Storyland Studios, the three-dimensional storytelling firm, has announced that it has been selected to design and create an all-new interactive visitor experience for the Auburn-Opelika area in eastern Alabama.
This brand-new experience, developed in collaboration with Auburn-Opelika Tourism and local artists and craftspeople, will use innovative technologies to present the neighbourhood’s story in an original and engaging way. Located inside the Opelika Chamber of Commerce’s new building, the visitor experience will showcase the region’s most well-known attractions in an effort to capture attention, encourage engagement, and draw repeat visits to the area.
“We’re thrilled to be part of this new chapter in Auburn-Opelika’s story,” says Matt Ferguson, chief innovation officer at Storyland Studios. “This interactive visitor experience is designed to surprise and delight guests, going beyond an information center to become an attraction in itself, inspiring people to stay longer and keep coming back to the area.”
“Auburn-Opelika is a destination of great stories,” adds Robyn Bridges, president and CEO of Auburn-Opelika Tourism. “We are thrilled to work with Storyland Studios to bring to life the people and places of our community. The commitment and vision they bring to the table will showcase our authentic experiences and local legends in ways our visitors could never have imagined.”
An engaging guest experience
The ever-changing interactive experience will entice visitors to return time and time again, and a social sharing feature will encourage guests to interact and post about their experience on social media. Ferguson teases that an “Easter egg” element will be included in the encounter that will leave guests wondering, saying, “We have some great surprises in store.”
The Auburn-Opelika region is home to Auburn University and draws a diverse range of tourists each year with its wealth of attractions and recreational opportunities. A sizable number of students attend Auburn University annually; in 2023, autumn enrollment reached a record 33,015.
The area also has a thriving food scene, with high-end dining establishments and craft breweries. There are many different things to do in the region for both sports and outdoor fans, and it is a stop along the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. Fan-favourite local sights, such as art and entertainment offerings, will be included in the new visitor experience.
The historic city of Opelika is just eight miles away from Auburn University. The new Auburn-Opelika visitor experience aims to uncover stories of local history from this former railroad town.
“This experience will be a great way to not only discover opportunities in the Auburn-Opelika area, but also learn things you didn’t know about its history and current story,” adds Ferguson.
Last week, Storyland Studios revealed that it will hold its International Design Challenge again this year, following the great success of the first competition in 2021.
