Madame Tussauds - London Plantetarium - London's Sights

Madame Tussaud's & The Auditorium (Previously London Planetarium)

Two of the most popular attractions tourists love include the London Planetarium and Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum. These two attractions are really two in one, so they are not only a lot of fun but also a great deal for money conscious travelers.

The London Planetarium

The London Planetarium is in the same building as Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum and one ticket buys entrance into both attractions. The Planetarium has recently received a new name, The Auditorium, and provides a variety of short shows for tourists and locals alike to enjoy. However, show lengths have been shortened and many individuals speculate the Auditorium will be closed soon. There is no definite decision to close the Planetarium, but to be on the safe side you should visit sooner rather than later.

Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum

There are few tourist attractions in London that couple the present and the past so well as Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum. The history behind the museum is really very interesting and worthwhile to know. In the 18th and 19th centuries Madame Tussaud created death masks of individuals who were sent to the guillotine. She became a true "artist", although it was a rather morbid job, and her art became well known in France. Two particularly famous death masks Madame Tussaud crafted were those of Marie Antoinette and Louis XVI.

The museum today is very modern and incorporates the art style of Madame Tussaud by displaying wax models of historical figures and all of Hollywood's top stars. The wax collection inherited by Madame Tussaud from Dr. Curitius is what began the museum in 1835. However, many updates have been added to both the delight and horror of many. In fact, more than two million visitors each and every year are amazed and frightened at the realistic wax figures. There are several different displays for tourists to enjoy including the Chamber of Horrors, The Garden Party, the Spirit of London, and the like. Of course, tourists love taking pictures with their favorite wax celebrity. Some of the most popular are Princess Di, Brad Pitt, Winston Churchill, and many others.

The Chamber of Horrors is unbelievably realistic; however the goal of the display is for amusement purposes only. Warlords and murderers are on display in some frightening ways, but many tourists enjoy this attraction. Especially the torture and execution scenes that make one's heart race as if it were really happening.

Yet another section of the museum displays the Garden Party. Here athletes, politicians, and movie stars are on display and look so real one almost believes they are. The Grand Hall boasts royalty and heads of state from British history, some who were loved by the people, and others who were not.

There is also a ride called the Spirit of London. Tourists take little carts and are shown some highlights of 400 years of English history. One particular segment that most tourists love is an overview of Jack the Ripper.

Madame Tussaud's museum is worth a visit just to see the amazing craftsmanship of the individuals on display. No expense has been spared to ensure that the best wax artists are hired to create the newest attractions.

When to Visit? The best time to visit these tourist attractions is early or late in the day when there are fewer visitors. Midday tends to be very crowded and can take away from the experience plus add a long line to wait in as well. You will enjoy the museum whenever you go, but if you don't like crowds avoid the more popular times to visit. The tube is a great way to reach the Museum, which can be accessed by the Baker Street stop.