IAAPA Expo 2024: AI, Insights, and Endless Possibilities

IAAPA Expo 2024: AI, Insights, and Endless Possibilities

As the doors closed on IAAPA Expo 2024, one thing was clear: innovation in the attractions industry is speeding ahead at a breathtaking pace. In terms of technology innovation, there was lots of activity on the show floor around leveraging cutting-edge technology to personalize guest experiences, improve operational efficiency, and unlock new revenue opportunities. From AI-powered marketing strategies to data-driven decision-making, attendees and exhibitors alike showcased how technology is reshaping the guest journey.

accesso was proud to be in attendance, presenting our innovative solutions for the year ahead in 2025 and connecting with so many friendly faces—both familiar and new. It’s always a privilege to be part of an event that brings together the brightest minds in the industry to share insights and spark ideas for the future and the best of our industry space.

AI in Action: Enhancing Marketing and Guest Experience

Artificial Intelligence (AI) was a standout theme at IAAPA 2024, with many discussions focusing on how it can elevate both marketing strategies and guest experiences. AI-driven tools are enabling operators to deliver hyper-targeted promotions, predict visitor preferences, and automate guest communication. Imagine sending a push notification that not only reminds a guest of their dinner reservation, but also recommends an activity nearby based on their past visits. The ability to anticipate needs and make personalized recommendations isn’t just about convenience—it’s about creating memorable, meaningful connections with your guests. At accesso, like all tech vendors, we’re looking at how AI can be used best to help our clients achieve these goals. 

Data-Driven Decision-Making

Another key takeaway from IAAPA was the growing emphasis on turning data into action. Operators are no longer satisfied with simply collecting mountains of guest data—they want tools that transform those insights into actionable strategies. Whether it’s optimizing ticket pricing, managing crowd flow, or crafting tailored marketing campaigns, the ability to interpret and act on real-time data is a game-changer.

accesso Passport® exemplifies this shift. By integrating ticketing, parking, meal deals, and more into a single platform, operators can analyze guest spending patterns across the entire journey. This holistic view empowers venues to make data-backed decisions that enhance both the guest experience and the bottom line.

And speaking of seamless operations, the new accesso Passport mPOS solution was a major highlight in our booth this year. This mobile point-of-sale system brings the flexibility to sell tickets, parking, or add-ons from virtually anywhere, giving operators the freedom to meet guests wherever they are.

One Platform. Endless Results.

Ahead of IAAPA, we introduced a simple yet powerful mantra: One Ticketing Platform. Endless Results. This theme resonated strongly at the show, where the focus on integration and efficiency was front and center. Attractions operators are increasingly seeking unified solutions that simplify operations while unlocking growth opportunities.

Looking Ahead

As we think about what we took away from IAAPA Expo 2024, the learning is clear: the attractions industry is entering an exciting new era powered by technology. From AI to actionable data and unified platforms, the tools available today help operators deliver not just experiences, but exceptional and memorable ones.

We’re excited to continue leading the way and can’t wait to see how our innovations—and yours—shape the future of guest engagement.