Touch Point Island Guide: A Digital Welcome to Cortes Island

On Cortes Island, where rugged landscapes meet the warmth of a close-knit community, visitor information has embraced a modern, interactive approach. In July 2025, the Cortes Island Museum Visitor Information Booth, now housed within the Doreen Thompson Gallery, unveiled the Touch Point Island Guide, a custom-designed digital kiosk made possible through Destination BC’s Visitor Services Experience Enhancement Grant.

Not your typical information booth, the sleek digital touchscreen invites guests to discover the island’s many layers at their own pace, from beaches and hiking trails to cultural landmarks and essential services. As the timeline evolved, the final installation now stands as a well-designed gateway to Cortes Island. 

Project Highlights

Several elements converged to bring this project to life:

• A user-friendly, interactive kiosk with touchscreen or mouse navigation, suitable for all ages. 
• Comprehensive content such as points of interest, natural areas, recreation options, cultural and historic sites, shopping, dining, and essential services. 
• Partnership-supported data, including collaboration with the Harbour Authority to provide accurate information for boaters.

Why it Matters

The Touch Point Island Guide has brought new depth to the visitor experience on Cortes Island. With its intuitive design, practical content, and engaging visuals, it empowers users to shape their own island experience. The guide is complemented by other resources, including in-person experiences where visitors can chat with Visitor Information Booth staff, browse works by local artisans and authors, and look through historical binders.

The project reflects Cortes Island’s core values, offering not just information, but hospitality, storytelling, and a sense of place.  

Impact 

Since its debut, the Touch Point Island Guide has become a popular resource among visitors, particularly families and small groups. It has also modernized the Visitor Information Booth, transforming it into a more comprehensive information hub. Whether hiking trails, historic post offices, or e-charging stations, visitors can journey through local attractions with just a tap or click. 

Learnings

The Touch Point Island Guide project highlighted several valuable lessons. While investing in digital design can significantly enhance the visitor experience, it also requires strategic planning, time, and flexibility, especially when working within a tight budget. The project affirmed the importance of clear, concise communication to keep users engaged and avoid information overload. Involving diverse perspectives proved equally beneficial, with younger team members and tech-savvy volunteers offering insights that helped refine the user experience. Finally, adaptability was essential: although considerations related to health, scheduling, and resources led to timeline adjustments, they didn’t impact the success or quality of the final product.

What’s Next

With the kiosk now fully integrated, the museum plans to expand the space with interpretive panels and potentially a booklet for those who prefer a physical guide to the island’s social, cultural, and natural history. As the Touch Point Island Guide evolves, it will continue to serve as a welcoming, innovative touchpoint for the Cortes Island community.