Creating the Experience: Behind the Front Lines Tour

The day after the Philadelphia Visitor Experience Conference, join fellow visitor experience professionals on a behind-the-scenes look at visitor operations within three of Philadelphia's premier museums.  See The Barnes Foundation, Eastern State Penitentiary, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art from a whole new perspective!

The Barnes Foundation: Minimal signage, contemporary architecture, and timed tickets are often seen as a hindrance to the visitor. However, at The Barnes Foundation, the “architecture” of the visitor experience is informed by the collection itself. The minimalism is intended to maximize the quality of the visit by creating custom engagement opportunities. Hear how the Visitor Services team meets the needs of its guest expectations.

The Philadelphia Museum of Art: Come and see how the Philadelphia Museum of Art is putting into practice digital technology to enhance the overall experience of its visitors.  See how the Museum incorporates digital solutions not just for digital sake but using technology to expand the interpretation of the collection for visitors and at the same time helping them find the bathroom!  Meet the staff behind the creation of the technology, the overall content strategy, and see first-hand how the devices work.

Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site:  Eastern State stands on its own as a unique museum in a ruinous, historic setting.  So how does this institution approach the visitor experience with these challenges?  Please join your guide and explore the property and engage in a discussion around the lack of running water, temperature-controlled spaces, and architecture that was built to intimidate.