The ultimate guide to America’s amusement parks (includes multimedia)

Going to an amusement park sounds like fun to many people. And Orlando in the state of Florida is the theme park capital of the world. There are Walt Disney parks and resorts, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld.

Annual visitor numbers are high, according to The Park Database, a source that crunches numbers in the field. Walt Disney’s Magic Kingdom receives around 12.6 million people annually. Universal’s Islands of Adventures receives just over 9 million people in a year, and Tampa Bay’s Busch Gardens receives more than 3.2 million visitors in the span of a year.

Click here to see the yearly visitors of 15 Florida theme parks.

General Culture Concept of Theme Parks in the U.S.

Visiting theme parks is a popular pastime in the United States, and the culture surrounding these attractions is deeply ingrained in American society. They offer a variety of entertainment options, from thrilling roller coasters to family-friendly rides, shows, and attractions.

Visiting a theme park often involves planning ahead and purchasing tickets in advance. Visitors may also choose to stay in nearby hotels or resorts to maximize their time at the park. Many parks offer multi-day passes.



Food is also a significant aspect of the theme park culture. Many feature a wide variety of dining options and themed restaurants. Souvenirs, such as T-shirts, hats, and other merchandise, are also popular among visitors.

The culture of theme parks extends beyond the park itself, with many enthusiasts forming online communities to share their experiences and tips. Theme park blogs, vlogs, and social media accounts offer a wealth of information for both new and seasoned visitors.

Overall, the culture of visiting theme parks in the United States is a vibrant and thriving aspect of American leisure and entertainment.

Exploring the Financial Success of the Theme Parks around Florida

One of the unique aspects of visiting a theme park is the opportunity to step into a different world, as many parks feature immersive environments that transport visitors to different time periods, fictional universes, or exotic destinations. From the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to the African savannah of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, theme parks offer an escape from everyday life and a chance to explore new worlds and cultures.

Another important aspect of the theme park experience is safety. With so many rides and attractions, it’s crucial that they maintain high safety standards to ensure the well-being of visitors. Most parks have strict safety regulations in place, and ride operators receive extensive training to ensure that they operate their attractions safely and efficiently.


Despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, theme parks have adapted to ensure the safety of their visitors. This has included measures such as reduced capacity, increased cleaning and sanitization, and social distancing measures. Many parks have also implemented virtual queues and mobile ordering systems to minimize contact and ensure a seamless experience for visitors.

In conclusion, visiting a theme park is a beloved pastime for many Americans, with the culture surrounding these attractions deeply ingrained in American society. They offer a range of entertainment options, immersive environments, and unique dining experiences, making them ideal destinations for families and thrill-seekers alike. With a focus on safety and adaptability, they continue to evolve and provide unforgettable experiences for visitors.

Jesus Acosta is from Caracas, Venezuela. He is a junior at FIU pursuing a major in Digital Communications and Media + Interactive. He aspires to work in the sports industry in the near future.

Macarena is an international student pursuing her Digital and Interactive Media degree at Florida International University. Originally from Chile, Macarena has always been passionate about creative technologies and digital media. Her interest in this field led her to pursue a career in the United States and study at one of the country's leading universities in the area.

Victoria is a 23-year-old Venezuelan student majoring in Digital Communications and Interactive Media, also minoring in Social Media and eMarketing. She's passionate and creative about video concepts and production. She speaks English, Spanish and French. She loves to cook and has a passion for music.