Storyland Studios selected to design new Auburn-Opelika Visitor Experience
Auburn-Opelika, Ala. – Storyland Studios, the international experience design firm, has been selected to design and create an all-new interactive visitor experience for the Auburn-Opelika area in eastern Alabama.
Created in partnership with Auburn-Opelika Tourism, as well as local artists and craftspeople, this new experience will utilize innovative technologies to tell the surrounding community’s story in a fresh, unique way. Housed inside the new home of the Opelika Chamber of Commerce, the visitor experience will highlight popular features of the area to spark guest interest, drive engagement and ultimately attract visitors to the area again and again.
“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,” says 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.”
The interactive experience will change frequently, drawing visitors back again and again. A social sharing component will encourage guests to engage and share their visit across social media. And, according to Ferguson, the experience will also have a built-in “Easter egg” component that will keep visitors guessing.
“We have some great surprises in store,” he says.
Home of Auburn University, a rich local history, and a host of attractions and recreational activities, the Auburn-Opelika area attracts a wide variety of visitors each year. Auburn University draws in a large student population annually, with a record fall enrollment of 33,015 students in 2023.
Visitors to the area also enjoy a rich culinary scene, which includes upscale restaurants and craft breweries. The area is a stop along the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, and sports and outdoor enthusiasts alike can find a variety of activities to engage in. The new visitor experience will also feature fan-favorite local stops, including arts and entertainment offerings.
Just eight miles down the road from Auburn University is the historic city of Opelika. 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.” Ferguson says.
Storyland Studios is a full-service experience design and strategy firm with offices in the US and Europe. We imagine, design, and create story driven experiences that lift the Spirit.
About Storyland Studios:
Established in 2001, Thea Award-winning Storyland Studios follows the design principles of the original Walt Disney Imagineers. By collaborating closely with clients, and partnering with top IP owners, developers, and visionaries, we provide strategic design solutions that will bring your stories to life in a consistent and connected way through Experience Design, Immersive Storytelling, and Exceptional Service.
About Auburn-Opelika Tourism:
Auburn-Opelika Tourism is a non-profit service organization positively impacting our local economy and enhancing the quality of life in our community through tourism and travel. Learn more about AO Tourism at aotourism.com.