The Bruce County Museum & Cultural Centre has launched a new virtual museum experience, developed in partnership with Georgian College. This innovative online platform offers visitors the ability to explore the Museum's galleries and spaces virtually -- anytime, anywhere.
The interactive tool allows users to navigate through immersive 3D galleries and historical spaces, discover featured artifacts and exhibits, and engage with interpretive content that showcases Bruce County's rich history, culture, and natural heritage. Designed to complement in-person visits, the platform also provides an accessible option for those who face barriers to visiting the Museum physically, ensuring that everyone can connect with Bruce County's stories.
In partnership with Georgian College, the platform uses Matterport, a leading 3D capture technology widely used in real estate, architecture, and cultural institutions. This technology preserves the spatial context of exhibits while creating opportunities for virtual tours, global access, and educational engagement.
"We're proud to partner with the Bruce County Museum & Cultural Centre to help bring this virtual museum experience to life," says Rob Theriault, Immersive Technology Manager at Georgian College. "It's a great example of how technology can open doors; making local history and culture easier to explore, learn from and share, no matter where you are."
The new digital museum experience supports the Museum's ongoing commitment to expanding access, improving accessibility, and strengthening digital engagement. These are key priorities identified across major strategic initiatives, including the Museum's 2026-30 Digital Content Strategy.
"Partnering with Georgian College allows us to extend the Museum beyond our physical walls, through use of this technology," said Museum Director Cathy McGirr. "It allows residents, educators, students, and visitors to connect with our collections and stories in a flexible, engaging way -- while inspiring future in-person visits."
Visitors can expect an intuitive experience, including the ability to zoom in on artifacts and access embedded stories through text and visuals. Desktop and mobile devices are the optimal way to explore the new platform.
Introduction of additional features will further complement the experience later this year, including expanded gallery views, enhanced interpretive content, and new digital storytelling elements that incorporate video.
The virtual museum is now live and available to the public at brucemuseum.ca.
