IlluminOdyssey
holiday_light_displays

Artistic rendering โ€“ Event may differ

IlluminOdyssey

Step into a world of wonder at IlluminOdyssey, an immersive and interactive light experience. This captivating exhibit transforms CuriOdyssey's Redwood Hall into a glowing forest, inviting visitors to explore the science of light through playful, hands-on installations. Discover the magic of color, refraction, and luminescence in this mesmerizing journey for all ages.

What to Expect

Interactive science of light installations

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: $$ โ€“ Get tickets
  • Parking: Members and guests may park in the lot closest to CuriOdyssey, the Eucalyptus Grove parking lot, the Marina parking lot, or the Captain's House parking lot. County park annual pass holders may also use the Beach and Magic Mountain Playground parking lots.
  • Accessibility: Visitors sensitive to light and sound may be affected. A social story PDF is available for download.
  • Pets: Service animals only

Other Christmas Events Near San Mateo

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ (5/5)

Best For

Families, science enthusiasts, all ages

Vibe

Interactive, educational, mesmerizing

Energy Level

Low to medium

Budget

$$

Photo Friendly

๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Low

Special Events & Promotions

  • Free with admission or membership
  • Returning for its ninth year

Tags

light displaysfamily friendlyinteractive displaysSTEMseasonal activitieswinter activitiesholiday seasonmuseumscience exhibit

Location

CuriOdyssey
1651 Coyote Point Drive
San Mateo, CA
94401

Event Details

Duration

All day

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Coyote Point

Timed Entry

Yes

Organizer

CuriOdyssey

Food & Drink

You may bring your own food; snacks and drinks are sold in the CuriOdyssey Shop.

Quick Actions

Tips & Advice

  • Consider visiting in the late afternoon (3-5 PM) for a less crowded experience, as mornings are typically busiest.
  • To see the animals at their most active, plan your visit between 10-11 AM or 3-4 PM, as they often nap mid-day.
  • Reserved tickets are recommended to minimize wait times, though members can present their ID for entry.
  • Bring your own food and utilize the designated picnic area in the Bay View Grove for a midday meal.
  • Visitors sensitive to light and sound should be aware that the exhibit is in a darkened hall with various light displays.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of day to visit for a quieter experience?

For a quieter, less crowded experience, it is best to visit in the afternoons between 3โ€“5 PM. The busiest times are typically 10 AMโ€“12 PM.

When are the animals most active?

Animals are most lively between 10โ€“11 AM or 3โ€“4 PM. They tend to nap in the middle of the day, though they are still easy to see when sleeping.

Do I need to reserve tickets in advance?

While not required for members, reserving tickets online in advance is recommended to minimize wait times. Members can show their ID at the front desk.

Can I bring my own food?

Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food. A designated picnic area is available in the Bay View Grove.

Are there any special considerations for visitors sensitive to light or sound?

Yes, the exhibit is in a darkened hall with various light-based displays. Visitors sensitive to light and sound may be affected. A social story PDF is available for download.

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Oct 29, 2025
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team

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