Accessible: mostly

Location: Milpitas California Great Mall

The Imaginarium is a lights display meant to be enjoyable for all ages. Started by a Chinese woman that put on lantern shows, it makes use of both modern technology and her past experience to create an unforgettable event.

While the event has multiple locations, I visited the one in Milpitas California since it was the closest. I was not sure what to expect as the event was a google algorithm suggestion. Prices were $23 for adults and I decided to take a chance for a new experience. The website looked fun and worst case scenario I could just hang out at the mall it was in the parking lot of.

I arrived at the mall around 5 pm and the event opened at 7 pm. The only problem was that sunset was not until 8:31 pm. As such, I did not immediately go to the event but instead explored the mall and got dinner. I finally entered when I was sure that I could get the full effect of the lights.

It was a hot day outside earlier but very tolerable after sunset. There was also a strong sewage smell around the mall but it did not seem to follow into the event. The smell of asphalt and plastic kept it out. The lights and almost stained glass style fairytale animals were immediately striking. I explored part of the center before following along the outside.

There were two types of rooms inside makeshift cargo containers around the outside. One was multiple different types of fascination rooms. Using techniques such as implementing infinity mirrors, black light, led image walls, and various decor; various fun rooms were available to explore. The second room type was photo opportunity rooms. Props and decor were set up with good lighting so you could take pictures of yourself or loved ones.

The center of the event was decorated with lit figures of all kinds and even animatronic dragons! Though a few of the animatronics had seen better days in my opinion. Though this could absolutely be attributed to me visiting towards the end of the visiting time for the year. It was a very romantic view in a lot of areas and I could see couples on dates.

There was also a circus off to one side but it was not much to look at compared to the true circus I visited when much younger. The juggler also dropped his juggling balls a few times which I found mildly embarrassing.

Food like popcorn and hot dogs are available near the entrance but I found the mall to have a better selection.

In terms of accessibility, most of it was. The fascination rooms however were almost totally unaccessible. A few of the led mirror rooms had ramps but there were few. The ramps themselves scared me as well. They crunched and cracked under my wheels and seemed unsafe. Overall I had fun though. Not a place I’m likely to go again to.