June 3, 2014 – This morning, AECOM released their estimated 2013 Theme Index which measures attendance numbers from theme parks and museums from around the world.
Universal Studios Hollywood had a modest gain of 200,000 guests from 2012 to 2013, which translates roughly into a 4% gain. Since 2010 Universal Studios Hollywood has had an increase in attendance of 1,840,000 visitors to its park, coinciding with the investment of King Kong 360-3D on the Studio Tour and the revitalization of the Universal backlot.
(Based on figures from AECOM)
The opening of King Kong 360 3D in 2010 saw a 26% jump in attendance, while the introduction of Transformers: The Ride – 3D ushered in a 15% hike. With this year’s addition of Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem and Super Silly Fun Land alongside the introduction of Fast & Furious: Supercharged, Springfield and the Nighttime Studio Tour in 2015, Universal is expected to experience an attendance increase year over year – culminating in the The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in 2016.
» 2006 – 4,700,000 guests
» 2007 – 4,700,000 guests (flat)
» 2008 – 4,583,000 guests (-2.5%)
» 2009 – 4,308,000 guests (-6%)
» 2010 – 5,040,000 guests (+26%)
» 2011 – 5,141,000 guests (+2%)
» 2012 – 5,912,000 guests (+15%)
» 2013 – 6,148,000 guests (+4%)
(Figures courtesy of AECOM and Theme Park Insider)
It should also be noted that the majority of the Southern Californian theme park industry saw increases, with Disneyland Resort, Six Flags Magic Mountain and Knott’s Berry Farm posting gains.
Jonathan Green is the managing editor of Inside Universal.
Jonathan has been going to Universal for over 25 years, developing a deep passion for the theme park and its historic films. His real passion involves Universal Studios Hollywood’s storied past and how it eventually transformed from a movie studio into a theme park.
You may contact Jonathan at jonathan@insideuniversal.net
