CALEDONIA—Those looking for a new, immersive way to find businesses or locations to explore in Ontario have a new option thanks to the efforts of Dave and Sheri Flook, co-founders of a not-for-profit website called Ontario 360° Tours, which is currently producing a series of videos focused on Caledonia.
“We kept finding amazing places throughout Ontario we didn’t even know existed and thought – there have to be others out there looking for new and unique spots to explore too,” said Dave Flook. “We’re always researching places to hike, kayak, and visit, and love checking out local shops to get the full experience.”
While looking for new spots to check out, the pair realized that there wasn’t a comprehensive resource online dedicated to spotlighting communities in Ontario.
“After talking with a lot of small business owners, we saw how many could really benefit from more exposure. That’s when it clicked – we could create something that not only helped visitors but also supported local businesses. We started Ontario 360° Tours as a non-profit service because we truly believe in helping communities show what makes them special.”
Ideas for locations to spotlight come from a variety of sources, Flook said.
“Sometimes a local business, a family member, or a friend will suggest a spot they think we should check out. Other times, someone will reach out on our Facebook page asking us to explore a place they love. There are also times when we’ll visit somewhere for fun, and it leaves such an impression that we know we need to come back and film it properly. And sometimes it’s purely nostalgic – a place we remember from childhood that we want to see again through fresh eyes and share with others. No matter how we find it, it always starts with that feeling of curiosity and connection.”
Not satisfied with standard photography, the pair utilize modern 360-degree high-resolution video equipment to allow viewers to change the angle of their videos while watching them.
“This means you are able to move the image around to really have a unique, immersive experience,” he said. “We also have the option of adding a layer of narration overtop, which gives information about the scenes and locations as you view them. Additionally, we have the option of using wireless mics, which allows us to have guided tours or have business owners introduce their tours. This gives our videos a very charming, personal touch.”
Additionally, all of the pair’s videos are fully viewable in virtual reality, allowing viewers to feel “completely immersed, as if you are right there on the location.”
The pair came across Caledonia while researching new kayaking spots and felt immediately attracted to the area.
“It felt like a hidden gem – not widely on our radar until we went looking. After visiting and doing further research, we knew it was exactly the kind of town we wanted to showcase: authentic, welcoming, and full of stories waiting to be explored.”
So far, the pair has released one video, highlighting a tour of local music shop Second Chance Records, with a second focused on Haldimand House coming soon, and plans for more.
“We’re really excited to film Kinsmen Park. It’s right along the water, has a great trail that leads downtown, and offers something for everyone with tennis, pickleball, and lots of space to explore,” said Flook. “We’re also looking forward to capturing the iconic bridge – it’s such a big part of Caledonia’s history and connects the downtown to the rest of Caledonia in the coolest way. And even though it’s just outside of town, we think the Killman Zoo would be a fun feature too; it’s a great stop on the way into Caledonia. These are just a few highlights – there’s so much more we can’t wait to explore.”
Flook said that speaking to business owners allows the pair to focus on what they want to highlight, with owners being involved in the process to ensure the finished video captures their passion for their business.
“We also reach out to businesses along our walking tours to let them know we’ll be filming outside, so they’re aware and can be part of showcasing their community. To help them share the excitement, we also provide postcards they can hand out or display, showing they were featured in the tour,” said Flook, who noted that businesses love the unique service.
“They also appreciate how comprehensive it is; it’s not just a one-time video, but ongoing promotion through our social media, YouTube channel, and website. It’s been called a real breath of fresh air to have Ontario 360° Tours care so much about helping small businesses get the attention they deserve,” he said.
The couple’s interest in Haldimand doesn’t end with Caledonia either, with Flook listing Cottonwood Mansion and Rockpoint Provincial Park as other sites the pair are interested in filming down the road.
“We’d love to film and experience it all. Haldimand has so many hidden gems, and we’re excited to help more people discover just how much there is to see and do,” said Flook.
To check out Ontario 360° Tours for yourself, visit their website at ontario360tours.ca, or search for their content on YouTube.
“By using this new technology, we are able to increase tourism, awareness and bring in business, which is something we pride ourselves on,” Flook said.
