Busch Gardens and SeaWorld parent company United Parks & Resorts has reported declines in revenue and attendance in its financial results for the first quarter of 2026.
In Q1, attendance was 3.2 million guests, a decrease of around 171,000 guests from the first quarter of 2025 due to unfavourable weather conditions across most of United Parks' markets and a decline in international visitation.
With lower attendance in the quarter, total revenue was $278.3 million, a decrease of $8.7m from the same period in 2025. This was partially offset by a 2.1 percent increase in total revenue per capita.
SeaWorld San Diego
However, in-park per capita spending grew by 5.3 percent to a record $40.62 from the first quarter of 2025.
United Parks & Resorts also reported net loss of $34.1m, a decrease of $17.9m, as well as adjusted EBITDA of $58m, a $9.5m drop.
Marc Swanson, CEO of United Parks & Resorts, said the company's first-quarter results "fell short of our expectations primarily due to unfavorable weather" and "a decline in international attendance".
Record in-park per capita spending
Iron Gwazi at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
"All of this is supported by a revamped and enhanced marketing plan and strategy. We are confident these planned investments will drive attendance and guest spending across our parks," he added.
New attractions coming to United Parks properties this year include the Shark Encounter exhibit at SeaWorld San Diego, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay's Lion & Hyena Ridge habitat, the reimagined Verbolten: Forbidden Turn coaster at Busch Gardens Williamsburg, and SeaWorld Orlando's upgraded Expedition Odyssey experience.
Images courtesy of United Parks & Resorts
