Insights Backed by Experience
At International Theme Park Services, Inc. (ITPS), we believe that knowledge should be shared—and that doing so strengthens the entire attractions industry. With over four decades of global experience spanning theme parks, waterparks, FECs, and other leisure destinations, our team has seen what works, what doesn’t, and what’s next. That’s why we’ve created this resource hub: to offer timely, practical insights on the real-world challenges and opportunities facing operators today.
From improving guest flow and maximizing operational efficiency to enhancing safety and navigating labor challenges, our articles are designed to inform, inspire, and support better decision-making across every level of your operation. Whether you’re a start-up park or a seasoned destination, we’re here to help you make every moment of your guest experience count.
Keeping Your Brand Alive While the Gates Are Closed
When the rides stop and the gates close, your park’s story doesn’t have to pause. The off-season is the perfect time to stay visible, keep your brand top-of-mind, and build excitement for the next opening day. Click to discover more.
Fun Shouldn’t Come with a Flowchart
Buying a theme park ticket used to be simple. Today, it feels like navigating a maze—passes, tiers, blackout dates, add-ons, dynamic pricing, and surprise fees. This article unpacks how something as basic as admission has become a flowchart of choices - and what that means for the industry. Click here to discover more.
The Best Ideas Are Hiding in the Weirdest Places
You never know where the next big idea might come from - a cornfield, a candy shop, or even a porta-potty. This article dives into the wild, weird, and wonderfully unexpected places that just might hold the secret to your next breakthrough guest experience. Click to Discover More
Storm Smarts: Creative Weather Strategies for Attractions
Weather happens, but great attractions don’t let it ruin the fun. Whether it’s blazing sun or surprise downpours, smart operators turn challenges into chances to impress. Here are some guest-friendly strategies parks have used (or could use) to keep the magic alive, rain or shine. Click here to discover more.
Peeling Back the Fun: Theme Park Lessons from the Bananas
Inspired by Dennis’ look at the Savannah Bananas, the ITPS team explored what theme parks and attractions can learn from this family-fun phenomenon. From spontaneous entertainment to immersive guest involvement, here’s how attractions can bring a little Banana-style magic to their operations. Click here to discover more.
Tariffs and Turnstiles: Avoiding Budget Whiplash
Brace yourself - your next ride might not be on a coaster, but on a cost curve. From plush to parts, potential tariffs are shaking up budgets across the industry. Discover how parks can plan smarter, spend wiser, and stay ahead of the financial freefall. Click to discover more.
Would You Pay to Visit Your Own Park?
You know your park inside and out—but would you actually pay to visit it? Take off the headset, lose the backstage pass, and walk through your gates like a paying guest. What you discover may surprise you—from hidden friction points to missed opportunities that only fresh eyes can reveal. Click here to discover more.
The Real Cost of Understaffing Your Attractions
Theme park guests are waiting longer than ever—at rides, food stands, and even security. But it’s not always crowds causing the chaos. Understaffed attractions and poor operational flow are slowing everything down. How is inefficiency ruining the guest experience, and what can be done to fix it? Click here to discover more.
Refilling the Fun: Holiday World’s 25-Year Sip of Genius
Twenty-five years ago, Holiday World redefined guest value with free unlimited soft drinks—a bold move that delivered high-perception impact. What seemed risky became a game-changing “guest-first” strategy, proving that simple, thoughtful touches can build lasting trust, loyalty, and industry-wide influence. Click here to discover more.
Managing Loose Articles – A Safety & Efficiency Opportunity
Phones flying, hats lost, sunglasses scattered – loose articles are a constant challenge at parks. But, what if managing them could actually enhance the guest experience? Are there smart, guest-friendly strategies that to make ride operations safer, smoother, and more efficient than ever? Click here to discover more.
Less Staff, No Stress: Smarter Operations in a Tight Labor Market
Short-staffed? You’re not alone. Parks and attractions everywhere are learning to do more with leaner and more agile teams. With the right tools and smart strategies, is it possible to stay ahead in today’s staffing landscape and still create standout guest experiences? Click here to discover more.
Going the Extra Smile: Why Hospitality is the Heartbeat of Theme Parks
It’s not the coasters—it’s the connection. Explore how exceptional hospitality, small gestures, and proactive service turn theme park visits into lasting memories, driving guest loyalty and satisfaction far beyond what any thrill ride alone can deliver. Click here to discover more.
The Feasibility Analysis
Regardless of why you’re eyeing the theme park and amusement industry, success starts with one critical step: a solid, detailed feasibility analysis. It’s the foundation for smart decisions, realistic planning, and long-term returns. Want to get it right from the start? Click here to discover more.
Why Projects Fail: A Case Study of Hard Rock Park
Some parks thrive, while others seem to vanish within a year. What separates lasting success from sudden failure? Discover the biggest reasons theme parks don’t make it – and the crucial insight every operator should know before breaking ground, expanding, or investing. Click here to discover more.
Operations, Maintenance, and Safety Audit
In the high-stakes world of operating theme parks, routine checks aren’t enough. Smart operators are turning to external audits for expert insights that boost safety, efficiency, and guest satisfaction. Want to uncover hidden opportunities and stay ahead of the curve? Click here to discover more.
6 Key Critical Considerations When Deciding Where to Build a Leisure Attraction
Thinking about developing a theme park or leisure attraction but unsure where to build? Location decisions can truly make or break a project. From demand generators to visibility, explore six key factors every operator must carefully weigh before finalizing a site. Click here to discover more.
3 Important Considerations When Contemplating the Sale of an Attraction
With nearly $700 million in park transactions, ITPS knows every sale has its own pace and personality. Some move fast, others crawl like molasses. Thinking about selling a dry or wet park? Don’t miss these 3 crucial considerations before you do. Click here to discover more.
Revisiting Your
Emergency Action Plan
What if your team faces an expected crisis today? The fires at Epcot and Liseberg are powerful reminders of why strong emergency action plans matter. Clear communication, quick response, and trained staff can make all the difference in protecting guests and employees. Click here to discover more.
Contact ITPS
International Theme Park Services, Inc.
2200 Victory Parkway, Suite 500A
Cincinnati, Ohio 45206
United States of America
Phone: 513-381-6131
http://www.interthemepark.com
itps@interthemepark.com