I always passed off Camera Obscura as just another unnecessary tourist attraction at the top of the Royal Mile. Maybe that’s just because I didn’t understand what a camera obscura was. Boy was I wrong. I had no idea it would be so much fun!
What is Camera Obscura
Camera obscura is Latin for “dark room”. It’s the final show, but what’s on the other floors is worth the £16.50 entry fee and will have you laughing with fun and amazement. You might think this place is just for kids. I beg to differ.
Camera Obscura Activities
One of the first attractions you’ll find is the mirror maze. It’s harder than it looks, and loads of fun. Sure, other places have mirror mazes. Do they ever get boring?
Right after that, you get the vortex tunnel. Ooh, that one was a headache. But still fun! I challenge you to walk through without running into the guardrail. Personally, I’m not exactly sure why I can stand the craziest roller coasters, but this thing literally gave me a headache.
The next several levels are filled with all kinds of illusions, from 3D photos to infinite rooms. There are infrared cameras and tables where you can change your features with a friend (don’t know how better to describe that; you’ll have to experience it yourself). There’s even a machine which will morph your face, such as into a primate, an old man or woman, etc.
One of my favorite attractions was an optical illusion table which appeared to create a disembodied head. The friend whom I took with me gave a wonderful jump when she walked in and saw my head with no body below. Success!
Overall, we had a great time. We also had a special treat when one of the staff showed us some hidden tricks. One of which is in the room with the plasma balls and columns. Two people can touch separate devices around the room, and then put their fingers together in the center of the room. They’ll be able to see the electrical discharge between them. But be warned, the zap can be quite intense!
We ended up spending nearly two hours there, and I felt we could have stayed even longer had there been time.
Visiting Camera Obscura
The best thing about Camera Obscura is that it’s open later than other attractions, as late as 9 pm depending on the month. It’s also indoors, which is perfect in a city known for inclement weather. Click here for directions, and enjoy your visit. You won’t regret it.
Further Reading
Looking for other activities in Edinburgh? Here are some other options, as well as some recommendations on where to eat in Edinburgh.
- 5 Amazing Cafes and Restaurants in Edinburgh That I Frequent
- Best Places to Eat in Edinburgh on a Budget
- How to Find the Best Brazilian Crepes in Edinburgh
- The Village Hotel in Edinburgh is So Much More Than a Hotel
- There’s a Cat Cafe in Edinburgh!
- Edinburgh’s Chihuahua Cafe: Enjoying the Happiest Place in Scotland
- Begin Your Journey in Scotland with a Secret Food Tour in Edinburgh
- What the Da Vinci Code Didn’t Show You About Rosslyn Chapel
- Experience the Underground Preservation of Mary King’s Close
- Escape Edinburgh: The Most Fun Activity in Edinburgh’s New Town
- Finding the Best Ghost Tours in Edinburgh
- Riding the Most Delicious Tour in Edinburgh on the Red Bus Bistro
- 9 Free Attractions to Visit in Edinburgh
- 10 Activities for The Perfect Day Trip from Edinburgh
- A Virtual Tour of Holyrood Palace in Edinburgh, Scotland
Here’s some extra reading to save hundreds on your next vacation or stage of your journey.
- 5 Steps to Book Cheap Flights
- Hostels: To Book or Not to Book
- Is Workaway Worth it for the Traveler?
- Click here to claim your $25 credit with AirB&B
Disclaimer: This was a complimentary visit organized in coordination with Camera Obscura, Visit Scotland and the Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions (ASVA), all of which have my utmost gratitude! However, my views and opinions are completely my own.
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