Velaslavasay Panorama

Definitely quirky but the uniqueness alone is reason enough to visit. Another reviewer compared it to Jurassic Museum but I disagree, it has the same reverse world Wes Anderson type of feeling but I could stay 2 hours in Jurassic whereas the Panorama is limited to an hour plus after about 45mins I was ready to head out. It was formally located on Hollywood Blvd but was relocated to the current site. Their first panorama was the history of LA over the last 400 years. Next they did an Arctic scene at night and currently it’s China from 1910-1930 as their main exhibit. Basically a panorama was what people did instead of going out to stage theater prior to movie theaters being invented. They used to be very popular but now the only ones that remain in the US are in Gettysburg Virginia, Atlanta, and this one in Los Angeles. To enter you walk up spiral stairs and come to another floor. There you’ll see the panorama which is basically a 360° painting on the wall. You’re allowed to walk around it to see the piece. In between you and the painting are a lot of figurines and small sculptures to add to the 3D feeling of the scene. They also keep the lights very low and play scene sounds (traffic in this case) and wind to enhance the experience. I would’ve stayed longer but there was a group in there with me commenting on it. The 2nd exhibit is an Arctic trading post. Very trippy to see as I was not even aware it was there prior to going but possibly my favorite part of the self guided tour. You’re allowed to enter and walk around the cabin. After this you can walk past a stage theater to get to the garden outside. It’s small but nice to walk around (brief walk) and see the plants. They have seats all over and a gazebo for you to sit and relax. I was the only one back there so I spent the majority of my time out there albeit a warmer day. I’m giving it 4/5 due to the limited exhibits but the uniqueness alone is worth a visit. I’ve been to all the bigger and even medium museums so if you’re looking for a unique experience or want to check out another fork in the road of wknd planning this is worth a visit. Very polite and pleasant staff too. $7 for an hour.

Lovely little place that I never knew existed! Must get myself on their mailing list — too dark out to get a proper look at the gardens this trip.

one of my favorite places in LA. a little spot that’s perfect to have a relaxing sit and take in the unique art form of a panorama. the garden and arctic trading post replica really complete the experience, what a lovely space

The most whimsical, unexpected little spot! Absolutely beautiful hidden garden in the back, truly panoramic painting up those winding stairs (will likely never see something like that again), and then, of course, a trading post, because why not!? Just go see it.

Step into a past where entertainment required less gizmos. I took the kids here hoping they weren’t too dependent on computer special effects and would enjoy. Happy to say, they had a great time. It’s a small place, but every corner feels like magic lives here.