How to Start a Amusement Park Business in 2024
Last Updated: 12/17/2023
Here is my revised version of the article with a more conversational and personal tone:
Opening your own amusement park — it’s a dream for a lot of people. I should know, it was my childhood fantasy too! But turning that dream into reality takes a crazy amount of work. You can’t just plop down some rides and open the gates. Launching a successful amusement park is a huge undertaking that requires tons of planning, money and business skills.
I’m going to walk you through the major steps involved in getting an amusement park business off the ground, based on my own experience and research. I hope this guide gives you a good feel for what it really takes — both the blood, sweat and tears as well as the joy of bringing happiness to families.
Do Your Homework First
The very first thing I cannot stress enough is you need to do your homework! I know, not the fun part you were hoping for. But conducting thorough market research is absolutely essential. You need to truly understand things like population demographics, tourism data, competitive landscape, disposable income levels and entertainment spending habits in the region you want to open your park. How many other amusement parks already exist within driving distance? What types of rides and attractions are missing that you could offer? The more insights you can gain from careful analysis, the better you can spot unmet needs and opportunities to differentiate your park.
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Make a Business Plan
Every new amusement park needs a detailed business plan. I know, more homework! But this is your blueprint and your pitch to get funding. It needs to cover everything — your business model, target audience, pricing, startup costs and permits required, financial projections, marketing plan, staffing needs, site plan, risks, and more. Having a solid business plan shows you’ve done your due diligence and know what it takes to run an amusement park successfully.
Location
You’ve heard it in real estate, but location is just as critical for an amusement park. You need a big chunk of land (we’re talking at least 50 acres in most cases) with great highway access and visibility. Do that demographic homework to identify areas with the right mix of population, spending power, competition levels and tourist traffic to support your park. Make sure the location works for access and zoning too. This decision can make or break you, so choose wisely!
Show Me the Money
Let’s be real, starting an amusement park takes deep pockets — we’re talking tens of millions to over $100 million. Rides, facilities, infrastructure and more add up fast. So make detailed projections on startup and operating expenses, plus estimated revenues based on your market demand analysis. Take these numbers and secure financing from investors, commercial loans, or other sources. Most parks need a combo of debt and equity. Also check whether tax incentives or redevelopment grants could help.
Ride On!
The most fun part is designing your actual rides and attractions! Work closely with amusement park engineers and designers to create experiences tailored to your audience. Every park needs a mix — thrilling roller coasters plus family-friendly options, shows, exhibits, places to eat, arcades…you name it. Make sure the layout flows well for foot traffic. The theming and branding should all tie together nicely. This is your chance to be creative, just don’t bust the budget!
Safety First
I don’t need to tell you safety is critical. All rides need to pass extensive inspections and get certified to operate safely. Work closely with local agencies throughout the process to ensure you get licensed properly. The same goes for restaurants and facilities — get health and occupancy permits, adhere to fire codes, all that important stuff. It’s not the glamorous part but absolutely necessary to open responsibly.
Staff Up
Your park needs an army! We’re talking hundreds to thousands of employees like ride operators, ticket sales, maintenance crews, performers, security, supervisors, food service…you name it. Develop training programs so staff know policies, safety protocols, customer service standards — the works. Vet people thoroughly. Having a solid team in place is key before the big opening day arrives.
Spread the Word
Start getting visitors excited months before opening! Marketing and PR will be crucial. Promote sneak peeks, run social media contests, sell discounted season passes early on. Make sure your branding is on point. Host a huge community ribbon cutting event when the big day finally comes!
Whew, that was a lot! Opening an amusement park takes massive preparation and work. But seeing kids light up on the carousel you built makes it all worthwhile. With smart planning, financing, the right team and vision — you can turn this dream into an incredible reality. Just don’t forget the sunscreen!
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Amusement Park Financial Forecasts
Startup Expenses
Monthly Operating Expenses
Revenue Forecast
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the first steps to take when starting an amusement park business?
The very first steps are conducting detailed market research to assess demand, developing a comprehensive business plan, and starting to scout potential locations that can accommodate large-scale amusement park development. Having accurate numbers on startup costs, target demographics, and financing options mapped out in a business plan is critical preparation before taking any further action.
How much does it cost to build an amusement park?
The average cost to build an amusement park ranges from $10 million to over $100 million, with mega amusement parks costing upwards of $500 million. Factors impacting costs include land acquisition, number and types of attractions, theme park design fees, facility construction, required permits and certifications, safety features, utilities infrastructure, landscaping, parking lots, and more.
What permits and certifications are needed?
At a minimum, amusement parks must obtain occupancy permits, adhere to fire codes and construction standards, get environmental approvals, and acquire food service licenses for any restaurant facilities. All rides must be inspected, tested, and certified for safety through agencies like ASTM International. Other permits pertain to electrical, plumbing, accessibility, zoning laws, parking, waste management, etc.
How long does it take to build an amusement park?
It typically takes a minimum of 18 months to several years to fully design, plan, and construct an amusement park. This includes time for securing financing, conducting engineering and feasibility studies, gaining permits, preparing the site, installing utilities, building facilities, testing rides, hiring and training staff, etc. Rushing the process risks major issues, so patience is key.
What experience is needed to start an amusement park?
While anyone with sufficient funding and vision can technically start an amusement park, it helps tremendously to have experience in related industries like entertainment, attractions, theme parks, hospitality, real estate development, or construction. Partnering with amusement park consultants and designers can also provide vital expertise.
Does location really matter for an amusement park?
Location is absolutely vital for success. Amusement parks require large parcels of land, proximity to major highways and airports, adequate parking and public transit options, separation from residential areas, density of target customer base, and distances from direct competitors. Sites should also offer some uniqueness relevant to themes or attractions.
How many people are required to operate an amusement park?
An average amusement park employs anywhere from 200 to over 5,000 people for daily operations. Staffing needs depend on the size of the park and number of attractions, restaurants, retail outlets, live entertainment stages, and support facilities. Key roles include ride operators, ticket sales, guest services, maintenance, security, entertainment, supervisors, administrators, and managers.
What strategies can boost chances of success?
Conducting market research, creating unique attractions, investing in visual appeal, providing diverse entertainment options, leveraging themes/IP, focusing on customer service, facilitating sales of food/merchandise, keeping facilities clean and safe, marketing aggressively, ensuring reliability of rides, and fostering a fun atmosphere.
Does every amusement park need roller coasters?
While roller coasters are certainly major draws, they are not mandatory. Some smaller amusement parks appeal to families with lower-thrill options like bumper cars, merry-go-rounds, arcades, live shows, mini golf, and more. However, having at least one signature, large roller coaster is important for most full-scale amusement parks seeking to attract teens and thrill-seekers.
