NAICS 7131

Amusement Parks & Arcades

NAICS 7131 covers amusement parks, theme parks, water parks, and arcades. Overview of operations, employment, trends, and market dynamics in the entertainment and recreation sector.

Published by VantaInsights Research·Methodology·Data Sources· AI-drafted
Built on data from Census Bureau CBP Bureau of Labor Statistics Federal Reserve FRED SEC EDGAR

Industry at a Glance

Sector-wide aggregates across all businesses classified under NAICS 7131 (2017 classification frame). For specific sub-industries within this sector, see the individual reports below.

Employment
234K
US Census CBP · 2023 · NAICS 2017
Establishments
4,372
US Census CBP · 2023 · NAICS 2017
Annual Payroll
$6.8B
US Census CBP · 2023 · NAICS 2017
Avg Annual Wage
$29,174
Derived from US Census CBP · 2023 · NAICS 2017
Market Size
$25.7B
US Census Economic Census · 2022 · NAICS 2017

Industry Overview

NAICS 7131 encompasses amusement parks, theme parks, water parks, and amusement arcades that provide entertainment experiences to the public. This industry group includes facilities ranging from large-scale destination theme parks to regional amusement parks, carnival rides operations, and smaller arcade gaming venues. These establishments generate revenue through admission fees, food and beverage sales, merchandise, and gaming operations, serving millions of domestic and international visitors annually. The industry plays a significant role in tourism economies, particularly in states with major destination parks, and represents a substantial component of the broader leisure and hospitality sector that drives consumer spending and employment.

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Industry Trends

01

Integration of digital technology and mobile applications into guest experiences, including virtual queuing systems, augmented reality attractions, and mobile payment systems that enhance operational efficiency and visitor engagement.

02

Increased investment in immersive and themed experiences that draw from intellectual property partnerships with entertainment franchises, creating competitive differentiation in an increasingly crowded entertainment market.

03

Expansion of year-round operating strategies and seasonal event programming to maximize facility usage and revenue generation beyond traditional peak summer months.

04

Growing emphasis on sustainability initiatives and eco-friendly operations, including energy-efficient ride systems, waste reduction programs, and water conservation measures responding to environmental and consumer concerns.

05

Post-pandemic operational adaptations emphasizing capacity management flexibility, enhanced sanitation protocols, and contactless service options that have become permanent features of industry operations.

Specialty Reports Available on Request

2 specialty industriesavailable on request
▾
Amusement & Theme Parks
713110View →
Amusement Arcades
713120View →

Industries

Browse deeper into the NAICS hierarchy.

713110 reports

Amusement & Theme Parks

713120 reports

Amusement Arcades

Frequently Asked Questions

What is NAICS 7131? ▾
NAICS 7131 is the classification for amusement parks and arcades, which includes establishments primarily engaged in operating amusement parks, theme parks, water parks, and amusement arcades. This includes both large destination facilities and smaller local venues that generate revenue from admission fees, rides, games, and concessions. The classification covers the full range of amusement operations from major corporate theme parks to independent arcade establishments.
What are the primary revenue streams for amusement park operators? ▾
Amusement park operators generate revenue through multiple channels including direct admission fees, which form the core revenue base, supplemented substantially by food and beverage sales, merchandise and retail operations, and ancillary services such as parking and special events. Many facilities also operate hotel accommodations, provide entertainment packages, and generate licensing revenue from branded merchandise and intellectual property. Gaming and arcade operations at arcades generate primarily from per-play fees and prize redemptions.
How does seasonality impact the amusement park industry? ▾
Seasonality represents a significant operational characteristic in the amusement park industry, with peak attendance during summer months and holiday periods while off-season months present capacity challenges. Operators have increasingly adopted strategies to mitigate seasonal fluctuations through year-round programming, special events, education programs, and corporate group sales during slower periods. Weather patterns and regional school calendars substantially influence attendance patterns and operational planning.
What role do location and demographics play in amusement park success? ▾
Geographic location and surrounding demographics are critical success factors, with major theme parks typically positioned in high-population metropolitan areas or established tourist destinations with strong visitor infrastructure. Successful operations require proximity to substantial regional population bases and tourism flows, accessible transportation networks, and complementary hospitality and retail development. Climate and regional leisure patterns also influence the viability and operating calendar of water parks and seasonal attractions.
How has technology transformed amusement park operations and guest experiences? ▾
Technology integration has fundamentally changed industry operations through virtual queuing systems that reduce wait times, mobile applications enabling reservations and in-park navigation, contactless payment systems, and data analytics optimizing operations. Guest experiences have expanded through augmented reality attractions, interactive themed environments, and personalized marketing, while backend operations benefit from predictive maintenance systems and revenue management optimization. These technological advances have become competitive necessities in attracting and retaining visitors.

Related Industries

Performing Arts, Spectator Sports, & Related Industries 711Museums, Historical Sites, & Similar Institutions 712Other Amusement & Recreation Industries 7139Food Services & Drinking Places 722Administrative & Support Services 561

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