IAAPA Expo is a big, busy week for anyone in the attractions and leisure industry. Between the demos, networking events and education sessions, there’s a lot to get through, and with the expo expanding for 2026, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
IAAPA Expo 2026 is the biggest it has ever been. This year the show expands into the West Building of the Orange County Convention Center, adding nearly 50 percent more exhibit space, new pavilions and more exhibitors and product categories than any previous year. More to see means more to plan.
The Zero Latency VR team has years of IAAPA experience between us, so we've pulled together our top tips to help you make the most of every moment in Orlando, November 16-20.
TIP #1 Pre-Book, Plan, and Prioritize
“IAAPA has always been a whirlwind, and with the show now across two buildings, there’s more ground to cover than ever. My advice? Plan ahead. Check the floor plan early, work out which exhibitors you want to see and where they are, then group your meetings by building and pavilion so you’re not crisscrossing the convention center all day. Use the IAAPA Connect+ app to bookmark exhibitors and sessions and request meetings before the show. The attractions worth seeing usually have a queue, so pre-booking means you skip it. You’ll arrive with a mapped-out schedule, and trust me, that makes a big difference.”
- Daniel Littlepage, Chief Growth Officer
TIP #2 Know Your Space: Measure Up Before the Expo
"If you're attending IAAPA to scout new attractions, come prepared with measurements of your venue's spaces. Many vendors can tailor options to fit your exact setup, and having those dimensions on hand makes your conversations far more productive. With the right specs, you can explore options and buy with confidence, knowing they'll be a good fit for your venue."
- Aaron Hatzipantelis, Operations Manager
TIP #3 Keep Comfortable, Stay Energized!
"IAAPA is exciting but also physically demanding, and with the expo now covering two buildings you'll be doing even more walking this year. Wear comfortable shoes and pack essentials like a refillable water bottle, snacks and a power bank. There's a pedestrian bridge and a shuttle running between the buildings, so factor travel time into your schedule. I also recommend planning short breaks to recharge, both physically and mentally."
- Annie Parker, Venue Development Manager
TIP #4 Have Fun and Build Relationships
"It's been a challenging year for a lot of people in our industry, and that makes the conversations at IAAPA more valuable. Use the week to swap notes with other operators and industry leaders. Some of the best conversations happen away from the show floor, so say yes to the evening parties and events. Relationships have never been more important in this industry, and IAAPA is the one week when everyone is in the same place. Make the most of it and have some fun!"
- Brett Bovio, Senior Venue Success Manager
TIP #5 Ask About Exclusive Show Deals!
"Most IAAPA exhibitors offer exclusive deals that are only valid during the show. These can include discounts or added-value perks, so go prepared to commit at the expo if you want the best possible deal. The beauty of a show like IAAPA is the chance to meet multiple vendors face to face, try hands-on demos and secure products at the best price you'll see all year."
- Oliver Gils, Venue Development Manager Europe
TIP #6 Leverage Insights and Reconnect Post-Show
"When IAAPA ends, the real work begins. Organize your contacts and review your notes from the educational sessions. Reconnect while conversations are still fresh, and share your takeaways with your team back home. Putting new ideas from the expo into action and nurturing the relationships you formed there can make a lasting impact, so don't let those insights go to waste."
- Nacho Alvarez, Venue Development Manager
