Global Amusement Parks Market Grows Steadily at a CAGR of 5.78%

Introduction

An amusement park is an expansive outdoor venue offering a wide range of rides, games, shows, and entertainment options aimed at providing fun and excitement. It typically includes attractions such as roller coasters, water rides, carousels, themed zones, and food vendors, catering to visitors of all ages. These parks deliver exhilarating experiences through adventurous rides and hands-on activities. Many also host live shows, parades, and special events, making them popular spots for families, tourists, and adventure enthusiasts. The overall atmosphere is energetic and vibrant, designed to create lasting memories for all who visit.

Market Dynamics

Rapid urbanization and an increasing young people globally drives the global market

The global amusement parks market is being strongly driven by rapid urbanization and the surging number of young people. Urban areas are becoming prime locations for entertainment facilities, making them ideal for setting up large amusement parks. These city dwellers, particularly the youth, are drawn to dynamic and exciting leisure activities that amusement parks are well-equipped to provide.

• According to the World Bank, more than 4.4 billion people currently live in urban settings, and this figure is expected to rise to nearly 70% of the global population by 2050. Furthermore, the United Nations reports that the youth population, aged 15 to 24, has reached 1.2 billion—representing 16% of the global population.

These trends contribute to a consistent demand for new, engaging, and youth-focused experiences in amusement parks.

Potential for hybrid models creates tremendous opportunities

The global amusement parks market is experiencing substantial growth opportunities through the emergence of hybrid entertainment models that seamlessly blend theme parks, water parks, and resorts into single, integrated destinations. These all-in-one complexes boost visitor engagement, promote longer stays, and increase overall spending per guest.

• For example, Disneyland Abu Dhabi—announced in May 2025 that it represents Disney’s first theme park venture in the Middle East. Set to open on Yas Island, the project will feature immersive rides, themed accommodations, and retail spaces, establishing a world-class entertainment hub aimed at elevating Abu Dhabi’s tourism appeal on the global stage.

These integrated developments not only deliver a wide range of experiences in one location but also contribute significantly to regional economic development by generating employment, increasing visitor numbers, and attracting international travelers in search of comprehensive leisure experiences.

Regional Analysis

North America holds a dominant position in the global amusement parks market, driven by the presence of globally recognized theme parks and high consumer spending on leisure activities. The United States, in particular, is home to some of the world's largest and most visited parks, including Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and Universal Studios in California. These parks continually innovate with new attractions, immersive technologies, and franchise-themed experiences to attract repeat visitors.

Additionally, Canada is experiencing growth in indoor amusement parks and family entertainment centers, especially in urban regions like Toronto and Vancouver. The strong tourism infrastructure, favorable economic conditions, and high demand for entertainment contribute to sustained market growth in the region. Seasonal events like Halloween Horror Nights and Christmas-themed festivals further drive footfall, showcasing the region’s ability to monetize year-round through targeted attractions and events.

Key Highlights

• The global amusement parks market size was valued at USD 70.45 billion in 2024 and is estimated to grow from USD 74.52 billion in 2025 to reach USD 116.81 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 5.78% during the forecast period (2025–2033).
• By type of park, the amusement parks market includes theme parks, water parks, adventure parks, indoor amusement parks, children’s/family entertainment centers, and others. The theme parks segment dominated the market.
• By age group, the market includes children (0–12 years), teenagers (13–19 years), adults (20–64 years), and senior citizens (65+ years).
• By revenue sources, the market is segmented into ticket sales/entry fees, food and beverages, merchandise sales, accommodations/resorts, sponsorships and advertising, and other services.
• By ownership, the segments are publicly owned parks (government/state-owned) and privately owned parks.
• North America is the highest shareholder in the global market.

Competitive Players

1. The Walt Disney Company
2. Universal Parks & Resorts
3. Merlin Entertainments
4. Six Flags Entertainment Corporation
5. Cedar Fair Entertainment Company
6. SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment
7. OCT Enterprises Co.
8. Fantawild Holdings Inc.
9. Chimelong Group Co. Ltd.
10. Compagnie des Alpes

Recent Developments

• In May 2025 – Herschend has initiated a $1.1 billion leveraged loan to support its purchase of all Palace Entertainment's U.S.-based theme parks and hotels. The deal includes the acquisition of over 20 Palace Entertainment properties located in 10 states, comprising seven theme parks, six water parks, and six family entertainment centers (FECs).

Segmentation

1. By Type of Park
   1. Theme Parks
   2. Water Parks
   3. Adventure Parks
   4. Indoor Amusement Parks
   5. Children’s/Family Entertainment Centers
2. By Age Group
   1. Children (0–12 years)
   2. Teenagers (13–19 years)
   3. Adults (20–64 years)
   4. Senior Citizens (65+ years)
3. By Revenue Source
   1. Ticket Sales/Entry Fees
   2. Food & Beverages
   3. Merchandise Sales
   4. Accommodations/Resorts
   5. Sponsorships & Advertising
   6. Other Services
4. By Ownership
   1. Publicly Owned (Government/State-owned)
   2. Privately Owned
5. By Regions
   1. North America
   2. Europe
   3. Asia-Pacific
   4. Latin America
   5. The Middle East and Africa