The Velaslavasay Panorama — Attraction in Los Angeles

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...

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 10/10 – A Hidden Gem You Have to Experience

The Velaslavasay Panorama is one of the most unique and quietly magical places in Los Angeles. I love everything about it—from the mesmerizing theater exhibits to the serene back garden, and even the name Velaslavasay itself, which feels like a lost word from another time.

The panorama experience lasts about 40 minutes and moves gently, meditatively. It’s quiet, immersive, and intentionally slow, like stepping into a dream or forgotten world—my advice: be patient. Let yourself slow down, breathe, and take it all in. Time honestly flies when you’re fully present.

After the show, I wandered into the back garden, which is charming and peaceful—a perfect place to sip the complimentary tea or read a book under the trees. Finding such a calm, reflective space in the city is rare.

Let’s talk about the value: admission is only $7. Honestly, they could charge double and it would still be worth it. Parking is free and easy, which makes the whole experience even more stress-free.

The Velaslavasay Panorama is a true hidden treasure and a beautiful example of a nearly lost art form. See it while you still can—you...

A beautiful old theater set up for different types of presentations remains with movie style seating.

Behind the theater is a lovely garden filled with lights, a gazebo, and lots of secret nooks and crannies.

The real reason to come is up a corkscrew staircase. A circular panoramic painting of an arctic scene with some diorama elements awaits.

Over the course of 35 minutes, very subtle automated light effects illuminated different parts of the panorama. A well crafted piece of sound art accompanies the scene. The overall effect is mesmerizing and meditative. An...