Step into a world where art meets technology the AR Trick Eye Museum in Phuket offers a thrilling experience that brings imagination to life. Southern Thailand’s first 3D museum, it blends innovative augmented reality (AR) with interactive 3D paintings to create an adventure like no other. Whether you want to swim with sharks, balance on a rope bridge over a waterfall, or fly through the clouds, the museum is designed to challenge your senses and creativity.
Located on the corner of Montri and Phang Nga roads in Phuket Town, the museum is housed in a two-story building that was once a famous movie theatre. The transformation into a museum of optical illusions was led by a talented Korean artist, who brought this magical world of virtual wall paintings to life in just three months.
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What to Expect at AR Trick Eye Museum
The museum is divided into different themed zones, each offering unique opportunities for fun and mind-bending photography. With more than 100 hyper-realistic 3D paintings and sculptures, visitors can immerse themselves in a world of illusions. Unlike a traditional museum, you’re encouraged to touch, pose, and interact with the art, making it an unforgettable experience.
Explore Themed Zones: A Journey Through Illusions
The AR Trick Eye Museum is divided into several interactive zones, each offering a unique set of experiences. From thrilling adventures to whimsical fantasy worlds, every zone is designed to surprise and delight. Here’s a closer look:
Jungle Safari Zone
Step into a wild jungle where you’ll encounter ferocious tigers, mischievous monkeys, and gentle elephants. In this zone, you can pose with exotic animals, escape from a lion’s jaws, or ride a rhino through the wilderness—all captured in hilarious photos.
Underwater World
Dive into an underwater paradise filled with colorful marine life. You can swim with sharks, dodge a giant octopus, or strike a pose with friendly dolphins. The Ice Age Zone, located within this section, lets you chill with penguins and other Arctic creatures in a frosty environment.
Fantasy World
For those who dream of stepping into a fairytale, this zone offers magical settings filled with mythical creatures and fantasy landscapes. Become a knight, a princess, or a mythical hero as you pose in enchanting surroundings.
Horror House
Ready for a spooky adventure? The Horror House zone is perfect for thrill-seekers. With eerie scenes and creepy characters lurking around, this section is sure to give you a fun scare.
Classic Art with a Twist
Famous paintings by Leonardo da Vinci, Vincent van Gogh, and Jean-François Millet are brought to life with modern twists. For instance, Mona Lisa holds a bicycle pump, and The Gleaners collect banknotes instead of weeds. Each artwork is designed to be interactive, making it a perfect backdrop for quirky photos.
Adventure Zone
Feel the thrill of adventure as you hang from a helicopter above a roaring waterfall, run from bulls on a Spanish street, or fight off zombies in a subway car. These hyper-realistic scenes are designed to challenge your sense of reality and leave you with jaw-dropping photos.
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How to Enhance Your Visit
The AR Trick Eye Museum offers a dedicated AR app that brings static paintings to life. Simply download the app, point your camera at the artwork, and watch as animations unfold in front of your eyes. This unique feature elevates the museum experience, turning simple paintings into dynamic scenes.
Photography Tips:
- Bring a good camera or a smartphone with a high-resolution camera to capture the illusions perfectly.
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes—you’ll be posing in different angles and walking for at least two hours.
- Ask the guides for posing ideas. The staff is friendly and always ready to suggest the best spots and poses.
Practical Information
How to Reach AR Trick Eye Museum
- By Tuk-Tuk: If you’re staying in Phuket Town, a tuk-tuk ride is an affordable and fun way to reach the museum. Fares typically range from 100–150 Baht.
- By Songthaew (Blue Bus): The most economical option, costing only 15–30 Baht per person.
- By Taxi or GRAB: Ideal for those staying farther from the city center. Fares range between 500–600 Baht.
- Rent a Bike or Car: For the more adventurous, renting a bike (100–150 Baht/day) or a car (200–300 Baht/day) offers flexibility and ease.
Tips for Visitors
- Arrive by 5:00 PM: Although the last entry is at 6:00 PM, arriving early allows you to explore the museum at a relaxed pace.
- Don’t touch the artwork too much to help preserve the paintings.
- Keep your valuables safe. Bags and water bottles must be deposited at the entrance.
- Visit the snack bar at the entrance for refreshments before or after your visit.
Ticket Information
- Adult Ticket: THB 500 (discounts often available online)
- Child Ticket (under 130 cm): THB 300
- Children under 100 cm: Free entry
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit AR Trick Eye Museum is during the late afternoon, around 4:30–5:00 PM, when the crowds thin out, giving you more time to explore and capture creative photos.
Also Read: Phuket Tiger Kingdom
Attractions Near AR Trick Eye Museum
After visiting the museum, explore some of the nearby attractions:
- Patong Beach: Famous for its vibrant nightlife and water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, and snorkeling.
- Rang Hill: Offers panoramic views of Phuket’s lush landscape, the Big Buddha statue, and the Andaman Sea.
- Big Buddha: This 45-meter-tall statue is one of Phuket’s most iconic landmarks, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
- Wat Chalong: The oldest Buddhist temple in Phuket, known for its beautiful wall paintings and relics of Buddha.
Why You Should Visit AR Trick Eye Museum
AR Trick Eye Museum isn’t just a place for taking quirky photos; it’s a journey into the world of illusion and creativity. It’s perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers who want to experience something out of the ordinary. You’ll leave with a collection of hilarious photos and unforgettable memories that will wow your friends and followers on social media.
So, next time you’re in Phuket, don’t miss the chance to explore this interactive playground. It’s more than just a museum—it’s an experience that will challenge your imagination and keep you smiling long after your visit.
Final Thoughts
AR Trick Eye Museum Phuket is more than just a museum—it’s a world of illusion, creativity, and endless fun. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, this interactive experience is guaranteed to leave you with unforgettable memories and countless photo-worthy moments.
So, when you’re in Phuket, don’t miss the chance to step into this magical world of art and technology. It’s an experience like no other, where the lines between reality and imagination blur into a spectacular adventure.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How does Trick Eye Museum work?
The Trick Eye Museum uses optical illusions and 3D art to create interactive exhibits where visitors can become part of the artwork. Special painting techniques, augmented reality (AR), and perspective tricks make the images appear three-dimensional when viewed from the right angle.
How long to spend at Trick Eye Museum?
On average, visitors spend 1 to 2 hours exploring the Trick Eye Museum, depending on how much time they take to capture photos and interact with the exhibits.
How much does it cost to go to the Trick Eye Museum?
Ticket prices vary by location, but they typically range from $15 to $30 per person. Discounts may be available for children, students, and groups. It’s best to check the official website for up-to-date pricing.
What is a trick eye?
A trick eye refers to an optical illusion that makes flat images appear three-dimensional when viewed from a specific angle. This technique is often used in 3D art museums and interactive exhibitions.
How do eye tricks work?
Eye tricks, or optical illusions, work by manipulating perspective, light, color, and depth perception to fool the brain into seeing things differently from reality.