AI technology has exploded in recent weeks. From being clever enough to write film scripts to appealing parking fines, the chatbots are designed to answer questions and respond like a human.
As Blackpool gears up for the summer holidays, LancsLive put the technology to the test, asking ChatGPT to plan a cheap day out in the resort, asking one simple question: "Can you plan a cheap day out in Blackpool for me?"
It took just a few seconds to receive a seven-step itinerary, but the AI made some interesting suggestions, including visiting the illuminations which ended months ago, on January 2.
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The first thing to note is that ChatGPT took note of the word cheap, deliberately missing out some of Blackpool's most popular and expensive attractions.
Pleasure Beach, The Sandcastle, the SeaLife Centre, Madame Tussauds and Blackpool Zoo all failed to make the cut. Instead, the AI provided plenty of free and more affordable things to do, such as a stroll through the Winter Gardens, or a wander down the promenade.
The other thing to note is that the information provided isn't entirely accurate. In step two, it suggest a visit to the iconic Blackpool Tower. But instead of paying to visit the observation deck at the top, it suggest just visiting the winter ballroom, as it is 'free to enter'.
Except this isn't quite the case, as tickets to enter the Tower Ballroom start at £11.50. Whilst this is still affordable compared to other attractions, it's not free like the AI says.
North Pier is the only pier to get a mention on the list, despite Blackpool having three. Central and South Pier both have arcades attached to them like North Pier, but they also have rides, which would arguably make them a cheap Pleasure Beach alternative.
The AI also suggested we visit the famous Blackpool Illuminations, but failed to mention that they aren't turned on for half the year. They are free though, so provided you were visiting between September and January, it fits the 'cheap' criteria.
Here is ChatGPT's full response
Sure, here's a plan for a cheap day out in Blackpool:
1. Start the day with a walk along the promenade, taking in the sights and sounds of the beach and sea.
2. Visit the Blackpool Tower, but instead of going up to the top, take a walk through the Tower Ballroom, which is free to enter.
3. Head over to the North Pier, which offers free entertainment throughout the day, including live music and street performers.
4. Grab a cheap lunch from one of the many fish and chip shops along the seafront, and eat it on the beach.
5. Take a stroll through the Winter Gardens, which has free entry to the main building and several exhibitions.
6. Visit the Art Deco Pavilion Theatre, which often has free or low-cost events during the day.
7. Finish the day with a trip to the Illuminations, which are free to view and light up the seafront after dark.
Overall, this cheap day out in Blackpool offers plenty of entertainment and sights to see without breaking the bank.
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