The development of digital technology has led to significant changes in the tourism industry sector, particularly in Indonesia. Innovative experience is one of the key factors in understanding tourist behaviour. This study analyses the relationship between innovative experiences and the value of returning tourists to zoos in Pematangsiantar. The research employed an explanatory quantitative approach, collecting data through a questionnaire with a 5-point Likert scale administered to 97 tourists, using the Slovin margin of error formula of 0.1. Statistical data processing utilises SPSS to test validity, reliability, normality, and heteroscedasticity, as well as to perform hypothesis testing and conduct simple linear regression. The results showed a significant influence of innovative Experience on tourist return visits (R² = 0.787)—the practical contribution of research in implementing technology-based tourism activities, especially in developing countries such as Indonesia.
