The Cahokia AR app is a creative and engaging tool that helps visitors better understand what the Cahokia Mounds site once looked like. Because much of the ancient city is no longer visible above ground, the augmented reality experience fills in those gaps by overlaying 3D reconstructions of buildings, temples, and daily life onto the present-day landscape. This makes the site more accessible intellectually, especially for visitors who struggle to imagine history based only on signs or earth mounds. Visual learners, students, families, and tech-savvy users benefit the most, as the app turns abstract archaeological information into something immersive and memorable.
In terms of accessibility, the app enhances access for people who are physically able to walk the site and who own compatible smartphones or tablets. Audio and visual elements support multiple learning styles and can deepen engagement compared to traditional museum labels. However, the app also excludes some groups. The cost of the app and reliance on personal devices create economic and technological barriers. Visitors without smartphones, those uncomfortable with digital tools, or people with certain disabilities may find the experience difficult or inaccessible. While device rentals exist, they are limited.
Representation is another mixed area. The app does a strong job presenting archaeological reconstructions, but it could be improved by more clearly centering Indigenous voices and descendant perspectives. Including Native community narratives would strengthen cultural representation and remind users that Cahokia is not just ancient history, but part of a living heritage.