Mystery Spot

In 1939 the Mystery Spot opened in Santa Cruz, California. The owners had a small claim site that defied physics and gravity. When the complex was opened a number of demonstrations were necessary to prove what a mystery it truly was. Tour guides will take visitors round the various exhibits. Some demonstrations include two people standing on opposite sides, but on level ground. One will appear shorter than another. There is a ball that rolls up a plank rather than down, and an old shed that is slanted at an odd angle despite its solid foundation.

Calibrated measurement, compasses, and even GPS do not seem to work in this area. It is thought that carbon dioxide or some other scientific explanation is why the place has a bit of mystery about it. There are definitely illusions experienced by visitors, despite being on level ground. There are only a few other places in the United States that have these same issues, such as St. Ignace, Michigan and in the Wisconsin Dells.

Hours do vary from season to season, with winter hours at Monday through Friday 10am to 4pm, and Saturday and Sunday 10am to 5pm. Admission is $5 for adults. Children 3 and younger are free.