Crises and their management in tourism destinations are considered a very important issue and tourism managers feel the need for technology to restore destinations, but studies on the restoration and revitalization of destinations using smart technologies remain limited. The aim of the present study is to investigate the role of smart technologies, especially artificial intelligence, in the process of environmental restoration and recovery of the Zayandeh-Rood River and its impact on the prosperity of tourism in Isfahan. Considering the components under study, the type of research is applied, which is in the descriptive-analytical research group, and a qualitative research method based on a survey of experts and stakeholders who have had a history of activity in the field of artificial intelligence was used. The data required for this study were collected through an interview that was formed from the statistical population of the research, including experts and tourism industry activists in the smartization sector. The findings show that the key factors in the restoration of this river include the development of digital infrastructure, information systems management, data quality, and acceptance of technology by stakeholders. Also, AI, as a key tool in monitoring, predicting, and managing the environmental health of the Zayandeh Rood, plays an effective role in facilitating its restoration and maintaining its long-term sustainability. The study results also showed a significant relationship between increasing community awareness, river restoration, and sustainable tourism development through the use of smart technologies. Therefore, AI’s capabilities in analyzing complex data and supporting rapid decision-making have made it a vital factor in preserving and restoring the Zayandeh Rood environment and boosting tourism in the region.