AI and Theme Parks

[EricsBiscuit]

As you all are aware, AI is a game changer in pretty much every field. So, how does it apply to theme parks?

I would love to hear how y'all think this will impact the parks.

I guarantee they use AI in tracking data and determining prices, but how can AI be used in park operations? Predicting staffing levels? What roles can be automated? Inventory management? Are there any creative roles AI can perform? Automated transportation from resorts to parks?

 

[drizgirl]

It will be used any way they can come up with the maximize guest spending and reduce overhead.

Enhancing guest experience won't be a priority.

 

[danlb_2000]

As you all are aware, AI is a game changer in pretty much every field. So, how does it apply to theme parks?

I would love to hear how y'all think this will impact the parks.

I guarantee they use AI in tracking data and determining prices, but how can AI be used in park operations? Predicting staffing levels? What roles can be automated? Inventory management? Are there any creative roles AI can perform? Automated transportation from resorts to parks?

I would be really surprised if Disney doesn't already have good non-AI algorithms to go determine prices, predict staffing level and inventory management.

 

[Figments Friend]

It will be used any way they can come up with the maximize guest spending and reduce overhead.

Enhancing guest experience won't be a priority.

This.

This is the correct answer.

-

 

[StarWarsGirl]

I work for a software company (granted, in accounting, so I don't work with the software, I just see patents and internal memos).

We're still in the process of integrating it into our own software. Some of it has it, some of it doesn't. We still have patents outstanding for developing the technology. And again, we literally make software. Internally, we're not using it a ton. There's still a lot of concerns about data and where it's going. I can use it somewhat for my job, but because I deal with confidential stuff, there's not a whole lot I'm allowed to use it for.

Will Disney use it? Maybe, eventually, but some of their rides are still being run on Windows XP...so it's probably going to be a while. It takes them YEARS to upgrade their technology. Remember how long it took them just to get wifi in the parks? And how much it generally sucked?

 

[SteveAZee]

It will be used any way they can come up with the maximize guest spending and reduce overhead.

Enhancing guest experience won't be a priority.

It's possible that "enhancing guest experience" will be a happy byproduct of maximizing guest spending and reduced overhead, but you're right about the likely priorities.

 

[VicariousCorpse]

Something I keep thinking about is integration with animatronics. You know how you can already have a full on conversation with an AI bot that can mimic any fictional character? Just pair that with an animatronic. Now imagine being able to meet ANY Disney character that can talk to you in their actual voice and respond in character about pretty much any question you can think of. This can be applied to face characters like Mickey as well. Instead of spouting a few catchphrases, Mickey could address you by name.

 

[AndyS2992]

I was pretty excited for the rise of AI however seeing what's happening with it, especially on social media and how it's being misused in the art world and writing fields, I wish it would go away again.

 

[StarWarsGirl]

I was pretty excited for the rise of AI however seeing what's happening with it, especially on social media and how it's being misused in the art world and writing fields, I wish it would go away again.

It's a mixed bag. I agree with its misuse in the art world. I use it for personal use in that respect admittedly because I write for fun, and I can't draw to save my life, so I use it for visualization. But it's for me and only me. I also use it for photo editing. I was pretty good at it, but AI is just a bit better. But again, personal use.

For people with disabilities, I think it has real potential to be a gamechanger. I use a screen reading AI tool for if I'm starting with a migraine. It's SOOOO much better than a traditional screen reader. Plus with things like transcribing, doing closed captions during virtual meetings...yeah, it has the power to be game changing.

 

[Smooth]

It will be used any way they can come up with the maximize guest spending and reduce overhead.

Enhancing guest experience won't be a priority.

Ok. So I asked an AI bot to give me list of things Disney could do to maximize guest spending and reduce overhead.
Sure! Here’s a list of ways a theme park like Disney World could maximize guest spending and reduce overhead:

Maximizing Guest Spending​

1. Dynamic Pricing – Adjust ticket prices based on demand, charging more during peak seasons.
2. Exclusive Experiences – Offer VIP tours, after-hours events, and premium dining reservations.
3. Merchandise Upselling – Create limited-edition, park-exclusive items and encourage bundling deals.
4. Mobile & App-Based Transactions – Push in-app purchases, mobile food ordering, and digital fast passes.
5. Upcharge Attractions – Implement pay-to-play experiences like Genie+ or exclusive character meet-and-greets.
6. Personalized Recommendations – Use data analytics to target guests with relevant deals and offers.
7. Subscription or Membership Models – Introduce exclusive loyalty programs with perks for repeat visits.
8. Special Dining Packages – Offer character meals, themed dining experiences, and food festivals with premium pricing.
9. Cross-Promotion with Hotels & Travel – Partner with airlines and hotels to sell bundled vacation packages.
10. Time-Limited Offers – Create urgency with flash sales on tickets, merchandise, or food items.

Reducing Overhead​

1. Automation & Self-Service – Use mobile ordering, self-checkout kiosks, and AI-powered customer service bots.
2. Energy Efficiency – Invest in solar power, LED lighting, and smart HVAC systems to cut utility costs.
3. Streamlined Staffing – Optimize workforce scheduling with AI and reduce reliance on seasonal hires.
4. Predictive Maintenance – Use IoT sensors to monitor and maintain rides before costly breakdowns occur.
5. Reducing Food Waste – Implement portion control, AI-driven inventory management, and food donation programs.
6. Sponsorships & Partnerships – Offset costs by partnering with brands for attractions, food, and merchandise.
7. Reusable & Digital Materials – Minimize paper maps, tickets, and menus in favor of digital alternatives.
8. Localized Sourcing – Reduce transportation costs by sourcing food and materials locally.
9. Optimized Ride Operations – Use AI to manage queue times and reduce ride downtime, improving efficiency.
10. Employee Perks Over Pay Raises – Offer discounted park access and merchandise instead of frequent wage increases.

Looks like they already use AI.

 

[WorldExplorer]

Anything they try to do that requires it directly interact with guests will immediately run head first into the brick wall that is idiocy.

 

[Baloo124]

AI offers many advantages, including making advertising much easier and more affordable for the business.

 

[Sgee1268]

As you all are aware, AI is a game changer in pretty much every field. So, how does it apply to theme parks?

I would love to hear how y'all think this will impact the parks.

I guarantee they use AI in tracking data and determining prices, but how can AI be used in park operations? Predicting staffing levels? What roles can be automated? Inventory management? Are there any creative roles AI can perform? Automated transportation from resorts to parks?

AI is already making waves in theme park operations, and its potential is massive. AI will enhance efficiency, cut costs, and personalize experiences, but will it replace human creativity and interaction? Probably not, at least not fully. The magic of theme parks is still in the human touch, but AI is making it smarter, smoother, and more immersive than ever.

 

[Cmdr_Crimson]

Didn't recently guests just go Apespit over a AI portrait being used in HM giftshop....If this is the case imagine how up in arms they'd be if a ride would be done.

Disney Removes AI Artwork From Haunted Mansion Gift Shop in Disneyland | Chip and Company

Following significant public criticism, Disney has removed AI artwork from Madame Leota's Somewhere Beyond, the Haunted Mansion gift shop at Disneyland.

chipandco.com

 

[danlb_2000]

Something I keep thinking about is integration with animatronics. You know how you can already have a full on conversation with an AI bot that can mimic any fictional character? Just pair that with an animatronic. Now imagine being able to meet ANY Disney character that can talk to you in their actual voice and respond in character about pretty much any question you can think of. This can be applied to face characters like Mickey as well. Instead of spouting a few catchphrases, Mickey could address you by name.

I could see this happening, but they would have to build their own AI model, it would be far to risky to have something like ChatGPT talk to a child.

 

[danlb_2000]

AI is already making waves in theme park operations, and its potential is massive. AI will enhance efficiency, cut costs, and personalize experiences, but will it replace human creativity and interaction? Probably not, at least not fully. The magic of theme parks is still in the human touch, but AI is making it smarter, smoother, and more immersive than ever.

They will try to use it to replace human creativity, and it will likely fail and they will go back to humans. AI it currently here, and I feel it's going to crash hard into that trough!

 

[Disstevefan1]

As long as Disney continues to use AI (Actual Ignorance) in the parks, the parks will continue to decline.

 

[drizgirl]

I could see this happening, but they would have to build their own AI model, it would be far to risky to have something like ChatGPT talk to a child.

Remember how Mickey was supposed to talk to kids by name because of their magic band? How did that go?

 

[brideck]

I could see this happening, but they would have to build their own AI model, it would be far to risky to have something like ChatGPT talk to a child.

There's already something like this in the atrium of Sphere in Las Vegas. I have no idea what underlying model they're using, but it essentially feels like GPT talking to you in robot/animatronic form. There they have people with microphones who know how to prompt effectively acting as the go-between for audience and robot.

 

[Cmdr_Crimson]

You'd think the first place they try it would be for narration for the transportation system (Monorail, Busses, Skyliner..etc) so it can be updated at any time..Had there been any updated spiels ever since voice actor Tom Kane retired in 2020?

For example DisneyworldTom used AI of the voices of Said voice actor to create this...Keep in mind Tom Kane retired due to complications of a stroke a few years ago.