The global animal theme park market is projected to grow significantly, from an estimated USD 85.6 million in 2023 to USD 151.8 million by 2033, at a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.9%, according to a newly released report by Future Market Insights (FMI). The growth of the market is primarily driven by the increasing demand for unique entertainment experiences, as well as the rising popularity of animal-centric, eco-friendly attractions.

Animal theme parks, which combine traditional zoo features with amusement park attractions, have become one of the fastest-growing segments in the global tourism industry. These parks offer visitors the unique opportunity to see animals in simulated natural habitats while enjoying entertainment such as live animal shows and thrilling rides. Oceanariums, marine mammal parks, and dolphinariums are some of the key attractions that draw millions of visitors each year.

Key Market Drivers

The growth of the animal theme park market can be attributed to several factors:

  • Education and Entertainment Blend: Visitors are increasingly drawn to animal theme parks that offer both educational experiences and engaging entertainment. Parks are integrating live animal performances, educational exhibits, and conservation messaging to captivate diverse audiences.
  • Interest in Wildlife and Novel Species: Animal lovers are attracted to parks featuring rare or unfamiliar species, along with opportunities to interact with animals in a controlled environment. This trend is boosting visitor numbers and enhancing customer experiences.
  • Eco-Friendly Attractions: North American animal theme parks, such as Disney’s Animal Kingdom, have become models of sustainability. They feature eco-friendly initiatives, such as the use of paper straws and recycling programs, which resonate with environmentally conscious visitors.

Market Segmentation

  • Ocean Animal Theme Parks (Market Share: 55.6%): Ocean animal theme parks, which feature marine life such as dolphins, orcas, and beluga whales, represent the largest segment of the market. These parks are highly popular among tourists for their unique marine animal exhibits and performances, although they have also faced criticism from animal rights activists regarding the treatment of the animals.
  • Online Booking (Market Share: 25%): The online booking channel has emerged as the most prominent method for securing tickets to animal theme parks. With limited capacity and high demand, booking online offers convenience, special discounts, and guarantees entry, further fueling the shift towards digital booking channels.

Regional Insights

  • North America (26% market share in 2022): Dominated by eco-friendly parks like Disney’s Animal Kingdom, offering a blend of animal exhibits and traditional theme park attractions.
  • Europe (23% market share in 2022): Known for personalized tours and unique experiences at parks like Chessington World of Adventures, combining animal attractions with immersive storytelling.

Competitive Landscape

Several animal theme parks, along with their parent companies, compete in the growing animal theme park industry. The demand for these parks is closely tied to the economic conditions of a country and the disposable income of consumers. To generate revenue, individual animal theme park operators focus on targeted marketing strategies. Smaller businesses typically prioritize serving local markets and offering unique attractions that aren’t available at every park. In contrast, larger animal theme park companies benefit from economies of scale in both advertising and operational costs. These companies also have the financial resources to develop or acquire high-profile, expensive rides, helping them attract more visitors.

Latest Market Updates

  • In March 2023, SeaWorld, which is Abu Dhabi’s mega theme park that holds the world’s biggest aquarium, announced its official inaugural date. The doors to the marine life theme park are expected to be open by 23 May’23. This newest attraction contains eight themed realms, with rides, up-close animal encounters, and entertainment as the key highlights.
  • In June 2023, Disney’s Animal Kingdom greeted two Hartmann’s mountain zebra foals. These can be found at the Kilimanjaro Safaris attraction.

Key Companies Profiled

Disney’s Animal Kingdom; Busch Gardens Tampa Bay; Chessington World of Adventures; Happy Hollow Park and Zoo; Aquatica; Sea World; Jerusalem Biblical Zoo; Bronx Zoo; Indianapolis Zoo; Night Safari; Jurong Bird Park; York’s Wild Kingdom; Warrawong Sanctuary; Bhindawas Wild Life Sanctuary; Bhimashankar; Elephant Nature Park; Others

Get Connected with Our Expert Analyst on Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.com

The Animal Theme Park Market Overview by Category

By Type:

  • Ocean Animal Theme Parks
  • Terrestrial Animal Theme Parks

By Application:

  • Children
  • Adult

By Revenue Model:

  • Ticket
  • Food & Beverage
  • Merchandise
  • Hotels/Resorts
  • Others

By Booking Channel:

  • Phone Booking
  • Online Booking
  • In Person Booking

By Tourist Type:

  • Domestic
  • International

About Future Market Insights (FMI)

Future Market Insights, Inc. (ESOMAR certified, recipient of the Stevie Award, and a member of the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce) offers profound insights into the driving factors that are boosting demand in the market. FMI stands as the leading global provider of market intelligence, advisory services, consulting, and events for the Packaging, Food and Beverage, Consumer Technology, Healthcare, Industrial, and Chemicals markets. With a vast team of over 400 analysts worldwide, FMI provides global, regional, and local expertise on diverse domains and industry trends across more than 110 countries.

Contact Us:

Future Market Insights Inc.
Christiana Corporate, 200 Continental Drive,
Suite 401, Newark, Delaware – 19713, USA
T: +1-347-918-3531
For Sales Enquiries: sales@futuremarketinsights.com
Website: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com
LinkedInTwitterBlogs | YouTube

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *