April 4, 2013
Food and beverage has always been a significant part of the theme park business. But, today it seems to be bigger than ever, as we are seeing some interesting trends in the growth and expansion of food and beverage at large parks. These trends include more upscale restaurants, grander theming, an eye toward healthier offerings, ...
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February 10, 2013
Since opening in 1990, Universal Orlando has largely been playing catch-up to its theme park neighbor just down Interstate 4. Much of Disney World’s attendance lead has resulted from the fact that it had a nearly two decade head start in opening and many more acres available to develop. Indeed, for many amusement industry observers, ...
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January 3, 2013
On December 6, the Walt Disney World Resort debuted the long-awaited renovations and additions to its iconic Fantasyland area in the Magic Kingdom theme park. Dubbed “New Fantasyland”, the premiere included a new attraction, revamped rides and new dining options. In addition, over the next two years, even more New Fantasyland attractions will arrive including ...
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November 1, 2012
New rides in the amusement industry often seem to follow a cyclical pattern. Over the years, a wide variety of ride types have ebbed and flowed in popularity, including times when simulators or 3D or raft rides were the latest hot option. Through it all though two ride types have seemed to endure longer than ...
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September 11, 2012
Ever since Disney’s parks evolved from a “pay as you ride” ticketing strategy to a single admission approach, other theme parks have, by and large, incorporated that same method. The advantage is that a facility can project admission revenue with more certainty because all entering guests, whether they ride one ride or 20, pay the ...
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August 1, 2012
There once was a time when an amusement park visit focused on all guests sharing a common experience that involved the park’s rides, shows and fair-like food. At the country’s larger parks and resorts, those days are increasingly giving way to an enticing (and expensive) new option known as “premium experiences.” This issue, The Large ...
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June 1, 2012
Walk around almost any large park and you’ll likely see a relatively new phenomenon, the real time reporter at work. Packed to the hilt with recording equipment, camera phones and loads of other high-tech gear, the real time reporter represents a shift in how park information is shared. Indeed, it’s quite easy these days to ...
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April 7, 2012
Wizarding World of Harry Potter Update Who would have thought that a single Boy Wizard could bring such financial magic to the theme park industry? Yet, that’s exactly what has happened with Universal Orlando’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which opened two summers ago to great fanfare in Central Florida. Harry’s World is comprised of ...
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February 16, 2012
Okay, two quick questions: Who is Jake Sully and what is a Na’vi? Not quite sure? That shouldn’t be surprising because you’re probably in good company as it relates to the number of average Americans who don’t know the answer without first Googling it. While we haven’t found any official polls on how many Americans ...
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January 5, 2012
Dave Herbst served as a publicist at the Walt Disney World resort for 30 years. During his career, Herbst witnessed many changes to how Disney World publicizes itself. Recently, The Large Park Report visited with Herbst for his unique and compelling insights into these changes. Tourist Attractions and Parks Magazine: When you began at Disney, ...
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