MANSFIELD — The Mansfield/Richland County Convention & Visitors Bureau has launched a newly designed website for The Shawshank Trail. The website is the latest in a series of enhanced marketing tools for promoting the power of the Trail.
The previous website was successful in distributing information to people wanting to learn more about the 14 filming sites around Mansfield, Ashland and Upper Sandusky from “The Shawshank Redemption.” However, the growth of the Trail as an attraction and marketing vehicle with its own distinct branding demanded a big step forward in design and visitor-centered navigation.
The new website features video from the moment a fan hits the homepage which immediately draws them into the site. The CVB shot the video footage last year in preparation for building the new site. Each page also includes beautiful panoramic photos that show off each filming site.
“This website was developed with Shawshank Redemption fans in mind,” according to CVB Group Tour/Media Directory Jodie Snavely. “It brings scenes from the movie to life and allows fans to start their Shawhank pilgrimage. The concept is to cement in their minds they absolutely have to be here to complete that journey. No other location that can make that claim!”
Additional features include new filming sites’ videos and podcasts and a “Share Your Experience” section for visitors to post reviews. There’s even a #ShawshankTrail for fans to share their favorite photos along the trail.The website was also designed with a mobile user in mind and works well on all smart phones and tablets.
