IAAPA 2009 Questions.....

[Six Flags Enthuseast]

I really would like to go to IAAPA 2009 in Las Vegas this year!

 

The problem is, I checked the website, and I couldn't find a few things I needed to know. So, if anyone knows the answers to these questions, I'd gladly appreciate the help.

 

1) Do you have to have a pass, membership, or some kind of VIP access to visit the convention?

 

2) I know there are many rides, but do you have to access the convention or have permission to go to the ride area?

 

3) How much is admission, or how much would an access pass cost?

 

4) Is it worth going to as an event? I really think it looks like a lot of fun, but since TPR's been to a few, I'd like to know if it's worth it.

 

5) Finally, is TPR going to be attending?

 

Thank you in advance if you can help me with this! I'd really like to go to this event, but I'd like to figure out these things to be sure I'm able to go.

 

Patrick C.

 

SFE

[spaceace12]

I believe it is a Media/park staff only. I don't believe there is no "General admission" persay.

[Guest]

Being 13 years old I dont really understand what your looking to get out of it. There is a big floor/midway with rides and concepts from the manufactures, but the expo is there generally for proffesionals in the industry to conglomerate and meet/discuss trends and solutions. If your into the business and operation then it would definitley be worth it. Go here for more info

http://www.iaapa.org/expos/attractions/attendees/index.asp

[AndrewRnR]

The convention is open to anyone. Does that mean anyone should go? No. It is a convention not an indoor amusement park.

 

- Prices are for the week and usually are $100+ depending on if you are a member or not and when you register.

 

- Its not "fun" in the sense going on a roller coaster is fun. Sure you got the any and all the companies related to the amusement industry under one roof but they are there for business not to entertain fan boys. The rides are there for potential clients to preview them.... while they do allow anyone to ride them (well its up to the company) do be warned they can and may turn you down from riding or testing a product. I've heard stories of people going up to some coaster companies booth and wanting pictures of them in the cars on displayed and were asked to step away because they cars are for clients to see not for play.

 

With all that being said if you really want to go they usually, key word usually and not always, offer discounted admission (to the tune of 25 bucks) for Friday only. They generally don't announce that promotion until Wednesday or Thursday in that week.

 

Just remember if you do go it is a business convention and not a fun house.

[the ghost]

Just out of pure curiosity for anyone who has been to iaapa I once heard a rumor that there was either one or two fully staffed hhn houses a year or so ago. Is this true, because it sounds kind of sketchy, but if it is true thats awesome. If anyone does go(I'm sure someone is nerdy enough,lol) be sure to take lots of pictures. It seems like literally everyone involved in everything from food to building coasters will be there.

[AndrewRnR]

I believe there was a tour of a HHN house or two at Universal that attendees could participate in but since its in Vegas this year and Universal is not near Vegas...

[Jew]

I wouldn't recommend you going. It's a trade show. That means the purpose is to conduct business. Not for manufacturers to be hounded by enthusiasts.

 

It's also not very exciting unless you are there for business purposes. There hasn't even been any big rides on the midway for about 5 years now.

[SharkTums]

Yeah pretty much what everyone else said.

 

You don't belong at that event. Also you need to wear business casual or nicer clothing. With the economy the way it is there won't be any real 'rides' and if you talk to the people there you'll most likely just be bothering them.

[Six Flags Enthuseast]

Ok, I think I understand now. Yes, I know it was more about business than ride demos and 'concept' attractions. I thought it looked interesting because I am actually into the technical crap and the business of rides. The fun new rides and test seats and crap would've been just a little extra. But now I know that it's more of a serious thing. Thank's everybody for your help, once again!