“Technology should enhance the story without intruding on the landscape.”
Some of the best ideas for parks come from outside the park system. That’s why I enjoy bringing in guests who see visitor experiences from a different perspective. In this episode, we welcome Tim Steinour, executive producer for BPI, a company that specializes in immersive storytelling for museums, attractions, visitor centers, and other public spaces.
Tim’s work focuses on helping organizations turn stories into experiences people remember. When we talked, it became clear that the same thinking used in museums and attractions can apply directly to parks.
One of the key ideas Tim shared is that media should never overpower the story. Parks already have powerful assets: landscapes, historic buildings, artifacts, and the people who interpret them. Technology and media should simply help visitors connect more deeply to those elements.
A great example is how historic homes or preserved spaces can be enhanced without changing them. Instead of filling a room with screens, you might use audio, lighting, or subtle projection to give visitors the feeling that they’re stepping into a moment from the past. The artifacts remain the focus, but the story becomes easier to experience.
We also talked about trails and interpretive signs. Many parks rely on traditional panels or brochures, but there are opportunities to enhance those experiences with tools like QR codes or audio elements. Used carefully, technology can provide deeper context for visitors who want it while remaining invisible to those who simply want to enjoy the hike.
Another idea that stood out is capturing the voices of park rangers. Rangers carry deep knowledge of the places they serve. Recording their stories—whether through audio, video, or short interpretive clips—can help extend that experience to visitors who may never meet them on the trail.
Tim closed with advice that applies to any park leader: think about the next generation. The way visitors learn, explore, and experience places is changing. Parks don’t need to abandon tradition, but they do need to think creatively about how stories are shared.
Connect with Tim Steinouer
Resources
Notable Moments
[00:01:23] How immersive storytelling helps museums and visitor centers
[00:03:36] Approaching historic sites without overpowering artifacts
[00:07:22] Why media creates emotional connections for visitors
[00:11:37] How interpretive signs enhance experiences along trails
[00:13:58] Using technology like QR codes to expand storytelling
[00:19:02] Extending ranger knowledge through media and audio
[00:26:13] Helping parks refresh outdated exhibits with phased plans
[00:29:35] Advice for park leaders about engaging future generations