As the amusement and attractions industry rapidly evolves to meet the needs of a digital-first generation, payment technology is at the forefront of this transformation. Parks and attractions have moved well beyond traditional cash transactions, driven by the need to streamline experiences, enhance security, and meet rising guest expectations for seamless, efficient service. By leveraging innovations in payment technology, from biometrics to contactless digital wallets, the industry is enhancing visitor convenience while optimizing operational efficiency.
Here’s a closer look at the top payment trends set to reshape the amusement and attractions industry as we head into 2025.
Advanced Biometric and AI-Driven Payments
Biometric technology, such as facial recognition, fingerprint scanning, and behavioral biometrics, is quickly emerging as a standard in payment solutions. These systems enable secure, swift transactions that eliminate the need for cash or physical cards, reducing wait times and offering guests a frictionless experience at every touchpoint. In high-traffic venues, biometric systems are proving especially valuable in speeding up entry, in-park purchases, and even ride access.
Meanwhile, AI-driven personalization will enhance the guest experience by predicting preferences, managing crowd flows, and suggesting personalized offers—helping parks maximize each visitor’s experience.
The Rise of Digital Wallets and All-in-One Apps
The industry is embracing digital wallets and all-in-one “super apps” that integrate payments, ride reservations, dining, and loyalty programs—transforming the park experience into a seamless, omnichannel journey. With more guests preferring to use mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Wallet, parks are expanding their infrastructure to accommodate these contactless options.
All-in-one apps offer visitors a streamlined experience by allowing them to manage everything from ticketing to dining reservations directly from their smartphones. This integration also reduces physical touchpoints, aligning with visitor demand for touch-free options.
Contactless and Virtual Queueing Systems
Contactless payment solutions, including mobile wallets, QR codes, and NFC-enabled wristbands, are becoming the norm across parks and attractions. These innovations not only enhance convenience but also reduce friction at key touchpoints—driving operational efficiencies and improving overall guest experience. Virtual queueing technology, which lets guests reserve their place in line digitally, is also gaining traction.
This system allows visitors to spend more time enjoying the park rather than waiting in line, creating a more enjoyable and efficient experience. For parks, virtual queuing helps balance foot traffic, enhancing overall visitor satisfaction and in-park spending.
Expanded Use of Unattended and Autonomous Retail Devices
Self-service kiosks, autonomous retail devices, and high-tech vending machines are becoming more prevalent across amusement venues, marking a shift closer to full automation. These devices offer convenient, fast payment options without needing cashier interaction. They allow guests to make ticket purchases, buy food, or shop for merchandise on their own terms. Additionally, some parks are experimenting with autonomous shuttles that not only transport guests but also provide mobile ordering options in transit, integrated directly with the park’s payment app.
This expansion in unattended retail devices reflects the broader shift toward automation and guest empowerment.
Enhanced Cybersecurity and Privacy in Payment Systems
As payment technology evolves, so too does the need for robust cybersecurity and privacy protocols. The industry is adopting a “privacy by design” approach, integrating security and privacy measures into every aspect of app and system development. AI-driven fraud detection is another essential component, monitoring suspicious activity in real time to prevent fraudulent transactions and safeguard guests’ information. This commitment to security builds trust with guests, especially among digital natives who prioritize data privacy.
What’s In Store for the Amusement and Attractions Industry
The amusement and attractions industry is on the cusp of a technological revolution, with payment technology leading the way.
As we approach 2025, the industry’s ability to adapt to new payment technologies will continue to shape how guests experience amusement parks—making each interaction faster, simpler, and more enjoyable.
At Sola, we’re proud to be at the forefront of these innovations, guiding the amusement and attractions industry toward a future where payments are not only seamless and secure but also a key driver of guest satisfaction and operational success. Connect with an expert today to get started.
