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Step Inside the World’s Largest Kaleidoscope
A Truly Unique Attraction in the Catskills
The word “kaleidoscope” comes from the Greek kalos (beautiful), eidos (form), and skopeō (to examine)—meaning “observer of beautiful forms.” That’s exactly what you’ll find here.
Housed inside a 60-foot-tall silo at The Emerson, the World’s Largest Kaleidoscope transforms moving images into mesmerizing displays of color, shape, and light. The mirrors themselves are an engineering feat: 37½ feet long, weighing 5,000 pounds, built on-site and installed using a 100-foot crane.
Instead of traditional beads and glass, the Kaleidoscope uses original video art projected through a lens system and reflected in three mirrors that form a perfect sphere when viewed from below. This allows us to honor the original concept of creating symmetrical imagery but with the ability to develop seasonal themes, collaborate with artists, and continually refresh the experience.
Each show is carefully produced to take full advantage of the scale and architecture of the silo, surrounding viewers in a sensory-rich experience that feels fully transportive.
A Record-Breaking Work of Art
Recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records in 1997, the World’s Largest Kaleidoscope was designed by renowned kaleidoscope artist Charles Karadimos. The original Kaleidoshows were created by psychedelic art pioneer Isaac Abrams and his son Raphael Abrams, with composer Gary Burke providing a musical score.
Experience the Kaleidoshow
Each Kaleidoshow is a unique blend of art, technology, and imagination, evolving over the years to bring new visual experiences. In 2016, Star Dust took viewers on a mesmerizing journey through the life cycle of a star.
Today, our current show, The Earth Laughs in Flowers, offers a colorful and vibrant exploration of the flowers and plant life native to The Emerson grounds.
Created in-house by staff members Posie Strenz, Jonas Finkel, and Liz Appelson, The Earth Laughs in Flowers is a tribute to the resort’s legendary namesake, Ralph Waldo Emerson, whose famous essay Nature inspired the creation of the Catskill Forest Preserve.
Hours & Admission
Thursday – Monday 10 AM – 5 PM
Closed Tuesday & Wednesday
Ages 12 and up: $5
Children under 12: Free
Complimentary for hotel guests!
For more information, call (845) 688-2828 Ext. 7654
Explore the Kaleidostore
Beyond the Kaleidoshow, explore a stunning collection of handcrafted kaleidoscopes in the Kaleidostore.
Whether you’re a collector, a gift seeker, or simply an admirer of kaleidoscopic beauty, our store offers a unique selection of mesmerizing works of art.
Visit the World’s Largest Kaleidoscope Today
Experience a one-of-a-kind visual journey and take home a piece of kaleidoscopic magic from the Kaleidostore. A visit to the World’s Largest Kaleidoscope is an unforgettable experience for all ages.