By Nancy D. Lackey Shaffer | Photos by Chris Mortenson
Sea, sand and sun are possibly the first things that come to mind when visitors think of the Central Coast. But wait for the sun to go down, come inland a ways, and you’ll find an after-dark adventure guaranteed to light up your night.
Imaginarium is the creation of Lulu Huang, born and raised in China, who sought to bring the magic and spectacle of a Chinese Lantern Festival to the U.S. Starting in 2011, she assembled a team of artists and technicians to create an astonishing world crafted out of light, through which guests of all ages could stroll and enjoy. The first one was a winter wonderland experience offered at an amusement park in the Bay Area. The venues and artistry have only grown since then.
Now, Imaginarium has come to Ventura County, turning a parking lot at the Camarillo Premium Outlets into a glowing reverie. Featuring more than five million LED lights and numerous captivating scenes, it truly is like a fantasy come to life. Creatures of fairytale and myth, fanciful forests, luminescent fields of roses and tulips, dazzling labyrinths and more are all beautifully assembled and ready for exploration.
In addition, numerous tableaux have been custom designed for photo opportunities. Scattered throughout the grounds are seating areas, statues and human-sized frames perfect for posing and/or selfies. Dioramas decked out in colorful decorations, such as couches, swings and hanging foliage, are ideal for making memories and Instagram moments. Walking into any one of the infinity mirror rooms is like stepping straight into a strange and mesmerizing kaleidoscope.
There are some fun activities to enjoy as well. Grab some chalk before heading into a black-lit room for glow-in-the-dark wall scribbling…accompanied by dozens of butterflies. Touch the walls of an interactive aquarium room, where bubbles will form and fish dart away. Guests are invited to color their own pictures, which the attendant will then project onto the walls, bringing them to digital life. Still in need of entertainment? Check out the circus show, which features a very talented contortionist and other performers.
What might be most magical about Imaginarium is that it is a truly immersive experience. Guests walk right into this land of enchantment, and get up close and personal with the fantastical and awe-inspiring.
Head to Camarillo this summer to check out Imaginarium while you can, and be prepared to fall under its spell.
Imaginarium
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday, 7-11 p.m.
Friday and Saturday, 6:30-11 p.m.
Through August 4, 2024
Camarillo Premium Outlets behind Old Navy and Polo Ralph Lauren
910 Camarillo Center Drive, Suite 840, Camarillo
$16-$21; free for ages 2 and under.
imaginarium360.com
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