IAAPA Expo 2026 is just around the corner, and if you thought previous years were massive, you might want to bring an extra pair of comfortable walking shoes! The annual attractions industry gathering returns to Orlando’s Orange County Convention Center from November 16–20, and this year brings one of the biggest changes to its exhibition layout. For the first time, the Expo is expanding into the West Building, increasing its show floor space by nearly 50%.
With more exhibitors, educational sessions, and attractions industry innovations spread across the convention center, figuring out where everything is located could be a challenge, especially for first-time attendees. Fortunately, Clint Novak, a family entertainment center (FEC) operator and the voice behind Novak Amusement Solutions, has shared a helpful guide explaining what visitors can expect and how to navigate the expanded Expo.
A Bigger Expo With a New Layout
One of the biggest changes Novak highlights is the relocation of several familiar exhibitors and industry categories into the West Building. Companies such as Venu+, Roller, and Gateway Ticketing Systems are among those making the move, giving attendees interested in ticketing technology and attraction management systems a reason to explore the new exhibition space. The Food & Beverage Pavilion is also moving west, along with the Haunt Pavilion and Haunting Grounds, which should be particularly interesting for those involved in haunted attractions.
Meanwhile, the North and South Buildings will continue hosting much of the traditional family entertainment and amusement equipment experience. The Family Entertainment Pavilion remains a major destination for operators looking at go-karts, laser tag, and other attractions, while the Games & Arcade Pavilion has shifted toward the center of the South Hall. However, Novak points out that arcade exhibitors won’t necessarily be grouped in one location, so visitors looking for specific manufacturers may have some additional exploring to do.
Educational opportunities are also spread throughout the expanded convention center. With more than 170 sessions covering different aspects of the attractions industry, attendees will want to pay attention to where their presentations and meetings are scheduled. Traveling between the West Building and the North-South complex could take more time than expected, especially during busy exhibition hours.
A Little Planning Can Make a Big Difference
One of the most useful takeaways from Novak’s guide is the importance of planning your visit around the different buildings. Rather than constantly moving back and forth across the convention center, attendees may benefit from grouping their exhibitor visits and educational sessions by location. IAAPA’s Connect+ app can also help visitors locate exhibitors, review schedules, and build an itinerary before arriving.
The additional exhibition space could also provide some welcome breathing room. Anyone who has attended IAAPA Expo knows how crowded the aisles can become, particularly when a major manufacturer is demonstrating something exciting. Spreading exhibitors across another building may help improve circulation while giving attendees more places to meet, network, and recharge throughout the day.
Of course, part of the excitement of IAAPA Expo is discovering something completely unexpected. You might arrive hoping to check out the latest roller coaster technology and somehow find yourself exploring arcade machines, themed entertainment concepts, or even haunted attraction effects. That’s what makes this event such an interesting gathering for people across the attractions industry.
Getting Ready for IAAPA Expo 2026
With its expanded footprint, IAAPA Expo 2026 is shaping up to be another exciting year for the attractions industry. Whether you’re an experienced operator, an industry professional, or someone attending for the first time, taking a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the layout could make your visit much more enjoyable.
Clint Novak’s perspective as an FEC operator provides a helpful starting point for anyone wondering where to begin, especially with so many familiar exhibitors moving into new locations. His breakdown is worth checking out before heading to Orlando, and we appreciate him sharing his knowledge with the attractions community.
You can read his complete FEC Operator’s Guide to the Expanded IAAPA Expo 2026 over at Novak Amusement Solutions. For the latest event details, exhibitor listings, and schedules, visit the official IAAPA Expo website.
With nearly 50% more exhibition space to explore, one thing is certain: there’s going to be plenty to see, and probably not enough time to see it all!