TheodoreJFrank.com

Abstract

Theme parks are highly immersive environments that offer a variety of attractions and experiences, yet solo visitors often lack the social engagement that enhances guest enjoyment. This study explores the development of an AI-Driven Interactive Companion App designed to enrich the theme park experience for solo visitors by leveraging artificial intelligence to create dynamic, personalized narratives and interactive engagement.

Building upon research in customer-to-customer interactions, emotional engagement, and visitor loyalty, this study examines how AI can replicate the benefits of social experiences within theme parks. The app utilizes OpenAI’s GPT models and Python for the backend to generate evolving storylines, real-time ride trivia, and character interactions tailored to user preferences, emotional states, and park conditions such as that day’s attendance or weather.

The app adapts narratives based on guest behaviors, offering an engaging, responsive, and personalized journey. This study investigates how AI-driven personalization can foster a sense of connection and enhance guest satisfaction. Through real-time AI adjustments, solo visitors can experience a more interactive, socially engaging theme park visit that aligns with their interests and expectations.

This research contributes to the growing field of AI-enhanced themed entertainment and provides insights for theme park operators seeking to improve guest engagement and long-term visitor loyalty.

Theodore J. Frank, MSAS/AI, BSE, EIT
Chair: Stephen Bender, University of Florida
2nd: Karla Saldaña, University of Florida
Additional: Michael Libby, CEO, Worldbuildr.com
Spring 2025