Leaders of World's Theme Parks, Waterparks, Fun Centers, Zoos, and Aquariums Gather to Preview New Rides and Technology at IAAPA Attractions Expo 2011

ORLANDO, Fla., Nov. 15, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- New roller coasters and water slides, emerging technology, the latest games and new ways to attract guests are a few of the exciting buzz topics at IAAPA Attractions Expo 2011 in Orlando through Nov. 18.

The Expo is the largest annual global gathering of the $24 billion amusement park and attractions industry, converting the Orange County Convention Center into a dazzling marketplace of midway-style thrills that may arrive soon at favorite destinations.

IAAPA Attractions Expo attendees test amusement rides, games, food, and fun showcased by 1,106 exhibitors from six continents. Companies specializing in theming, design, ticketing, technology, and more fill a half-million square feet of exhibition space.

Representing 100 nations, approximately 25,000 professionals from the world's top amusement parks, waterparks, zoos, aquariums, museums, family entertainment centers, casinos, and resorts are on site to network and learn about new trends and innovations for 2012 and beyond.

The Expo features 120 education sessions and behind-the-scenes tours of Orlando's hottest destinations including Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Legoland Florida, SeaWorld Orlando, Universal Orlando Resort and Walt Disney World Resort.

Special events at IAAPA Attractions Expo 2011 include a keynote presentation by SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment CEO Jim Atchison discussing SeaWorld's transition and evolution, and the company's strategic direction including openings of 10 attractions in 10 parks during 2012.

Participants will learn from industry executives including Great Wolf Resorts CEO Kim Schaefer; Herschend Family Entertainment President and CEO Joel Manby; Ripley Entertainment President Jim Pattison Jr.; Six Flags Entertainment Corporation Chairman, President, and CEO James Reid-Anderson.

IAAPA recognizes the industry's best of the best during an Academy Award-style celebration – The IAAPA Brass Ring Awards – honoring excellence and creativity in marketing, HR, live entertainment and more.

The event is owned and produced by the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA). The Expo is closed to the public, with media invited to attend. Details, photos and phone interviews with U.S. exhibitors from 48 states are available to localize reports. More information about IAAPA Attractions Expo 2011 is available at www.IAAPA.org/IAAPAAttractionsExpo or by calling 703/299-5127 or 404/643-6873.

SOURCE International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA)