Why are theme parks declining?

Research from the Federal Reserve found that American households had completely depleted their pandemic-era excess savings. Meanwhile, travel agents have pointed to higher ticket prices as a major factor in declining theme park attendance.



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Meanwhile, travel agents have pointed to higher ticket prices as a major factor in declining theme park attendance. On top of that, trips to Europe appear to be cannibalizing demand for domestic theme parks this year — likely both contributing to the downturn.

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Theme parks bounced back in 2022 from pandemic lows with revenue, if not attendance. ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Last year marked a return to normal for the theme park industry around the world with operators reporting revenues, and in some cases attendance, at par or above pre-pandemic levels, according to a new report.

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Theme parks are often regarded as recession-proof businesses. For companies like Comcast and Disney, they also provide cash that helps weather losses in their streaming units.

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Many Cast Members were laid off during park closures, and while some were called back to work, others lost their jobs permanently. This staggering two-year drop in employment led to Disney's smallest reported workforce since 2015. The significant staff shortages were felt by guests since parks reopened.

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Off-peak times fall around January, February, September, and early November. Discounts on vacation packages booked directly through Disney (which combine park tickets and hotel stays) can be found year-round, though they're most common at these less-crowded times.

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River Country is one of only two Disney parks to permanently close, along with Discovery Island, which is situated parallel to the water park.

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From ongoing battles with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and his board appointees to subscriber losses on its streaming platform, Walt Disney leadership may be wondering if they've unknowingly fallen under a dark curse. And now, to make matters worse, its theme parks are dealing with declining foot traffic.

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Houston is currently the largest city in the U.S. that doesn't have an amusement park. Lizzy McGee is hoping to change that. By Renee YanUpdated July 26, 2023 7:22 a.m.

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While Disney could pick up and move some of its businesses from Orlando to another state, Disney World and its other theme parks aren't going anywhere. Moving all the infrastructure, including hotels, restaurants and shops as well as transportation to move guests around, just wouldn't be feasible.

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She was forced to live out of her car in a Magic Kingdom employee parking lot. “A conservative survey of Magic Kingdom Cast Members, full-time, found out that ten percent of Magic Kingdom Cast Members are currently homeless,” Jessica explained. “And the problem has only gotten worse since the shutdown.”

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For Disney, it would mean losing a significant source of revenue, as the company's Florida operations include four theme parks, two water parks, several hotels, and numerous other attractions that draw millions of visitors each year.

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Cheap thrills: 5 ways to save money at amusement parks
  1. Search for discounts on tickets. While theme parks are happy to take your money at the gate for admission, they won't cut you any slack on the price. ...
  2. Stay at a vacation rental. ...
  3. Pack a lunch. ...
  4. Save on souvenirs. ...
  5. Bring the essentials.


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