What is a major revenue source for most theme parks?

Ticket sales and admission fees serve as a foundational revenue source for most theme parks because they are typically the largest initial source of income. Visitors pay for access to the park, and this fee often reflects the perceived value of the attractions and entertainment offered within the park. The income generated from these ticket sales is crucial for covering operational costs, including staffing, maintenance, and infrastructure, as well as funding improvements and expansions to enhance the guest experience.

While merchandise sales, advertising space, and event hosting can also contribute to a theme park's revenue, they usually generate less income compared to the substantial volume of ticket sales. Merchandise, for instance, depends on visitor numbers and is generally a secondary revenue stream. Similarly, advertising space is limited and contingent upon the number of guests and the park's reach. Event hosting can be lucrative but is often intermittent and requires additional resources and planning. Therefore, the primary revenue comes predominantly from the straightforward and robust model of ticket admissions.