Travelers need more than pics of rivers to kayak, mountains to hike and wine to taste when making vacation decisions. So Travel Oregon and Wieden+Kennedy Portland brought inanimate objects to life, serving as personal guides to highlight local gems and activities unique to Oregon.
SustainaBill the beaver educates visitors on sustainable travel; Boots—literally, they're hiking shoes—tour trails throughout the state; Kayakyak (yes, a canoe) talks water excursions; Dark Sky (really, the firmament) shares stargazing advice; a pole named Telephone Paul is brimming with info; and Rosa (she's a flower) offers tips on food and wine.
Directed by Joe Pelling, the work seeks to forge personal connections between tourists and residents—like the hiking guide who shares his favorite trails or a park ranger with info on the best places to stargaze.
"Travel has become so much more than picking a place out on a map. It has become personal. It's not just about going to see Oregon. It's about going to see Oregon in a way that is green and sustainable," says Nick Stokes, creative director at W+K. "It's not just about seeing the landmarks. It's about going deeper and discovering the true gems this place has to offer in a way where you know you'll be welcome and prepared no matter who you are or what your experience."
Take it from the omnipotent celestial Dark Sky: "I have gazed down upon this land for many millennia. My love has grown with each. We are grateful for the opportunity to reveal what one can truly experience."
A 30-second version of the ad will run during live events like the Women's World Cup, NFL coverage and College Football games, as well as on Hulu, Peacock and YouTube. Out-of-home ads will appear along the West Coast and digitally at EV charging stations.