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Explore The Looking Glass: Virginia’s First Immersive Outdoor Art Experience in Charlottesville - Charlottesville

Explore The Looking Glass: Virginia’s First Immersive Outdoor Art Experience in Charlottesville

Charlottesvilleeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1–2 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly gentle walking on forest paths

Overview

Discover Virginia’s first immersive outdoor art experience just outside Charlottesville. The Looking Glass transforms forest trails into ever-changing interactive exhibits that invite all ages to explore art in nature’s embrace.

Charlottesville, Virginia

The Looking Glass Immersive Art Experience

30 min • All Ages • Experience a New World!

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About This Adventure

Step into The Looking Glass, Virginia's first immersive art space, where whimsical beauty and creativity abound. Created by local artists, this enchanting forest invites you to explore a world filled with surprises and sensory delights. With new exhibits regularly added, every visit promises a fresh adventure in this magical wonderland.

Immerse yourself in a new wonderful world of whimsical beauty!

About

The Ix Art Park Foundation presents The Looking Glass. A magical wonderland invites you to leave the mundane at the door and escape to an unexpected otherworld. Our enchanted forest is the first immersive art space in Virginia, created by over two dozen local artists to spark your imagination and captivate your sense of wonder. A new mystery awaits you around every corner of this dreamland that ignites all your senses. New exhibits are continually added meaning there is always something new to discover.

Duration

Tickets are for entry at a specific date and time. Visitors are welcome to stay as long as they please during operating hours.

The average time spent experiencing the exhibit is 20-30 minutes.

Tickets

  • Your ticket is only valid on the date and time of the ticket. Please confirm the date before purchasing. Day Passes & Weekend Passes are available.
  • Purchasing tickets online in advance is highly recommended as many entry times sell out.
  • Tickets purchased online will be emailed or texted to you. Please have your ticket downloaded on your smartphone or printed out in advance.
  • The last entrance time is 60 minutes before closing.
  • Tickets purchased from third parties are not valid for entry.
  • Tickets for future dates will be made available on a rolling basis. For information and early access to future ticket releases, join our community.
  • UVA Students will receive a 20% discount with code UVA2023. Student ID will be required upon arrival

General

  • The Looking Glass is ADA accessible.
  • No outside food or beverage is permitted.
  • A few installations contain flashing lights, images, and patterns that may trigger seizures for people with photosensitive epilepsy.
  • The lineup of artists and artwork is subject to change.

Planning Your Visit

  • Adult supervision is required for visitors under sixteen.
  • Children under three years old do not require a ticket. The Looking Glass is stroller-accessible.
  • We are located at the Ix Art Park in Downtown Charlottesville. There is an entrance off of Monticello Ave and Second Street SE and an additional entrance at Blenheim Ave and Sixth Street SE.

About

The Looking Glass is run by the nonprofit Ix Art Park Foundation. Our mission is to spark creativity in people's everyday lives. We rely on your support, donations, and grants to provide free art-making opportunities and creative spaces for our community. You can donate today at https://givebutter.com/ixartpark ♥️ Any amount, big or small, makes a difference!

Adventure Tips

Wear comfortable shoes

Paths wind through the forest and can be uneven, so sturdy walking shoes are recommended.

Visit on a weekday

To avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter experience, plan your visit during weekdays if possible.

Check for new exhibits

The installations rotate frequently; visit the website ahead of time to see the latest featured artists and pieces.

Bring a bottle of water

Strolling through the outdoor spaces may take a couple of hours; staying hydrated is key, especially in warm weather.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • White-tailed deer
  • Pileated woodpecker

History

The Looking Glass celebrates Charlottesville’s vibrant arts community and Virginia’s tradition of outdoor cultural spaces, located near historic Blue Ridge Mountain foothills.

Conservation

The park practices sustainable land management to protect native species and minimize visitor impact by encouraging responsible exploration.

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Adventure Hotspots in Charlottesville

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Ensures safe footing on natural trails and uneven terrain.

Light rain jacket

Be prepared for spring showers during your visit.

spring specific

Reusable water bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated while exploring the outdoor art displays.

summer specific

Sunhat and sunscreen

Essential

Protect yourself from sun exposure during midday strolls.

summer specific