IAAPA leaders forecast ‘strong travel numbers’ for summer 2024

ORLANDO, Fla. – Summer 2024 is right around the corner which means family vacations and packed theme parks.

On Tuesday, President and CEO Jakob Wahl with the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions explained travel numbers are looking strong for the summer, adding that customers are willing to spend more money at the theme parks as well.

“For 2024, we see a 2% increase in attendance numbers for the parks here in the U.S., welcoming more than 300 million visits,” Wahl said.

Wahl’s press conference comes in the wake of the recent drop in Tourist Development Tax numbers in Orange County.

In February, Orange County Comptroller Phil Diamond revealed a 4% dip this past December in collections compared to December 2022.

“As the weather warms up, many people are thinking of the classic summer vacation. We’re seeing consumers shifting spending from material goods and instead investing in those trips and memories with family,” Wahl said.

Wahl also spoke about trends aimed at families to enjoy together like the rise in family coasters.

At SeaWorld Orlando, Penguin Trek is set to open soon and Dreamworks Land at Universal Orlando is set to open in June.

Wahl also said zoos and aquariums are creating a more enjoyable experience for families too.

“You really see across the board parks invested into families and that is a wonderful thing which we will foresee for this year,” Wahl said.

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