05/01/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 05/01/2024 06:15
ORLANDO, Fla. (April 30, 2024) - Attractions across the globe always aim to bring eager consumers the latest and greatest-and with attractions in more than 100 countries, the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) is the expert source on what's next.
Today, President and CEO Jakob Wahl said summer travel numbers look strong, according to IAAPA's members.
IAAPA expects to see a 2 percent boost in North American theme park attendance, representing more than 300 million visits in 2024. Consumer spending is expected to match the pace, with more than $32 billion projected to be spent-a 7 percent increase.
"As the weather warms up, many people are thinking of the classic summer vacation," Wahl said. "We're seeing consumers shifting spending from material goods and instead investing in those trips-and memories-with family."
Attractions are rising to the occasion to meet consumers with new experiences. Wahl shared four trends guests can look forward to seeing this summer.
Family Attractions: IAAPA has seen a noticeable rise in the creation of family entertainment experiences from its members. Examples of these attractions include upcoming family coasters like Good Gravy at Holiday World in Indiana and Penguin Trek at SeaWorld Orlando - which are both set to open this spring - as well as Mattel Adventure Park and Destination KCK opening in Kansas City in 2026. These attractions allow families to create unforgettable memories together, which Wahl said aligns with the shift from investing in material goods to experiences.
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About IAAPA
IAAPA is a diverse and dynamic community of global attractions professionals. As the largest international trade association for permanently located attractions, IAAPA unifies the attractions community, connects people to learn and grow together, and strives to promote the highest professional standards for excellence and safety around the world.
Founded in 1918, IAAPA represents leading industry attractions and supplier companies, consultants, and individual members from more than 100 countries. Members include professionals from amusement parks, theme parks, attractions, water parks, resorts, family entertainment centers, zoos, aquariums, science centers, museums, cruise lines, manufacturers, and suppliers.
The association's global headquarters and North America office are in Orlando, Florida, U.S. IAAPA also maintains offices in Brussels, Belgium; Hong Kong, China; Shanghai, China; and, Mexico City, Mexico. Visit IAAPA.org or connect through IAAPA's social media channels: @IAAPAHQ #IAAPA