Virtual Experiences
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I access the virtual tour I signed up for?
A: How to Access:
1. Click the orange button that says "View the Event" in your confirmation email and all reminder emails (including this one!) If you are not logged into Eventbrite, you will need to do so with the email you registered with in order to access the page.
2. Click the image that says "Click Here to Join the Zoom" 5- 10 minutes before the event begins. Enter the password provided under the image and in your confirmation email.
3. Sit back, relax, and enjoy your tour.
Q: I clicked the View Now button but am in a Waiting Room. What do I need to do?
A: Nothing! Your guide will let you into the presentation when it’s time to begin so sit back, relax, and enjoy learning about Detroit.
Q: What should I expect from a virtual tour vs. regular tour?
A: Your guide will be using various visual tools such as Google Maps, photos, and websites to share history, stories, and facts on the topic of the tour. Expect a lot of information in the 1 hour long experience with room for answering questions at the end. You will be able to use the chat box to submit questions or comments that the guide will engage with.
Q: What tips do you have to get the most out of the Zoom experience?
A: Zoom is a great presentation tool with a lot of features. For our virtual experiences, here are some tips:
Having headphones or a speaker handy in case the computer audio is inadequate
Ensure that your computer has a stable internet connection and use wired Ethernet connection if possible for the lowest chance of interruption.
Changing the video layout to active speaker view
Turning your video off if you don't want other participants to see you
If the host is having technical difficulties or freezes, you do not need to reload or log out. Please wait patiently as they get back on.
You will be entered into a waiting room when you first join - you don't need to do anything else. The guide will let you in when the tour is ready to begin.
Q: Is there a video tutorial for using Zoom meetings?
A: Yes! Watch this video to learn all about how to use Zoom meetings.
Q: Why are tickets donation-based?
A: As a 501c3 we rely on our community to support our programming to achieve our mission of educating locals and visitors about Detroit’s people, places and projects using immersive storytelling. These virtual experiences are available without a set ticket cost thanks to sponsorships and YOUR generous donations. Learn more about donating here.
Q: How do I book a virtual experience for my private group i.e. company, school, family?
A: We can customize a virtual experience on ANY topic for your group! Reach out to our tour coordinator here to get the conversation started.
Q: Are you only doing virtual tours or can I go on a walking tour?
A: Our public schedule is currently only offering virtual experiences, however, we expect to offer some public socially distant walking tours in the future and are currently offering private, small group walking tours. All participants of walking yours must bring a mask, headphones, and charged cellphone where you will then call into a number to hear your guide as you explore Detroit. If you'd like to talk about a private socially distant tour, reach out to our tour coordinators here.
Q: I missed the virtual tour I signed up for. Can I get a recording of it?
A: You will receive a follow up email that includes links to our Resource page and YouTube page where you can find clips from many of our virtual tours. At this time, we are not sharing full recordings of the virtual experiences. However, many of the topics will be offered again or you can reach out about a custom private experience for your group. Sign up for our monthly newsletter to get those updates.