WOMAI is the Center of Science and Senses located in the very heart of Krakow at Pawia 34. The name comes from the English phrase “World Of My All Inspirations” and reflects the place’s idea: an environment that inspires through engaging sensory and educational experiences.
The museum is interactive: here you don’t just look — you touch, smell, listen and experiment. The permanent offer includes two main exhibition paths: “Toward the Light” and “Toward the Darkness.” Both combine educational goals with a large dose of fun and surprises.
Its location on Pawia Street makes reaching WOMAI easy — you’re close to the Main Railway Station, Galeria Krakowska and the Old Town, so it’s simple to add a visit to a short or longer stay in the city.
Because it’s not another traditional science lecture but an experience. At WOMAI, physics, optics, sound and perception are demonstrated through installations and experiments you can test yourself — the best way to remember and understand phenomena.
The “Toward the Darkness” exhibition is especially unique: it takes place in complete darkness and is led by a blind guide. It’s not only an intense emotional experience but also a lesson in empathy — you’ll see everyday tasks from the perspective of people who are blind.
For families with children, school groups or anyone looking for an original idea for a date or corporate team-building — WOMAI is a great choice and an ideal place for a rainy day in Krakow.
“Toward the Light” is the bright part of the center, full of optical installations, illusions and experiments with color and sound. You can create phenomena, study shadows, play with light and learn why we see what we see.
“Toward the Darkness” is a total sensory experience: you move through absolute darkness accompanied by a guide who is a blind person. It’s an exercise in trust and perception — hearing, touch, smell and movement become the main sources of information.
Additionally, the program often includes experiment shows, thematic workshops and educational zones tailored to different age groups — from younger children to high-school students and adults.
WOMAI is for everyone: families, couples, seniors, school groups and solo travelers. Some exhibitions and activities are especially recommended for children — the light exhibition is usually suitable from around age 6, while the dark path is suggested for children from around age 9 (check details before buying tickets).
Visit length depends on chosen activities — from about 1 hour up to 3–4 hours if you take additional workshops and experiment shows. Entries to the dark exhibition are organized at specific times and take place with a guide, so booking or buying tickets in advance is a good idea.
If you visit Krakow during the high season, plan ahead — especially with a larger group or if you want to join educational workshops.
WOMAI sells tickets online and operates scheduled entries for each path. Because tours run in groups and some attractions (like the dark path) have specific requirements, buying tickets in advance helps avoid disappointment.
The center is prepared for visitors with different needs: accessibility and safety are priorities, and staff are experienced in working with school groups and people with disabilities. If you have doubts, call or write before your visit to arrange details and any accommodations.
WOMAI also offers school programs and workshops — educational institutions and organized groups can often reserve specific time slots and packages.
Wear comfortable shoes and clothing — many installations require you to climb, bend and touch different surfaces. In the dark part you will lose the advantage of sight, so be ready for an experience that requires trust and focus.
Arrive a little earlier — 10–15 minutes before your scheduled entry — to pick up tickets and hear a short introduction from the staff. If you have small children, check the recommended minimum ages for each part of the exhibition.
If you have a fear of the dark or claustrophobia, consider the light exhibition instead of the dark path; you can also talk to the staff, who will advise how to adapt the visit.
WOMAI is close to the Old Town, so you have many dining options after your visit — from classic restaurants on the Main Market (Rynek Główny) to trendy cafés and bars in the area. For traditional and highly rated dining, consider restaurants around the Main Market that are known for good service and local cuisine.
For a quick coffee or dessert, cafés near Galeria Krakowska and Floriańska Street are convenient and well-reviewed, perfect for a break between attractions.
If you stay in Krakow, choose a hotel in Śródmieście or the Old Town — proximity to WOMAI and other attractions (museums, historic sites, restaurants) makes planning a short trip easier without long transfers.
Not booking tickets in advance — this simple step saves nerves, especially on weekends and holidays. Book or buy tickets online if you want to be sure of entry at a specific time.
Bringing children who are too young to the dark path — the “Toward the Darkness” segment can be intense and isn’t always suitable for young kids; check age recommendations.
Not informing staff about special needs — if someone in your group has mobility or sensory limitations or other needs, notify the staff in advance so the visit is comfortable for everyone.
WOMAI combines science and sensory elements in unexpected ways — the name comes from an English acronym, but the idea is universal: inspiration comes from everyday experiences and the senses.
The “Toward the Darkness” exhibition is one of the few regional attractions led by blind guides in total darkness — it’s a rare and very valuable educational experience.
The center regularly organizes experiment shows and workshops that blend chemistry and physics with hands-on demonstrations — a great way for children and adults to see science in action.
Is photography allowed? Photography may be restricted in parts of the interactive exhibition — especially in the dark area. Ask staff on site for guidance.
How long does a visit last? Typically from 1 to several hours, depending on chosen activities and workshops.
Is a guide required? Yes — visits at WOMAI are always conducted with a guide, which helps ensure safety and the educational value of the experience.
Is it a good place for a school trip? Yes — WOMAI offers dedicated school programs, workshops and educational packages suited to different teaching levels.
Check WOMAI’s current opening hours and program before setting out — some elements (shows, workshops) run only on selected dates.
If you want to combine a visit with a short walk, the area around the Main Railway Station and the Old Town offers many attractions — from the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) to the Planty park — so you can easily plan a full day.
If you plan to visit Krakow with a group, consider group packages or pre-booked workshops — these are often the best way to maximize time and the educational potential of the visit.
If you liked this guide, share it with friends or post about it on social media — a simple recommendation helps others discover this unusual place in Krakow.
If you’d like your Krakow visit to be more personal and comfortable, consider booking a private guide: Małgorzata Kasprowicz offers tailored tours and support for visitors. See zwiedzaniekrakowa.com for details and booking information.
Wishing you an inspiring visit to WOMAI — may it be a day after which you look at everyday things differently, because that’s exactly what this place is about.
