Theme Park Trends Revealed: What’s Fueling the Magic in 2025
Theme parks might be where thrills are manifested and our wildest dreams come to life, but getting visitors through the gate takes more than just pixie dust.
To help you understand what’s captivating today’s thrill-seekers, we conducted in-depth research of 113 potential customers seeking to attend new theme parks in the next six months.
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Breaking Barriers to the Turnstiles
Go to sectionSee what’s keeping potential guests from stepping into the magic and find out how to remove these roadblocks.
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Where Guests Are Finding Their Next Thrill
Go to sectionLearn where visitors are finding inspiration to plan their next park adventure.
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When the Visits Are Booked
Go to sectionDiscover the timeline for trip planning and learn how you can stay top of mind.
overcoming hesitation
Breaking Barriers to the Turnstiles
Even the most magical destinations have hurdles to overcome. So what’s stopping your potential guests from making the trip?
High ticket prices are the biggest buzzkill, cited by more than 35% of respondents. Scheduling conflicts and concerns about crowding or long wait times tied at 25%, while fewer than 10% of potential visitors mentioned difficulty reaching the park or lack of attractions that sparked their interest.
To avoid these possible pitfalls, consider offering tiered pricing, flash promotions, or flexible payment plans to make tickets more accessible. You can address crowding concerns with virtual queues, off-peak incentives, and clear communication about wait times.
planning the visit
Where Guests Discover the Magic
When it comes to planning a theme park visit, guests rely on a mix of trusted sources to guide the experience.
60% turn to recommendations from friends and family (word of mouth will likely always take center stage!) while 40% look to social media platforms. 30% of visitors are influenced by online ads or television and radio commercials, while another 30% rely on travel blogs and websites.
To capture attention, sprinkle your own marketing with a little magic: encourage user-generated content, partner with influencers, and create shareable moments that your guests can’t wait to post about.
crafting the timeline
When Guests Plan Their Visits
Planning a theme park trip is no spur-of-the-moment decision.
When visitors map out their adventure, over 30% start by researching ticket prices online, while 20% dive into exploring park attractions or discussing plans with friends and family. 15% check reviews and recommendations.
Keep the excitement alive throughout the process by rolling out regular updates about new attractions, events, or themed lands. Monthly announcements (like the ones Epic Universe has made famous) can build anticipation and keep your park top of mind.
saying "yes"
What Drives Ticket Sales
What makes guests take the leap from “maybe” to “must go”?
60% of guests prioritize ticket pricing and promotions; after all, a deal is always a thrill! 40% consider their physical proximity to the park, as well as the variety and uniqueness of rides. 30% value family-friendly amenities, special events, and seasonal festivals, while food, dining, and accommodation packages seal the deal for another 30%.
To keep sales high and stress levels low, use bundled packages or exclusive perks to turn your hesitant browsers into eager buyers. Hosting seasonal events and offering unique dining options can also help to add that additional layer of magic.
Ticketing Strategies That Work
When it comes to ticketing, a little creativity can go a long way in filling your park with happy guests.
- Tiered pricing: Offer lower prices on off-peak days to attract budget-conscious visitors while keeping peak days premium.
- Special events: Host ticketed experiences like after-dark parties or seasonal festivals with perks like early park entry or exclusive attractions.
- Season pass incentives: Let day pass costs count toward a season pass, encouraging repeat visits.
- Monthly payment plans: Make season passes more accessible with flexible payment options.
Ready to take your theme park marketing strategy to the next level? These insights are your ticket to packed parks and happy guests.
Don’t just follow the trends. Take charge. Put the wheels in motion today with Kinetic319.