’t just a gallery; it’s one of the largest interactive 3D museums in the world, a concept brought to Thailand from South Korea.
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