I think that it's going to be hard for you to maintain any control of a simulator like Flight Simulator X or Prepar3D, which is what we use, without having a knowledgeable and dedicated team member present and on hand to set up the simulator scenario, get the flight loaded, get the user up in the air and back on the ground. This platform doesn't really work automatically that way.
It takes selections from the end user to load a given scenario or saved flight. That flight aspect can be created and saved in the simulator but somebody still has to know where the menu in the user interface is to load that flight option, select it and launch the saved flight. Then you'll have to tell the user what to do. "Move the Throttle with this lever", "Keep the aircraft pointing in that direction on the ground or water by using the rudder pedals", "Raise the Landing Gear with that button", etc.
I know this is a paradigm shift from your idea of using the simulator like we do here at home but without having somebody that can assist the users, it will be difficult for those that are unfamiliar with the software platforms to know what to do without any guidance or supervision. They will have no clue how to make things operate.
My suggestion is that you create and make a video demonstration using software or video footage that can produce a quick flight of the area. It can loop and repeat and then you can have visitors come into the exhibit area, sit down and enjoy a video flight around Tongass Narrows and the surrounding area. They can come and go as they please in the viewing area you create and enjoy the view while a virtual pilot flies them around the area.
GoPro cameras that are in use today can create some breathtaking video. Here's one I just located online that can give you an example of the footage I'd want to see in a video of a Misty Fjords flight.
A video like this would give the visitors a first hand look at what flying on and over the water, mountains and down low around the Misty Fjords is like. This presentation could be edited to show the take off portion, highlights of the in flight scenery of the area and then landing back in Ketchikan. Maybe a 10 to 20 minute experience.
Another idea is using Virtual Reality headsets. But you would need to purchase several that can show any flight videos of the area. VR Headsets are also a component favored by some of our users but those are expensive too. They can be set up and run with FSX and P3D but again, then you'll need to have a staff member onsite as well that will maintain them. They should be cleaned before given to each user to not spread any nasty stuff. The cost associated with that, the hardware etc. That can also get pricey in a hurry.
As a current worker in the field of A/V, we have seen more usage of VR presentations on trade show floors by exhibitors where VR Headsets are handed out to exhibit patrons to view a video demonstration of a product, etc. But each of those demonstrations needs and uses dedicated worker/s who are only there at the exhibit to assist, operate and manipulate the software. Then clean, set-up and adjust the VR headsets for the visitors. They start the presentation, troubleshoot if it's not working, remove the headset, remove the protective eye covers or ear pieces, clean and make ready for the next person in line. It's a labor intensive process.
I think a well produced video of Misty Fjords, like the example one I shared above, would give visitors a good idea of what the surrounding area looks like. Those who can't actually take a flight seeing adventure in the area would then be able to see how beautiful it looks out there from the air.
The cost associated would be for the aerial video production. The flight operator of course will be a cost consideration but many use video equipment on their flights and could provide the scenery shots you're looking for. You might even be able to work out a deal with a local flight operator that will provide the footage for you if you provide a sponsorship agreement where they get references to their flight operations or literature at the museum. Just another suggestion of course.
Brad