Amusement parks are navigating a dynamic landscape, driven by recent challenges and innovations. In the wake of natural disasters like hurricanes and wildfires, parks have faced closures and financial setbacks, underscoring the need for robust emergency planning and infrastructure resilience. Despite these disruptions, attendance at amusement parks has surged. The introduction of new attractions, like Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood and DreamWorks Land at Universal Studios Orlando, highlights how tapping into popular cultural franchises can improve engagement and profit growth. By strategically expanding and innovating, amusement parks stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market. Revenue expanded at a CAGR of 31.5% to $35.5 billion over the years to 2025, including a swell of 4.3% that year. The rise in digital integration and family-oriented attractions has reshaped visitor experiences, catering to a broader audience seeking shared adventures. Parks like Disney and Universal have led the charge, with family coasters and themed lands enhancing appeal. This period hasn't been without hurdles, as ticket prices have steadily increased, impacting affordability for many families. Strategies like revised membership models aim to stabilize revenue while making parks more accessible. These trends have set the stage for future growth, reflecting the industry's adaptability. The next few years promise continued evolution for amusement parks, with projections pointing towards significant expansions and technological advancements. With Universal’s upcoming Epic Universe and Disney’s Villains Land on the horizon, parks are leaning into diverse themes and experiences to attract both thrill-seekers and families. The integration of beloved video games and digital platforms, highlighted by partnerships like Disney's collaboration with Fortnite, suggests a focus on merging virtual and physical realms to allure a connected generation. The replacement of older attractions with innovative designs ensures parks remain fresh and exciting. As parks embrace cutting-edge technologies like AI-enhanced animatronics and wearable tech, they’re poised to offer even more personalized and immersive experiences. These efforts are expected to bolster attendance and revenue, securing amusement park’s stability over the coming years. Revenue is expected to climb at a CAGR of 2.2%, reaching $39.5 billion through 2030.

The United States amusement and theme park market size was approximately USD 19.64 Billion in 2024. The market is assessed to grow at a CAGR of 5.10% between 2025 and 2034, reaching a value of USD 32.30 Billion by 2034.

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US Amusement and Theme Park Market Size 2024-2028

The US amusement and theme park market size is forecast to increase by USD 4.02 billion at a CAGR of 3.88% between 2023 and 2028. The amusement and theme park market in the US is witnessing significant growth, driven by increasing investments in high-thrill attractions and innovative creations. Indoor entertainment centers are gaining popularity due to their consistency in operation, mitigating seasonal variability and weather conditions. Eco-friendly practices, such as energy-efficient operations, waste reduction, and recycling systems, are becoming essential for amusement park to reduce their carbon footprint and protect the planet. Secondly, the increasing number of baby-boomer visitors contributes to higher attendance rates and spending in the leisure and entertainment and amusement sectors. Additionally, the adoption of blockchain technology and virtual assistants helps mitigate labor shortages by optimizing operational efficiencies and enhancing guest services. Renewable energy sources, environmental management systems, eco-conscious construction, and landscaping are some of the strategies parks are adopting to minimize their impact on the environment. Extreme weather events pose a risk to the industry, necessitating strong contingency plans. Cutting-edge technology is also playing a crucial role in enhancing the visitor experience and ensuring safety. The market is expected to continue its growth trajectory, driven by these trends and the industry's commitment to climate change mitigation and sustainability.

What will be the Size of the Market During the Forecast Period?

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The amusement and theme park industry in the US is a significant contributor to the country's tourism sector. These recreational facilities offer a wide range of entertainment options, including rides, mechanical and water, for both adults and children. The market caters to diverse demographics, attracting millions of domestic and international visitors every year. Theme parks and water parks are popular choices for families, offering a mix of thrilling rides, food and beverage outlets, accommodation facilities, retail stores, and shows based on various themes and fictional characters. Indoor attractions ensure visitor interest, even amid extreme weather events, as the industry focuses on planet protection and environmental management systems. Social media engagements and experiential entertainment further drive growth.

Additionally, amusement arcades games, indoor entertainment centers, and urban leisure parks provide additional options for visitors seeking fun and relaxation. Seasonal variability and weather conditions play a crucial role in the amusement and theme park market. Park owners employ various strategies to mitigate the impact of these factors on their businesses. For instance, they may offer seasonal packages, discounts, and promotions to attract visitors during off-peak seasons. The market for amusement and theme parks in the US is driven by several factors. International tourism and global travel ecosystems continue to be significant contributors to the industry's growth. The increasing popularity of urban leisure and the need for entertainment options beyond traditional dining and shopping experiences further boost the market.

Further, food and beverage outlets, retail outlets, and restaurants within amusement and theme parks contribute significantly to the overall revenue. Park owners leverage IoT technology to optimize operations, enhance the visitor experience, and improve safety and security. The amusement and theme park market in the US is diverse and dynamic. It offers numerous opportunities for innovation and growth, with new attractions, technologies, and partnerships continually emerging. The market is expected to remain a key player in the US travel and tourism sector, providing unique experiences and memories for millions of visitors every year.

In conclusion, the amusement and theme park market in the US is a vibrant and ever-evolving industry that caters to various demographics and preferences. It offers a range of entertainment options, from thrilling rides and water attractions to immersive experiences based on popular themes and fictional characters. The market's continued growth is driven by factors such as international tourism, urban leisure, and the need for innovative and memorable experiences.

Market Segmentation

The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments.

Type

  Mechanical rides
  Water rides
  Other rides


Revenue

  Tickets
  Hospitality
  Merchandising
  Others


Gender

  Male
  Female


Geography

  US

By Type Insights

The mechanical rides segment is estimat

The market size of the amusement park sector in the United States increased significantly in 2023. That year, the sector was valued at **** billion U.S. dollars, up **** percent over the previous year's figure.

The Amusement Parks Market is Segmented by Park Type (Theme, Water, and More), by Ride Type (Roller Coasters, Water Rides & Slides, and More), by Revenue Source (Tickets, Food & Beverages, and More), by Age Group (Children, Adults and More), by Ownership Model (Private-Corporate, Private-Family, and More), and by Geography (North America, South America, and More). The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD).

The North America Amusement Parks Market report segments the industry into By Rides (Mechanical Rides, Water Rides, Other Rides), By Age (Upto 18 Years, 19 To 35 Years, 36 To 50 Years, 51 To 65 Years, More Than 65 Years), By Revenue (Tickets, Food & Beverages, Merchandise, Hotels/Resorts, Other Revenues), and By Country (United States, Canada, Mexico, Rest Of North America).

Graph and download economic data for Producer Price Index by Industry: Amusement and Theme Parks: Amusement and Theme Park Food and Beverage Sales (PCU7131107131102) from Jun 2006 to Jun 2025 about parking, amusements, recreation, beverages, food, sales, PPI, industry, inflation, price index, indexes, price, and USA.

The revenue of the amusement and theme park industry in the United States was estimated to have reached approximately **** billion U.S. dollars in 2022. Not only was this a higher revenue than in the previous two years, which were heavily impacted by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, it also exceeded pre-pandemic figures.

The theme park market has enrooted US$ 71.4 billion in 2024 and is ready to jump to US$ 119.0 billion in 2034, covering a CAGR of 5.2% through 2034.

Category-wise Insights

Country-wise Insights

The North America amusement park market, currently exhibiting robust growth, is projected to maintain a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) exceeding 3.50% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key drivers. Firstly, increasing disposable incomes and a growing preference for leisure activities are boosting consumer spending on entertainment. Secondly, continuous innovation within the industry, encompassing the introduction of thrilling new rides and immersive technological advancements such as virtual reality experiences, enhances the overall visitor experience and attracts broader demographics. Furthermore, strategic marketing campaigns and targeted promotions, coupled with the popularity of theme parks as family destinations, further contribute to market growth. While the market faces some restraints, such as seasonality and potential economic downturns impacting consumer spending, the industry's resilience and adaptability suggest consistent growth over the forecast period. Segment analysis reveals a diverse market with mechanical and water rides commanding significant portions of the rides segment, while the 19-to-35-year-old demographic represents a substantial revenue contributor. Ticket sales remain the primary revenue stream, followed by food and beverage sales, merchandise, and hotel/resort packages. Major players like Disney and Universal Studios dominate the landscape, leveraging their established brands and extensive infrastructure to capture significant market share. The United States, in particular, serves as the largest market within North America, driving a significant portion of overall regional revenue. The future of the North American amusement park market appears bright, with continued growth expected across all segments. Further diversification of offerings, leveraging emerging technologies, and focusing on sustainable practices will be crucial for maintaining competitive advantage. Expanding into new markets and enhancing the visitor experience through personalized offerings and improved operational efficiency will also play a vital role in driving future market expansion. The industry’s ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences and economic conditions will be key to sustaining this positive growth trajectory throughout the forecast period. Continued investment in infrastructure and new attractions will be critical to maintain market leadership and attract a broader range of visitors. Recent developments include: January 2023: Global hospitality and entertainment company Delaware North announced its continued expansion in the parks and lodging sector through the acquisition of the Best Western Premier Grand Canyon Squire Inn., July 2022: Five Star Parks & Attractions has completed the acquisition of three locations of Malibu Jack's Indoor Theme Parks in the cities of Lexington, Louisville, and Ashland, Kentucky.. Notable trends are: Mechanical Rides Powering North America's Amusement Park Industry.

Amusement Parks Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global amusement parks market size reached USD 66.3 billion in 2024, reflecting strong consumer demand and robust recovery in leisure activities post-pandemic. The market is expected to register a CAGR of 6.8% during the forecast period, propelling the industry to a forecasted value of USD 120.2 billion by 2033. This growth is primarily driven by substantial investments in park expansions, technological integration for enhanced guest experiences, and rising disposable incomes across emerging and developed markets. The increasing popularity of themed entertainment and the proliferation of branded experiences continue to fuel demand, making the amusement parks sector one of the most dynamic segments within the global leisure and tourism industry.

A significant growth factor for the amusement parks market is the ongoing innovation in ride technology and immersive experiences. Park operators are increasingly adopting advanced technologies such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and artificial intelligence (AI) to create more engaging and personalized attractions. These innovations not only enhance visitor satisfaction but also encourage repeat visits and longer stays, thereby increasing per capita spending. Furthermore, the integration of digital ticketing, mobile apps for park navigation, and contactless payment solutions has streamlined operations and improved overall guest convenience. As consumer expectations continue to evolve, amusement parks are investing heavily in next-generation attractions and interactive experiences to maintain a competitive edge and drive footfall.

Another critical driver underpinning market expansion is the strategic focus on family-friendly entertainment and multi-generational appeal. Amusement parks are designing attractions that cater to a broad demographic, including children, teenagers, adults, and families. This inclusive approach has broadened the market base and increased the length of visitor stays, resulting in higher revenues from ticket sales, food and beverage, and merchandise. Themed zones, character meet-and-greets, and age-specific rides are being developed to ensure that every visitor segment finds value and excitement. Additionally, the rise of branded entertainment—such as partnerships with popular film studios and franchises—has created new avenues for intellectual property-driven attractions, further boosting attendance and engagement across all age groups.

The global tourism recovery and rising disposable incomes, particularly in emerging markets, are also fueling the growth of the amusement parks industry. As international travel resumes and domestic tourism flourishes, more families and tourists are seeking out unique recreational experiences. Governments across various regions are recognizing the potential of amusement parks to drive economic development, job creation, and urban regeneration, leading to supportive policies and infrastructure investments. For instance, Asia Pacific countries are witnessing a surge in park developments and expansions, while North America and Europe continue to innovate with new concepts and seasonal events. This positive macroeconomic environment, combined with a strong appetite for experiential leisure, is expected to sustain the upward trajectory of the amusement parks market in the coming years.

From a regional perspective, Asia Pacific has emerged as the fastest-growing market, driven by rapid urbanization, a burgeoning middle class, and significant investments from both domestic and international operators. North America, led by the United States, remains the largest market in terms of revenue, thanks to its well-established infrastructure and iconic theme park brands. Europe is experiencing steady growth, particularly in countries like France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, where cultural tourism and themed entertainment are gaining traction. Meanwhile, Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are witnessing increased interest from global players seeking to tap into new customer bases. Each region brings unique opportunities and challenges, shaping the competitive landscape and influencing strategic decisions for park development and expansion.

Graph and download economic data for Producer Price Index by Industry: Amusement and Theme Parks (PCU7131171311) from Jun 2006 to Aug 2025 about amusements, recreation, PPI, industry, inflation, price index, indexes, price, and USA.

Of the selected companies, Disney Experiences, owned by the Walt Disney Company, was the leading amusement/theme park company worldwide in terms of revenue, generating **** billion U.S. dollars in 2023. Meanwhile, Universal Destinations & Experiences, subsidiary of Comcast Corp., had the second-highest revenue at **** billion U.S. dollars. Both companies were based in the United States.

Graph and download economic data for Real Sectoral Output for Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation: Amusement and Theme Parks (NAICS 71311) in the United States (IPUSN71311T010000000) from 1987 to 2022 about amusements, arts, entertainment, recreation, output, NAICS, IP, and USA.

According to the source, there were *** businesses in the amusement park sector in the United States in 2023. The sector saw a *** percent growth over the previous year's total of approximately *** businesses.

United States - Producer Price Index by Industry: Amusement and Theme Parks: Amusement and Theme Park Merchandise Sales, Games, and Other Services was 143.47800 Index Jun 2006=100 in July of 2025, according to the United States Federal Reserve. Historically, United States - Producer Price Index by Industry: Amusement and Theme Parks: Amusement and Theme Park Merchandise Sales, Games, and Other Services reached a record high of 185.32900 in June of 2024 and a record low of 99.70000 in January of 2007. Trading Economics provides the current actual value, an historical data chart and related indicators for United States - Producer Price Index by Industry: Amusement and Theme Parks: Amusement and Theme Park Merchandise Sales, Games, and Other Services - last updated from the United States Federal Reserve on August of 2025.

The global amusement park market is projected to reach a value of $27,000 million by 2033, expanding at a CAGR of 2.6% during the forecast period (2025-2033). Key drivers for this growth include rising disposable incomes, increasing urbanization, and the growing popularity of theme-based entertainment. The water amusement park segment dominates the market, accounting for a substantial share, while the segment for adults-only parks is expected to witness significant growth in the coming years. North America remains the largest regional market, followed by Europe and Asia Pacific. The United States is the key contributor to the North American market, owing to its high consumer spending and presence of numerous well-established amusement parks. However, emerging markets in Asia Pacific, such as China and India, are projected to exhibit strong growth potential due to rising urbanization and increasing disposable incomes. Prominent industry players include Cedar Point, Knoebels, Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom, Schlitterbahn Water Park, and Universal's Islands of Adventure.

United States - Producer Price Index by Industry: Amusement and Theme Parks: Amusement and Theme Park Admissions was 225.82400 Index Jun 2006=100 in July of 2025, according to the United States Federal Reserve. Historically, United States - Producer Price Index by Industry: Amusement and Theme Parks: Amusement and Theme Park Admissions reached a record high of 240.40100 in December of 2023 and a record low of 100.00000 in July of 2006. Trading Economics provides the current actual value, an historical data chart and related indicators for United States - Producer Price Index by Industry: Amusement and Theme Parks: Amusement and Theme Park Admissions - last updated from the United States Federal Reserve on September of 2025.

United States - Producer Price Index by Industry: Amusement and Theme Parks: Amusement and Theme Park Food and Beverage Sales was 201.39600 Index Jun 2006=100 in July of 2025, according to the United States Federal Reserve. Historically, United States - Producer Price Index by Industry: Amusement and Theme Parks: Amusement and Theme Park Food and Beverage Sales reached a record high of 223.31200 in June of 2024 and a record low of 100.00000 in July of 2006. Trading Economics provides the current actual value, an historical data chart and related indicators for United States - Producer Price Index by Industry: Amusement and Theme Parks: Amusement and Theme Park Food and Beverage Sales - last updated from the United States Federal Reserve on September of 2025.

Employment statistics on the Amusement Parks industry in the US