Tourism dropped in Florida last year by more than 2 million visitors, which is about 2%.But this summer, things could trend upward for Central Florida."There's no bigger destination for theme parks than Orlando in this whole world," said Jakob Wahl, the President, CEO of the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA).On Tuesday, Wahl gave an update from SeaWorld Orlando on summer travel numbers and he said they look strong, according to IAAPA's 8,000 members around the world. IAAPA expects to see a 2% increase in theme parks in the U.S., which represents more than 300 million visits in 2024. Wahl also said the group predicts guests will spend more than $32 billion. That's up 7%."We have more and more upscale premium experiences where people are willing to actually spend more money, while they're visiting, to make their day super extra special," Wahl says.Another reason why IAAPA expects a jump in summer travel in Orange County is because of new rides like Penguin Trek."That is a wonderful example, which we see here at SeaWorld Orlando. Their new coaster will be a launch coaster, but it will still be so family-friendly, and you can experience it with your younger kids," he says.Walt Disney World is also getting ready to open Tiana's Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom and Universal is opening DreamWorks Land in June."Orlando's a fantastic destination, which has a global reputation of being the theme park mecca," Wahl says.IAPPA also said zoos and aquariums are creating a more enjoyable experience for families.Here's a complete look at trends in the U.S.Family Attractions: IAAPA has seen a noticeable rise in the creation of family entertainment experiences from its members. Examples of these attractions include upcoming family coasters like Good Gravy at Holiday World in Indiana and Penguin Trek at SeaWorld Orlando — which are both set to open this spring — as well as Mattel Adventure Park and Destination KCK opening in Kansas City in 2026. These attractions allow families to create unforgettable memories together, which Wahl said aligns with the shift from investing in material goods to experiences.Technology and Inclusiveness: IAAPA member parks and attractions have been making strides to use technology to create more inclusive and accessible guest experiences. IAAPA 2023 Hall of Fame inductee, the Hartman family of Morgan’s Wonderland, exemplifies this spirit of “Fun for All” with their collection of Ultra-Accessible™ attractions in San Antonio, Texas. Another notable example of this trend is the team behind the Peppa Pig theme parks, which are certified autism centers. A second Peppa Pig Theme Park is set to open in the Dallas-Fort Worth area this year. Wild Waves Theme and Water Park in Washington has implemented new technology to improve guest experiences with a new Digital Pass for season passholders, which can be loaded onto Apple or Google Wallet and provides easier, faster access with no lines.Attractions for Younger Children: In the vein of inclusion and experiences for the family, attractions have been making efforts to fill a gap in the industry by creating experiences geared specifically toward younger children so young and growing families can experience a day at the theme park as well. One example would be The Franklin Institute’s new Wonderous Space exhibit — an immersive, multisensory, two-story experience designed to inspire excitement for space science in school-aged children with six hands-on attractions. Universal Studios Florida has also been developing attractions aimed at younger children like the new Illumination's Villain-Con Minion Blast, plus attractions and activities coming to the new DreamWorks Land, opening on June 14, 2024.Zoos and Aquariums: Exhibits are evolving to become more nature-driven, emphasizing authenticity with more greenery. This creates a more enjoyable experience for both guests visiting the exhibits and the animals that call the zoos and aquariums home. These initiatives also create a focus on conservation initiatives and sustainability. The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center recently welcomed new animals and completed a $28.9 million renovation and expansion. Holding nearly 20,000 gallons of water and home to more than a dozen species living in lush, natural environments, the new South Building also features windows overlooking the new veterinary care center. SeaWorld Orlando is also home to a state-of-the-art Coral Rescue Center which provides a meaningful way to view living corals up close through interaction with biologists, learn more about conservation and understand the steps everyone can take to make a difference in ocean health.