The Fun Laboratory - Image 1
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Fun Laboratory

3.4
·46 reviews·New York, United States

Immerse yourself in a vibrant, pop-up world designed for fun photos and shareable moments in NYC.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more photo time

CrowdLow
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The Fun Laboratory - Image 1

Fun Laboratory

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more photo time

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Immerse yourself in a vibrant, pop-up world designed for fun photos and shareable moments in NYC.

3.4
(46 reviews)

"This place actually offers many spots for good photo ops. The color themes and lighting really helps to make photos Instagram friendly."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Insta-Worthy Shots

Utilize the vibrant lighting and props for stunning Instagram content.

💰 Value for Money

Go with friends to share the cost and maximize photo opportunities.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Rating

3.4 · 46 reviews

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Immersive Photo Rooms

Immersive Photo Rooms

Throughout the laboratory

Step into creatively designed spaces perfect for unique and vibrant photos.

TikTok
The Ball Pit Experience

The Ball Pit Experience

Dedicated ball pit area

Dive into a comfortable and photogenic ball pit, a crowd favorite for fun and photos.

Reddit
Magic Show Encounters

Magic Show Encounters

Varies by day

Catch a magic show for an added element of entertainment and wonder.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

While 'Fun Laboratory' is designed for photo ops, consider visiting during off-peak hours to truly enjoy the immersive experience without the rush. Weekday mornings or late afternoons can offer a more relaxed visit, allowing ample time for capturing those perfect shots. TikTok

Manage Expectations

This is a pop-up experience focused on creating shareable moments. While some reviews mention it as an 'art exhibit,' its primary appeal lies in its photogenic rooms and props. Go with the intention of having fun and taking great pictures, not for a traditional museum experience. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more photo time
Crowd
Low
When
Late weekday afternoons
Why
Relaxed atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍Mercer labs, nyc #nyc #nycthingstodo #nyclife
@theoneforuuu_
89 likes • 863 views

📸 Insta-Worthy Shots

Utilize the vibrant lighting and props for stunning Instagram content. TikTokReddit

💰 Value for Money

Go with friends to share the cost and maximize photo opportunities. Reddit

The best museum in NYC!🥰 Must visit! @mercerlabs #nyc #newyork #mercerlabs #manhattan
@jesusandradee14
4.1K likes • 104K views
#mercerlabs #ny #nyc #newyorkcity
@carog9898
11 likes • 294 views

✨ Pop-Up Appeal

Embrace the pop-up nature; it's designed for fun photos, not a traditional exhibit. Reddit

🎩 Magic Show Fun

Check showtimes in advance for a chance to see the magician. Reddit

reddit.com

What’s the new Sleep No More level tourist attraction? Is there one?

For like a solid decade Sleep No More was one of those things everyone visiting NY seemed to go to. Easy thing to take friends visiting town to as a sort of unique experience and a bit of fun as a night out. You’d always see young people on the subway with the masks, you knew…

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Insta-Worthy Shots

Utilize the vibrant lighting and props for stunning Instagram content. TikTokReddit

💰 Value for Money

Go with friends to share the cost and maximize photo opportunities. Reddit

✨ Pop-Up Appeal

Embrace the pop-up nature; it's designed for fun photos, not a traditional exhibit. Reddit

🎩 Magic Show Fun

Check showtimes in advance for a chance to see the magician. Reddit

What Travellers Say

3.4
(46 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Fun Laboratory offers a visually engaging experience, particularly for those seeking photo opportunities. Visitors often praise the vibrant rooms and props, making it ideal for social media content. However, some find the experience overpriced and lacking in depth, suggesting it's more of a photo studio than an art exhibit.

"Fun experience! Great place to take pictures and just have fun. I enjoyed it a lot!"

Kiki w

"Disclaimer: I don't give 5 stars. Took my girlfriend to the place and we both had a blast. My girlfriend enjoys me taking good pictures of her and this place actually offers many spots for good photo ops. The color themes and lighting really helps to make photos Instagram friendly. The staffs were pretty nice and told us we could stay as long as we needed instead of for only 30 - 60 min. I would recommend this place to anyone who enjoys taking good photos."

Dannie Lorenzo

"I really don’t know what the negative reviews are about- this place is wonderful! The main purpose of a pop-up shop is to photograph the rooms, so of course this is what the place will cater to. There are so many cool photo opportunities that make for some great Instagram content, and apparently they have a magic show certain days! Their ball pit is awesome, it’s the most comfortable ball pit I’ve ever been in, and it’s photogenic. I loved it! They have cool props to take pictures with, and a lot of variation. I’d definitely recommend going and checking it out! Obviously it isn’t the biggest exhibit in the world but keep in mind it’s a pop-up. All pop-ups are like this, although I think this surprasses many others and is one of the best pop-ups."

Bellanutella3872

What People Like

Great photo opportunities
Vibrant and colorful rooms
Fun ball pit experience

What People Dislike

Overpriced for value
Lacks depth
Cheesy props

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Fun Laboratory is located in Mercer Labs, NYC. The easiest way to get there is by subway. Several lines stop nearby, including the N, Q, R, W, B, D, F, M, 1, 2, 3, A, C, E, J, Z, 4, 5, 6 trains to various Manhattan stations. Check a transit app for the closest stop to your starting point. TikTok+1

Parking in Manhattan can be challenging and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transportation. If you must drive, look for parking garages in the vicinity, but be prepared for high rates. TikTok

The best subway line depends on your starting location. However, many visitors find the N, Q, R, W, B, D, F, M lines to be convenient for reaching the Mercer Labs area. TikTok

Yes, Fun Laboratory is very accessible by public transport, with numerous subway lines serving the surrounding area. TikTok

Depending on your exact starting point in Times Square, it's a walkable distance, typically around 15-20 minutes. It's a great way to see more of the city. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary, but reviews suggest it's around $30 per person, plus taxes. Some visitors found this to be overpriced for the experience. Reddit

It's generally a good idea to book tickets in advance, especially for popular times or weekends, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. TikTok

Opening hours can vary as it's a pop-up. It's best to check the official website or social media for the most up-to-date information on operating hours. TikTok

While sometimes possible, booking in advance is recommended to guarantee entry and potentially avoid queues. TikTok

Some visitors have reported being told they could stay as long as they needed, while others mention typical pop-up timeframes. It's best to clarify upon arrival or check their policies. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography & Experience

Absolutely! The entire concept is built around creating photogenic moments. The colorful rooms and props are designed for great Instagram content. TikTokReddit

Expect a variety of themed rooms with unique backdrops, props, and lighting setups, perfect for portraits and creative shots. The ball pit is a particular highlight. Reddit

Generally, personal cameras are allowed for photos. However, it's always wise to check their specific policy regarding professional equipment or tripods. Instagram

The main interactive element is the experience of exploring the rooms and using the props for photos. The ball pit is also a fun, tactile experience. Reddit

Some visitors have encountered a magician performing tricks. It's an added entertainment element, though not always guaranteed or consistently impressive according to some reviews. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Typically, pop-up experiences like this do not have extensive food and dining facilities. It's best to eat before or after your visit. TikTok

Outside food and drinks are usually not permitted in such venues. It's advisable to consume them before entering. TikTok

Yes, the location in Manhattan offers a vast array of dining options, from quick bites to fine dining, within walking distance. TikTok

Fun Laboratory (2026) – Best of TikTok, Instagram & Reddit Travel Guide