Creating Immersive Civic Experiences: How 360° VR is Transforming Public Engagement

Cities are increasingly exploring immersive technologies to connect with residents in meaningful ways. This session will showcase how the City of Austin has leveraged 360° Virtual Reality (VR) to enhance public engagement, cultural preservation, and accessibility. From virtual cave tours that educate residents about water conservation to an innovative Oakwood Cemetery 360° VR experience that contributed to a National Endowment for the Humanities grant, and a Municipal Court 360° VR tour recognized with the “Friends of the Court” award, these projects demonstrate the power of immersive storytelling in civic spaces.

Attendees will learn about the challenges and opportunities of implementing VR in government, strategies for collaboration across departments and community partners, and lessons learned from award-winning projects. The session will also explore how immersive technology can foster transparency, education, and cultural connection—paving the way for future XR applications in public service.