Park Prices Go Down...and Up

Despite the difficult economy, Six Flags managed to post one of its best years ever. The solid attendance and revenue numbers were due, at least in part, to aggressive discounts the chain offered on admission tickets to its parks. Likewise, Disney is offering a "Buy 4, Get 3 Free" package deal for hotel and park tickets at Walt Disney World, as well as other deals at its properties. And Universal Studios Hollywood just announced a sweet 2009 All Access Pass that includes admission to the park for the entire year (previously, Universal's basic season pass included blackout dates), a pass members' express gate at the front entrance, priority boarding for the Backlot Studio Tour, discounts on park merchandise and food, and a hefty $12 discount for the purchase of guest tickets. The special pass is only $5 more than a single-day ticket.

The pervasive discounting makes Busch Entertainment's decision to hike its prices this week a bit perplexing. The higher charges come on the heels of additional price increases the park chain made earlier in the year. A one-day ticket to SeaWorld Orlando is going up $5 to $74.95, virtually matching the sticker-shock prices at Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando. SeaWorld's water park, Aquatica, will cost an additional $3, up to $44.95, to enter. And guests will pay $69.95, up $2, to access Busch Gardens Africa in Tampa. I wonder if the Busch parks will follow up its price hikes with a discount program that will seem all the more enticing when compared to the new, higher regular prices.

What are your thoughts about lower--and higher--prices at parks? Given the dismal economy, might the new pricing have an impact on your park visits in the coming year? Join the conversation by clicking on "Comments" below.

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