IAAPA Expo 2026 Orlando: A Practical Guide for Attendees

Date	Event	Time
November 16 (Monday)	Education Conference	Various sessions
November 17 (Tuesday)	Trade Show – Day 1	10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
November 18 (Wednesday)	Trade Show – Day 2	10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
November 19 (Thursday)	Trade Show – Day 3	10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
November 20 (Friday)	Trade Show – Day 4	10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

 

The Education Conference runs from November 16 to November 19, featuring professional sessions, workshops, industry discussions and networking opportunities.

Visitors planning to attend the exhibition should note that the main show floor opens on November 17 and closes on November 20.

 

Official event information: https://iaapa.org/expos-and-events/iaapa-expo

 

2. Orange County Convention Center: The Home of IAAPA Expo

 

The Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) is one of the largest convention centers in the United States and has been the home of major international exhibitions, conferences and business events for decades.

 

A venue with a long history

 

The original Orange County Convention and Civic Center opened in February 1983. Initially designed with approximately 147,500 square feet of exhibition space, the facility has undergone several major expansion projects to accommodate the rapidly growing convention and tourism industries in Orlando.

 

In 2003, the opening of the North-South Building marked another important stage in its development.

 

Today, OCCC has approximately 2.1 million square feet of total exhibition space, making it one of the largest convention facilities in the country.

 

Location and transportation

 

The convention center is located in the heart of Orlando's International Drive tourism and convention district.

 

Venue addresses:

 

• * South Building: 9400 Universal Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32819, USA

• * West Building: 9800 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819, USA

Floor Plan link: 

https://iaapaexpo26.mapyourshow.com/8_0/floorplan/index.cfm?hallID=campus&level=1

 

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is approximately 12 miles from the convention center.

Visitors can reach OCCC by:

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• * Taxi and ride-sharing: Uber and Lyft are convenient options from Orlando International Airport and surrounding hotels.

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• * Rental cars: Several major car rental companies operate at Orlando International Airport. Driving is a practical option for visitors planning to explore Orlando beyond the convention district.

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• * Public transportation: LYNX buses serve the Orlando area, while the I-RIDE Trolley operates along International Drive, connecting visitors with many hotels, restaurants, shopping areas and attractions.

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• Hotel shuttles: Selected official IAAPA hotels provide transportation services during the exhibition. Visitors should check individual hotel and event shuttle schedules in advance.

 

For visitors moving between the South and West Buildings during the exhibition, a pedestrian bridge and continuous shuttle service will make it easier to access both exhibition areas.

 

3. IAAPA Expo 2026: Registration and Visitor Guildlines

How to Register and Get Your IAAPA Expo Badge

Before attending IAAPA Expo 2026, visitors are encouraged to complete their registration online through the official IAAPA website.

 

Registration website: https://iaapa.org/expos-and-events/iaapa-expo/register

 

After completing your registration, keep your confirmation email and QR code (if provided). When you arrive at the Orange County Convention Center, follow the signs to the designated Registration Area in either the West Building or South Building.

 

Present your registration confirmation and a valid photo ID to the registration staff. Once your information has been verified, you will receive your official IAAPA Expo badge.

Remember to wear your badge at all times inside the venue and during Expo activities. Your badge is your personal admission credential for the show floor and other eligible Expo activities. It is non-transferable and must not be shared with anyone else.

 

We recommend registering in advance to save time and avoid unnecessary queues at the venue.

 

Important Tips for Visitors

To make your visit more comfortable and enjoyable, here are a few practical points to keep in mind:

 

1. 1. Keep Your Badge Visible: Wear your official IAAPA badge throughout your time at the venue. Do not lend it to or exchange it with anyone else.

2. 2. Be Considerate of Others: Maintain a reasonable noise level, especially during business meetings, product demonstrations, presentations and educational sessions. Avoid shouting or disturbing other visitors.

3. 3. Smoke Only in Designated Areas: The Orange County Convention Center is a smoke-free facility. Smoking is permitted only in designated outdoor smoking areas.

4. 4. Watch Your Belongings: Keep your wallet, phone, passport and other valuables secure. Do not leave personal belongings unattended.

5. 5. Respect Exhibitors and Their Booths: Ask before touching equipment or products on display. If you would like to take photos or videos, check with the exhibitor first.

6. 6. Keep Aisles Clear: Avoid blocking walkways, entrances or booth access points when talking with others or taking photos.

7. 7. Follow Venue Security Instructions: Security checks, including random bag inspections, may take place. Follow the instructions of venue staff and security personnel.

8. 8. Respect Business Boundaries: Do not distribute promotional materials or solicit business in aisles, public areas or other companies' booths without authorization. IAAPA has specific rules regarding unauthorized solicitation.

9. 9. Take Care of Your Badge: Lost or stolen badges must be replaced according to IAAPA's registration policies. Keep it in a safe place when you are not wearing it.

10. 10. Remove Your Badge When Leaving: For security reasons, IAAPA recommends removing your name badge when leaving the show venue.

A little preparation and consideration can go a long way toward making the Expo a productive and enjoyable experience for everyone.

 

4. IAAPA Expo 2026 Expands: The Biggest Show in Its History

 

One of the biggest highlights of IAAPA Expo 2026 is its expansion into the OCCC West Building.

 

Previously, the main exhibition was centered around the North and South Buildings. In 2026, the addition of the West Building will significantly increase the available exhibition space and create more opportunities for exhibitors and visitors.

 

According to IAAPA, the expansion increases the show floor space by almost 50%.

 

This expansion is not simply about having more exhibition booths. It reflects the continued growth of the global attractions industry and the increasing demand from manufacturers, suppliers and service providers to participate in the event.

 

The West Building will feature several dedicated areas, including:

• * Food & Beverage Pavilion

• * Haunt Pavilion

  * Operational Services Pavilion

• * First-Time Exhibitor Pavilion

• * EDUTalk Stage

• * What's New Theater

 

Meanwhile, the South Building will continue to host important industry sectors, including Games & Arcade, Family Entertainment, Inflatables, and Show Production & Design.

 

A pedestrian bridge and continuous shuttle service will connect the two exhibition buildings, allowing visitors to explore both areas throughout the event.

 

With more exhibitors, more products and additional networking opportunities, IAAPA Expo 2026 is set to deliver an even more comprehensive experience for the international attractions community.

 

5. IAAPA Expo 2026: Key Exhibition Statistics

 

The 2026 edition is expected to set new records for the event.

 

Here are some important figures released by IAAPA:

 

 

The 2026 exhibition will surpass the previous IAAPA Expo show floor record of 604,500 square feet, established in 2018.

 

More than 1,100 exhibiting companies from around the world are expected to showcase their latest products, technologies and services.

 

The event will cover a wide range of sectors, including:

 

• * Amusement parks and theme parks

• * Family Entertainment Centers (FECs)

• * Arcade and redemption games

• * Coin pushers and ticket redemption machines

• * VR and interactive attractions

• * Water parks and indoor attractions

• * Rides, equipment and entertainment technologies

• * Food and beverage solutions

 

IAAPA's expansion into the West Building and its record-breaking exhibition footprint make this year's event particularly significant for both exhibitors and industry visitors.

 

6. Where to Stay During IAAPA Expo 2026: Recommended Areas and Hotels

 

Finding the right accommodation is an important part of planning your IAAPA Orlando trip. Orlando offers a wide range of hotels, serviced apartments, vacation rentals and family-friendly resorts.

 

For visitors attending IAAPA Expo, we recommend focusing on the areas around International Drive, Universal Boulevard, Carrier Drive and Sand Lake Road.

 

Area 1: International Drive – Best for Convention Access

 

International Drive is one of the most convenient areas for IAAPA Expo visitors.

 

It offers a wide selection of hotels, restaurants, entertainment venues and shopping facilities. Many properties are within walking distance or a short drive from the Orange County Convention Center.

 

Recommended hotels include:

 

Rosen Plaza Hotel

Located directly across from the convention district, Rosen Plaza offers convenient access to the OCCC West Building through a covered pedestrian connection.

 

Rosen Centre Hotel

Another popular convention hotel, Rosen Centre is connected to the West Building by a covered skybridge. It is a practical choice for visitors who want to minimize daily transportation time.

 

Hyatt Regency Orlando

A full-service hotel on International Drive, offering extensive facilities, restaurants, meeting spaces and convenient access to the convention center through pedestrian connections.

 

Area 2: Carrier Drive – A Good Option for Apartments and Vacation Rentals

 

For visitors traveling in groups or staying for a week or longer, Carrier Drive is worth considering.

Located near International Drive and the Universal Orlando area, this neighborhood offers hotel suites, condominium-style accommodation and privately managed vacation rentals.

 

Compared with some of the large convention hotels, apartment-style properties can offer more living space and practical facilities such as kitchens, refrigerators and separate bedrooms.

 

This makes Carrier Drive particularly attractive for small business teams and groups of three or more people.

 

The area also offers convenient access to International Drive restaurants, supermarkets and entertainment venues, while Orlando International Premium Outlets is within a reasonable driving distance.

 

Visitors who prefer apartment-style accommodation should look for properties with verified reviews, clear check-in arrangements and convenient parking.

 

Area 3: Sand Lake Road – A Practical Choice for Longer Stays

 

The Sand Lake Road area, particularly around Dr. Phillips and the International Drive corridor, offers another good accommodation option.

 

This area is known for its restaurants, supermarkets and shopping facilities.

 

Visitors who rent a car may find this location particularly convenient, as it provides access to the convention center, Universal Orlando and other major attractions.

It is also worth exploring vacation rentals, townhouses and apartments if you are traveling with colleagues or family.

 

More Hotel Options Near IAAPA Expo

 

Other accommodation options worth considering include:

 

• * Residence Inn by Marriott Orlando Convention Center: Suite-style accommodation with kitchen facilities, suitable for extended stays.

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• * Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando International Drive Convention Center: All-suite hotel with convenient access to restaurants and the convention district.

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• * Homewood Suites by Hilton Orlando-International Drive/Convention Center: An extended-stay option with in-room kitchen facilities.

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• * Hampton Inn Orlando International Drive/Convention Center: A practical hotel option close to the convention center.

 

Accommodation tip: IAAPA week is a particularly busy period for Orlando hotels. Visitors are encouraged to book early and compare the total cost, including taxes, parking and transportation, before confirming their reservations.

 

7. Meet Palm Fun at IAAPA Expo 2026 – Booth W1431

 

Palm Fun is excited to return to IAAPA Expo 2026 and meet industry professionals, arcade operators, distributors and business partners from around the world.

 

This year, Palm Fun will be exhibiting in the West Building, Booth W1431, bringing two exciting redemption game machines to the show.

 

Naughty Bombs

Discover Naughty Bombs, a fun and engaging redemption game designed to bring excitement to arcade and family entertainment venues.

 

Come and experience its gameplay, explore its features and see how it can add variety to your venue's redemption game lineup.

 

AstroLOLogy

 

Take a closer look at AstroLOLogy, our marble pusher game featuring an engaging gameplay experience and a distinctive visual presentation.

 

If you are interested in marble pusher machines, coin pusher games and innovative redemption attractions, this is an opportunity to experience the machine firsthand.

 

Let's Meet in Orlando!

 

Whether you are an existing Palm Fun partner or looking for new arcade game suppliers and manufacturing partners, we would be delighted to meet you.

 

Visit us at:

 

Company: Palm Fun
Exhibition: IAAPA Expo 2026
Location: Orange County Convention Center, West Building
Booth Number: W1431
Dates: November 17–20, 2026

 

Come and try Naughty Bombs and AstroLOLogy, meet our team, and explore potential business opportunities.

 

We look forward to welcoming you to Booth W1431 in Orlando!

 

See you at IAAPA Expo 2026!