A new interactive experience has floated into New York City in the shape of a surrealist dreamscape. Welcome to The Dream Machine, a pop-up immersive art experience, designed to take the visitor deep into their own magical subconscious while they dream. Through 10 sleep cycle-inspired rooms, participants can float among clouds, dive into a dreamy pool and explore a galactic infinity room, all while falling deeper into a magical dreamworld.
We were lucky to have a preview of this fantastical dream, and it was one of the most fun pop-up experiences we have even seen. Perfect for kids, families and dreamers of all ages – this is one dream that you wont want to wake up from (seriously – our son didn’t want to leave!).
Head in the Clouds – at The Dream Machine
Behind the Dream
This whimsical tour through your sleepy imagination was developed by creatives Gary Johnson and Paige Solomon. The duo worked together at the agency Magnetic Collaborative, and have created similar experiences for brands like Instagram, Netflix, Uber and Pinterest. If successful, the Dream Machine plans to branch out to other cities, making other people’s dreams come true too.
Float On
Somewhere over the rainbow – dreams come true, right? The beautiful rainbow shaped balloon installation outside Dreamland is quite a welcome, and a colorful dream in itself.
On Cloud 9 – The Dream Machine
On Cloud 9
The entry room makes visitors feel as if they’re floating through the clouds; it’s fittingly titled “On Cloud 9” and involves dream misters and a sky blue backdrop.
A pop-tastic room!
Bubble Room
Pop into a dreamy landscape with the fun Bubble Room. Each of the bubbles are filled with hydrogen, and create a puff of smoke upon popping them. We could have spent the entire day playing with these fun bubbles.
Spin Cycle – The Dream Machine
Spin Cycle
Don’t mind us – just doing some laundry in the fourth room in the experience appropriately called “Spin Cycle.” This room features a wall of (faux) washing machines. If the washing machines don’t spin you enough – the experience also “spins” some free cotton candy for all guests.
Secret doors??
Wait – what is this? The neon laundromat has hidden doors leading to …
The gorgeous infinity room
A stunning infinity room abyss! Which had to be a dream (as it sums up the exact OPPOSITE experience I have when doing the family’s laundry!).
Jump in! A pool of dreams!
Dive into a Pool of Dreams
Doesn’t every perfect dream have a ball pit in it? The Dream Machine created a perfect way to dive into your subconscious – and enter you into a pool of dreams without getting wet. The calming, pool-like installation the ceiling seemed to be moving like flowing water, and its visitors float to the bottom, being held up by water balls.
Sleep walking – a technicolor experience at The Dream Machine
Sleep Walking
This colorful tunnel morphs through many colors – creating a technicolor dream walk for visitors.
Rainbow dreams are made of these – in Rainbow Hall
Rainbow Hall
Rainbow Hall, a psychedelic garden comes complete with a wishing well for sharing your dreams.
Streamed Dreams
The grand finale of the dream exhibit was this incredible streamer room installation. Perfectly placed silver streamers created a magical metallic walk-through experience.
Ready to follow your dreams? We have tips for your visit:
- Expect the experience to take about one hour (no matter if you are anything like my son – you will never want to leave!).
- You will need to remove your shoes to enter the dreamy ball pit. If you typically don’t wear socks, its recommended to bring a pair.
- The last room with the silver party streamers can be disorienting for young kids. (Simply walk straight 10 feet to find the end – but it may be best to hold hands!)
- There is a small gift shop at the end of the experience.
- Strollers and large bags are not permitted, however there is a coat check/storage area if needed.
- Bathrooms are available within the experience.
- Make a day of it! There are a number of restaurants in this popular area – including our favorite Surf Bar.
Dream Machine – Location and Tickets
- Dream Machine is located at 93 N. 9TH ST. in Willamsburg, Brooklyn
- Tickets are $38, and include free cotton candy.
- All tickets MUST be purchased in advance. Tickets will not be available at the door.
- Everyone has dreams right? There are no age restrictions. Young children 3 and under are free.
Tickets and more information HERE
