The FOMO Factory is Your Instagram Dream

FOMO Factory is an immersive art pop-up in Austin, Texas, perfect for all the selfies! As of 2020, this pop-up is now in Houston.
Disclosure: I attended a complimentary media preview of The FOMO Factory. All opinions are my own. Spoiler alert: I had lots of fun!

Whether you call it a selfie museum, Instagram museum, or photo-worthy art installations, these immersive and interactive places are made for photos. Austin now has their first, following cities like Dallas, New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Miami, and more. These pop-ups are short-term. Some are touring installations and others change their exhibits periodically to entice new and repeat visitors.

The FOMO Factory in Austin is what they call an “immersive art pop-up.” This two-story, interactive shop was created by Rachel Youens and Kara Whitten and features colorful displays themed to childhood memories. From sweet treats to throwback toys, it felt like a trip down memory lane, though these memories were definitely a lot more colorful!

You’ll be able to explore seven spaces with interactive features and fun backdrops. Get your cameras ready because you’re in for a lot of colorful shots!

In true millennial form, FOMO Factory is all about the experience. Go with friends, take your time, and enjoy yourself. If you’re like me, you’ll be laughing all the way through while trying to look more cute than awkward.

Since I went as part of a media preview, it’s hard to judge how crowded it will be on your visit. We got there early, so while it felt a little rushed because you don’t want someone behind you waiting forever to have a certain room, it wasn’t so crowded that we couldn’t enjoy ourselves. Later, we tried to go back to a specific room but found a long line.

Bring your patience. Everyone is enjoying themselves and trying to take photos. Also, be respectful of other people’s time and don’t take too long with your photos. If you are not about selfies, waiting, and crowds, I’d avoid visiting.

Who knew a small room full of balloons would be so fun!

What I love about FOMO Factory is the place allows and even encourages you to go on an adventure. It puts you in a new environment and reminds me you don’t have to travel far for new experiences.

Try out the see-saw and swing in the playground!

I loved all the throwback and 80s references! Cassette tapes, 80s lyrics, and retro design are all here.

When you get to the end, look through the gift shop to take some color and Austin swag home with you.

The Details:

No parking lot, look for street parking or parking lots nearby
Advanced tickets recommended before they sell out. Children under 3 are free, children under 12 are $15, and adults are $23.
It should take about an hour to go through the whole thing.
The place does have a few flights of stairs and part of the exhibit is in a covered outdoor area.
Wear bright colors or patterns. If you can’t decide, wear black like me and it works well enough. Make sure it’s comfortable (and maybe pants?) because you’ll be moving into different spaces.
The FOMO Factory is now open until October 21, 2018.

Thank you to my friend Janna for taking all the photos of me!