Amusement parks in the US, especially ones in the northern parts of the country, have typically closed for the winter months. This is due to a combination of regions, including low amounts of people taking vacation time, and cold temperatures. But increasingly parks are extending their operating seasons into times they have typically been closed. So is this a good idea, for amusement parks to begin operating all year to at least some extent.
Operating amusement parks in the winter brings its own challenges. Many rides, significantly the roller coasters found at most major parks, cannot safely run in low temperatures without risking technical issues. But this does not mean the parks have nothing to offer.
The pandemic showed that there can be a demand for even just the smaller parts of the amusement park experience, with rideless events in states with the strictest safety protocols. While not directly transferable to normal times, it does show that parks do not need to be at full operation in order to draw people to them.
Also, not all rides are inoperable in the cold. Busch Gardens Williamsburg, a park that experiences a significant winter, has found a way to be open all year to some extent. This could potentially be the future for other amusement parks.
Current parks are also likely to face increased competition that is open year round. An increasing number of indoor amusement parks are being built, which have the capability to be open fully year round. This is something parks primarily located outdoors will have to address to some extent.
If parks want to attempt this it would likely require work, meaning more indoor rides or attractions that can work in cold weather and snow.
Busch Gardens Williamsburg's decision to open year round could be an indicator of things to come. While almost certainly not a legitimate option for every park, there could certainly be a value in some parks opening on a limited basis throughout the year.
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