The ongoing trade tensions between major global economies such as the U.S. and China are impacting businesses far removed from major financial centers, like regional amusement parks. As families reconsider expensive trips to major theme parks like Disney World, they often opt for local amusement parks within driving distance. However, if economic uncertainties stemming from tariffs grow, even these trips might be reconsidered.
Park operators are dealing with tariffs in ways visitors might not see. Many park attractions and game prizes rely on imported goods from countries like China, with many products currently subject to tariffs. For instance, components of rides are often made from imported steel, while many prize items, like toys, typically come from China and are similarly affected.
Despite these potential obstacles, local amusement parks report strong attendance this year. Playland’s Castaway Cove in Ocean City, New Jersey, with its variety of rides and attractions, saw bustling crowds and high spirits among visitors eager to enjoy their summer days.
Park attendees, like frequent visitor Chris Del Borrello, express loyalty to these local parks, finding that they offer memorable experiences each summer. However, tariffs and economic factors threaten to disrupt this trend as families navigate their summer plans amidst unpredictable financial conditions.
The U.S. Travel Association projects an increase in travel this year, anticipating nearly 2 billion trips, slightly up from last year. Despite this growth, tariffs pose direct challenges to park operators. For instance, fluctuating tariffs on Chinese imports created a complex planning environment, affecting budgets and supply chains. Some parks have managed better than others. Castaway Cove ordered supplies early to sidestep some tariff increases, whereas places like Adventureland in New York faced additional costs for critical supplies due to unexpected tariff expenses.
Despite the financial hits from tariffs, Adventureland is currently opting to absorb these costs instead of raising ticket prices. However, the park acknowledges that prolonged increases could force changes in pricing strategies. Park manager Jeanine Gentile emphasizes a commitment to affordability but remains cautious about future pricing.
Economic instability looms larger than tariffs alone. Dollywood in Tennessee opened later than usual, reflecting broader concerns about the economy. Yet, the park reports an increase in attendance and notes visitors’ interest in promotions and discounts, signaling a more cautious approach to spending.
Families visiting Silver Dollar City in Missouri, often from the central U.S., also demonstrate mindful spending, incorporating park visits into their budgets as part of carefully planned family activities.
At Castaway Cove, while attendance remains strong, there is underlying concern about consumer sentiment as economic uncertainties persist. This unpredictability could influence whether families choose to extend or shorten their park visits, casting doubt on the latter half of the season.
Park operators and their patrons find themselves in a delicate balance, navigating the pleasures of amusement amid an economic landscape marked by uncertainty and trade disputes. The willingness of families to adjust their spending habits reflects a broader trend of caution mixed with the desire to maintain traditions and experiences that promise joy and an escape.