Some of the negative reviews had me worried -- until I got to the "Rothschild" posts, which are just barely-coded antisemitism.
No one is trying to "trap" you into paying -- there is a very clear sign saying that the fee (currently $10) is due past the the sign. There was no "cult vibe" upon arrival -- the worker processed my fee, ushered me to an introductory video, and then let me explore at my leisure. If you look at the "History Of Humanity In Granite," you will get the strong impression that the founder loves his home country France, loves the United States, and loves parachuting. The displays appeared to me to be balanced and inclusive. It feels like some of these reviews were written by people who actively chose to be offended before they even arrived -- if they ever really went at all.
That said... Understand that what exists in 2024 is still a work in progress. As an art installation, it really doesn't currently take up enough viewing time to justify the cost, while the content of the displays is better suited to younger people, as adults (should have) learned most of this information in school already. There are a few benches to rest on during this long journey through human history, and almost no escape from the heat. So it is definitely not something everyone will consider a 5 Star attraction. But, having seen a YouTube video from the kind of person that describes the place as "creepy" or "culty," that is something THEY brought with them -- do not stay away just because some tinfoil hat, "Soros"/"Rothschild" conspiracy theorist told you...
Ā Ā Ā Read moreImagine having your first date here? That is our story and it has been a very fun tale to tell people ever since. "The Center of the World" has a very interesting history in that it was created by a French pioneer of skydiving (Jacques Istel) who wrote a children's book set in the small town he founded in the middle of the California desert he named honoring his wife, Felicity. Being "The Center of the World" is just a fun claim that obviously should not be taken all that seriously however, he was able to do the necessary effort to get the place recognized as such by an international governing authority. The place is also unique in that it has multiple attractions in one, which I believe fully justifies the $10 admissions fee, which covers a brief tour and explanation of the attractions, gives entry to the "Center of the World" pyramid where the marker is located, and a delightful souvenir certificate stating your remarkable achievement. Additionally, it has a "Staircase to Nowhere" which was an old piece of the Eiffel Tower, Michaelangelo's "God's Arm" sculpture/sundial, the "History of Humanity" carved in granite stone, the "Maze of Honor" honoring loved ones, a "Liberty Bell" replica you can actually ring, and finally a charmingly quaint "Church on the Hill" based on a favorite French chapel. Lastly, the friendly and helpful staff (Janice and Diana) made the entire experience both memorable and enjoyable for us. Definitely a very good visit and a strong recommendation for a 10/10 worthy...
Ā Ā Ā Read moreI made a stop at this location on the way from SD to Phoenix. The name of the location captured my attention. I just have to see and be at the center of the world myself. It's a nice little stop if you are passing by, but I would not make it an exception just to come here. not worth the drive. Basically this place is fill with some kind of historical information on many things such as humanity, technology, sciences, religion etc. Too many to be honest. This place is made out of granites. Lot's of granite, which is nice. But it's not completed, There are a lot of empty granites and empty plaques. This museum is not completed by any means. it's still growing. There is a entrance fee of $10 for a guided tour, you'll get a certificate of attendance at the end of the tour and can return any time within a year. Not so bad, just wondering who would return is the question. The designs are kind of interesting, but also a bit confusion to me. there's a church and a pyramids and a maze. doesn't seem to make sense. to be honest, I'm really not certain what to make of this place as mentioned above. it's confusion info. But at least, the staffs...
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