United Parks & Resorts Inc. operates as a theme park and entertainment company, managing a diverse portfolio of 13 parks across the United States and an international location in Abu Dhabi. The company, which rebranded from SeaWorld Entertainment in early 2024, operates under several well-known brands, including SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, Aquatica, Discovery Cove, Sesame Place, Water Country USA, and Adventure Island. Its business model centers on providing immersive entertainment experiences that combine thrill rides, zoological exhibits, and live educational presentations.
The company generates revenue primarily through two main streams: theme park admissions and in-park spending. Admissions account for approximately 54% of total revenue, driven by single-day tickets, annual passes, and multi-park packages. In-park spending, which makes up the remaining 46%, includes food and beverage sales, merchandise, parking, and premium experiences such as animal encounters and fast-track ride access. Geographically, the company's operations are concentrated in the United States, with major park clusters in Florida, California, Texas, Virginia, and Pennsylvania, while its SeaWorld Abu Dhabi park operates under a licensing agreement.
United Parks & Resorts differentiates itself in the highly competitive leisure and amusement park industry through its extensive zoological operations. It maintains one of the world's largest zoological collections and integrates animal rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation into its brand identity. The company competes with other major theme park operators, such as The Walt Disney Company, Universal Studios, and Six Flags, by offering a unique blend of marine life education and traditional amusement park thrills.
