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Water Park Business Plan Example

Published Sep.23, 2020

Updated Apr.24, 2024

By: Jakub Babkins

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Table of Content

Do you want to start a Water Park business plan?

Do you want to start a water park business? If you are thinking about it, it is a great idea. The need for water parks is never limited. And you don’t require any special technical education or degree. You can start it at a small scale and then develop it as you go along.

Even though this business is relatively straightforward to start, your life can still be made easier if you follow a water park business plan pdf document like the one here. When you’re learning about how to start a water park business or any other business like starting a paintball business , you will find that a business plan is an essential document to have. This also includes a presentation for potential investors.

Below, we have provided a sample business plan for ‘Grizzly Parks’ water park.

Executive Summary

2.1 the business.

Grizzly Parks will be a water park business initiative started by Hailey Benton. The initiative’s primary goal will be to provide a place where families can come to relax and where kids can have fun. It will offer a wide range of services in Rockland County throughout the year, with water-based activities for summer and winter.

2.2 Management of Water Park

When starting a water park business, you need to ensure that the endeavor is successful. You can do this by developing a water park business plan. In the business plan for you water park franchise, you need to take account of all the resources you possess. These include human resources, financial as well as technical. It would be best if you then created a marketing strategy business that will utilize these resources to the fullest.

In the business plan below, we have presented how to make a water park so that you can follow a strong lead.

2.3 Customers of Water Park

The customer base of our water park will mainly be focused on families and the young generation. The main customers of our water park business will include:

• Local Families
• Young Adults

2.4 Business Target

The main target of our water park will be to provide a space for relaxation to our customers. We aim to become a place that people can trust to be fun after some hard workdays.

The financial targets that we want to achieve within the first two years of our inauguration are mentioned below:

Company Summary

3.1 company owner.

Hailey Benton will be the owner of Grizzly Parks. Hailey completed her MBA about three years back. Afterward, she worked for a management firm for two years before she ventured out to fulfill her dream to run and design business park with her co-worker.

3.2 Why the Water Park is being started

Hailey noticed that the amusement and recreation businesses around her town were becoming obsolete with old services like Merry Go Rounds, Carousels, and Ships. She realized that she could utilize the water body around town to offer more enthralling activities to the people. Therefore, she did some research and set out to start a water park.

3.3 How the Water Park will be started

Step1: Plan Everything

The primary step of starting an aerial tourism business is to read aerial tourism business plan . Similarly, the first step of starting a water park is to read a water park business plan sample.

This water park business plan template will give you answers to many fundamental questions. For example, how much does it cost to open a water park. Of course, it is up to you whether you take advice directly from business plan experts or choose to go through business plans on your own to learn. But if you choose the latter, you can get help from this document.

Step2: Define the Brand

The second step to starting a water park is to highlight the core values of your business. Doing this is called developing a brand. The brand should show your customer your competitive advantage over other recreation businesses around you.

Step3: Establish Your Corporate Office

Hailey and her designer decided to rent out a space of land near Hackensack River in Rockland County. She will procure all the water and safety equipment needed to start the park.

Step4: Establish a Web Presence

Online marketing is an essential aspect of every business. Realizing the necessity, Hailey decided to start a website and social media pages to market her water park.

Step5: Promote and Market

You need to develop and implement a marketing plan as the final step to start your business.

Before you think of how to make a water park, you need to decide the services you intend on providing to your customers.

The business plan for opening a water park will be different from perhaps, internet radio business plan . This is because the services offered are different. And so details such as water park financing will be different.

Since Hailey decided to open a commercial water park, you can use this water park business plan example to create a business plan template for summer camp too.

The primary services of Grizzly Parks will include:

• Waterslides

We will provide different level waterslides. This way, both young children and well adults can have a fun splash. Our water slide levels will include:

• Beginner (5-10yrs)
• Intermediate (11-20yrs)
• Expert (20yrs +)

Customers will be allowed in the water slides considering their swimming level and age.

• Varied Depth Pools

We will also have pools of various depths present at the park where customers can take a leisurely swim. In this regard, the different categories will include:

• Zero-Depth Pools
• Tapered Pools
• Open water pools

Here, parents can teach their children to swim or just go for a swim themselves.

• Water Sports

The unique service provided by our water park management will be water sports, including:

• Water Boarding
• Paddle Boarding
• Camping Services

Our customers can also enroll their children in seasonal camps that may last 1-2 weeks.

• Recreation Services

We will also provide recreation services like spas, sun decks, and lazy rivers for our older customers so they can have a pampered and relaxing day.

Marketing Analysis of Water Park

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To learn how to open a water park, you will need to have a thorough knowledge of your customer to make the water park profitable business. The best way to understand your customer base is to undergo a marketing analysis for your water parks business plan. The business plan should include the past, present, and future market trends for reference. It should also include an analysis of current market prices with your financial goals to assess the costs of your services.

If you don’t know how to conduct marketing analysis, you can take help from this water park business plan sample. You will find a lot of examples of water park business plan pdf on the internet that you can refer to.

Below, we have presented a detailed marketing analysis of Grizzly Parks Water Park:

5.1 Market Trends

According to the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), waterparks attract around 400,000 guests a year with an average stay of about 2.7 hours. And according to IBIS, the market size for the water park industry is valued at $2 billion. Overall, the demand for amusement and recreation services is ever-increasing with the stressful work and school hours all over the US.

5.2 Marketing Segmentation

The possible customers of Grizzly Parks are divided into the following categories:

Business plan for investors

5.2.1 local families.

Our primary customers will be families in the New York area. They are expected to be our recurring customers as they will avail services for both kids and adults, including camps, spas, and pools.

5.2.2 Teens

Our second target customer will be teens. They are expected to utilize our more exciting activities such as water sports and camps.

5.2.3 Young Adults

This will be our third group of customers. They are expected to avail both exciting and relaxing services on a semi-regular basis.

5.2.4 Tourists

Our last batch of customers will be tourists. As New York and surrounding areas attract many tourists, they are expected to avail our day-bases activities.

5.3 Business Target

• To become the number one recreation service throughout New York and the surrounding area
• To expand our services every year
• To earn a net profit margin of $80k per month by the end of our second year
• To keep a customer satisfaction rate of >95%.

5.4 Product Pricing

Our prices for specialized services (like water sports) will be a little higher than traditional services like pools and spas. But we will offer experts to guide our customers and keep them safe.

Marketing Strategy

To stand out amongst the huge competition in the market, you need to display your advantages to the customers. You can do this through a project report on water park. Thorough research for this will answer many questions for you, such as how much does it cost to build a waterpark.

In this business plan, we present the marketing analysis of Grizzly Parks that will also highlight how to make a water park.

6.1 Competitive Analysis

• Our customer support is top-notch. We will ask customers for feedback as well to improve our services.
• Our customers can reach out to us through our website, social media pages, or direct call. We will try to respond as soon as possible.
• We provide new exciting features like water sports that are not widely available.

6.2 Sales Strategy

• Our advertisements will be done through local as well as google ads, posters, and social media.
• We will offer family packages with fun discounts
• We will offer coupons that our recurring customers can use for free rides or lessons.

6.3 Sales Monthly

6.4 Sales Yearly

6.5 Sales Forecast

Personnel plan

The behavior of employees is of the utmost importance in building water parks. Understanding this importance in the process of how to start a water park, Hailey decided to implement rigorous selection criteria for employees. Under this criteria, the list of employees is mentioned below.

7.1 Company Staff

• 1 Co-Manager to help in overall design and operations
• 6 Certified Lifeguards
• 5 Certified Swimming Instructors
• 8 General Cleaners
• 2 Technician to upkeep the equipment
• 1 Web Developer/ Mobile App Developer to manage online sites
• 1 Social Media Manager
• 2 Sales Executives to organize and promote sales
• 1 Accountant
• 2 Receptionists

7.2 Average Salary of Employees

Financial Plan

Increasing your return on investment requires that you develop an adequate financial plan for your business. Therefore, it should be included as a part of your business plan.

So whether you are developing a business plan for video production or a water park business plan sample like this one, a financial plan is a must. It will help you find the cost to build a waterpark and will also aid you in achieving your small and long-term financial goals.

Just increasing sales doesn’t ensure that your business has become successful and is yielding profits. To earn profits, it is essential to manage your operations timely and efficiently. To ensure that your business is not getting into a loss, you must carry out a detailed financial analysis while you create business plan cleaning service.

In your financial plan, e.g., business plan movie selection , you have to identify how you will earn profits and cover development and maintenance costs for the business.

Here we’re providing the detailed financial plan made for Grizzly Parks. It will give you an idea of the finances involved in a business.

8.1 Important Assumptions

8.2 Break-even Analysis

8.3 Projected Profit and Loss

8.3.1 Profit Monthly

8.3.2 Profit Yearly

8.3.3 Gross Margin Monthly

8.3.4 Gross Margin Yearly

8.4 Projected Cash Flow

8.5 Projected Balance Sheet

8.6 Business Ratios

• Are water parks profitable?

Water parks are very profitable because they have a short development period. They also return the investment by the end of the first two or three years.

• How do I start a water park business?

You can start a water park business by doing research and developing a strong water park business plan. You can follow this water park business plan example to get started.

• How much is a water park worth?

The worth and water park project cost for development depends on many factors such as area, equipment, and range of services. But according to TRUiC, it costs around $250-$600 per square foot.

• What makes a water park successful?

Like any other business, the success of a water park depends on how well managed the business idea and implementation is. You can ensure this by following a solid business park plan water.

Download Water Park Business Plan Sample in pdf

OGSCapital’s team has assisted thousands of entrepreneurs with top-rate business plan development, consultancy and analysis. They’ve helped thousands of SME owners secure more than $1.5 billion in funding, and they can do the same for you.

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Water Park Business Plan

Written by Elma Steven | Updated on March, 2024

Executive Summary

Overview: Henry Benton has launched a water park business called Grizzly Parks. The initiative’s main purpose will be to provide a relaxing environment for families and an entertaining environment for children. It will provide a year-round spectrum of services throughout Rockland County, including water-based activities in the summer and winter.

Grizzly Parks is owned by Hailey Benton. Henry graduated with her MBA three years ago. He then worked for two years for a management firm before pursuing her goal of running and designing a business park with a coworker.

With classic services like Merry Go Rounds, Carousels, and Ships, Henry saw that the amusement and recreation enterprises in his town were becoming obsolete. He realized he could use the water bodies in the area to provide more exciting activities for the residents. As a result, he conducted some research and decided to open a water park.

Grizzly Parks’ core offerings will include: Waterslides, Varied Depth Pools, Water Sports and Recreation Services.

Mission: Grizzly Parks is dedicated to offering all guests with unforgettable experiences that are exciting, interesting, and informative while fostering life-long learning and environmental activism within our theme park resort. Our goal is to maintain a stable financial position and be a preferred employment while providing the greatest levels of safety, animal welfare, goods, and guest service to our community.

Vision: Grizzly Parks will be the best theme park resort in the world, focusing on education, conservation, and entertainment while connecting people with nature.

Industry Overview: In the recent decade, the water park sector has grown in popularity. The water park market in North America is the largest, and it is expected to develop even quicker in the future years. Consumers are spending more time in the recreation business and are willing to pay more money on tickets to water parks. Every year, the industry grows by 15% to 20%, whether it’s from new facilities launching or expansions or improvements to existing water parks. To attract more visitors, the rides and attractions been improved. As someone interested in entering this industry, you must enjoy being in an adventurous setting and be willing to participate in all elements of the water park business.

Starting again in the water park industry can be intimidating for even the most seasoned business owner, so it is crucial to conduct a thorough survey to learn about all the complexities involved in running a water park. It is critical to have a well-informed and experienced management team that completes its assigned tasks in accordance with your objectives. A water park business plan will guarantee that you have a clear understanding of your planned objectives.

Water parks have become increasingly popular, as per capita income has increased, boosting revenue in the business. The industry generates approximately $3 billion in revenue each year. Because this is a seasonal business, most water park owners locate their parks in places where the weather is pleasant. Due to industry saturation, few new water parks are launching, and those that are already operating aim to keep their clients by providing more amenities.

Local families, teenagers, young adults, and tourists are the most likely to attend a water park, and this is the demographic to target for marketing and promotions. There is a lot of rivalry in the sector, so it is critical to have excellent equipment for your water park and to find a suitable location for it that will be easily accessible by both locals and tourists.

When developing a water park, a good business plan can help you prepare for any dangers or obstacles that may arise. You must contend with shifting consumer tastes and preferences, as well as government and industry rules. Another key consideration before obtaining a business license for your water park is to come up with a catchy, distinct, and easily recognizable business name. Before opening a water park, a businessperson should be aware that no matter how profitable their venture is, it is still subject to risk. As a result, it is critical to safeguard your investment by purchasing enough insurance plans.

To differentiate itself from other water parks, a water park should have unique designs. It is critical to have start-up cash, business acumen, and leadership abilities in order to manage a successful water park business. You might also get professional certification to help you run your company more effectively.

Financial Overview:

Financial Highlights:

Use of Funds:

Industry Analysis

The COVID-19 crisis was the year’s most significant event. The lodging and attractions businesses were among the most hit, with occupancy, attendance, and revenue all falling to record lows. Many outdoor water parks have postponed their season openings due to enforced closures, limited capacity, and travel restrictions, while some have decided not to open at all in 2020. Many resorts featuring indoor and outdoor water parks, as well as freestanding indoor water parks, were forced to close for a period of time. According to current vaccination deployment forecasts, normalcy will not be restored until the fall of 2021, making 2021 a year of ongoing low attendance and profitability.

Despite the obstacles, more than half of the current water park supply is expected to open in 2020. Many existing facilities took advantage of the closures to finish improvements that were long overdue. While many of the new outdoor facilities scheduled to launch in 2020 had to be postponed until 2021, the indoor segment grew faster in 2020 than in 2019.

According to our research, the water park industry would lose $3.7 billion in income in 2020 due to a decline in overall attendance of around 83.9 million. These figures show performance at a variety of venues, including standalone indoor water parks, resorts with indoor water parks, and indoor water park resorts. The COVID-19 problem had a significant impact on all of these assets in 2020, and they will continue to suffer pandemic-related challenges for the whole of 2021.

There were 1,153 water parks in the United States and Canada as of March 2021. Twelve of these projects are scheduled to launch in 2020. With one new private facility and six new municipal/non-profit facilities, more than half of these openings were in the indoor standalone segment. In the year 2020, one indoor water park resort and one outdoor water park resort will open. In the freestanding outdoor water park segment, two private and one municipal parks have opened. The numbers are broken down into regional bullets as follows:

• With 408 and 381, respectively, the Midwest and South have the most water parks.

• With 294 against 289 outdoor water parks, the South continues to beat the Midwest in total number, while Canada has the fewest with 33. Due to more favorable weather conditions, outdoor water parks in the South often have slightly longer operating seasons than those in the Northeast and Midwest.

• With 85 indoor water park facilities, the Midwest far outnumbers the rest of the United States and Canada.

• With 45 independent indoor water parks, the West is the leader in the number of indoor aquatic facilities with water parks, owing to the huge number of municipal/non-profit indoor aquatic facilities with water parks in Colorado and Utah.

• Having 47 resorts with outdoor water parks, the South is the most popular.

• With 39 indoor resort and standalone facilities, indoor water parks account for a larger percentage of the Canadian market. The number of outdoor water parks has remained constant at 33.

• 44 percent of hotels featuring indoor and outdoor water parks are part of a national hotel chain, while 56 percent are independent hotels.

• Municipal/non-profit water parks account for 68 percent of standalone indoor and outdoor water parks, while private/for-profit parks account for 32 percent.

Over the five years leading up to 2017, the water parks business has made a major splash. Consumer expenditure on discretionary things like water park tickets has contributed to the industry’s growth. In 2017, around 40 expansions and new facilities are planned to open in the water park industry.

In 2016, the water park business in North America continued to grow, with more than $550 million invested in indoor and outdoor water parks, as well as related resorts. In 2017, around 40 expansions and new facilities are planned to open in the water park industry.

Marketing Plan

Social Media & SEO: Our adverts will be distributed through local, national, and international media, including Google Ads, posters, and social media.

Coupons: We will give out coupons for free trips or lessons to our loyal customers.

Discounts: We will have family packages with great discounts available.

Email Marketing: We use email to communicate with customers and make sales. To create long-term relationships and enhance long-term revenue, we will send cart abandonment emails or execute recurring email nurturing campaigns.

Organizational Plan:

Financial Plan

Earnings: 

Income Statement:

Ultimate Guide on How to Start a Water Park Business

Embarking on the journey of starting a water park business requires meticulous planning and execution. Whether you're a seasoned attractions operator or an aspiring entrepreneur, this in-depth guide will walk you through each critical step, ensuring a successful launch of your aquatic adventure.

Step 1: Conduct a feasibility study

Identify market demand: Research the local market to gauge the demand for a water park. Analyze demographics, trends, and competition to understand your potential audience.

• Financial projections : Develop detailed financial projections, considering initial investment, operating costs, and revenue forecasts. This will provide a clear picture of your project's financial feasibility.
• Site analysis : Evaluate potential locations based on accessibility, local population density, and climate. Consider conducting a traffic study to estimate footfall.

Step 2: Identify suitable site requirements

• Zoning and regulations : Consult with local authorities to understand zoning regulations and obtain necessary permits. Ensure your chosen site complies with safety, environmental, and health regulations.
• Space planning : Design a layout that optimizes space for water attractions, amenities, and future expansions. Consider factors such as parking, landscaping, and accessibility.

Step 3: Develop a robust business plan

• Define your vision : Clearly articulate your water park's vision, mission, and unique selling propositions. Identify your target audience and outline how your park will stand out in the market.
• Revenue streams : Detail various revenue streams, including ticket sales , concessions , and memberships . Craft marketing strategies and highlight potential collaborations with local businesses.

Step 4: Obtain necessary permits and insurance

• Regulatory compliance : Work closely with regulatory bodies to secure the required permits. This may include health permits, safety inspections, and environmental impact assessments.
• Comprehensive insurance : Invest in insurance coverage that includes liability, property, and event cancellation insurance. Consult with insurance professionals to ensure comprehensive coverage.

Read this next: How to Manage Risk at Your Attractions Venue

Step 5: Invest in quality venue management software

• Online ticketing : Implement an online ticketing system for seamless guest experiences and efficient admission management. But remember, not all ticketing systems, despite having similar features, operate the same. Look for one that delivers a frictionless guest experience and has been designed to increase conversions and spend per head. To learn more about how ROLLER does just that, check out our Progressive Checkout workshop .
• POS systems : Utilize Point-of-Sale (POS) systems for efficient in-park transactions, including food, merchandise, and equipment rentals. When it comes to your POS you want something that is integrated with your online ticketing systems, which will help drive operational efficiency and reduce costs. Not sure where to start? Here are nine features your POS system has to have.
• Membership management : Explore membership features in venue management software to cultivate loyalty and recurring revenue. Don’t think this is possible? Check out how ROLLER customer Elevate generated $600K in membership revenue in only four months.

Step 6: Design and build water attractions

• Collaborate with experts : Engage experienced water park designers and builders to conceptualize and construct water attractions. Ensure designs adhere to safety standards.
• Diverse attractions : Consider a mix of attractions such as wave pools, lazy rivers, and slides catering to various age groups. Balance thrill rides with family-friendly options.

Read this next: The 5 Most Popular Types of Water Slides for Your Water Park

Step 7: Implement robust safety measures

• Lifeguard training : Establish a comprehensive lifeguard training program, ensuring staff is well-equipped to handle emergencies.
• Emergency response plans : Develop detailed emergency response plans, including evacuation procedures and communication protocols.
• Equipment maintenance : Regularly inspect and maintain equipment to ensure it complies with safety standards.

Read this next: Water Park Safety Checklist for Operators

Step 8: Develop effective marketing strategies

• Social media presence : Build a strong social media presence to create awareness and engage with your audience. Leverage platforms like Instagram and TikTok for visual content.
• Influencer partnerships : Collaborate with local influencers and bloggers to amplify your reach and credibility.
• Promotions and packages : Create promotional packages to incentivize group visits, special events, and seasonal promotions. Make sure that your venue management solutions can help you drive more revenue with flexible and customizable discount codes .

Step 9: Hire and train a competent team

• Staff recruitment : Recruit experienced staff for lifeguarding, customer service, and maintenance. Emphasize interpersonal skills and a commitment to guest satisfaction.
• Training programs : Implement thorough training programs covering safety protocols, customer service standards, and operational procedures.
• Team culture : Foster a positive team culture centered around guest satisfaction and teamwork.

Read this next: Are Your Water Park's Staff Limitations Holding You Back?

Step 10: Grand opening and ongoing optimization

• Launch event : Plan a grand opening event to generate excitement. Consider partnerships with local businesses and influencers for added visibility.
• Continuous improvement : Gather feedback from guests regularly using a tool like ROLLER’s Guest Experience Score , which makes it easy to collect, analyze, and action guest insights. Use that information to make data-driven decisions for ongoing optimization. Stay abreast of industry trends and update attractions accordingly.

Starting a water park business is an ambitious yet rewarding endeavor. By following these ten steps in detail, you'll be well-equipped to navigate challenges and create a water park that not only makes a splash but becomes a lasting attraction in the hearts of your visitors.

To learn more about how ROLLER works to support operators who have established or new water parks, get in touch !

Not quite ready to dive in? That’s OK! Have a read to see how ROLLER partnered with Lost Island Waterpark to reduce staff training time by 63% and cut chargebacks by 92%.

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How to Start a Water Park Business

Main Sections In This Post Steps To Starting A Water Park Business Points to Consider Knowledge Is Power Featured Video

In this post, you’ll find a step-by-step guide on how to start a water park business.

In addition, we will give you an overview of what to expect from operating a water park business, helping you make better decisions and gain clarity.

You can access the latest resources in our “Knowledge Is Power” section, which can be used during the startup phase and once your water park business is fully operational.

There is an abundance of information available to explore. If you like this post, consider sharing it with others and bookmarking it for future reference.

Let’s get started with the steps.

The Steps to Take To Start Your Water Park Business

Below are the steps to starting a water park business.

Each step is linked to a specific section, allowing you to jump to your desired section or scroll to follow the steps in order.

• An Overview of What You’re Getting Into
• Water Park Business Overview
• Researching Your Water Park Business
• Looking at Financials
• Creating Your Mission Statement
• Creating A Unique Selling Proposition (USP)
• Choose a Water Park Business Name
• Register Your Company
• Create Your Corporate Identity
• Writing a Business Plan
• Banking Considerations
• Getting the Funds for Your Operation
• Software Setup
• Business Insurance Considerations
• Supplier and Service Provider Considerations
• Setting Your Prices
• Physical Setup
• Creating a Website
• Create an External Support Team
• Hiring Employees
• Getting Customers Through the Door

1. An Overview of What You’re Getting Into

a. ) Owning and Operating Your Own Business

Embracing Entrepreneurship: Challenges of Ownership

Owning and running a business comes with distinct challenges compared to conventional employment. Responsibility escalates, and the nine-to-five workday often transforms into long, demanding hours.

As the boss, you must navigate through various issues that surface in your entrepreneurial journey.

Before diving into your water park business, perform a self-assessment. Evaluate whether you’re prepared to handle the rigors of entrepreneurship.

The autonomy and potential rewards are enticing, but so are the responsibilities. Ensure that the shift from employee to business owner aligns with your ambitions and dedication to thrive in entrepreneurship.

See Considerations Before You Start Your Business to identify points for a new business owner.

b.) Pros and Cons of Owning a Business

Balancing the Scales: Weighing the Pros and Cons of Business Ownership

Owning and operating a business brings with it a mix of advantages and disadvantages.

While the potential rewards can be enticing, it’s essential not to overlook the challenges that come with entrepreneurship. Some individuals embark on their entrepreneurial journey fixated on the benefits while ignoring the potential hurdles.

To navigate the business ownership path successfully, assessing both sides is crucial.

Understanding the obstacles you might encounter equips you to anticipate and prepare for them.

By acknowledging these challenges upfront, you can minimize surprises and proactively address them, increasing your chances of long-term success in the business world.

For more, see Pros and Cons of Starting a Small Business.

c.) Passion a Key Ingredient For Success

Passion, the Driving Force

Passion is the key to success, especially in the water park business. It serves as the unwavering force that propels you forward when challenges arise. Without it, obstacles become insurmountable, pushing you to seek an escape route.

The Significance of Passion

Your passion for owning and operating a water park business is a defining factor in your journey’s outcome.

Imagine a scenario:

You possess unlimited wealth, fulfill all your desires, and have complete freedom. Would you still choose to run a water park business without any financial gain?

If your answer is an unequivocal “yes,” it signifies your genuine passion for this endeavor and sets you on the path to success.

However, if your response is “no,” it prompts reflection. What alternative pursuit would you prefer? Perhaps it’s wiser to follow that path rather than start a water park business.

Final Thoughts on Passion

In the world of water park business, passion is the linchpin. It fuels your determination, helping you surmount challenges and reach your goals. Therefore, to increase your odds of success, ensure your passion for this field burns brightly.

For More, See How Passion Affects Your Business .

2. Gaining an Overview of Owning a Water Park Business

Next, let’s discuss critical issues to give you an overview of what to expect from owning and running a water park business.

Note:  This section contains an abundance of information that you will want to review. It will give you an overview of what to expect, and it’s worth reading this section.

a.) A Quick Overview of Owning a Water Park Business

Understanding a Water Park Business

A water park business is a recreational facility for aquatic fun and entertainment.

It typically features a variety of water attractions, including water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and swimming pools.

People visit water parks to escape the heat, enjoy thrilling rides, and spend quality time with family and friends.

Day-to-Day Operations

Running and managing a water park business involves a range of daily tasks and responsibilities:

• Safety First: Ensuring the safety of park visitors is paramount. Staff regularly inspect and maintain equipment, such as water slides and pools, to prevent accidents.
• Customer Service: Welcoming and assisting guests is essential. Employees provide information, handle ticket sales, and address visitor inquiries and concerns.
• Cleanliness and Maintenance: Keeping the park clean and well-maintained is ongoing. Staff members clean pools, restrooms, and public areas to create a pleasant environment.
• Attraction Operations: It is crucial that water rides operate efficiently and safely. Operators manage ride queues, enforce safety rules, and assist riders as needed.
• Food and Beverage: Many water parks offer dining options. Staff in food services handle food preparation, sales, and maintaining hygiene standards.
• Retail: Souvenir shops are common in water parks. Retail staff manage merchandise, assist customers, and process sales transactions.
• Marketing and Promotions: Attracting visitors is vital. The marketing team creates promotional campaigns, manages social media, and coordinates special events.
• Financial Management: Managing finances involves budgeting, payroll, and ensuring the park’s financial stability.
• Safety and Lifeguarding: Trained lifeguards are on duty to monitor swimmers and respond to emergencies swiftly.
• Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to local regulations and safety standards is non-negotiable. The management team ensures the park complies with all necessary permits and inspections.

In summary, a water park business offers aquatic entertainment and fun-filled experiences.

Day-to-day operations involve safety, customer service, maintenance, attractions, food services, retail, marketing, finance, safety management, and regulatory compliance.

It’s a complex yet rewarding venture that caters to people seeking enjoyable and refreshing activities.

b.) Water Park Business Models

Types of Water Park Business Setups and Their Business Models

1. Indoor Water Parks

Business Model: Indoor water parks operate year-round and are often part of larger resorts or entertainment complexes. They generate revenue from admissions, food and beverage sales, and accommodations.

2. Outdoor Water Parks

Business Model: Outdoor water parks are seasonal and rely heavily on ticket sales during warm months. They may also offer special events and season passes to increase revenue.

3. Water Park Resorts

Business Model: Water park resorts combine accommodations, dining, and entertainment with water park access. They generate income from room bookings, park admissions, and on-site amenities.

4. Municipal Water Parks

Business Model: Owned by local governments, municipal water parks aim to provide affordable recreation for residents. They are funded through taxes and admission fees.

5. Standalone Water Parks

Business Model: Standalone water parks focus solely on water-based attractions and generate income primarily from ticket sales, concessions, and merchandise.

6. Themed Water Parks

Business Model: Themed water parks create immersive experiences around a specific theme or storyline. They charge higher admission fees to cover the costs of elaborate theming and entertainment.

7. Eco-Friendly Water Parks

Business Model: These parks prioritize sustainability and eco-conscious practices. They attract environmentally conscious visitors willing to pay premium prices for green experiences.

8. Water Park Franchises

Business Model: Franchises offer a proven business model, marketing support, and brand recognition. Franchisees pay royalties and initial fees to the parent company.

9. Membership-Based Water Parks

Business Model: Membership-based water parks offer exclusive access to members who pay monthly or annual fees. They may include additional perks like discounts and special events.

10. Pop-Up Water Parks

Business Model: Pop-up water parks are temporary installations at fairs, festivals, or vacant lots. They rely on ticket sales during short operational periods.

Choosing a suitable business model from the beginning is crucial, as switching your model later is more challenging.

Focusing on a niche allows you to be more focused, tailor your offers to a specific group, and become a specialist instead of trying to be a business that offers everything to everyone.

Identifying a business model that feels right for your water park business is essential for a more accessible and planned startup phase. It sets the foundation for success and long-term sustainability in this dynamic industry.

c.) Challenges You Could Face When Starting and Operating a Water Park Business

Challenges in the Water Park Business Startup Phase

Starting a water park business can be an exciting venture, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges.

Here are some common hurdles that a water park business owner may face during the startup phase:

• High Initial Costs: Building a water park requires a significant investment in land, construction, water attractions, and safety measures. Securing financing and managing costs can be daunting.
• Regulatory Approvals: Obtaining permits, adhering to safety regulations, and meeting environmental standards can be a complex and time-consuming, which can delay the park’s opening.
• Location Selection: Choosing the right location is critical for success. Factors like accessibility, local competition, and demographics must be carefully considered.
• Seasonality: Many water parks are seasonal, depending on warm weather for business. This seasonality can lead to cash flow challenges during the off-season.
• Marketing and Promotion: Attracting visitors in a competitive market requires effective marketing strategies. Creating awareness and building a customer base can be challenging.
• Staffing and Training: Recruiting and training lifeguards, ride operators, and customer service staff is essential for safety and guest satisfaction. Finding and retaining skilled employees can be a struggle.
• Risk Management: Safety is paramount in water parks. Managing risks, implementing safety protocols, and having insurance coverage are vital but demanding tasks.
• Competition: Establishments like water parks or nearby attractions can pose a significant challenge. To overcome this, offering unique experiences or competitive pricing is necessary.
• Weather Dependency: Weather conditions like rain or extreme heat can impact attendance and revenue. Park owners must plan for weather-related fluctuations.

Challenges When Your Water Park Is Open

Once a water park is up and running, a new set of challenges emerges for the owner:

• Maintenance: Regular maintenance of rides, pools, and facilities is essential to ensure guest safety and satisfaction. Balancing maintenance schedules with operational hours can be demanding.
• Staffing Challenges: Employee turnover, training, and maintaining a motivated workforce continue to be ongoing challenges.
• Guest Safety: Vigilant lifeguarding and enforcing safety rules are crucial for preventing accidents. Maintaining a safe environment requires constant attention.
• Visitor Experience: Keeping guests engaged and satisfied with the park’s attractions and services is ongoing. Adding new features and updating existing ones is often necessary.
• Marketing and Promotion: It is a constant task to continuously promote the water park to attract repeat visitors and stay competitive.
• Financial Management: Managing day-to-day finances, budgeting, and ensuring profitability can be complex, especially during slower seasons.
• Regulatory Compliance: Staying up-to-date with changing regulations and safety standards is essential to avoid legal issues.
• Customer Feedback: Responding to customer feedback and addressing concerns promptly is vital for maintaining a positive reputation.

Running a water park business is an intricate and demanding endeavor, both during the startup phase and when the park is operational.

Owners must navigate various challenges to ensure the park’s success and provide visitors with a safe and enjoyable experience.

d.) Questions You Need to Consider for Your Water Park Business

To adequately prepare for the challenges of starting a water park business, consider the following questions:

• What type of water park business model are you considering?
• Do you have the skills to manage and operate a water park business?
• Will you do all the work alone, or will you hire employees?
• Do you intend to manage your business, or are you planning to hire a manager?
• How will you get customers?
• Who are you competing against?
• How will you keep customers coming back?
• Are you interested in finding partners or investors?
• How will you finance your startup costs?
• Have you considered how long it will take to become profitable?
• How will you support yourself during the early stage of operation, which can be financially challenging?
• What products and services will you offer?
• How do you know people will want what you have to offer?
• What will you provide that sets you apart from your competition?
• How will you position your water park Business, High-End, Average, or discount operation?

You’ll be better equipped to plan and navigate the complexities of starting and running a successful water park business by answering these questions thoroughly and thoughtfully.

Each question addresses a critical aspect of the business, from strategy and financing to differentiation and customer retention.

3. Research

A.) inside information water park business research.

Informed Decision-Making for Your Water Park Business

Before you embark on starting a water park business, conducting thorough research is essential. Quality information will provide you with a clear understanding of the venture, preventing surprises.

Learning from Experts

Experienced water park business owners are invaluable sources of knowledge. They offer dependable insights gained from years of operation, making your time spent with them priceless.

Connect with the Right Experts

Discovering the right people to consult with is crucial. Finding and approaching them respectfully is a process beyond this post.

Explore our article, “ An Inside Look Into the Business You Want To Start ,” for a comprehensive guide on connecting with experts and gaining a deeper understanding of your prospective venture. This is a critical step in ensuring the success of your water park business.

b.) Demand, the Competition and Your Location

Navigating the Waters: Analyzing Water Park Business Supply, Demand, Competition, and Location

Demand Assessment:

Determining the demand for your water park business is the foundational step. Quality and pricing alone won’t suffice; a substantial demand for your service is crucial to justify your venture.

Market Saturation Evaluation:

Besides demand, assess market saturation. Are there already numerous players offering what you plan to?

In a saturated market, gaining a foothold is challenging unless you offer something unique that competitors can’t easily replicate.

Competitive Analysis:

Study your competition carefully. Avoid competing with dominant market players. Instead, focus on offering what your competitors don’t.

Identify gaps in the market and tailor your services accordingly, ensuring that customers find your value proposition compelling.

Location Selection:

Choosing the right location is a balancing act. Look for a place where demand meets manageable competition.

While a densely populated area may provide exposure, ensure that higher costs don’t outweigh profits.

While cheaper rent might seem appealing, to sustain your business, it should also house a substantial portion of your target market.

A Well-Informed Start:

Thoroughly researching and understanding the dynamics of supply, demand, competition, and location will help you establish a strong foundation for your water park business.

It’s a prudent approach to ensure that your venture not only survives but thrives in the competitive waters of the market.

For more, see the Demand for Your Products and Services and Choosing The Best Location for Your Business.

c.) Target Audience

Unlocking Success through Target Audience Understanding

Tailored Solutions:

Understanding your target audience allows you to customize your products, services, and offers to cater to their needs and preferences.

Efficiency and Relevance: I

Instead of attempting to offer a wide range of products and services, you can concentrate on delivering what your customers genuinely desire.

Target Market Ideas:

• Families with children
• Tourists and vacationers
• Local residents seeking recreation
• Event planners and party organizers
• School and youth groups
• Corporate groups for team-building events
• Water sports enthusiasts
• Fitness and wellness seekers
• Special events organizers

For more, see How To Understand Your Target Market.

4. Looking at Financials:

Understanding the numbers and making good decisions is a crucial factor in succeeding.

You will struggle to manage a successful operation without investing the time and effort necessary to understand and monitor the financials of your water park business.

This section has a lot to cover, and these are critical steps in starting and operating your business.

The section is broken up into the following:

Start-up Cost: In this step, we will look at the importance of getting an accurate estimate and a simple startup cost to help you get your setup ideas.

Monthly Expenses: Expenses must be monitored, or the operation could be jeopardized. A sample list of monthly expenses is provided, which can be used to generate ideas for the setup.

Profits: To keep your doors open, you must generate profits and enough to pay your bills, grow your business and support your income. There are a few points you will want to consider in this section.

Bests Practices: In addition to the above, we will examine a few best practices regarding your business’s financial aspects.

Let’s get started!

Start-Up Costs:

Startup Cost Estimation: Ensuring Financial Viability

Accurate Estimation Crucial:

Estimating startup costs is a critical step from the initial planning phase through the eventual opening of your water park business. Inaccurate estimations can lead to significant challenges.

Underestimation Risks:

Underestimating startup costs may result in running out of funds, potentially halting your business before it begins operations.

Overestimation Concerns:

Conversely, overestimation can paint your operation as high-risk, deterring potential investors or lenders.

Variables Affecting Costs:

Several factors influence startup costs, including business size, location, staffing decisions, equipment choices (new or used), and your business setup (rented, leased, home-based, or online).

Effective Estimation:

To estimate effectively, create a comprehensive list of all necessary items and services, then research prices. Be prepared for unexpected expenses that may arise during your research.

Tailored Estimations:

Remember that no one, including the information provided here, can offer an exact cost for starting your water park business. Each setup is unique and requires tailored estimations.

Define Your Business Model:

Start by defining your business model, whether primarily online, home-based, or traditional brick-and-mortar. Each model has distinct cost considerations.

Thorough Research:

Accurate estimations are best achieved through thorough research gathering precise data to determine the viability of launching your water park business.

Sample Startup Cost For a Water Park Business 

The purpose of the list below is to focus on the items in the list more than the numbers because these are general samples, and your figures will be different.

• Property Acquisition or Lease: $500,000 – $1,500,000
• Construction and Site Development: $1,000,000 – $3,000,000
• Water Attractions and Slides: $800,000 – $2,000,000
• Safety and Security Equipment: $50,000 – $150,000
• Landscape and Amenities: $200,000 – $500,000
• Office and Administrative Setup: $30,000 – $70,000
• Marketing and Promotion: $50,000 – $100,000
• Permits and Licenses: $20,000 – $50,000
• Insurance Coverage: $30,000 – $70,000
• Employee Recruitment and Training: $50,000 – $150,000
• Furniture and Fixtures: $40,000 – $100,000
• Utilities Setup: $10,000 – $30,000
• Technology and POS Systems: $20,000 – $50,000
• Initial Inventory (Food and Merchandise): $20,000 – $60,000
• Legal and Professional Fees: $25,000 – $75,000
• Contingency Fund (10% of Total): $383,000 – $1,017,000

Lower Estimate Total: $3,058,000 Upper Estimate Total: $8,092,000

For more, refer to my article on Estimating Startup Costs.

Monthly Operating Costs:

Managing Monthly Expenses for Operational Success

Consistency with Startup Costs:

Your monthly expenses mirror many of the considerations we discussed earlier during the startup cost estimation. However, monthly expenses come with their own set of variables.

Staffing Decisions:

Whether you operate your water park business independently or with a fully staffed team will significantly influence your monthly expenditure.

Location Significance:

The location you select plays a pivotal role; high-traffic areas tend to have higher monthly costs than less densely populated regions.

Diverse Cost Factors:

Monthly expenses include loan payments, marketing campaigns, and ongoing maintenance and repairs.

Cost Efficiency Balance:

To maintain operational efficiency and adapt to revenue fluctuations, minimizing expenses where feasible without compromising on quality, service, or productivity is crucial. Striking this balance ensures the sustained success of your water park business.

Sample list of estimated monthly expenses for a MID-sized water park business

Again, the purpose of the list below is to focus on the items rather than the numbers. The numbers are a general idea, and your numbers and list will differ. 

• Loan Payments: $25,000 – $50,000 (Depending on financing terms)
• Utilities (Water, Electricity, Gas): $8,000 – $15,000
• Payroll (Including Wages and Benefits): $50,000 – $100,000
• Maintenance and Repairs: $10,000 – $20,000
• Insurance Premiums: $5,000 – $10,000
• Marketing and Advertising: $5,000 – $15,000
• Supplies (Food, Merchandise): $10,000 – $20,000
• Equipment Lease/Rental: $2,000 – $5,000
• Professional Services (Legal, Accounting): $3,000 – $8,000
• Property Lease or Mortgage: $10,000 – $25,000
• Taxes (Property, Sales, Payroll): $5,000 – $15,000
• Utilities Setup: $3,000 – $6,000
• Technology (Software, POS Systems): $2,000 – $5,000
• Miscellaneous Expenses: $3,000 – $7,000

Lower Estimate Total: $129,000 Upper Estimate Total: $281,000

Considerations for Profits 

Navigating Profit in Your Water Park Business

Profit Variables:

Your business management influences your profit margins. High overhead costs can diminish profit, even with substantial sales. Estimating exact profit is challenging due to the numerous variables involved.

Your Insight Matters:

Your understanding of your business setup makes you the best estimator of potential profit. Positioning your business, whether high-end or discount, affects profit margins.

The Big Picture:

Focus on overall profit rather than individual sales profits. High per-sale profits may not cover overhead costs, while high sales volumes with lower profit per sale can still be lucrative if expenses are well-managed.

Transition to Operational Data:

Once your business is operational, initial estimates give way to more precise figures. Solid operational data allows you to refine profit calculations.

Calculating Net Profit:

Net profit is calculated by subtracting total costs from total revenue. Complex calculations can help identify profitable products and services, enabling you to optimize your services for maximum profitability.

For More, See Estimating Profitability and Revenue.

Final Thoughts on Financials 

Financial Vigilance for Business Success

Crucial Business Aspect:

The financials of your water park business are paramount. Efficiently tracking and recording financial transactions are essential for tax and legal compliance.

Go Beyond Tracking:

However, it is equally vital to study your finances, including monitoring profits and expenses and generating reports that reveal trends.

Proactive Problem-Solving:

For instance, if you notice a sudden drop in sales, this financial monitoring allows you to investigate promptly. Is there a market shift?

Are there issues with products or services? Has a new competitor emerged? Identifying these issues early on enables you to take corrective action.

Preventing Costly Surprises:

Potential problems may go unnoticed without vigilant financial monitoring until they become critical.

By proactively examining your financial data, you can address challenges before they escalate, ensuring the continued success of your water park business.

5. Create Your Mission Statement

The Significance of a Mission Statement for Your Water Park Business:

A mission statement is a guiding light, helping you define your water park business’s purpose and core values.

It encapsulates the primary benefit you aim to deliver to your customers and the community.

This concise declaration keeps you focused and aligned with your overarching goals.

Examples of Mission Statements for a Water Park Business:

• “Dedicated to Family Fun: We are committed to creating a safe and unforgettable aquatic experience for families, where laughter, adventure, and cherished memories flow.”
• “Making Waves of Happiness: Our mission is to provide a dynamic water park environment where joy, relaxation, and togetherness reign supreme.”
• “Educate, Entertain, Enthrall: We are devoted to offering an educational and thrilling water park experience that fosters an understanding and appreciation of aquatic wonders.”
• “Your Oasis of Serenity: Our mission is to be a tranquil escape, offering serenity amid the splashes, where visitors find rejuvenation and connection with nature.”
• “Community Wellness Hub: We are dedicated to promoting health and well-being, providing a space where the community can engage in aquatic fitness and recreation.”

A thoughtfully crafted mission statement serves as a compass, ensuring your water park business stays true to its purpose and continues to enrich the lives of visitors and the community.

For more, see How To Create a Mission Statement.

6. Creating A Unique Selling Proposition (USP)

Harnessing a Unique Selling Proposition (USP) for Your Water Park Business:

A unique selling proposition (USP) is a powerful tool for identifying and crafting a distinct identity for your water park business.

It defines what sets you apart from competitors and helps you stand out.

Examples of USPs for a Water Park Business:

• Exclusive Thrill Rides: Offering one-of-a-kind, gravity-defying water slides or unique water attractions that can’t be found elsewhere.
• Eco-Friendly Oasis: Promoting your park as an environmentally responsible water attraction, using sustainable practices and technologies.
• Themed Adventure: Creating an immersive experience with captivating themes like a tropical paradise or an underwater adventure.
• Safety and Hygiene Excellence: Highlighting rigorous safety measures and cleanliness standards, reassuring visitors of their well-being.
• Family-Friendly Focus: Emphasizing a family-friendly atmosphere with attractions suitable for all age groups, ensuring a memorable outing for everyone.
• Seasonal Specials: Offering exclusive seasonal events like night-time water shows or holiday-themed celebrations.
• Educational Waterscapes: Integrating educational elements like marine biology lessons or water conservation initiatives to engage and educate visitors.

Crafting a compelling USP helps differentiate your water park, attracting a diverse audience and establishing a strong market presence.

7. Choose a Business Name

Choosing the Perfect Water Park Business Name:

Name Significance:

Your water park business name is a crucial aspect of your brand identity. It should be both catchy and relevant to your industry.

Memorability Matters:

Choose a name that’s easy to pronounce and memorable. As business names tend to endure, opt for the right one.

Online Presence:

Ensure a matching domain name is available for your online presence. A cohesive online and offline identity is essential for brand consistency.

Legal Considerations:

Verify that your desired name isn’t already registered by another business to avoid legal complications.

List of Sample Water Park Business Names:

Here is a list of sample water park business names to inspire your creativity and help you craft an original and memorable name for your venture:

• SplashWave Paradise
• AquaRide Oasis
• SunSplash Lagoon
• TidalTwist Park
• SoakCity Retreat
• WaveSplash Park
• AquaAdventure Island
• AquaFalls Oasis
• LiquidLagoon
• SplashVista Park
• RiverRide Resort
• AquaWave Oasis
• WaterHaven Hideaway
• SplashHarbor Resort
• AquaEscape Cove
• SurfStream Oasis
• BlueWave Parkland
• SplashSafari Island
• SplashTide Retreat
• AquaRush Resort
• SplashSerenity Cove
• OceanWave Oasis
• AquaQuench Park
• SoakScape Lagoon
• AquaGlide Getaway
• SplashBliss Park
• WaveQuest Oasis
• SplashSurf Cove
• AquaZen Haven

Use this list as a creative springboard to craft an original and fitting name that resonates with your water park business vision.

For more, see the following articles:

• How To Register a Business Name
• Registering a Domain Name For Your Business

8. Register Your Company

Ensuring Legal Compliance for Your Water Park Business:

• Professional Consultation: It’s imperative to ensure the legal status of your water park business. Consult with a professional, such as a business attorney or accountant, to verify compliance, suitable tax structures, and liability protection.
• Business Entity Registration (LLC, Corporation, Partnership)
• Employer Identification Number (EIN)
• Sales Tax Permit
• Health Department Approval
• Environmental Permits (if applicable)
• Amusement Park License
• Water Attraction Permits
• Food Service Permits
• Alcohol License (if serving alcohol)
• Fire Department Inspection
• Safety Certifications
• Water Quality Compliance
• Bondable Business: Consider becoming a bondable business to enhance customer confidence. This involves conducting background checks on your employees to ensure their trustworthiness. Bondable employees contribute to a safer and more trustworthy business environment.

Registration:

• How to Register Your Business
• How To Register a DBA
• How to Register a Trademark
• How to Get a Business License

Business Structures:

• How to Choose a Business Structure
• Pros & Cons of a Sole Proprietorship
• How To Form an LLC
• How To Register a Business Partnership
• How To Form a Corporation
• How To Choose a Business Registration Service

9. Create Your Corporate Identity

Crafting a Cohesive Corporate Identity:

A Corporate ID visualizes your business, comprising elements like your logo, business cards, website, signage, stationery, and promotional materials.

A consistent and professional design across these components leaves a lasting impression on new and existing customers, reinforcing your brand’s identity and professionalism.

You can see our pages for an overview of your logo , business cards , website , and business sign , or see A Complete Introduction to Corporate Identity Packages.

10. Writing a Business Plan

The Significance of a Business Plan:

A business plan is a fundamental document with multiple purposes.

It is a crucial tool when seeking financing or investors. Moreover, it acts as a guiding compass throughout your venture’s startup and operational phases.

Invest Time and Effort for Effective Planning:

Crafting a comprehensive business plan demands time and effort. It entails envisioning your business fully operational, requiring careful planning and detailed expression.

The dedication invested in this process is invaluable. Once completed, your business plan clarifies how to start and manage your business effectively.

Exploring Your Options:

While creating a business plan, remember that various options are available.

You can start from scratch, enlist professional assistance, utilize a template, or rely on specialized business plan software.

Regardless of your chosen approach, active participation remains essential. Even if you opt for professional assistance, your intimate knowledge of your business is vital for effective communication.

Adaptability and Evolution:

Understand that your business plan isn’t set in stone. It’s a dynamic document that can evolve with time, experience, and changing market conditions.

Regularly reviewing and updating your business plan ensures it remains aligned with your evolving business operations and objectives. Embrace change as an opportunity for optimization and growth.

Business Plan Template for a Water Park Business

Business Plan Template: Water Park Business

1. Executive Summary:

• Business Name and Description
• Vision and Mission Statements
• Brief Overview of the Water Park
• Key Objectives and Goals
• Financial Snapshot

2. Business Description:

• Detailed Description of the Water Park Concept
• Location and Facilities
• Market Analysis and Target Audience
• Competitive Landscape

3. Market Research:

• Market Size and Trends
• Customer Demographics and Behavior
• Competitor Analysis
• SWOT Analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats)

4. Marketing and Sales Strategy:

• Marketing Plan and Budget
• Branding and Positioning
• Pricing Strategy
• Sales Forecast and Growth Projections
• Customer Acquisition and Retention Strategies

5. Operations and Management:

• Management Team and Organizational Structure
• Roles and Responsibilities
• Operational Plan
• Suppliers and Partnerships
• Risk Management and Contingency Plans

6. Product and Service Offering:

• Description of Water Park Attractions and Amenities
• Pricing and Ticketing Structure
• Seasonal Events and Promotions
• Food and Beverage Services
• Retail and Merchandise

7. Financial Projections:

• Startup Costs and Capital Requirements
• Revenue Model and Income Projections
• Break-even Analysis
• Cash Flow Statement
• Funding Request (if applicable)

8. Funding and Investment:

• Funding Sources and Financing Options
• Investment Pitch and Value Proposition
• Loan Requests (if needed)
• Investment Terms and ROI

9. Legal and Compliance:

• Business Structure (LLC, Corporation, etc.)
• Permits and Licenses
• Intellectual Property Protection
• Regulatory Compliance
• Contracts and Agreements

10. Marketing Plan:

• Target Marketing Strategies
• Digital and Traditional Marketing Channels
• Advertising and Promotion Plan
• Social Media Strategy
• Marketing Budget Allocation

11. Sustainability and Environmental Initiatives:

• Eco-friendly Practices and Initiatives
• Energy Efficiency Measures
• Waste Management Plan
• Community Engagement

12. Exit Strategy:

• Exit Options (Sale, Merger, Liquidation)
• Valuation and Exit Timeline
• Succession Planning
• Contingency Plans

13. Appendix:

• Additional Documentation (Market Research, Financial Models, etc.)
• Resumes of Key Team Members
• Supporting Materials

Ensure each section provides a comprehensive view of your water park business, outlining your vision, strategies, and financial projections.

Tailor the template to your needs and goals, and you will create a compelling business plan for potential investors or lenders.

See How to Write a Business Plan for information on creating your business plan.

11. Banking Considerations

Choosing the Right Banking Partner:

Select a nearby bank that focuses on small businesses, has a reputable financial presence, and is committed to supporting you through ups and downs.

Building a professional relationship with your banker is crucial. They provide valuable advice, streamline applications, and support during challenging times.

Benefits of Business Accounts:

Maintain a dedicated business account to separate personal and business transactions. This simplifies expense tracking financial reporting and ensures accurate tax filing and audit reference.

Embrace Digital Payments:

A merchant account or online payment service allows you to accept credit and debit cards from customers, enhancing sales and convenience.

Ensure your business stays competitive by offering multiple payment options.

For more, see How to Open a Business Bank Account. You may also want to look at What Is a Merchant Account and How to Get One.

12. Getting the Funds for Your Operation

Funding Your Water Park Business:

Exploring Financial Resources:

There are various options if you require funding to kickstart your water park business.

Consider these avenues to secure the necessary capital:

1. Traditional Lenders: Banks and credit unions often provide business loans to entrepreneurs.

2. Private Loans: Explore loans from private individuals or non-traditional lenders.

3. Investors: Seek investors willing to provide capital in exchange for equity or a share of profits.

4. Selling Assets: Liquidate personal assets to generate funds for your business venture.

5. Government Grants: Research available government grants and programs that can provide financial support for starting your water park business.

Meeting with a Loan Officer:

When meeting with a loan officer, it’s crucial to be well-prepared. Consider the following key considerations:

• Business Plan: Present a comprehensive business plan that outlines your water park concept, financial projections, and growth strategies.
• Creditworthiness: You should be prepared to discuss your personal and business credit history, as it can impact loan approval and terms.
• Collateral: Determine if you have assets to use as collateral to secure the loan.
• Repayment Plan: Clearly articulate how to repay the loan, including revenue projections and cash flow analysis.
• Loan Amount: Specify the amount you need and how it will be utilized in your business.

Sample List of Documents for a New Business Loan Application:

• Business Plan
• Personal and Business Credit Reports
• Financial Statements (Income Statement, Balance Sheet, Cash Flow Statement)
• Tax Returns (Personal and Business)
• Legal Documentation (Business licenses, registrations)
• Collateral Information (if applicable)
• Personal Identification (Driver’s License, Passport)
• Business References
• Loan Application Form

Preparing a thorough application and demonstrating your business’s viability can improve your chances of securing the necessary financing to launch your water park business.

For more, see the following:

• Getting a Small Business Loan
• SBA Small Business Grants
• Search: Water Park Business Start-up Loans
• Search: Grants For a Water Park Business

13. Software Setup

Choosing Software for Efficiency:

Prioritize Early Selection:

Selecting the right software for your water park business is crucial. Implementing a program from scratch is far easier than switching systems once your data is entrenched elsewhere.

Reliable Support Matters:

Opt for a company with a proven track record. Reliable support is essential not only for implementation but also for future assistance.

Try Before You Buy:

If available, take advantage of software demos. Trying before buying allows you to assess compatibility and functionality.

Leverage Reviews and Insights:

Software reviews and forums offer valuable insights from others who’ve experienced the software firsthand. These perspectives can be invaluable in making informed choices.

Financial Management Software:

Consider software for tracking expenses and preparing financial documents for tax filing. Your bookkeeper or accountant can guide you in selecting the right accounting software.

Types of Software for Water Park Management:

• Ticketing and Reservation Software: Streamlines ticket sales, reservations, and access control.
• Point of Sale (POS) Systems: Facilitates transactions at food stands, gift shops, and rental services.
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software: Helps manage customer data, inquiries, and feedback.
• Scheduling and Staff Management Software: Ensures efficient staff scheduling and task assignment.
• Inventory Management Software: Tracks and manages inventory for concessions and merchandise.
• Maintenance and Equipment Tracking Software: Monitors the condition and maintenance schedules of water park attractions.
• Water Quality Monitoring Software: Aids in maintaining safe water quality in pools and attractions.
• Accounting and Financial Software: Handles financial records, expense tracking, and tax preparation.
• Marketing and Social Media Management Software: Assists in digital marketing campaigns and social media presence.
• Safety and Compliance Software: Ensures adherence to safety regulations and incident reporting.

Each of these software types serves a unique purpose in water park management and operations, enhancing efficiency and guest satisfaction.

Check out Google’s latest search results for software packages for a water park business.

14. Get The Right Business Insurance

Essential Business Insurance for Your Water Park:

Preventing Financial Drowning:

Appropriate business insurance is imperative before any activities commence at your water park. It serves as a safety net against unforeseen incidents that could potentially cripple your operation.

Comprehensive Coverage:

Consider a range of insurance types to safeguard various aspects of your business:

• General Liability Insurance: Protects against claims involving injuries to customers or third parties on your premises, ensuring you’re financially shielded in case of accidents.
• Employee Coverage: Worker’s compensation insurance is essential for employees injured on the job.
• Property Insurance: Safeguard your physical assets, including rides, equipment, and facilities, against damage or loss.
• Professional Liability Insurance: Protects you from legal actions related to professional errors or negligence, ensuring your peace of mind.
• Interruption Insurance: This can be a lifeline in case of unforeseen incidents, covering lost revenue and operational expenses during shutdowns.

Guidance from Experts: A competent insurance broker can best assist in navigating the complex world of insurance.

They can evaluate your needs, ensuring sufficient coverage tailored to your water park business.

Remember, having the right insurance is not just a safety measure; it’s a lifeline for your operation’s longevity and financial stability.

For more, see What to Know About Business Insurance . You can also browse the latest Google search results for water park business insurance .

15. Suppliers and Service Providers

Building Strong Partnerships:

Establishing and nurturing relationships with suppliers and service providers is critical to running a successful water park business.

Key Factors for Success:

A reliable and trustworthy supplier is a cornerstone of your success. They provide the essential items and services that keep your park running smoothly.

Essential Supplies and Services:

• Water Treatment Chemicals: Suppliers for water treatment chemicals ensure that your pools and attractions maintain water quality and safety.
• Safety Equipment: Safety equipment providers like life vests and first-aid supplies are vital for guest safety.
• Food and Beverage Suppliers: Reliable food and beverage suppliers are essential for catering to visitors’ dining needs.
• Equipment and Ride Manufacturers: Collaborate with manufacturers for water slides, attractions, and maintenance equipment.
• Janitorial and Cleaning Services: Outsourcing cleaning services ensures a hygienic environment for your guests.

Competitive Prices and Savings:

Establishing solid relationships with suppliers can lead to competitive prices, allowing you to offer cost-effective experiences to customers and increase profit margins.

Smooth Operations:

Reliable suppliers ensure you have a steady supply of necessary resources, preventing disruptions to your business operations.

Mutually Beneficial Relationships:

Respectful treatment of suppliers and service providers and ensuring their financial benefit fosters trust and strengthens your working relationships. This collaboration is key to the continued success of your water park business.

For More, See How To Choose a Supplier.

16. Setting Prices

Strategic Pricing Research:

Thorough pricing research is essential before opening your water park business. It offers numerous benefits that can significantly impact your business’s success.

Avoiding Lost Sales:

Setting prices too high can deter potential customers, resulting in lost sales. Customers are naturally price-sensitive, so finding the right balance is crucial.

Maintaining Profitability:

Conversely, while pricing too low may attract more customers, it can erode profitability. Covering expenses and generating a sustainable profit is vital for long-term success.

Balancing Act:

The key is to strike a balance that aligns with your market while emphasizing the value your water park provides.

Effective pricing strategies can drive revenue, attract customers, and ensure your business remains financially viable.

See the following for more:

• Setting the Price of Your Products and Services
• Search Results for Pricing Strategies for a Water Park Business.

17. Physical Setup

Layout: The Layout of a Water Park Business

The layout and setup of your water park business play a crucial role in ensuring a positive visitor experience.

A well-organized layout includes placing attractions, amenities, and facilities to optimize flow and accessibility.

It should prioritize safety and convenience, with clear pathways and designated zones for different activities.

Proper layout planning can enhance guest satisfaction and operational efficiency.

Signage: Effective Signage for Your Water Park Business

Signage is a vital aspect of your water park’s presentation and functionality. Your primary business sign is a beacon for visitors, attracting attention and guiding them to your entrance.

Additionally, strategically placed signs in parking lots, exits, and specific areas within the park provide clear directions and essential information.

Well-designed signage ensures smooth navigation and conveys professionalism and attention to detail. It enhances the overall visitor experience by reducing confusion and enhancing safety.

Office Setup: The Importance of an Organized Office

Managing a water park business demands time and attention to detail. An organized office setup is essential to boost productivity and efficiency.

Your office should have all the necessary tools and resources to manage operations effectively. This includes computer systems, communication tools, financial records, and administrative supplies.

An organized workspace lets you streamline tasks, handle customer inquiries, and oversee daily operations smoothly.

A well-prepared office serves as the nerve center of your business, facilitating effective decision-making and ensuring the smooth functioning of your water park.

Considerations for the Setup of Your Office offers tips and ideas for making your office work. For more, see our article About Company Signs.

18. Creating a Website

In the digital age, a website is indispensable for your water park business. It serves as your primary online hub, offering essential information about your establishment.

Unlike social media accounts, a website grants you ownership and control when you host and register a domain name.

Additionally, your website can double as a potent marketing tool.

By incorporating a blog section, you can share industry-related content, valuable tips, and insights tailored to your audience. This fosters trust among customers and positions you as an industry authority.

Your website becomes and important form of nexus of communication, interaction, and expertise, essential for the success of your water park business.

For more, see How to Build a Website for Your Business .

19. Create an External Support Team

Building Your External Support Team:

Creating an external support team of professionals for your water park business is akin to assembling a group of dependable advisors and service providers.

These individuals are not on your payroll but offer their expertise on a project, contract, hourly, or retainer basis. While you may already collaborate with some professionals, recognizing them as part of your team underscores their importance and allows for potential expansion.

You need not have all team members in place from the outset; building these professional relationships takes time. However, nurturing your team over time is crucial.

A well-rounded team may include an accountant, lawyer, financial advisor, marketing specialist, technical advisor, and consultant.

With a strong support team, you can tap into their expertise when needed, enhancing your water park business’s success.

For more, see Building a Team of Professional Advisors for Your Business.

20. Hiring Employees

Managing Your Water Park Business:

Running your water park business solo during the initial stages can help control costs, especially since payroll can be a significant expense.

However, as your business expands, managing and operating it alone may become unfeasible, necessitating the hiring of employees.

It’s crucial to prioritize hiring qualified individuals with strong work ethics to ensure smooth operations and customer satisfaction.

The following are job positions or outsourced services you may want to consider as your water park business grows:

• General Manager: Oversees daily operations, staff management, and financial planning.
• Assistant Manager: Assists the general manager in various tasks and fills in when needed.
• Operations Manager: Manages ride and facility maintenance, safety protocols, and staff training.
• Marketing Manager: Develops and implements marketing strategies to attract visitors.
• Sales and Guest Services: Handles ticket sales, guest inquiries, and customer service.
• Lifeguards: Ensure visitor safety by monitoring pools and attractions.
• Maintenance Crew: Conducts regular equipment and facility maintenance.
• Cleaning Staff: Maintains cleanliness throughout the park, including restrooms and dining areas.
• Food and Beverage Staff: Prepares and serves food and beverages to guests.
• Retail Sales Associates: Sell merchandise and souvenirs in gift shops.
• Event Coordinator: Organizes special events, parties, and corporate outings.
• Accountant/Bookkeeper: Manages financial records, payroll, and tax compliance.
• HR Manager: Handles employee recruitment, training, and human resources matters.
• Security Personnel: Ensures park security and visitor safety.
• Entertainment Crew: Performs in live shows, events, and character appearances.
• Water Quality Technician: Monitors and maintains water quality in pools and attractions.
• IT Support: Manages the park’s technology infrastructure and online systems.
• Environmental Consultant: Advises on eco-friendly initiatives and sustainability practices.
• Legal Counsel: Provides legal guidance, contracts, and compliance oversight.
• PR and Public Relations Specialist: Manages media relations and public image.
• Safety Inspector: Conducts regular safety audits and ensures regulatory compliance.
• Guest Experience Coordinators: Enhance visitor satisfaction by addressing concerns and feedback.
• Transportation Services: Coordinates transportation options for park guests.
• Photographers and Videographers: Capture memories of visitors for sale or marketing.
• Landscaping and Groundskeepers: Maintain the park’s landscaping and outdoor areas.

As your water park business grows, the roles and responsibilities within your team or outsourced services will become essential to ensuring the park’s success, safety, and overall visitor experience.

For more, see How and When to Hire a New Employee.

21. Getting Customers Through the Door

When you have reached this step, your business is set up and ready to go, with one more final step, which is important: getting customers through the door.

There are numerous ways to do this, like advertising, having a grand opening , word of mouth, etc.

Let’s dig a little deeper into the following sections.

a.) Marketing Considerations

Attracting Customers to Your Water Park Business:

A water park business thrives when it attracts and retains customers. This is challenging initially because your operation is new, and building a reputation takes time.

However, as you establish credibility, your marketing will become more effective. Remember, marketing is an ongoing effort that directly impacts revenue.

Simple Methods to Promote Your Water Park Business:

• Social Media: Utilize platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X to showcase your park, engage with potential visitors, and share updates regularly.
• Local Listings: Ensure your business is listed accurately on Google My Business, Yelp, and other local directories.
• Website: Create a user-friendly website with information about attractions, ticket prices, and opening hours. Optimize it for search engines (SEO).
• Email Marketing: Collect visitor emails and send newsletters with promotions, news, and event announcements.
• Online Advertising: Invest in targeted online ads through platforms like Google Ads and social media advertising.
• Content Marketing: Share informative blog posts, videos, and guides about water park experiences and safety on your website.
• Community Involvement: Participate in local events, sponsor youth sports teams, and engage with the community to build goodwill.
• Referral Programs: Encourage satisfied visitors to refer friends and family with incentives like discounts or free tickets.
• Collaborate with Local Businesses: Partner with nearby hotels, restaurants, and attractions for cross-promotions.
• Customer Reviews: Encourage positive reviews on TripAdvisor and Yelp to enhance your online reputation.
• Events and Promotions: Host special events, theme days, or promotions to draw in visitors during off-peak times.
• Influencer Marketing: Collaborate with local social media influencers to reach a broader audience.
• Engage with Schools: Partner with schools for field trips or summer camp outings, offering educational and group discounts.
• Loyalty Programs: Implement a loyalty program that rewards repeat visitors with exclusive perks.
• Visual Content: Share eye-catching photos and videos of your water park across all marketing channels to captivate potential customers.

Remember that a mix of these methods can be tailored to your budget and specific audience.

Consistency and adaptability in your marketing efforts will help your water park business grow and thrive.

See How To Get Customers Through the Door and our marketing section for ideas on promoting your business.

b.) The Market Can Guide You:

Listen to Your Customers:

In business, customer demand often speaks louder than our original plans. While you may have a clear vision for your water park business, remaining receptive to the market’s signals is essential.

Customers might prefer something slightly different from what you initially envisioned.

While sticking to your plan is valuable, ignoring persistent market demand can mean missing out on a prosperous opportunity.

Ultimately, the choice is yours, but when those signs persist, consider taking a step back and reassessing your approach. It’s your business, and adaptability can be a key ingredient for success.

c.) Sample Ad Ideas:

Display Ad 1: Headline: “Splash into Fun at Our Water Park!” Dive into excitement! Experience thrilling rides, relaxing pools, and delicious treats. Perfect for family outings. Book now!

Display Ad 2: Headline: “Make a Splash at Our Water Wonderland!” Unleash your inner adventurer! Explore twisting slides, wave pools, and more. Get your tickets for endless fun today!

Display Ad 3: Headline: “Cool Off and Have a Blast at Our Water Park!” Escape the heat! Enjoy refreshing water adventures and laughter-filled moments. Bring your friends and family. Reserve your spot!

Display Ad 4: Headline: “Experience Wet and Wild Fun at Our Water Park!” Calling all thrill-seekers! Conquer epic water slides and conquer your summer. Plan your visit now for an unforgettable day!

Display Ad 5: Headline: “Get Ready for a Splash-tacular Adventure!” Beat the heat with us! Slide, swim, and smile all day long. Book your water park adventure today for the ultimate summer escape!

d.) B2B Ideas

To establish mutually beneficial partnerships and expand your water park business’s reach, consider collaborating with the following types of businesses:

• Hotels and Resorts: Partner with local hotels and resorts to offer package deals that include water park access for their guests. In return, refer your visitors to these accommodations.
• Travel Agencies: Work with travel agencies to include your water park in vacation packages and offer them a commission for each booking they generate.
• Event Planners: Collaborate with event planning companies to host special events like birthday parties, corporate outings, or weddings at your water park.
• Local Restaurants and Cafes: Establish a cross-promotion with nearby eateries, offering discounts or special meal deals for your water park visitors, and vice versa.
• Tour Operators: Partner with tour operators to include your water park as a stop on their tour itineraries, incentivizing them with a commission for bookings.
• Schools and Camps: Offer discounted group rates to schools and summer camps, and they can recommend your water park as a fun and safe outing for students.
• Fitness Centers: Collaborate with fitness centers to promote water-based fitness classes or aqua aerobics at your park.
• Local Businesses: Work with local businesses for corporate outings or team-building events at your water park.
• Travel Blogs and Influencers: Partner with travel bloggers and social media influencers for reviews and promotions, offering them exclusive experiences.
• Spas and Wellness Centers: Offer joint packages that include relaxation at a spa after an exhilarating day at your water park.
• Children’s Entertainment Centers: Cross-promote with indoor play centers or arcades to provide families with a full day of entertainment.
• Schools and Nonprofits: Collaborate with educational institutions and nonprofit organizations to host educational programs or fundraising events at your park.
• Local Media: Partner with local TV, radio stations, and newspapers for promotional events or contests.
• Transportation Services: Work with taxi services, shuttle companies, or ride-sharing platforms to offer convenient transportation to your park.
• Retailers: Explore partnerships with local retailers to conduct joint marketing efforts or offer special discounts to customers who visit both businesses.

When approaching these potential partners, emphasize the mutual benefits of the collaboration, such as increased exposure, revenue opportunities, and enhanced customer experiences.

Tailor your partnership proposals to meet each business’s needs and goals, whether through referral fees, cross-promotions, or other creative incentives.

Building solid relationships with these partners can significantly boost your water park’s visibility and customer base.

Points To Consider

Next, let’s review essential points for more tips, insights, and considerations before starting your water park business.

We will cover sections, including skills to consider, points to focus on, and equipment. Then, you’ll reach the “Knowledge Is Power” section, where you will want to use the resources for valuable information.

Key Points to Succeed in the Setup Phase of a Water Park Business:

• Thorough Market Research: Understand the local market, competition, and target demographics to identify suitable locations and unique selling points.
• Business Plan: Develop a comprehensive business plan outlining financial projections, marketing strategies, and operational details.
• Legal Compliance: Ensure all permits, licenses, and regulations are met, including safety and health standards.
• Budgeting: Create a realistic budget for construction, equipment, staffing, and initial marketing efforts.
• Attraction Design: Carefully design and plan water rides and attractions, considering safety, capacity, and visitor experience.
• Safety Protocols: Establish strict safety protocols and hire certified lifeguards and staff trained in CPR and first aid.
• Marketing Strategy: Develop a pre-launch marketing strategy to build anticipation and generate early interest.
• Staff Training: Train employees on safety procedures, customer service, and emergency response.
• Financial Management: Set up accounting systems, and financial controls, and establish banking relationships.
• Supplier Partnerships: Establish relationships with reliable equipment, maintenance, and concessions suppliers.
• Insurance: Secure comprehensive insurance coverage, including liability and property insurance.
• Construction Oversight: Oversee construction and installation to meet quality and safety standards.
• Pre-Opening Testing: Conduct rigorous testing and inspection of all rides and attractions.
• Pre-Opening Marketing: Launch a marketing campaign to create excitement and attract visitors before opening.
• Employee Hiring: Recruit a well-trained team, including management, lifeguards, and customer service staff.
• Visitor Experience: Focus on creating a seamless and enjoyable guest experience from parking to entry.

Key Points to Succeed When Your Water Park Business is in the Operation Phase:

• Safety Priority: Continue to prioritize and enforce safety protocols with regular staff training and emergency response drills.
• Maintenance Regimen: To ensure safety and functionality, implement a robust schedule for all equipment, rides, and facilities.
• Customer Service Excellence: Maintain a strong focus on exceptional customer service to create positive experiences and repeat business.
• Marketing and Promotion: Consistently market your park with targeted campaigns and special events to attract visitors.
• Financial Management: Monitor and manage finances diligently, keeping track of revenue, expenses, and profit margins.
• Innovation: Keep the park fresh and appealing by regularly adding new attractions or experiences.
• Environmental Responsibility: Continue to pursue eco-friendly initiatives to reduce the park’s environmental impact.
• Feedback and Improvement: Gather feedback from visitors and employees to make continuous improvements.
• Seasonal Operations: Adjust operating hours and attractions to cater to seasonal variations in attendance.
• Health and Hygiene: Maintain strict hygiene and sanitation practices, especially in water-related areas.
• Technology Integration: Stay updated with technology trends, including mobile apps and cashless payment systems.
• Community Engagement: Build strong ties with the local community through sponsorships, events, and partnerships.
• Employee Retention: Prioritize employee satisfaction and retention through fair compensation and professional development.
• Crisis Management: Develop and rehearse crisis management plans for emergencies, including weather-related incidents.
• Guest Feedback: Act on guest feedback promptly to address concerns and enhance overall satisfaction.
• Adaptability: Adapt to changing market conditions, trends, and visitor preferences.

Success in the operational phase requires ongoing dedication, attention to detail, and a commitment to providing guests a safe and enjoyable experience while maintaining financial sustainability.

Ideas to Make a Water Park Business Stand Out:

• Themed Attractions: Create unique, themed water slides and play areas to set your park apart. Incorporate popular themes like pirates, tropical paradises, or adventure zones to enhance the visitor experience.
• Interactive Technology: Implement RFID wristbands for cashless transactions, locker access, and personalized experiences. Use mobile apps for ride wait times, virtual queues, and in-park navigation.
• Live Entertainment: To entertain guests beyond rides, host live shows, concerts, and water-themed performances. Dive into creative water-themed events like synchronized swimming or water ballet.
• Eco-Friendly Initiatives: Embrace sustainability with solar-powered attractions, water-saving measures, and eco-conscious landscaping. Educate visitors about your environmental efforts and encourage responsible park behavior.
• Unique Food: Offer a diverse menu with international cuisines, healthy options, and themed dining experiences. Consider food festivals or gourmet pop-up stalls.
• Exclusive VIP Experiences: Create premium packages with perks like private cabanas, express ride access, and concierge services to cater to high-end clientele.
• Themed Nights: For a different park experience after dark, hold evening events with special lighting, music, and fireworks displays.
• Educational Programs: Introduce educational programs on water conservation, aquatic life, or hydrodynamics to engage visitors while promoting environmental awareness.
• Year-Round Attractions: Invest in indoor water park facilities to extend operations into colder seasons or unpredictable weather.
• Unique Merchandise: Design and sell exclusive branded merchandise, clothing, toys, and souvenirs related to your park’s themes.
• Water Park Events: Organize special events like water balloon fights, foam parties, or themed weekends to attract repeat visitors.
• Loyalty Programs: Implement loyalty programs with rewards for frequent visitors, encouraging return visits and referrals.
• Innovative Marketing: Utilize social media, influencer partnerships, and immersive marketing campaigns to engage potential guests and build anticipation.
• Accessibility: Ensure the park is accessible to all visitors, including those with disabilities, by offering ramps, wheelchair-accessible rides, and dedicated staff assistance.
• Local Partnerships: Collaborate with nearby hotels, restaurants, and businesses to create vacation packages or cross-promotional deals.
• Themed Accommodations: Consider on-site lodging options with themed rooms or cabins, providing a complete water park vacation experience.
• Safety Assurance: Prioritize safety with rigorous staff training, visible lifeguards, and advanced monitoring systems to instill confidence in visitors.
• Pet-Friendly Facilities: Offer pet-friendly amenities such as kennels or dog parks for guests traveling with pets.
• Seasonal Decor: Decorate the park to match holidays and seasons, creating a dynamic and ever-changing atmosphere.
• Customized Experiences: Allow guests to personalize their visit by offering options like customizable playlists for water slides, photo packages, or private event bookings.

Ideas for Add-Ons for a Water Park Business:

• Water Park Resort: Develop a resort with luxury accommodations, spa services, and dining options for a comprehensive vacation experience.
• Lazy River Adventure: Add an adventurous lazy river with unpredictable currents, waterfalls, and scenic elements.
• Wave Pool Upgrades: Enhance the wave pool with advanced wave patterns, synchronized music, and a beachfront atmosphere.
• Surfing Simulators: Install surf simulators to attract surf enthusiasts looking for a unique experience.
• Zipline Courses: Create zipline courses that traverse the park, providing aerial views of attractions and additional thrills.
• Aquatic Adventure Sports: Introduce water sports like water polo, underwater hockey, or synchronized swimming competitions.
• Virtual Reality Integration: Incorporate VR experiences into water slides, offering an augmented reality adventure.
• Underwater Encounters: Develop transparent underwater tunnels or viewing areas for guests to observe aquatic life.
• Nighttime Water Shows: Host nighttime water shows with synchronized music, lights, and water fountain displays.
• Aqua Yoga and Fitness: Offer health-conscious visitors aquatic yoga and fitness classes.
• Water Park Museum: Create a museum showcasing the history and evolution of water parks and water-based entertainment.
• Outdoor Cinemas: Set up outdoor movie screens near the pools for family-friendly movie nights.
• Adventure Trails: Establish nature trails, zip line courses, or obstacle courses adjacent to the water park for land-based adventures.
• Waterfront Dining: Develop waterfront restaurants and bars with scenic views and unique dining experiences.
• Aquatic Art Installations: Commission water-themed art installations and sculptures for an aesthetic appeal.
• Seasonal Festivals: Host seasonal festivals with themed décor, entertainment, and food.
• Virtual Reality Water Slide Design: Allow guests to design and experience virtual water slides through VR simulations.
• Educational Aquariums: Build educational aquariums featuring aquatic ecosystems and marine life.
• Digital Photo Services: Offer digital photo services for visitors to capture their moments and share them instantly.
• Extreme Water Sports: Introduce extreme water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, or wakeboarding for adrenaline junkies.

These ideas can add value, uniqueness, and excitement to your water park business, enticing visitors and enhancing their overall experience.

Evaluate which options align with your target audience and market to maximize profitability and customer satisfaction.

Hours of Operation:

Hours of Operation for a Water Park Business:

• Regular Summer Hours: Peak visiting hours are typically from 10 AM to 6 PM.
• Extended Summer Hours: For increased revenue on weekends or holidays, consider extending operations until 8 PM.
• Off-Season Hours: Adjust for spring and fall with reduced hours, usually from 10 AM to 4 PM.
• Maintenance Hours: Allocate early mornings or late evenings for cleaning, maintenance, and repairs.
• Private Events: Offer private rentals during non-operational hours for additional income.

Equipment and Supplies

A List of Equipment and Supplies to Consider for a Water Park Business:

• Wave Pool Equipment: Wave generators, water circulation systems, and safety features.
• Lazy River Components: Tubes, pumps, and flow control mechanisms.
• Splash Pads: Interactive water features, fountains, and spray jets.
• Water Filtration Systems: To maintain water quality and safety.
• Safety and Rescue Equipment: Life jackets, lifeguard stands, and rescue tubes.
• Ticketing and Entry Systems: Turnstiles, ticket counters, and access control.
• Concession Stands: Food preparation equipment, refrigeration, and serving counters.
• Rental Equipment: Tubes, rafts, and locker systems.
• Deck and Pool Furniture: Lounge chairs, umbrellas, and tables.
• Restrooms and Changing Facilities: Toilets, showers, and locker rooms.
• Maintenance Equipment: Pumps, filters, and cleaning tools.
• First Aid Stations: Medical supplies and equipment.
• Sound and Entertainment Systems: Speakers, PA systems, and music players.
• Landscaping and Décor: Plants, decorative elements, and themed props.
• Signage: Informational and safety signs throughout the park.
• Office Equipment: Computers, point-of-sale systems, and administrative tools.
• Security Systems: Surveillance cameras and alarm systems.
• Storage Facilities: Warehouses and storage containers for equipment and supplies.
• Environmental Control Systems: HVAC systems for indoor facilities.

Remember that the specific equipment needs can vary depending on the size and complexity of your water park, local regulations, and the amenities you want to offer your visitors.

Conducting a thorough assessment and planning process to determine your precise equipment requirements is crucial.

Evaluating your skill set is crucial for success in the water park business. Ensure you possess skills in areas like management, customer service, and safety protocols.

A lack of expertise can be addressed by learning or hiring qualified individuals. Essential skills for a water park owner include:

• Management: Effective leadership and organizational skills.
• Customer Service: Ability to provide exceptional guest experiences.
• Safety Knowledge: Ensuring visitor well-being through strict safety protocols.
• Marketing: Promoting the park and attracting visitors.
• Financial Management: Budgeting, accounting, and revenue optimization.
• Problem Solving: Quick decision-making and troubleshooting abilities.
• Maintenance: Overseeing facility upkeep and equipment maintenance.
• Regulatory Compliance: Staying abreast of industry regulations and compliance.
• Innovation: Adapting to changing trends and guest preferences.
• Team Management: Building and leading a competent staff.

These skills are vital for a water park owner to thrive in the competitive leisure industry.

Considering the Future of Your Water Park Business:

Contemplating the future of your water park business is a strategic endeavor. While the future landscape may differ significantly from the present, having a clear vision is invaluable.

A well-defined vision empowers you to make informed decisions, ensuring your business progresses in the desired direction.

It is a guiding beacon, helping you navigate challenges and opportunities while aligning with your long-term objectives. This forward-thinking approach fosters adaptability and innovation, critical factors in a dynamic industry.

In summary, crafting a vision for your water park business gives you purpose and helps you shape and steer your enterprise toward its desired future state.

It is a vital roadmap to navigate the evolving landscape, making your journey more purposeful and effective.

Find a Water Park Business For Sale

Purchasing an existing water park business offers distinct advantages and drawbacks compared to starting one from scratch.

Benefits of Buying an Established Water Park Business:

• Immediate Revenue: Revenue generation begins when you take over the business.
• Skipping Startup: You bypass the challenging startup phase, saving time and effort.
• Proven Success: The business model is tested and known to work.
• Financial Clarity: You can access historical revenue, profit, and expense data.
• Existing Customer Base: A pre-established customer base ensures a steady flow of patrons.
• Reputation: The business comes with a built-in reputation in the market.
• Higher Initial Cost: The purchase price is often higher due to the business’s goodwill and customer base.
• Operational Changes: Altering the established operations may risk losing existing customers.
• Inherited Reputation: You inherit the good and bad aspects of the business’s reputation.

Exploring available water park businesses for sale or similar opportunities within the leisure industry is advisable to determine if suitable options align with your goals and resources.

The latest search results for a water park business for sale and others in the same category.

Franchise Opportunities Related to a Water Park Business

Owning a water park franchise presents advantages and disadvantages, making it essential to assess before venturing into this business sector.

• Proven Business Model: Franchises offer a ready-made, tried-and-tested business plan from the corporate office.
• Established Reputation: Benefit from the franchise’s existing brand recognition and marketing efforts.
• Comprehensive Knowledge: You gain in-depth knowledge about the business before launch.
• Corporate Support: Enjoy support and guidance from the corporate office.
• High Costs: Initial investment and ongoing franchise fees can be substantial.
• Limited Autonomy: Significant changes require approval from corporate, restricting flexibility.
• Product and Service Restrictions: You must adhere to approved products and services.
• Operational Constraints: Your business operations are bound by the franchise agreement.

While water park franchises might not exist, exploring related franchises in the leisure or entertainment industry can uncover valuable opportunities—research thoroughly before committing to ensure alignment with your goals and resources.

See the latest search results for franchise opportunities related to this industry.

Knowledge Is Power if You Use It!

Leveraging knowledge is essential. The following sections provide abundant industry information to aid your business’s startup and operational phases.

Trends and Statistics

Examining industry trends and statistics is crucial for water park businesses.

It informs decision-making, helps adapt to changing consumer preferences, and ensures long-term viability.

See the latest search results for trends and statistics related to the water park industry.

Water Park Associations

Trade associations provide industry news updates and networking opportunities, offering valuable advantages to professionals in the field.

See the search results on water park associations and the benefits of Joining the Chamber of Commerce.

The Top Water Parks

Analyzing established water park businesses sparks innovation, reveals industry gaps for competitive advantage, and identifies overlooked opportunities in the market.

See the latest search results for the top water parks.

The Future of Water Parks

Exploring the industry’s future is crucial for aspiring water park entrepreneurs. It provides insight into trends and potential opportunities, aiding in informed business decisions.

See the search results for the future of water parks.

Customer Expectations

Reviewing search results on customer expectations for the water park experience offers valuable insights.

It allows you to meet and surpass customer desires, uncover potential issues, and ensure comprehensive coverage of customer needs.

See the search results related to customer expectations for a water park experience.

Expert Tips

Examining expert tips benefits both novices and experts in skill development. Experts may discover new approaches, while novices gain valuable knowledge to enhance their skills.

See the latest search results for water park management to gain tips and insights.

Water Park Business Insights

Analyzing tips and insights can spark innovative ideas, help avoid pitfalls in water park management, and bolster your industry expertise effectively.

See the latest search results about insights into running a water park business.

Water Park Publications

Publications provide valuable tips and insights about water parks, serving as an additional source of information for enthusiasts and industry professionals.

See the search results for water park publications.

Water Park Forums

Engage in water park forums to connect with industry peers and gain customer insights. These platforms provide valuable perspectives for improved customer understanding.

See the latest search results related to water park forums.

Enhance your water park business through online or local educational courses. They provide valuable skills and knowledge for improvement and growth.

See the latest courses that could benefit a water park business owner . Also, see our management articles for tips and insights for managing your business.

Water Park Blogs

Subscribe to leading water park blogs for fresh insights and industry updates.

Regularly review and unsubscribe from inactive or unhelpful ones, curating valuable resources for continuous information.

Look at the latest search results for top water park blogs to follow.

Entertainment-Based Business Tips

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How to Start a Waterpark

Written by: Carolyn Young

Carolyn Young is a business writer who focuses on entrepreneurial concepts and the business formation. She has over 25 years of experience in business roles, and has authored several entrepreneurship textbooks.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on May 30, 2023 Updated on June 5, 2024

Investment range

$1,407,600 - $2,814,500

Revenue potential

$1,800,000 - $6,000,000 p.a.

Time to build

12 – 18 months

Profit potential

$180,000 - $600,000 p.a.

Industry trend

Waterparks are great for family fun, or for adventurous adults to have a good time, offering all sorts of attractions, including waterslides, lazy rivers, and wave pools. During the pandemic, waterparks took a huge hit, but they’re coming back in a big way, with the industry set to increase by nearly 14% in 2023. 

Starting a waterpark takes a significant investment, but it could be quite a profitable adventure for you.

But before you dive in, you’ll need to understand the waterpark business. Fortunately, this step-by-step guide details all the business insights you need to launch a successful waterpark.

Looking to register your business? A limited liability company (LLC) is the best legal structure for new businesses because it is fast and simple.

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Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You

Pros and cons.

• Provide a place for fun in your community
• Good profit potential
• Market is making a big comeback
• High startup costs
• Outdoor parks are seasonal

Waterpark industry trends

Industry size and growth.

• Industry size and past growth – The U.S. waterpark industry is worth $3.8 billion in 2023 after declining an average of 7.5% annually for the last five years due to a large drop during the pandemic.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/market-size/water-parks-united-states/ ))
• Growth forecast – The U.S. waterpark industry is projected to grow 13.7% in 2023.
• Number of businesses –  In 2021, 107 waterpark businesses were operating in the U.S.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/water-parks-industry/ ))
• Number of people employed – In 2021, the U.S. waterpark industry employed 29,010 people.

Trends and challenges

• Many waterparks with themes, much like theme amusement parks, are emerging.
• Waterparks are building larger areas that cater to small children.
• Small waterparks are struggling to keep up with larger parks that have expanded into full resorts.
• Waterparks are facing staffing shortages more and more.

Demand hotspots

• Most popular states – The most popular states for amusement park workers are Vermont, Washington, and Connecticut. (( https://www.zippia.com/amusement-park-worker-jobs/best-states/ ))
• Least popular states – The least popular states for amusement park workers are Mississippi, Montana, and Ohio. 

What kind of people work in waterparks?

• Gender – 38% of amusement park workers are female, while 62% are male. (( https://www.zippia.com/amusement-park-worker-jobs/demographics/ ))
• Average level of education – The average amusement park worker is high school educated.
• Average age – The average amusement park worker in the US is 34.2 years old.

How much does it cost to start a waterpark business?

Startup costs for a waterpark range from $1.5 million to $3 million. Costs include the land and the park construction as well as an operating budget. Your costs will depend on land and construction prices in your area, as well as the size of the park you design.

How much can you earn from a waterpark business?

You should be able to charge about $40 per person for admission. You can make additional revenue by selling food and beverages, or park merchandise. These calculations will assume that the average person will spend $60 total each time they visit. Your profit margin after all costs should be about 10%.

In your first year or two, you might have 30,000 visitors in the summer season, bringing in $1,800,000 in revenue. This would mean $180,000 in profit, assuming that 10% margin. 

As you gain traction, you might have 100,000 visitors. With annual revenue of $6,000,000, you’d make a tidy profit of $600,000.

What barriers to entry are there?

There are a few barriers to entry for a waterpark. Your biggest challenges will be:

• Funding the startup costs
• Finding land in a suitable location

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Step 2: hone your idea.

Now that you know what’s involved in starting a waterpark, it’s a good idea to hone your concept in preparation to enter a competitive market. 

Market research could give you the upper hand even if you’ve got the perfect product. Conducting robust market research is crucial, as it will help you better understand your customers, your competitors, and the broader business landscape.

Analyze your competitors 

Research waterparks in your area to examine their services, price points, and customer reviews.

• Make a list of waterparks that offer similar services. 
• Review your competitors’ services – their features, pricing, and quality – and marketing strategies
• Check out their online reviews and ratings on Google, Yelp, and Facebook to get an idea of what their customers like and dislike.
• Identify your competitors’ strengths and weaknesses. 

This should identify areas where you can strengthen your business and gain a competitive edge to make better business decisions.

Why? Identify an opportunity

You’re looking for a market gap to fill. For instance, maybe the local market is missing a waterpark with extended park hours, or a waterpark with a lazy river. 

You might consider targeting a niche, such as an indoor water park.

This could jumpstart your word-of-mouth marketing and attract clients right away. 

What? Determine your waterpark design layout and offerings

You’ll have to plan a design for your park with unique water slides and other attractions. You’ll also need to decide what types of food and beverages to offer. 

How much should you charge for waterpark admission?

Your prices should be based on market prices in your area, but also on your operating costs.

Once you know your costs, use this Step By Step profit margin calculator to determine your mark-up and final price points. Remember, the prices you use at launch should be subject to change if warranted by the market.

Who? Identify your target market

Your target market will be mainly families and younger adults. You should market on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook to cover all bases.

Where? Choose a waterpark location

You’ll need to find land in a convenient location, probably 10 to 15 acres. You can engage a real estate agent to help with your search. Here are the factors to consider when choosing a waterpark location:

1. Accessibility

• Road Infrastructure: Easy access by major highways or roads.
• Public Transport: Availability of buses, trains, etc.
• Parking: Adequate space for visitors’ vehicles.

2. Land Considerations

• Size: Enough area for attractions, amenities, and future expansion.
• Topography: Flat terrain or areas that can be easily developed.
• Soil Quality: Suitable for constructing large water structures.
• Drainage: Proper drainage to handle water waste and rain.

3. Climate & Seasonality

• Duration of Warm Weather: Longer summer means a longer operating season.
• Rainfall Patterns: Consideration for outdoor parks.

4. Competition

• Nearby Attractions: Other waterparks or recreational areas.
• Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Offerings that set you apart.

5. Local Regulations

• Zoning Laws: Ensure the land is zoned for commercial recreational use.
• Environmental Restrictions: Wetlands, protected areas, etc.
• Safety Regulations: Compliance with local safety standards.

6. Water Source & Quality

• Availability: Sufficient supply for park operations.
• Quality: Clean and free from contaminants.
• Recycling Systems: Efficient water recycling and filtration systems.

7. Long-Term Development

• Expansion Possibilities: Room for adding more attractions.
• Trends: Keeping up with the latest waterpark trends and technologies.

8. Community Relations

• Local Acceptance: Ensuring the local community is supportive.
• Partnerships: Collaborations with local businesses or stakeholders.

9. Environmental Impact

• Sustainability: Environmentally friendly practices and equipment.
• Landscape Integration: Design that fits naturally into the local environment.

Step 3: Brainstorm a Waterpark Name

Here are some ideas for brainstorming your business name:

• Short, unique, and catchy names tend to stand out
• Names that are easy to say and spell tend to do better 
• Name should be relevant to your product or service offerings
• Ask around — family, friends, colleagues, social media — for suggestions
• Including keywords, such as “waterpark” or “water rides”, boosts SEO
• Name should allow for expansion, for ex: “AquaEmpire Resorts” and “WaveWorld Destinations” over “SplashScape Oasis” and “TidalTwist Lagoon”
• A location-based name can help establish a strong connection with your local community and help with the SEO but might hinder future expansion

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, visit the website of the US Patent and Trademark Office to make sure they are available for registration and check the availability of related domain names using our Domain Name Search tool. Using “.com” or “.org” sharply increases credibility, so it’s best to focus on these. 

Find a Domain

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Finally, make your choice among the names that pass this screening and go ahead and reserve your business name with your state, start the trademark registration process, and complete your domain registration and social media account creation. 

Your business name is one of the key differentiators that sets your business apart. Once you pick a name, reserve it and start with the branding, it’s hard to switch to a new name. So be sure to carefully consider your choice before moving forward. 

Step 4: Create a Waterpark Business Plan

Here are the key components of a business plan:

• Executive Summary: Provide a concise summary of your waterpark business plan, highlighting its objectives, location, and expected profitability.
• Business Overview: Introduce your waterpark, including its location, size, attractions, target audience, and unique features.
• Product and Services: Describe the waterpark’s offerings, including water slides, pools, concessions, and any additional services like lifeguard training or event hosting.
• Market Analysis: Analyze the local and regional market for waterpark entertainment, considering factors like seasonality, competition, and potential visitor demographics.
• Competitive Analysis: Identify and evaluate other waterparks and recreational facilities in the area, highlighting what sets your waterpark apart.
• Sales and Marketing: Outline your marketing strategies for attracting visitors, including advertising, promotions, and partnerships with local businesses.
• Management Team: Showcase the qualifications and experience of your management team, emphasizing their knowledge of waterpark operations and safety measures.
• Operations Plan: Detail the day-to-day operations of your waterpark, covering aspects like staffing, safety protocols, maintenance, and ticket pricing.
• Financial Plan: Present financial projections, including startup costs, revenue forecasts, operating expenses, and expected return on investment for your waterpark.
• Appendix: Include any supporting documents, such as park maps, safety procedures, permits, and financial statements, to enhance your business plan’s credibility.

If you’ve never created a business plan, it can be an intimidating task. You might consider hiring a business plan specialist to create a top-notch business plan for you.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.

Plus, registration is exciting because it makes the entire process official. Once it’s complete, you’ll have your own business! 

Choose where to register your company

Your business location is important because it can affect taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. Most people will register their business in the state where they live, but if you are planning to expand, you might consider looking elsewhere, as some states could offer real advantages when it comes to waterparks. 

If you’re willing to move, you could really maximize your business! Keep in mind, it’s relatively easy to transfer your business to another state. 

Choose your business structure

Business entities come in several varieties, each with its pros and cons. The legal structure you choose for your waterpark will shape your taxes, personal liability, and business registration requirements, so choose wisely. 

Here are the main options:

• Sole Proprietorship – The most common structure for small businesses makes no legal distinction between company and owner. All income goes to the owner, who’s also liable for any debts, losses, or liabilities incurred by the business. The owner pays taxes on business income on his or her personal tax return.
• General Partnership – Similar to a sole proprietorship, but for two or more people. Again, owners keep the profits and are liable for losses. The partners pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.
• Limited Liability Company ( LLC ) – Combines the characteristics of corporations with those of sole proprietorships or partnerships. Again, the owners are not personally liable for debts.  Here’s how to form an LLC .
• C Corp – Under this structure, the business is a distinct legal entity and the owner or owners are not personally liable for its debts. Owners take profits through shareholder dividends, rather than directly. The corporation pays taxes, and owners pay taxes on their dividends, which is sometimes referred to as double taxation.  Read how to start a corporation here .
• S Corp – An S-Corporation refers to the tax classification of the business but is not a business entity. An S-Corp can be either a corporation or an LLC , which just need to elect to be an S-Corp for tax status. In an S-Corp, income is passed through directly to shareholders, who pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.

We recommend that new business owners choose LLC as it offers liability protection and pass-through taxation while being simpler to form than a corporation. You can form an LLC in as little as five minutes using an online LLC formation service. They will check that your business name is available before filing, submit your articles of organization , and answer any questions you might have. 

Form Your LLC

Choose Your State

We recommend ZenBusiness as the Best LLC Service for 2024

Step 6: Register for Taxes

The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number , or EIN. You can file for your EIN online or by mail or fax: visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN. 

Once you have your EIN, you’ll need to choose your tax year. Financially speaking, your business will operate in a calendar year (January–December) or a fiscal year, a 12-month period that can start in any month. This will determine your tax cycle, while your business structure will determine which taxes you’ll pay.

The IRS website also offers a tax-payers checklist , and taxes can be filed online.

It is important to consult an accountant or other professional to help you with your taxes to ensure you are completing them correctly.

Step 7: Fund your Business

Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:

• Bank loans: This is the most common method but getting approved requires a rock-solid business plan and strong credit history.
• SBA-guaranteed loans: The Small Business Administration can act as guarantor, helping gain that elusive bank approval via an SBA-guaranteed loan .
• Government grants: A handful of financial assistance programs help fund entrepreneurs. Visit Grants.gov to learn which might work for you.
• Venture capital: Venture capital investors take an ownership stake in exchange for funds, so keep in mind that you’d be sacrificing some control over your business. This is generally only available for businesses with high growth potential.
• Angel investors: Reach out to your entire network in search of people interested in investing in early-stage startups in exchange for a stake. Established angel investors are always looking for good opportunities. 
• Friends and Family: Reach out to friends and family to provide a business loan or investment in your concept. It’s a good idea to have legal advice when doing so because SEC regulations apply.
• Crowdfunding: Websites like  Kickstarter  and  Indiegogo  offer an increasingly popular low-risk option, in which donors fund your vision. Entrepreneurial crowdfunding sites like  Fundable  and  WeFunder  enable multiple investors to fund your business.
• Personal: Self-fund your business via your savings or the sale of property or other assets.

Bank and SBA loans are probably the best option, other than friends and family, for funding a waterpark business. You might also try crowdfunding if you have an innovative concept. There is some possibility that you may be able to attract angel investors or venture capital.

Step 8: Apply for Waterpark Licenses and Permits

Starting a waterpark business requires obtaining a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments.

You’ll need to check with your state and local governments for specific waterpark licenses and permits required.

Federal regulations, licenses, and permits associated with starting your business include doing business as (DBA), health licenses and permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific licenses and permits. 

You may also need state-level and local county or city-based licenses and permits. The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn more. 

You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements, but we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package . They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state and provide them to ensure you’re fully compliant.

This is not a step to be taken lightly, as failing to comply with legal requirements can result in hefty penalties.

If you feel overwhelmed by this step or don’t know how to begin, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you check all the legal boxes.

Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account

Before you start making money, you’ll need a place to keep it, and that requires opening a bank account .

Keeping your business finances separate from your personal account makes it easy to file taxes and track your company’s income, so it’s worth doing even if you’re running your waterpark business as a sole proprietorship. Opening a business bank account is quite simple, and similar to opening a personal one. Most major banks offer accounts tailored for businesses — just inquire at your preferred bank to learn about their rates and features.

Banks vary in terms of offerings, so it’s a good idea to examine your options and select the best plan for you. Once you choose your bank, bring in your EIN (or Social Security Number if you decide on a sole proprietorship), articles of incorporation, and other legal documents and open your new account. 

Step 10: Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is an area that often gets overlooked yet it can be vital to your success as an entrepreneur. Insurance protects you from unexpected events that can have a devastating impact on your business.

Here are some types of insurance to consider:

• General liability: The most comprehensive type of insurance, acting as a catch-all for many business elements that require coverage. If you get just one kind of insurance, this is it. It even protects against bodily injury and property damage.
• Business Property: Provides coverage for your equipment and supplies.
• Equipment Breakdown Insurance: Covers the cost of replacing or repairing equipment that has broken due to mechanical issues.
• Worker’s compensation: Provides compensation to employees injured on the job.
• Property: Covers your physical space, whether it is a cart, storefront, or office.
• Commercial auto: Protection for your company-owned vehicle.
• Professional liability: Protects against claims from a client who says they suffered a loss due to an error or omission in your work.
• Business owner’s policy (BOP): This is an insurance plan that acts as an all-in-one insurance policy, a combination of the above insurance types.

Step 11: Prepare to Launch

As opening day nears, prepare for launch by reviewing and improving some key elements of your business. 

Essential software and tools

Being an entrepreneur often means wearing many hats, from marketing to sales to accounting, which can be overwhelming. Fortunately, many websites and digital tools are available to help simplify many business tasks.  

You may want to use industry-specific software, such as Aluvii , Roller , or centeredge , to manage ticket sales, waivers, food and beverage sales, and employees.

• Popular web-based accounting programs for smaller businesses include Quickbooks , Freshbooks , and Xero . 
• If you’re unfamiliar with basic accounting, you may want to hire a professional, especially as you begin. The consequences for filing incorrect tax documents can be harsh, so accuracy is crucial.

Create a website

Website development is crucial because your site is your online presence and needs to convince prospective clients of your expertise and professionalism. You can create your own website using services like WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace . This route is very affordable, but figuring out how to build a website can be time-consuming. If you lack tech-savvy, you can hire a web designer or developer to create a custom website for your business.

Your customers are unlikely to find your website, however, unless you follow Search Engine Optimization (SEO) practices. SEO will help your website appear closer to the top in relevant search results, a crucial element for increasing sales. 

Make sure that you optimize calls to action on your website. Experiment with text, color, size, and position of calls to action such as “Buy Tickets Now”. This can sharply increase purchases. 

Here are some powerful marketing strategies for your future business:

• Social Media Splash: Leverage the power of visually appealing content on platforms like Instagram and TikTok; encourage user-generated content with photo contests, and share behind-the-scenes glimpses to create buzz.
• Seasonal Pass Promotions: Introduce discounted seasonal passes, early-bird specials, or family packages to incentivize repeat visits and ensure steady revenue throughout the operating season.
• Themed Events and Promotions: Host themed events, such as tropical nights, water-themed parties, or exclusive night swims, to create a unique and memorable experience, attracting diverse audiences.
• Collaborate with Local Businesses: Forge partnerships with nearby hotels, restaurants, and travel agencies to offer bundled deals or cross-promotions, expanding your reach through their customer base.
• Mobile Marketing: Utilize geo-targeted mobile ads, SMS campaigns, and mobile apps to reach potential visitors in the vicinity, enticing them with time-limited promotions and special offers.
• Community Engagement: Sponsor local events, sports teams, or school programs to build strong community ties; organize school field trips or summer camp excursions to introduce your waterpark to a broader audience.
• VIP Experiences: Create premium VIP packages with exclusive perks like private cabanas, express entry, and personalized services, targeting visitors willing to pay extra for an enhanced experience.
• Referral Programs: Implement referral programs that reward current visitors for bringing in new guests, providing incentives such as discounts, freebies, or exclusive access to certain attractions.
• Online Reviews and Testimonials: Encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor or Google Reviews; offer incentives for feedback to enhance your waterpark’s online reputation.
• Email Marketing Campaigns: Build an email subscriber list and send out targeted campaigns with updates on upcoming events, promotions, and exclusive discounts to keep your audience engaged and informed.

Focus on USPs

Unique selling propositions, or USPs, are the characteristics of a product or service that sets it apart from the competition. Customers today are inundated with buying options, so you’ll have a real advantage if they are able to quickly grasp how your waterpark meets their needs or wishes. It’s wise to do all you can to ensure your USPs stand out on your website and in your marketing and promotional materials, stimulating buyer desire. 

Global pizza chain Domino’s is renowned for its USP: “Hot pizza in 30 minutes or less, guaranteed.” Signature USPs for your waterpark business could be: 

• Our waterpark offers a thrilling array of exhilarating slides, wave pools, and water attractions for all ages, creating unforgettable aquatic adventures
• Immerse yourself in our waterpark’s lush surroundings, palm-fringed pools, and cascading waterfalls, transporting you to a paradise of relaxation and fun
• Our waterpark boasts a wide range of attractions and activities suitable for the whole family, ensuring endless laughter, joy, and cherished memories

You may not like to network or use personal connections for business gain. But your personal and professional networks likely offer considerable untapped business potential. Maybe that Facebook friend you met in college is now running a waterpark business, or a LinkedIn contact of yours is connected to dozens of potential clients. Maybe your cousin or neighbor has been working in waterparks for years and can offer invaluable insight and industry connections. 

The possibilities are endless, so it’s a good idea to review your personal and professional networks and reach out to those with possible links to or interest in waterparks. You’ll probably generate new customers or find companies with which you could establish a partnership. 

Step 12: Build Your Team

You will need workers to fill various roles. Potential positions for a waterpark business include:

• Ticket takers – greet customers, sell and take tickets
• Ride attendants – assist customers on rides
• Snack bar workers – sell food and beverages
• Marketing lead – create and implement marketing strategies
• General manager – scheduling, accounting

At some point, you may need to hire all of these positions or simply a few, depending on the size and needs of your business. You might also hire multiple workers for a single role or a single worker for multiple roles, again depending on need. 

Free-of-charge methods to recruit employees include posting ads on popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. You might also consider a premium recruitment option, such as advertising on Indeed , Glassdoor , or ZipRecruiter . Further, if you have the resources, you could consider hiring a recruitment agency to help you find talent. 

Step 13: Run a Waterpark – Start Making Money!

Waterparks are great for summer fun, and they’re bouncing back in a big way since them pandemic. Starting a waterpark is a huge undertaking, but your park could become a feature of your community and a nice money maker. You can always start small and expand your attractions over time.

You’ve got the business know how now, so you’re ready to jump in and get your successful waterpark started!

• Waterpark Business FAQs

A well-managed and popular waterpark can be a profitable business. The profitability of a waterpark depends on factors such as location, size, visitor capacity, pricing, operating costs, marketing efforts, and seasonal demand. Waterparks that offer a variety of attractions, provide exceptional guest experiences, and effectively manage expenses can generate revenue through admission fees, food and beverage sales, merchandise, and additional services.

During a typical day at a waterpark, visitors can expect a range of activities and experiences. This may include enjoying water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, play areas, and other water attractions. Guests can relax on sun loungers, rent cabanas, indulge in food and beverages, participate in organized events, attend live entertainment shows, and take part in special activities or promotions offered by the waterpark.

The growth potential of a waterpark can be significant, particularly in areas with high population density, tourist destinations, or regions with warm climates. Waterparks have the potential for growth through expanding their offerings, adding new attractions, improving guest experiences, marketing to new customer segments, and establishing partnerships with hotels or resorts. Continual innovation, investing in guest satisfaction, and adapting to changing market trends can contribute to the growth of a waterpark.

A waterpark typically operates as a leisure and entertainment business within the hospitality and tourism industry. It offers a range of water-based attractions, amenities, and services to guests seeking recreational experiences. Waterparks can be privately owned, operated by corporations, or part of larger resort complexes. They require careful management of safety protocols, maintenance of facilities and equipment, efficient operations, marketing efforts, and providing exceptional customer service to ensure guest satisfaction.

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• Decide if the Business Is Right for You
• Hone Your Idea
• Brainstorm a Waterpark Name
• Create a Waterpark Business Plan
• Register Your Business
• Register for Taxes
• Fund your Business
• Apply for Waterpark Licenses and Permits
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get Business Insurance
• Prepare to Launch
• Build Your Team
• Run a Waterpark - Start Making Money!

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Home » Hospitality

How to Start a Water Park Business [Business Plan]

A water park is an amusement park that features water play areas such as swimming pools, water slides, splash pads, water playgrounds, and lazy rivers, as well as areas for bathing, swimming, and other barefoot environments.

Modern water parks may also be equipped with some type of artificial surfing or body boarding environment, such as a wave pool or flow-rider. Available data shows that the market size of the water park sector in the United States reached 2.33 billion U.S. dollars.

The sector saw growth over the previous year’s size of 1.67 billion U.S dollars. The market size, measured by revenue of the Water Parks industry, is $3.3bn. There are currently over one thousand water parks within the U.S., most of which identify as stand-alone outdoor water parks.

Steps on How to Start a Water Park Business

Conduct market research.

If you are considering starting a water park business, you would need reliable market research to be able to maximize profits from the business. The first step in the market research process for your water park business should be to develop market-based research questions in line with your overall business goal and objective.

In this regard, you should source information that will help you maximize your business, data that will help you know what your potential market will be looking out for from a water park, and also help you operate your water park business with less stress and of course, build the business to profitability.

a. Who is the Target Market for Water Park Business?

Most water parks offer entertainment and an opportunity for exercise and active leisure time for adults, teens, children, and families. The majority of water parks are still mainly aimed at children, but they are increasingly being focused on other target groups.

b. Is Water Park Business a Profitable Business?

Yes, the water park business is profitable. Available data shows that the Water Parks industry has made a big splash over the years, as industry revenue was bolstered by rising per capita disposable incomes.

c. Are There Existing Niches in the Industry?

Yes, there are existing niches when it comes to water park business and they are;

• Indoor water parks
• Outdoor water parks

d. Who are the Major Competitors?

• Noah’s Ark
• Kalahari Resort Pocono
• Aquatica, Orlando, Florida
• Schlitterbahn New Braunfels
• Water World, Federal Heights
• Alabama Splash Adventure, Bessemer
• Red Bay Water Park, Red Bay
• Oasis Water Park, Phoenix
• Crenshaw Springs Water Park, White Hall
• Casitas Water Adventure, Ventura
• Ravine Waterpark, Paso Robles
• Splash Kingdom Waterpark, Redlands
• Splash Away Bay Water Park, Middlebury
• CoCo Key Water Resort, Orlando
• Helen Water Park, Helen
• Roaring Springs Water Park, Meridian
• Paradise Bay Water Park, Lombard
• Atlantis Water Park, Clarksville
• Water Park of New England, Danvers
• Palm Island Indoor Waterpark, Batavia.

e. Are There County or State Regulations or Zoning Laws for Water Park Business?

Yes. Zoning laws require water park facility operators to follow specific rules and regulations, including some that apply only to players in the campground and water park industry. Please note that in many communities, zoning laws require water park facilities to apply for a permit from the city.

f. Is There a Franchise for Water Park Business?

Yes, there are franchise opportunities for water park businesses. Here are some of them;

• KidzMondo Water Park
• Unlimited Snow
• Water Country.

g. What Do You Need to Start Water Park Business?

• A Feasibility Report
• Business and Marketing Plans
• Business Licenses and Permits
• A Well-Equipped and Secured Water Park
• EIN (Employer Identification Number)/Federal Tax ID Number
• A Corporate Bank Account
• Operational Capital (For Ongoing Expenses)

Choose a Memorable Business Name

When looking to start a business, before you can begin to file the necessary documents with the constituted authorities or start your website, it is necessary that you come up with a name that you will be recognized with. It is essential that the name you come up with can easily be pronounced, is unique and easily memorable.

Some of the catchy business name ideas suitable for a water park business are;

Creative Water Park Business Name ideas

• Palm Avenue© Water & Game Park, Inc.
• Free Falls® Water Park, LLC
• James Harts® Water & Game Park, Inc.
• Jump Land® Water Park, Inc.
• Barry T™ Water Park, Inc.
• Spring Oak™ Water & Game Park, LLC.
• Oak Springs© Water & Game Park, LLC
• New Spring® Water & Game Park, Inc.
• Rainbow Town© Water & Game Park, Inc.
• Justin Lake© Water & Game Park, Inc.
• Ray Play® Water & Game Park, LLC
• Park House® Water & Game Park, LLC
• Magnus Greene™ Water Park, LLC
• First Port© Water Park, Inc.
• Moses Malone® Water Park, Inc.
• Play House™ Water Park, Inc.
• Speed Link™ Water & Game Park, Inc.
• Lead Way© Water & Game Park, Inc.
• Water Nest® Water & Game Park, Inc.
• Roland George™ Water & Game Park, Inc.

Register Your Business

A. what type of business structure is best for water park business.

When it comes to the business structure for the water park business, most players in this line of business consider it an LLC. It is common to consider an LLC because providers want to protect themselves from lawsuits. Please note that an LLC will need an EIN if it has employees or if it will be required to file any of the excise tax forms listed below.

b. Steps to Form an LLC

• Choose a Name for Your LLC.
• File Articles of Organization.
• Choose a registered agent.
• Decide on member vs. manager management.
• Create an LLC operating agreement.
• Comply with other tax and regulatory requirements.
• File annual reports.

c. What Type of License is Needed to Open a Water Park Business?

• General Business License
• Zonal Permits
• Signage Permit
• Operational State Facility Inspections for your facility

d. What Type of Certification is Needed to Start Water Park Business?

You don’t need any certifications to start a water park business

e. What Documents are Needed to Open Water Park Business?

• Business and liability insurance
• Federal Tax Payer’s ID
• State Permit and Building Approval (For your water park)
• Certificate of Incorporation
• Business License
• Business Plan
• Employment Agreement (offer letters)
• Operating Agreement for LLCs
• Insurance Policy
• Online Terms of Use
• Online Privacy Policy Document
• Contract Document
• Company Bylaws
• Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)

f. Do You Need a Trademark, Copyright, or Patent?

If you are considering starting a water park business, usually you may not have any need to file for intellectual property protection or trademark. This is because the nature of the business makes it possible for you to successfully run it without having any cause to challenge anybody in court for illegally making use of your company’s intellectual properties.

Cost Analysis and Budgeting

A. how much does it cost to start water park business.

A water park business will cost from $1.5 million – $10 million to start and that can easily go higher depending on your overall business goals and objectives.

b. What are the Cost Involved in Starting Water Park Business?

• Business Registration Fees – $750.
• Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits – $7,300.
• Marketing, Branding and Promotions – $5,000.
• Business Consultant Fee – $2,500.
• Insurance – $5,400.
• Rent/Lease – $1.2 million.
• Other start-up expenses include commercial satellite TV subscriptions, stationery ($500), and phone and utility deposits ($2,800).
• Operational Cost (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $60,000
• Start-up inventory – $75,000
• Store Equipment (cash register, security, ventilation, signage) – $4,750
• Furnishing and Equipping (Waters) – $1 million
• Website: $600
• Opening party: $3,000
• Miscellaneous – $2,500

c. What Factors Determine the Cost of Opening Water Park Business?

• The size of the water park business
• Other entertainment facilities
• The choice of location
• The required licenses and permits
• The cost of hiring and paying a business consultant and attorney
• The cost for branding, promotion, and marketing of the water park business
• The cost for furnishing and equipping the water park business
• The cost of the insurance policy covers
• The cost of registering the business
• Cost of recruiting and training your staff
• The cost for the purchase and customizing of uniforms
• The cost of the grand opening of the water park business

d. Do You Need to Build a Facility? If YES, How Much Will It Cost?

Yes, it is compulsory to build a new facility for your water park business, and it will cost you a minimum of $1.5 million.

e. What are the Ongoing Expenses of Water Park Business?

• Utility bills (internet subscriptions, phone bills, signage, and software renewal fees et al)
• Salaries of employees
• Maintenance
• Marketing costs

f. What is the Average Salary of your Staff?

• Chief Executive Officer (Owner) – $55,000 per year
• Water Park Facility Manager – $38,000 per year
• Accountant/Cashier – $34,0000
• Marketing and Sales Officer – $32,000 per year
• Attendants (5) – $30,000 per year
• Customer Care Executive/Front Desk Officer – $23,396 per year
• Cleaners – $18,000 per year
• Security Officers – $21,150 per year

g. How Do You Get Funding to Start a Water Park Business?

• Raising money from personal savings and sale of personal stocks and properties
• Raising money from investors and business partners
• Sell shares to interested investors
• Applying for a loan from your bank/banks
• Pitching your business idea and applying for business grants and seed funding from the government, donor organizations, and angel investors
• Source for soft loans from your family members and friends.

Write a Business Plan

A. executive summary.

Water Nest® Water Parks, Inc. is a standard and well-equipped amusement cum water park business that will be located in a growing community in Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater – Florida. Water Nest® Water Parks, Inc. has a big selection of slides for all ages. Extreme speed slides, open and closed slides, Twisters, Black Holes, Turbo, Free Fall, and Kamikaze slides are just a few that can be experienced.

Speed slides with mats offer the more competitive visitors a chance to race with their friends. Family slides allow for family bonding where parents and their children can make memories together in the water. Children can play and explore in multiple areas including a cave, inflatable, obstacle course, splash fountains, pirate-themed play area, and many other kid-specific attractions.

b. Products and Service

• Operating water-play areas, such as waterslides, splash pads, spray – grounds (water playgrounds), lazy rivers, or other recreational bathing, swimming, and barefooting environments et al
• Operating water attractions
• Operating recreational bathing facilities
• Selling merchandise
• Selling food and beverages

c. Mission Statement

Our mission for establishing Water Nest® Water Park, Inc. is to become an innovative leader in the family entertainment industry. We bring new and exciting attractions to our locations, focusing on guest experience and promoting positive, forward-thinking company culture.

Vision Statement

Our vision is to build a world-class outdoor water park facility that is going to be more than just a water park but a place where families make memories together in a safe, fun, clean and affordable environment.

d. Goals and Objectives

The goals and objectives of the water park business are to provide a safe and secured recreational facility for children and adults.

e. Organizational Structure

• Chief Executive Officer (Owner)
• Water Park Facility Manager
• Accountant/Cashier
• Marketing and Sales Officer
• Attendants (5)
• Customer Care Executive/Front Desk Officer
• Security Officers

Marketing Plan

A. swot analysis.

• Ideal Location for water park facility
• Highly Experienced and Qualified Employees and Management
• Availability of additional entertainment service offerings and facilities
• Highly Secured and Clean Facility
• Excellent operational history
• Not enough existing clientele to run at full capacity immediately
• The owner is new to large-scale marketing
• We will need a loan to build our facility
• The owner is currently running the business solo and will need to manage construction/build out the existing business
• Lack of economies of scale.

Opportunities:

• Growing numbers of families in our location.
• Build upon existing clientele
• Online market, new services, new technology, and of course the opening of new markets.
• Favorable government policies.
• Loans diminish profitability until they are paid off
• The first year will be financially tight while we gain customers and pay off loans
• Competition in the area could increase
• Management of employees requires time, money, and efforts
• Economic downturn; when the economy is bad it affects consumers’ spending which in turn impacts businesses negatively.

b. How Do Water Park Businesses Make Money?

Water parks make money by charging admission fees, but they also earn revenue through sales of food and beverages, souvenirs, and merchandise.

c. Payment Options

• Payment via on-the-counter bank transfer
• Payment with cash
• Payment via credit cards
• Payment via online bank transfer
• Payment via check
• Payment via mobile money transfer

d. Sales & Advertising Strategies

• Introduce your water park by sending introductory letters to schools, households, and other stakeholders in and around your city
• Open your water park with a party so as to capture the attention of residents who are your first targets
• Advertise your water park on national dailies, local TV and radio stations
• Promote your water park online via your official website and all available social media platforms
• Hire the services of experts to make your brands the first choice in your city
• Make your first impression count positively
• Make use of attractive handbills to create awareness and also to give direction to your water park
• Adopt a direct mailing coupon marketing approach
• Position your signage/Flexi banners at strategic places
• Create a loyalty plan that will enable you to reward your regular customers

Financial Projection

A. how much should you charge for your service.

The price of the water parks differs from park to park and for an hour, the average cost is $10 to $20 for teens.

b. How Much Profit Do Water Park Business Owners Make a Year?

It depends, but the available report shows that on average, a successful water park owner can make from $75,000 to $150,000 a year. A successful water park itself can make over two hundred thousand dollars depending on its popularity, location, and assets.

c. What Factors Determine the Amount of Profit to Be Made?

• The capacity of the water park
• The types of related services and products offerings
• The location of the water park
• The management style of the water park
• The business approach of the water park
• The advertising and marketing strategies adopted by the water park
• The number of years the water park is in business

d. What is the Profit Margin of Water Park Business?

The profit margin of a water park business is not fixed. It could range from 15 percent to 25 percent depending on the service offering.

e. What is the Sales Forecast?

Below is the sales forecast for the water park business. It is based on the location of the business and other factors as it relates to such startups in the United States;

• First Fiscal Year (FY1): $550,000
• Second Fiscal Year (FY2): $750,000
• Third Fiscal Year (FY3): $1.5 million

Set Up your Office

A. how do you choose a perfect location for water park business.

• The demography of the location especially as it relates to the number of children and families
• The purchasing power of businesses and the residents of the location
• Accessibility of the location
• The number of water parks and other family entertainment facilities in the location
• The local laws and regulations in the community/state
• Traffic, parking and security et al

b. What State and City are Best for Opening a Water Park Business?

• Long Beach, Washington
• Dandridge, Tennessee
• Mountain Home, Idaho
• Custer, South Dakota
• Theodore, Alabama
• Roswell, New Mexico
• Paso Robles, California
• Grand Island, New York
• Canyonville, Oregon
• Cedar City, Utah

c. What Equipment is Needed to Operate Water Park Business?

You should be prepared to purchase water slides, splash pads, water playgrounds, water pumps, flow channels, drainages, and safety gadgets et al. You will also need computers and laptops, an internet facility, telephone, fax machine and office furniture (chairs, tables, and shelves) amongst others and all these can be gotten as fairly used.

Hire Employees

When it comes to hiring employees for a standard water park, you should make plans to hire a competent chief executive officer (you can occupy this position), facility manager, marketing and sales executive (business developer), accountant, attendants, cleaners, and security officers.

Launch the Business Proper

No water park opens its door for business without first organizing an opening party to officially launch the business. You can choose to do a soft opening if you are operating on a low budget or you can choose to go for a grand opening party.

With a proper launching of the water park business, you will be able to officially inform people in your city that your water park is open for business.

a. What Makes Water Park Business Successful?

• Choose a good and secured location to launch the business
• Make use of reliable water slides, splash pads, water playgrounds, waters flow channels, and water pumps
• Hire only competent, hardworking, and trustworthy staff
• Throw an open house grand party before officially opening the water park business
• Be deliberate with your marketing sales approach
• Encourage the use of word of mouth to promote your water park business
• Leverage all available online and offline platforms to promote your water park business

b. What Happens During a Typical Day at Water Park Business?

• The facility is open for the day
• Administrative work is done concurrently
• The facility is cleaned, arranged, and ready to welcome patrons
• The water slides, splash pads, and water playgrounds are properly positioned and ready for use
• Service points are activated and ready to serve customers
• Maintenance of the facility is carried out
• The facility is administratively closed for the day.

c. What Skills and Experience Do You Need to Build Water Park Business?

• Good facility management skills
• Customer services skills
• Interpersonal skill
• Business management skills
• Bargaining skill
• Work experience in the family entertainment and water park industry
• Experience in managing people
• Experience in business administration.

More on Hospitality

How to Start a Waterpark

Amusement parks are a popular vacation destination for families all over the world. Few things are more exhilarating than experiencing the rides, laughing and screaming as you make your way to the bottom. Couple that with water, and you have a family friendly adventure for individuals of all ages.

Learn how to start your own Waterpark and whether it is the right fit for you.

Ready to form your LLC? Check out the Top LLC Formation Services .

Start a waterpark by following these 10 steps:

• Plan your Waterpark
• Form your Waterpark into a Legal Entity
• Register your Waterpark for Taxes
• Open a Business Bank Account & Credit Card
• Set up Accounting for your Waterpark
• Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your Waterpark
• Get Waterpark Insurance
• Define your Waterpark Brand
• Create your Waterpark Website
• Set up your Business Phone System

We have put together this simple guide to starting your waterpark. These steps will ensure that your new business is well planned out, registered properly and legally compliant.

Exploring your options? Check out other small business ideas .

STEP 1: Plan your business

A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns. A few important topics to consider are:

What will you name your business?

• What are the startup and ongoing costs?
• Who is your target market?

How much can you charge customers?

Luckily we have done a lot of this research for you.

Choosing the right name is important and challenging. If you don’t already have a name in mind, visit our How to Name a Business guide or get help brainstorming a name with our Waterpark Name Generator

If you operate a sole proprietorship , you might want to operate under a business name other than your own name. Visit our DBA guide to learn more.

When registering a business name , we recommend researching your business name by checking:

• Your state's business records
• Federal and state trademark records
• Social media platforms
• Web domain availability .

It's very important to secure your domain name before someone else does.

Want some help naming your waterpark?

Business name generator, what are the costs involved in opening a waterpark.

Costs associated with taking on such an endeavor will depend largely on your short and long-term goals for the park. Your first, and most important investment, will be in land. When choosing your location, carefully research the areas you’re considering. Choose a well-populated areas, centrally located for easy customer access. If your vision is to operate a large tourist attraction, choose a city with an airport. Visitors arriving from other states, cities, and countries will be ready to start their experience. If they have to travel several additional hours to get to their final destination, they may decide to make other plans. Experienced waterpark owners recommend purchasing between 8 and 15 acres of land, depending upon what type of waterpark you plan to build:

• Indoor parks average approximately 8-10 acres, with an average building size of almost 25,000 square feet.
• Outdoor parks require 13-15 acres
• An indoor-outdoor facility would need 9-12 acres, with an average building size of 23,000 square feet.

Once you’ve purchased the land, meet with an experienced consultant and contractor to begin the planning process.

Construction costs will vary depending upon how large of a facility you wish to build and where in the country you’re building, but average between $250 and $600 per square foot. Reports indicate an indoor park with 2720 square feet would set you back almost $690,000. Included in these costs are: building, HVAC, pools, mechanical, snack bar, supporting areas, theming, and waterslides and recreation equipment. For the same construction services, a 9450 square foot indoor park would run close to $2.5 million, averaging $273 per square foot. Owners of exclusively outdoor park report startup costs of approximately $1.5 million.

Do not let these numbers discourage you. To save on costs, many park owners purchase enough land to fulfill their vision, but start out with the essentials that fit into their budget. As business picks up, they invest a portion of their profit back into the business, adding attractions over time. In addition to saving your startup budget, this also helps retain customers. Families are excited to return, as they're anxious to see what’s new. They start to feel as though they’re part of the process and will develop a loyalty that is unmatchable.

What are the ongoing expenses for a waterpark?

It’s difficult to quantify a park’s ongoing expenses, as there are a number of factors that directly influence these numbers.  The following are items you should include in your monthly budget:

• Maintenance of attractions, facility, and equipment - a preventative and predictive maintenance program can save you tens of thousands of dollars.  
• Utilities and chemicals -this, combined with maintenance, averages approximately 8-12% of your operational costs.
• Construction of new attractions
• Operational supplies - 3-5% of your budget
• Ongoing training for staff
• Payroll - personnel costs will comprise 50-80% of your operational budget, depending upon the size, hours of operations, and staffing levels required to maintain a safe customer experience.

Who is the target market?

Many parks cater to the needs of customers spanning every age group. For some, tourists encompass a large portion of their customer base. For others, local families, teens, and young adults are the focus of their marketing efforts.

How does a waterpark make money?

Waterparks charge an admission for each visitor that enters. Many offer additional activities and services--like food and equipment rentals--which improve visitor satisfaction and profit potential.

Some parks charge a flat admission fee, regardless of age (2 and under free) while others offer special pricing depending upon age or height. If you have quite a few rides whose height requirements would exclude a large group of customers, consider doing the latter. Some parks charge an across the board average $43 per person. Pricing based on age/height is approximately: 48" and taller - $35, under 48” - $27, senior and military - $17. Fees include admission into the park and unlimited water slide rides. Customers are charged extra for additional services and attractions.

How much profit can a waterpark make?

This industry has realized significant growth over the last decade and is expected to continue at approximately 3.5% annually. While there are is no published information regarding a water park’s potential profit, research does indicate that over 375 million guests visit these establishments in the United States each year. With a meticulous operational strategy in place, your park can earn a piece of this multi-billion dollar industry’s profits.

How can you make your business more profitable?

Many parks expand their goods and services to include more than just water slides/rides. To make your business more profitable, consider implementing some of these strategies:

• Make it a true vacation destination by building a hotel as part of the water park.   
• For a nominal fee, allow local businesses to display signage in the parking lot and throughout the park.
• From the onset, invest in water recycling and energy efficiency programs.  Your initial costs will be greater, but you’ll save a significant amount of money over time.
• Offer group rates, state resident discounts, and annual passes
• Include extra services for an additional fee - cabanas, lockers, souvenirs, food, and private party rooms.
• Provide additional entertainment, such as mini-golf, go-carts, climbing walls, bumper boats, and a gaming and redemption center.
• Offer retail space for tenants to lease.  This will help reduce your overhead expenses as you support other businesses within the community.
• Host special events during your “off” season.  Many parks build haunted houses during Halloween, drawing a significant number of guests each day.

Rather than building a concrete park, make Mother Nature your park.  Entrepreneurs have found success opening establishments like Bob’s River Place , where visitors can float on rafts, rope swing, slide, jump in platform, log roll, water volleyball, grill, and picnic. Startup and ongoing expenses will be a fraction of the cost, as you use natural resources to your advantage.

Want a more guided approach? Access TRUiC's free Small Business Startup Guide - a step-by-step course for turning your business idea into reality. Get started today!

STEP 2: Form a legal entity

The most common business structure types are the sole proprietorship , partnership , limited liability company (LLC) , and corporation .

Establishing a legal business entity such as an LLC or corporation protects you from being held personally liable if your waterpark is sued.

Form Your LLC

Read our Guide to Form Your Own LLC

Have a Professional Service Form your LLC for You

Two such reliable services:

You can form an LLC yourself and pay only the minimal state LLC costs or hire one of the Best LLC Services for a small, additional fee.

Recommended: You will need to elect a registered agent for your LLC. LLC formation packages usually include a free year of registered agent services . You can choose to hire a registered agent or act as your own.

STEP 3: Register for taxes

You will need to register for a variety of state and federal taxes before you can open for business.

In order to register for taxes you will need to apply for an EIN. It's really easy and free!

You can acquire your EIN through the IRS website . If you would like to learn more about EINs, read our article, What is an EIN?

There are specific state taxes that might apply to your business. Learn more about state sales tax and franchise taxes in our state sales tax guides.

STEP 4: Open a business bank account & credit card

Using dedicated business banking and credit accounts is essential for personal asset protection.

When your personal and business accounts are mixed, your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk in the event your business is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing your corporate veil .

Open a business bank account

Besides being a requirement when applying for business loans, opening a business bank account:

• Separates your personal assets from your company's assets, which is necessary for personal asset protection.
• Makes accounting and tax filing easier.

Recommended: Read our Best Banks for Small Business review to find the best national bank or credit union.

Get a business credit card

Getting a business credit card helps you:

• Separate personal and business expenses by putting your business' expenses all in one place.
• Build your company's credit history , which can be useful to raise money later on.

Recommended: Apply for an easy approval business credit card from BILL and build your business credit quickly.

STEP 5: Set up business accounting

Recording your various expenses and sources of income is critical to understanding the financial performance of your business. Keeping accurate and detailed accounts also greatly simplifies your annual tax filing.

Make LLC accounting easy with our LLC Expenses Cheat Sheet.

STEP 6: Obtain necessary permits and licenses

Failure to acquire necessary permits and licenses can result in hefty fines, or even cause your business to be shut down.

State & Local Business Licensing Requirements

Certain state permits and licenses may be needed to operate a waterpark. Learn more about licensing requirements in your state by visiting SBA’s reference to state licenses and permits .

Most businesses are required to collect sales tax on the goods or services they provide. To learn more about how sales tax will affect your business, read our article, Sales Tax for Small Businesses .

Certificate of Occupancy

A waterpark is generally run out of a large outdoor or indoor space. Businesses operating out of a physical location typically require a Certificate of Occupancy (CO). A CO confirms that all building codes, zoning laws and government regulations have been met.

• If you plan to lease a location:
• It is generally the landlord’s responsibility to obtain a CO.
• Before leasing, confirm that your landlord has or can obtain a valid CO that is applicable to a waterpark.
• After a major renovation, a new CO often needs to be issued. If your place of business will be renovated before opening, it is recommended to include language in your lease agreement stating that lease payments will not commence until a valid CO is issued.

STEP 7: Get business insurance

Just as with licenses and permits, your business needs insurance in order to operate safely and lawfully. Business Insurance protects your company’s financial wellbeing in the event of a covered loss.

There are several types of insurance policies created for different types of businesses with different risks. If you’re unsure of the types of risks that your business may face, begin with General Liability Insurance . This is the most common coverage that small businesses need, so it’s a great place to start for your business.

Another notable insurance policy that many businesses need is Workers’ Compensation Insurance . If your business will have employees, it’s a good chance that your state will require you to carry Workers' Compensation Coverage.

FInd out what types of insurance your Waterpark needs and how much it will cost you by reading our guide Business Insurance for Waterpark.

STEP 8: Define your brand

Your brand is what your company stands for, as well as how your business is perceived by the public. A strong brand will help your business stand out from competitors.

If you aren't feeling confident about designing your small business logo, then check out our Design Guides for Beginners , we'll give you helpful tips and advice for creating the best unique logo for your business.

Recommended : Get a logo using Truic's free logo Generator no email or sign up required, or use a Premium Logo Maker .

If you already have a logo, you can also add it to a QR code with our Free QR Code Generator . Choose from 13 QR code types to create a code for your business cards and publications, or to help spread awareness for your new website.

How to promote & market a waterpark

As with any business “growing up” in these technological times, it’s critical that you maintain an online presence. This is a great tool for keeping current and future customers informed of the latest news, exclusive deals, and special events. Ads in local and surrounding area newspapers, radio, and television are also a great way to get the park’s name recognized in the community. If your goal is to attract tourists, develop relationships with travel agents and hotel management, as they’re often the ones helping families plan their vacation. Additionally, most state welcome centers have an area dedicated to local attractions; leave pamphlets for visitors passing through. Be sure to list your park in the World Waterpark Association’s Directory, which should help reach customers you might not normally come in contact with.

How to keep customers coming back

Every successful entrepreneur knows that word of mouth can be your best friend or your worst enemy. Work to establish a positive reputation for the park by offering a safe, clean, and fun retreat for your customers. If someone expresses disappointment, do everything in your power to turn their bad experience into a good one. This level of service ensures your customers will keep coming back and will, hopefully, bring all their friends.

STEP 9: Create your business website

After defining your brand and creating your logo the next step is to create a website for your business .

While creating a website is an essential step, some may fear that it’s out of their reach because they don’t have any website-building experience. While this may have been a reasonable fear back in 2015, web technology has seen huge advancements in the past few years that makes the lives of small business owners much simpler.

Here are the main reasons why you shouldn’t delay building your website:

• All legitimate businesses have websites - full stop. The size or industry of your business does not matter when it comes to getting your business online.
• Social media accounts like Facebook pages or LinkedIn business profiles are not a replacement for a business website that you own.
• Website builder tools like the GoDaddy Website Builder have made creating a basic website extremely simple. You don’t need to hire a web developer or designer to create a website that you can be proud of.

Recommended : Get started today using our recommended website builder or check out our review of the Best Website Builders .

Other popular website builders are: WordPress , WIX , Weebly , Squarespace , and Shopify .

STEP 10: Set up your business phone system

Getting a phone set up for your business is one of the best ways to help keep your personal life and business life separate and private. That’s not the only benefit; it also helps you make your business more automated, gives your business legitimacy, and makes it easier for potential customers to find and contact you.

There are many services available to entrepreneurs who want to set up a business phone system. We’ve reviewed the top companies and rated them based on price, features, and ease of use. Check out our review of the Best Business Phone Systems 2023 to find the best phone service for your small business.

Recommended Business Phone Service: Phone.com

Phone.com is our top choice for small business phone numbers because of all the features it offers for small businesses and it's fair pricing.

Is this Business Right For You?

Entrepreneurs with previous small business ownership or management would be best suited for this business venture. Innovators who enjoy a fast-paced atmosphere and are dedicated to reinvesting a portion of their profits can turn a small waterpark into a million dollar enterprise in a matter of years.

Want to know if you are cut out to be an entrepreneur?

Take our Entrepreneurship Quiz to find out!

Entrepreneurship Quiz

What happens during a typical day at a waterpark?

When introducing your waterpark, you’ll want to take an active role in most aspects of the business. Your park will be frequented by customers of all ages - safety should be the top priority at all times. As you gain a better understanding of the intricacies of running a business of this magnitude, you can start building an experienced and knowledgeable management team to relieve you of some of your duties. Most days you’ll either perform the following duties, or delegate them to a valued team member:

• Make sure the park and parking lot are clean at all times
• Build relationships with vendors and place orders whenever necessary
• Conduct regular health and safety checks throughout the park
• Manage your staff
• Manage the customer experience
• Network within the community and industry
• Market your park
• Strategically plan and implement strategies to continuously improve employee and visitor satisfaction
• Research and develop new concepts to expand the park
• Liaise with contractors and other professionals to implement new concepts
• Oversee personnel and/or human resources
• Track industry trends, including legislation, on a national and local level and monitor the competition
• Build relationship with members of the community. Work with them to alleviate any issues or concerns they might have
• Set budgetary and financial strategies and oversee the organization’s finances

Before opening your business, draft a business plan that outlines your vision for the park. Consider how large of a role you wish to take in running the business, as well as your growth goals for the park.

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful waterpark?

Owning a water park requires a high level of business finesse and leadership skills. Everyone you surround yourself with, from park builders to management and staff, will be instrumental in defining success. Therefore, it’s critical for you to be adept at identifying and employing individuals whose intentions align with the company’s mission.

While knowledge of business and/or hospitality management would prove beneficial, prior experience in customer service is invaluable to your business’ success. Leaders must be skilled in communicating with and motivating staff, and should be decisive and resourceful in making business decisions. This industry demands constant innovation. Thus, many park owners have prior experience in design, often viewing the park’s attractions as a form of art.

Those considering entering this industry are urged to gain firsthand experience. This will offer invaluable insight into who your target audience is and what they’re looking for in a waterpark experience. Additionally, membership with the World Waterpark Association would prove beneficial. Members have access to educational resources, annual symposiums, suppliers, and much more.

What is the growth potential for a waterpark?

While a majority of U.S. waterparks start out small, many entrepreneurs are now realizing the profit potential behind consistent park expansion. Those offering customers a well-rounded experience are able to attract visitors from all over the world. Over the last five years, park owners have expanded their business strategy to encompass international markets. Regions such as Asia are virtually untapped, while the demand is high. Assuming the park is well-managed and maintained, business owners have the potential to realize long-term growth and success, regardless of how modest or grandiose their vision for the park is.

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Take the Next Step

Find a business mentor.

One of the greatest resources an entrepreneur can have is quality mentorship. As you start planning your business, connect with a free business resource near you to get the help you need.

Having a support network in place to turn to during tough times is a major factor of success for new business owners.

Learn from other business owners

Want to learn more about starting a business from entrepreneurs themselves? Visit Startup Savant’s startup founder series to gain entrepreneurial insights, lessons, and advice from founders themselves.

Resources to Help Women in Business

There are many resources out there specifically for women entrepreneurs. We’ve gathered necessary and useful information to help you succeed both professionally and personally:

If you’re a woman looking for some guidance in entrepreneurship, check out this great new series Women in Business created by the women of our partner Startup Savant.

What are some insider tips for jump starting a waterpark?

The following are some tips from successful waterpark owners:

• Cleanliness is paramount to your business’ success. Remember - first impressions can make or break you, so include the parking lot in your cleaning and maintenance plan.
• Provide ample parking and ensure your customers’ security at all times by having plenty of lighting.
• Don’t limit yourself to just water slides. Lazy rivers can be enjoyed by consumers of all ages.
• Offer a wide range of additional activities to draw in the individuals who need a break from the fun in the sun. Depending upon the specifics, you could experience seasonal fluctuations. Indoor activities will help ensure year round business.
• Invest in state of the art technology and continuously research to ensure you’re on the forefront of the latest trends.
• Build your park in an area that’s easily accessible and with high traffic areas to maximize public exposure.
• Work with a consultant who can help design a facility with overcrowding in mind.
• Hire an experienced management team.

How and when to build a team

Unlike other small businesses, you will not be able to operate the water park alone. Start the hiring process several months before opening day. Safety is your top priority; invest in your team by offering them quality training on safety standards, CPR, and standard operational practices. Since customers will often be children and teenagers, many parks strategically employ high school and college students, as they’re more easily relatable. Your entire team will consist of several subsets, including:

• Trained medical staff to handle light emergencies
• Game attendants
• Water park hosts
• Special event hosts
• Ticketing clerks
• Vendors/servers - for food, drink, and novelty items
• Administrative staff
• Facilities management - a FM team can help ensure the facility runs efficiently and economically

Useful Links

Industry opportunities.

• World Waterpark 
• Company that builds waterpark/pool equipment
• Successful franchise waterpark
• Learn about more Family Fun Business Ideas!

Real World Examples

• Splash Universe resort
• Jump Island Water Park

Further Reading

• Steps to follow when starting a water park
• Profile on a water park
• Explore more Entertaintment based Business Ideas

Have a Question? Leave a Comment!

Sample Water Park Business Plan

A water park business plan guide comes in handy in your bid to establish your operations. Without this tool, you’ll have a hard time writing a detailed plan.

Here, we’ve only focused on guiding while you figure out what specific information to add about your business.

WATER PARK BUSINESS PLAN SAMPLE

Amusement parks are places where a lot of people go to catch fun and wind down.

Need to write a plan for your venture? Download a FREE Business Plan PDF Sample to develop a template for your own startup.

If you’re drawn to, or passionate about floating a business in the amusement sector , a water park will be a great idea. From the topic above, it’s obvious that we’re focusing on how to help you strategize.

Business Plan Outline

This point cannot be over-stressed enough. Your water park business concept will require strategic planning.

In writing your plan, certain key segments must be included. These capture major actions needed and must be explained comprehensively.

You need your water park business plan to be comprehensive enough as well as implementable. This article is all about helping you achieve your goal of setting up a successful business operation.

Key segments include the executive summary, company description, products & services, and market analysis.

There’s also the strategy & implementation section, organization & management team as well as the financial plan & projection sections.

i. Executive Summary

The contents of your water park business plan should be condensed in the executive summary section. This is a brief overview of what the plan is about. This section is all about informing the reader and also holding their attention.

Without a well laid-out executive summary section, there’s little curiosity (if any at all) on the part of the reader. This situation could negatively impact your ability to generate or attract funding. However, you don’t have to be afraid as we’re here to help.

You cannot exclude certain sections in your executive summary. They include business name & location, services offered, mission & vision statements, and its purpose.

Business Name & Location

By way of introduction, your water park business name will need to be stated.

Apart from its name, readers of your plan need to also know where it’s located. By clearly stating this, you’re laying the groundwork for comprehension of the business concept and why it exists.

Remember, explanations don’t need to be drawn-out but should be limited as more details will be provided in other sections of the plan.

Services Offered

You’ll need to mention the range of services offered by your water park business. Such may include a water fountain, rain dance, waterfall, water slide, swimming pool, and so on. You wish to let the reader know about what the client gets when they pay a visit.

This has to be a carefully thought-out process because water park businesses are quite competitive. Is there anything unique about your services?

Mission & Vision Statements

Your mission statement is basically a summary of your aims and values. It sets or charts the way forward for all employees of the business.

The vision statement of your water park business should seek to inspire. It gives a feel of what you intend your clients to experience whenever they come-calling.

Purpose of the Plan

Without purpose, launching a water park business will be an act in futility as you’d hardly experience meaningful progress.

Given its importance, your business plan should have a purpose. Such a purpose should be highlighted in this section.

ii. Company Description

Under the executive summary, you started a brief description of your water park business. Here, such a description is provided in greater detail. You’ll need to include information on the legal structure adopted, and also a brief history.

Every business has a need or demands it seeks to fill. State yours under this section. Also include information on your services as well as your target customers. Is your water park business already in existence? Give a summary of its growth including market & financial highlights.

What are your short and long-term goals? Include such information too. More importantly, you want to show your reader how you plan to make a profit.

iii. Services Offered

What services do you intend to offer? A clear description of these is needed here. Also, you’ll need to provide information on how such services will be of benefit to your clients. Other details such as service cost, as well as projected revenues, should be added.

You will need to have a graphical representation of projected revenue. What’s the market role of your type of business? Do you have any competitive advantages? If there are any research & development activities aimed at improving your services, state those under this section.

iv. Market Analysis

To set up a thriving operation, you’ll need to have a detailed market analysis. Such analysis should cover key areas of your operations. These include your targeted customer segments, description of the industry as well as its outlook.

Additional details should include historical, current, and projected marketing data. The market analysis section of your water park business plan should also assess your competitors. What are their strengths and weaknesses?

v. Strategy & Implementation

Strategy and implementation are largely about sales & marketing strategy. More important is how you wish to implement such sales & marketing strategies. You’ll need to explain how your water park business will be promoted to customers.

Fuller details on pricing, costs as well as promotions must be provided here. Information on the number of employees you wish to hire, sources of labor, as well as your operating hours, must be added here.

vi. Organization & Management Team

The secret to establishing a thriving water park business depends on your team. This is why you need to be extra cautious of how you engage members of the team. Have an organizational chart that describes key employees or members of your management team.

Also include their profile with details such as names, positions filled, their roles as well as prior experience. Ownership data is also necessary. Include the name(s) of the owner(s), percentage ownership as well as background and skills.

vii. Financial Plan & Projections

If you have no financial expertise, consider seeking the help of a professional. This section of your water park business plan should include historical information on income statements, cash flow statements (covering a 5-year period), and balance sheets.

There should be measured or realistic projected financial data on income statements, balance sheets, cash flow statements, and capital expenditure budgets.

This water park business plan guide is all you need to piece together an effective business plan. You only need to develop on the key areas provided above.

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Water Park Business Idea Description in 5 W’s and 1 H Format

By alex ryzhkov, resources on water park.

• Financial Model
• Business Plan
• Value Proposition
• One-Page Business Plan
• SWOT Analysis
• Business Model
• Marketing Plan
• Bundle Business Plan & Fin Model

Are you ready for a splash of excitement in the heart of Orlando, Florida? Get ready to dive into the thrilling world of water park adventures as we unpack the innovative business idea that is making waves in the industry. Offering the perfect blend of fun and flexibility, this water park venture caters to water park enthusiasts of all ages. With a pay-per-ride or pay-per-day model, customers can tailor their experience to their liking, ensuring maximum enjoyment. But it doesn't stop there - this venture aims to make a big splash in the summer of 2024, strategically timed to captivate a wide audience. With revenue generated through ticket sales, food and beverage offerings, and rentals, this business model is set to make a big splash in the market. But what sets this venture apart? Strategic partnerships, advanced ticketing systems, and targeted marketing efforts will ensure a seamless operation, delivering an unforgettable experience to every visitor. With the US water park market size reaching a staggering XX billion dollars, the potential for success is undeniable. So, grab your swimwear and get ready to embark on an aquatic journey like no other. Dive into this article as we answer the 'Who? What? Where? When? Why? and How?' of this exciting water park business idea, backed by the latest statistical data and real-life numbers. Don't miss out on the opportunity to make a splash in the industry - read on to uncover the secrets behind this gripping venture.

Key Takeaways

• The water park venture targets water park enthusiasts in Orlando, Florida.
• It operates under a pay-per-ride or pay-per-day model, offering flexibility to customers.
• Revenue is generated through ticket sales, food and beverage sales, and rentals.
• The venture will launch in the summer of 2024 to maximize customer engagement.
• Strategic partnerships, advanced ticketing systems, and targeted marketing efforts will be utilized to ensure a seamless operation.

The hypothetical water park business idea targets water park enthusiasts, both locals and tourists, who are seeking a flexible and convenient experience without committing to long-term memberships or subscriptions.

The major players in this venture include the owners and personnel of the water park, as well as advisors who provide guidance and expertise in the water park industry.

• The owners, who may include individuals or a group of investors, are responsible for the overall management and strategic decisions of the water park.
• The personnel of the water park consist of various employees such as lifeguards, ride operators, food service staff, retail staff, and maintenance workers who ensure smooth operations and provide exceptional customer service.
• The advisors are industry experts who provide valuable insights and guidance on aspects such as park design, safety regulations, marketing strategies, and financial planning to maximize the success of the water park.

The target audience for this business plan is water park enthusiasts, both locals and tourists. The ideal clients are individuals, families, and groups of friends who enjoy water park experiences and are looking for a flexible and convenient option without committing to long-term memberships or subscriptions.

Knowing the target consumer is crucial for the success of the business. By understanding the preferences and needs of water park enthusiasts, the venture can tailor its offerings, marketing strategies, and ticket options to attract and retain customers. Striving to create memorable experiences for visitors, the water park aims to become a top choice for both locals and tourists in Orlando, Florida.

The Water Park venture is a unique and flexible recreational experience for water park enthusiasts in Orlando, Florida. We aim to provide an alternative to long-term memberships and subscriptions by offering a pay-per-ride or pay-per-day model.

Sustainable Advantage

Our sustainable advantage lies in the flexibility and convenience we offer to both locals and tourists. By eliminating the need for long-term commitments, we cater to individuals who prefer to choose their desired attractions on a day-to-day basis, optimizing their experience at our park.

What We Offer

We offer a thrilling water park experience where customers pay a fixed price to enter the park and then have the flexibility to purchase individual ride tickets or day tickets to access all the attractions within the park. Our park boasts a wide range of exhilarating rides and attractions, ensuring something for everyone to enjoy.

What We Produce

Our primary product is an unforgettable water park experience. We produce a safe and entertaining environment where individuals can indulge in water-based activities, experience thrilling rides, and create lasting memories with friends and family.

Business Objectives

• Short-term goal: Achieve a customer base of 10,000 within the first month of operation.
• Long-term goal: Generate $1,000,000 in revenue by the end of the second month.

The water park venture is located in the vibrant city of Orlando, Florida, which is renowned for its thriving tourism industry and numerous popular water parks. The specific address of the park is 123 Water Park Lane, Orlando, FL 32819.

Target Audience

The target audience for this business idea is water park enthusiasts, both locals and tourists, who are seeking a flexible and convenient experience without committing to long-term memberships or subscriptions. The park aims to cater to individuals and families who enjoy visiting water parks for recreational purposes and are looking for a hassle-free visit.

New Opportunities

Being situated in Orlando provides a unique advantage to tap into the continuous flow of tourists visiting the city. The water park venture seeks to leverage the city's reputation as a popular tourist destination by offering a pay-per-ride or pay-per-day model, providing an alternative to long-term memberships that may not be suitable for short-term visitors or those who want more flexibility.

The park's location also opens up opportunities for partnerships and collaborations with local tourism organizations, hotels, and travel agencies. By forming strategic alliances, the water park can be promoted as a must-visit attraction for tourists, increasing its visibility and attracting a larger customer base.

From Here to There

To establish this water park venture in Orlando, strategic steps need to be taken. First and foremost, securing the necessary permits and licenses from local authorities is crucial. This will involve collaborating with city officials, ensuring compliance with safety and health regulations, and obtaining the required certifications.

The next step will be to secure a suitable plot of land for the water park. Considering the high demand for water parks in Orlando, extensive market research will be necessary to identify available locations and assess their feasibility. Negotiating leases, purchasing land, or forming partnerships with existing water parks could be potential avenues to acquire the desired space.

Once the location is secured, the construction and design phase will commence. Collaborating with architects, engineers, and construction companies will be essential to bring the vision of the water park to life. This will involve creating a diverse range of attractions, designing engaging and safe environments, and incorporating innovative features to captivate visitors.

Simultaneously, partnerships with local suppliers and vendors will be established to ensure a seamless operation. This will involve sourcing high-quality food and beverages, retail merchandise, and rental equipment such as lockers, tubes, and cabanas. By working with local businesses, the water park can contribute to the growth and development of the surrounding community while providing an exceptional experience for its customers.

Investing in advanced ticketing systems and marketing efforts will also be crucial. Implementing an efficient online ticketing platform will allow customers to conveniently purchase tickets, whether it be individual ride tickets or day tickets, and access the park's attractions. Marketing initiatives targeting both local residents and tourists will help create awareness, generate interest, and attract a wide customer base to the water park venture.

Overall, by strategically navigating the process outlined above, the water park venture can successfully establish itself in Orlando, Florida, offering a flexible and convenient experience for water park enthusiasts while capitalizing on the city's bustling tourism industry.

The water park venture is set to launch in the summer of 2024, taking advantage of the peak tourist season and maximizing customer engagement. This timing allows us to attract both locals and tourists who are seeking a refreshing and exciting outdoor activity during the hot summer months. By opening during the peak season, we can generate immediate interest and establish a strong customer base.

Business Start

We intend to start our business in the summer of 2024, specifically in the month of June. This is when the weather in Orlando, Florida, is at its hottest, making it the perfect time for people to visit water parks to cool off and enjoy water-based activities. By opening during this time, we can capture the attention of both locals and tourists looking for a fun way to beat the heat.

Meeting Goals

Our primary short-term objective is to achieve a high level of customer satisfaction and establish a positive reputation within the water park industry. We aim to accomplish this within the first year of operation. By providing a flexible and convenient experience, we expect to attract a steady stream of visitors throughout the year and build a loyal customer base.

In the long-term, our goal is to become one of the top water parks in Orlando and be recognized as a must-visit destination for water park enthusiasts. We anticipate achieving this objective within five years of operation. By consistently offering new and exciting attractions, maintaining high operational standards, and providing excellent customer service, we aim to secure a strong position in the market.

Retirement and Departure Strategy

In terms of retirement, we envision a long-term commitment to the water park venture. However, we understand the importance of planning for the future. Our retirement plan is to sell the business after twenty years of successful operation, specifically in the year 2044. This timeline allows us to build a sustainable and profitable business that can be passed on to a new owner who can continue its success.

When the time comes to retire and sell the business, we will work with experienced brokers to find the right buyer who shares our vision and values. It is crucial for us to ensure a smooth transition and maintain the quality and reputation of the water park. We will provide comprehensive training to the new owner and assist in the transfer of all operational and administrative processes.

In the event that selling the business is not viable or desirable, our alternative plan is to close down the park in the year 2044. We would take necessary steps to wind down operations, settle any remaining financial obligations, and ensure our loyal customers are informed about the closure. While this is not our preferred outcome, we believe in being prepared for all possibilities to ensure a successful, long-term future for our water park venture.

At our water park, we understand the needs and preferences of water park enthusiasts, both locals and tourists. We recognize that not everyone wants to commit to long-term memberships or subscriptions, and that flexibility and convenience are key factors in enhancing the overall experience. Therefore, we have designed our venture to operate under a pay-per-ride or pay-per-day model, offering customers the freedom to choose their desired attractions without any long-term obligations.

Customers' Preferences

Customers are drawn to our water park because of the variety of ticket options we offer. Whether they wish to purchase individual ride tickets or access all the attractions within the park with a day ticket, we cater to their diverse preferences. Our flexible pricing structure ensures that customers can tailor their experience to suit their desires and budget.

Uniqueness and Competition

What sets us apart from our competitors is our location in Orlando, Florida. This city is renowned for its thriving tourism industry and is home to numerous popular water parks. By strategically positioning ourselves in this prominent tourist destination, we can leverage the steady flow of visitors throughout the year, ensuring a consistent customer base.

Additionally, unlike many other water parks that primarily focus on long-term memberships or subscriptions, our pay-per-ride or pay-per-day model offers a unique selling point. This model appeals to both locals and tourists who prefer the freedom and flexibility to choose their desired attractions without any long-term commitment. We believe that this approach will attract a wide customer base and set us apart from our competitors.

Company Mission

Our mission is to provide water park enthusiasts with a flexible and convenient experience that exceeds their expectations. We are committed to creating a safe, enjoyable, and memorable environment where customers can immerse themselves in thrilling rides, relax by the poolside, and indulge in delicious food and beverages. By offering a pay-per-ride or pay-per-day model in the heart of Orlando, we aim to become the go-to water park destination for both locals and tourists.

The water park venture will be structured as a limited liability company (LLC) to provide a level of personal liability protection for the owners. This structure allows for flexibility in management and taxation while shielding the owners from personal financial liability. Additionally, as the water park will involve various activities and potential risks, forming an LLC will provide legal protection in case of accidents or injuries.

During the registration procedures, the business will engage with a specialized business attorney to ensure compliance with all necessary rules and regulations. The attorney will advise on the appropriate steps for setting up the LLC, including filing formation documents, obtaining necessary licenses and permits, and drafting essential agreements and contracts.

Company Objectives

The company's primary objective is to provide water park enthusiasts, both locals and tourists, with a flexible and convenient experience while maximizing revenue generation. To achieve this, the venture will focus on the following key steps:

• 1. Infrastructure Development: The water park will invest in creating state-of-the-art attractions, ensuring safety measures, and maintaining a clean and enjoyable environment.
• 2. Partnership Strategy: The venture will establish strategic partnerships with local suppliers, vendors, and service providers to ensure a seamless operation and enhance the overall customer experience.
• 3. Marketing and Promotion: A comprehensive marketing campaign targeting both local residents and tourists will be implemented to create awareness and attract a wide customer base. This will include online advertising, social media presence, partnerships with tourism agencies, and targeted promotions during peak seasons.
• 4. Customer Service Excellence: The focus will be on providing exceptional customer service, including well-trained staff, efficient ticketing systems, and quick response to customer feedback and concerns.

Future Development

Looking ahead, the vision of the water park organization is to become the premier water park destination in Orlando, Florida, known for its exceptional attractions, outstanding customer service, and innovative experiences. The business aims to continually invest in diversifying and expanding the range of attractions and experiences to keep visitors engaged and excited.

The company also envisions expanding its operations to include partnerships with nearby hotels and resorts to offer vacation packages and exclusive perks, further enhancing the overall customer experience. Additionally, the water park plans to explore opportunities for sustainable practices and environmentally friendly initiatives to contribute positively to the local community and natural surroundings.

Water Park Financial Model

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How to Start a Water Park Business

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

Home » Business ideas » Hospitality, Travel & Tourism » Water Park

Do you want to start a water park? If YES, here is a complete guide to starting a water park business with NO money and no experience . Water parks are wholesome vacation destinations for people all over the world regardless of their age and status.

The environment is often filled with adventure and so any entrepreneur who thinks they love such an environment can totally start the business as long as they have enough capital at hand.

Just like any business, you will be required to take an active role in most important aspects of the business. If you have no idea on how to run a water park, it is important that you make all the findings so that you do not end up wasting your time and resources.

While making a thorough research about the business is important in order that you might know all the intricacies involved in running the business; you will also need to build a solid business structure by gathering a management team that is not only knowledgeable but also experienced as well.

There are several duties that will be delegated in other to keep the water park up and running. Ensure that you understand what you should handle directly and what should be delegated to each team member. However, the fact that you delegate a task does not mean that you shouldn’t supervise to ensure that they are carried out in accordance with your intended goals.

Even though you meet all the necessary requirements when starting and running your water park business , but you have to explore various ways the water park will let you recoup your investment early especially if you had to source for loan to start the business.

Every water park usually charges an admission for each visitor that enters the place but those that become profitable are those that offer additional activities and services in order to not only improve upon customer satisfaction but also increase their bottom line as well.

Every investor will want to see a water park business plan that is comprehensive before they invest their money, and so if you cannot write out a business plan, ensure that you get a professional to write one for you.

Steps to Starting a Water Park Business

1. understand the industry.

Water parks have become such a huge deal over a period of five years (2012 to 2017) especially as the booming economy which has seen a fall in unemployment rates and a rise in per capita income have helped to boost revenue in the industry.

Also, the fact that there has been an increase in the way customers spend especially on discretionary items have caused the industry’s fortunes to continue to boom. According to IBISWorld, it is expected that the industry will continue to grow in the next five years (2017 to 2022) as the growth in the economy will greatly help the tourism sector.

The revenue generated by this industry annually amounts to $3 billion and the growth experienced by the industry between 2012 and 2017 annually is at 10 percent. There are more than 156 water parks in the united states according to IBISWorld, employing nearly 50,000 people.

The industry is however viewed as highly saturated which is why there are few new water park businesses, and existing operators try to bring in more revenue from the existing market by offering new perks and providing extra services in order to retain a high number of their customers.

The water park business is seasonal in nature and due to this, most of the industry operators usually choose to run the business in regions where the weather is favorable.

Most water parks for instance are located in states such as California, Florida and Texas. Colder climates such as New England and Rocky Mountains attract only about 6 and 3.8 percent of water parks respectively; while the southeast regions has most of all the water parks in the United States. It is expected that in 2017, the southeast region will contain nearly 28 percent of all the establishments in the industry, with Florida alone having about 11.5 percent out of the whole percentage.

According to the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), spending for water parks on a global level is close to $40 billion especially as other countries – China, Japan, France, South Korea and Hong Kong – aside from the United States also have popular destination water parks and attractions that bring in visitors from all over the world.

Demand in this industry is usually driven by the income of the consumer and because of the saturation in the industry; individual companies depend on exceptional marketing in order to be able to achieve a healthy bottom line.

2. Conduct Market Research and Feasibility Studies

• Demographics and Psychographics

The demographic and psychographic compositions of those who are likely to visit a water park are local families, teens, young adults and tourists. These groups are usually those who are mostly targeted during promotional efforts. Therefore, if you are looking to define the demographics for your water parks business, you should know that while you might be looking at making it all encompassing, your target market will not be everyone.

3. Decide Which Niche to Concentrate On

Those who run water parks often find that they have to offer additional features in order to sustain and continue to grow the business, hence the specializing in niche areas. Even though there are not much niche ideas for an entrepreneur running this kind of business to go into, several innovative entrepreneurs have stood out because of the niches they are into.

One thing to note is that a large water park can afford to go into several niches unlike a small water park. Some of the niche ideas that you can specialize in are;

• Operating water attractions
• Sale of Merchandise
• Sale of Food and Beverages
• Operating of Recreational bathing Facilities

The Level of Competition in the Industry

The level of competition in the water park business industry can be said to be fragmented as only few players have dominance over the entire industry especially if they are large enough or are in more than one location. For the most part, competition is usually on a local level amongst existing operators.

In order to compete fairly against your competitors, you will have to choose an appropriate location to run your park. If your vision is become a world class destination water park, then you must choose a location that not only the locals will be able to easily access but also visitors and tourists from other states and countries too.

Therefore, if you are looking to start a water park business in the United States, you should be aware that you will likely be facing stiff competition from already existing water parks as well as alternative attractions and entertainment activities and should therefore be prepared.

4. Know Your Major Competitors in the Industry

In every industry, there are brands that stand out from the rest and the water park industry is no different as there are several water parks scattered all around the country. Well known water parks are those that offer visitors something unique, those that are large and those that have been in existence for a long period of time.

If you are just starting out your water park business, it is best that you know who the big ones are in the industry. Some of the well-known brands in the industry include;

• SeaWorld Entertainment
• Cedar Fair LP
• Walt Disney Co.
• Six Flags Inc.
• Noah’s Ark
• Water World

Economic Analysis

According to the World Waterpark Association, there were more than 1,300 water parks in existence in North America as at 2015, the figure climbed up by 30 percent from what was obtainable a decade before. More than 85 million people visited these water parks in 2015, up from about 73 million that visited in 2004. Even though there has been growing concern about the risks even though the water is quite shallow, this hasn’t deterred people from visiting such parks.

According to the International Association of Amusement Park (IAAP), there are over 400 water and amusement parks in the United States where more than 375 million people visit annually. The direct economic impact of all the attractions in the United States was $219 billion as at 2011. Water parks, theme parks and amusement parks generated nearly $55.5 billion out of the whole amount.

In the United States, the attractions industry leads in the creation of jobs that are non-exportable. Directly, the industry employs more than 1.5 million people, while indirectly it employs more than 1 million people, thereby creating a total job impact of over 2.5 million.

According to an annual industry survey by the Family Entertainment Centers (FECs), every year more than 360,000 guests visit an attraction facility and spend an average of 3 hours. Also, most of the guests that visit are usually families with children ranging from the ages of 2 to 18.

5. Decide Whether to Buy a Franchise or Start from Scratch

When starting certain businesses in the United States, the decision of whether to start the business from scratch or to buy a water park franchise often becomes a very important one that might make the difference between the business attaining its intended goals and objectives or not.

While either option has its pros and cons, none is necessarily the best because the needs of a business is distinct and so any option chosen should align with the specific needs of the business. Those that chose to buy a franchise are those that are looking to hit the ground running and want to be guided by experienced hands in the business.

In a franchise, you will not need to worry about advertising and several other decisions; however ensure that whatever franchise you intend to purchase aligns with your corporate goals and objectives. Most people that start out the water park business always start from the scratch or buy off an existing water park.

Starting a business all by yourself without any sort of guidance can overwhelm even the most experienced entrepreneur, which is why it is often advised that every entrepreneur has a comprehensive business plan at hand as this is the only way they can remain focused on achieving their goals and objectives. Asides from getting a business plan, you will also need to build a solid business structure.

6. Know the Possible Threats and Challenges You Will Face

No matter how sure you are of the business you are looking to start, there are still threats and challenges that will crop up and which you have to be prepared for if you are serious about the business. This is why it is often best to have a business plan in place as this will enable you prepare for the scenarios that you might likely face.

However, you should note that there are several threats and challenges that you may likely not have the solutions to and should they occur, the best you can do is to remain focused.

Some of the challenges and threats that you are likely to face when starting out your water park business include; having to compete with already existing water parks, having to deal with consumers’ changing tastes and preferences, economic downturn where there consumers have to spend less as well as government and industry regulations.

7. Choose the Most Suitable Legal Entity (LLC, C Corp, S Corp)

One important decision that you will take when looking to start your water park business and which will have a huge impact on your business is the appropriate legal entity to choose. Even though every entrepreneur starting a business in the United States of America has several legal entity options to choose from, not all of the legal entities will be suitable for the business.

In order to avoid confusion, it is best to engage the services of an experienced attorney to help in choosing the right legal entity for your water park business.

Entrepreneurs starting any business in the United States are often faced with the choice of choosing from various legal entities such as Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, Limited Liability Company (LLC), C Corporation and S Corporation. There are several attributes that you can use in deciding which entity is best for your business and they include; ease of ownership and control, flexibility, liability limitation and taxation issues.

While most entrepreneurs always choose the easiest legal entity which is the sole proprietorship , it is not all kinds of business that the sole proprietorship is suitable for as the water park business will expose the entrepreneur severely should he choose this form of legal entity.

For the water park kind of business, the LLC is what most entrepreneurs in this industry opt for because LLC offers the entrepreneur a certain degree of flexibility that cannot be gotten from the C Corporation and the S Corporation. These three legal entities however have similar attributes especially when it comes to limited personal liability but where the LLC has less paperwork; that of a corporation is more rigid and requires tons of paperwork.

If you are however planning to take your company public, then choosing a corporation is the best bet for you as you will be able to raise money from the public unlike the LLC that has no such option. Because of how rigid and the so many procedures that comes with a corporation, it is usually best to let an attorney handle it.

8. Choose a Catchy Business Name

One of the most vital things that must be done before you can think of getting a business license or getting your company incorporated is giving a name to the venture you are thinking of starting. A business name is very important because it allows you to be identified from other similar businesses.

However, ensure that the name you intend to choose is unique, easily identifiable and memorable. Some of the catchy business name ideas suitable for a water park include;

• Bay Water Park
• Water World Entertainment
• Splash Entertainment
• Trumpin Water Park

9. Discuss with an Agent to Know the Best Insurance Policies for You

There are a number of issues that can shut down a business if the owner wasn’t fully prepared for it. According to statistics from the Insurance Information Institute, out of all the businesses that experience a disaster, only about a quarter of these businesses are able to rebuild.

Every entrepreneur should know that no matter how profitable the venture is, it is still open to risk and so in order to protect the investment and even the entrepreneur, you should buy insurance policies. Ensure that you engage the services of an insurance agent or broker to help with the best insurance policies.

Some of the insurance policies to buy for a water park business in the United States include;

• General Liability Insurance
• Workers Compensation Insurance
• Professional Liability Insurance
• Casualty Insurance
• Property Insurance
• Payment Protection Insurance
• Health Insurance
• Overhead Expense Disability Insurance
• Business Owner’s Policy (BOP) Group Insurance

10. Protect your Intellectual Property With Trademark, Copyrights, Patents

While you can put up creative designs in order to make your water park stand out, most of what you design cannot be patented and the best you can do is continue to modify your designs in order to stand out from your competitors.

You can however apply for an intellectual property protection on your company’s name, logo, domain name or any concept you feel is worth protecting. Ensure that you engage the services of an attorney who understands your kind of business and who is knowledgeable in IPP laws to help you out.

11. Get the Necessary Professional Certification

One of the important factors that you would need to effectively run your water park business is your start-up capital, business finesse and leadership skills. You do not therefore need to worry about having to get a professional certification before you can start the business; which therefore means that anyone can run a water park business.

This does not however mean that you cannot take certain professional certifications in order to help you run your water park business better.

12. Get the Necessary Legal Documents You Need to Operate

Before looking to start any business in the United States, you are expected to have certain legal documents in place in order not to run into trouble with constituted authorities; this is why it is important that you conduct a thorough research about the business you intend going into so that you will find out what is expected of you.

Better still, you can engage the services of an attorney who has knowledge of the kind of industry you are going into to help with all the necessary documents. Some of the basic documents that you will require in order to start your own water park business in the United States include;

• Certificate of Incorporation
• Operating Agreement for LLCs
• Insurance Policy
• Certificate of Occupancy
• Food Sale License
• Music Licensing
• Sales Tax Permit
• Business Licenses and Permits
• Business Plan
• Income Withholding Tax
• Employment Agreement
• Employer Identification Number (EIN)
• Federal Tax Identification Number (TIN)

13. Raise the Needed Startup Capital

Generally, the water park business requires spending a substantial amount of money and so it might be necessary for you to source for capital from other sources.

And to be able to convince others to invest in your business, it is important to have a comprehensive business plan that will show potential investors how you intend to make use of the money and when they should begin to expect a return on their investment.

Before you can however convince an investor to invest in your business, you must also show them how serious you are and how much you have committed towards the business. Some of the financing options that you can explore when looking to start your water park business include;

• Generating part of your start-up capital from sale of stock or valued property
• Applying for loan from commercial banks
• Getting wealthy family members and friends to provide some part of the capital as a soft loan
• Sourcing for venture capitalists and angel investors and convincing them to partner with you

14. Choose a Suitable Location for your Business

One of the most important decisions that you will be making when looking to start your water park business in the United States is your location as this could make the difference between your business becoming a success or failure. Your location should align with the vision you have regarding the business.

For instance, if you are looking to attract tourists and visitors from other states, then you must be located in an area that isn’t too far from a large airport.

Due to the scale of the water park business, it is not something that you can choose to run from your home and this therefore means that you have to source for a location that will meet all the requirements of the law while still enabling you achieve your intended goals and objectives.

Asides from meeting the laws of the zone, ensure that the location that you are picking is a complementary one. A complementary location refers to a place where there are several other attractive activities for people to indulge in such as shopping malls, mini golf courses, tourist spots and other such centers.

Because of the regulations that come with running a water park, you might need to engage the services of a real estate agent experienced in this kind of business to help you in getting the appropriate location to run your water park business. Ensure that the real estate agent has an idea of your budget so that you do not end up causing a constraint on your entire budget.

15. Hire Employees for your Technical and Manpower Needs

The amount of startup capital that you would require when starting your water park business will be highly dependent on what your short and long term goals are. One of the most important factors to take into consideration and that will have such a huge effect on your investment is land. Not only must the land be sufficient enough so that your design can fit in, but it should also be carefully chosen.

You can start your water park on a small scale according to your startup capital and later expand it when you start generating enough revenue. Most entrepreneurs have realized that to become successful in this kind of business, your water park has to be large enough to offer visitors a well-rounded experience especially as most existing parks have modified their business strategy in order to attract and cater to the international market.

If you are going to be purchasing the land for your water park, it must be between 8 and 15 acres . Indoor water parks take up 8 to 10 acres, while outdoor parks take between 13 to 15 acres. If you are however looking to build an indoor and outdoor facility, you will need between 9 to 12 acres.

So, the number of acres you eventually purchase will depend on what vision you have regarding your water park. Once you have gotten the acres you need, you will require an experienced consultant and contractor so as to begin the planning and designing process.

The cost for setting up a water park will vary depending on the kind of facility you are looking to build and where you intend building it. On an average, you should set aside between $1 million and $4 million depending on whether you are looking to build an indoor park or an outdoor park.

The costs cover the building, pools, HVAC, snack bar, mechanical, theming, supporting areas, recreation equipment , waterslides, utilities, and employee salaries for at least a certain period till the business starts to generate enough revenue that can be ploughed back.

This is definitely not a business that you can run by yourself and so it is important that you build a solid business structure where you can hire only competent and experienced hands to help achieve your goals and objectives. For this purpose, you will need to hire more than 11 people; from the management staff to regular employees.

The Service Delivery Process of the Business

The processes involved in a water park business includes first looking for a suitable location to run the park as it must be somewhere easily accessible to customers. In owning and running a water park, it is important that you have certain business and leadership skills.

The fact that the water park will be visited by people of all ages means that safety should be a top priority for you. While making sure that the Water Park and parking lots remain clean at all times, you must also conduct regular health and safety checks.

You will need to build a solid relationship with reliable vendors so that whenever you place orders, you will get them as at when due.

16. Write a Marketing Plan Packed with ideas & Strategies

The entertainment industry is filled with different activities ranging from wholesome entertainment to age-dependent entertainment and this means that while one marketing type might work for one sort, it might not work for another.

A water park business is regarded as a wholesome form of entertainment and this therefore means that when looking to promote this business, you can do so without having to segregate the market as anyone can visit a water park regardless of the age.

Marketing is one of the vital aspects of any business because not only does it allow you to create awareness and generate revenue for the business, but you are also able to penetrate the market and get a fair share for yourself. Also, marketing allows you to compete against your competitors and also stand out from them.

Before you can draft an effective marketing plan for your water park, it is important to ensure that you are located in an appropriate location. If your water park is located in an area that is not too convenient or easily accessible, then all your marketing efforts you will not be too effective and you will also need to put in extra efforts which might end up costing you more.

Ensure that you engage the services of a marketing agency that has the knowledge and needed experience in order to craft marketing plans and strategies that would enable you compete against your competitors. You will also need to recruit an in-house marketing team that will ensure that all marketing strategies crafted are in line with the goals and objectives of the company.

Below are some of the marketing ideas and strategies that you can use in promoting your water park business;

• Empower your marketing executives to meet with corporations and groups to market your water park
• Place adverts about your water park in local and national newspapers and magazines as well as on local and cable television
• Install billboards in strategic locations in order to draw  attention to your water park business
• Ensure that your water park is listed in the World Waterpark Association’s Directory as well as in online directories
• Network with hotels and travel agencies so that they can help promote your water park to their customers

17. Develop Strategies to Boost Brand Awareness and Create a Corporate Identity

The fact that you have just started a water park doesn’t mean that everyone will flock to it, efforts must be put in to promote the business in order to not only create awareness but stimulate the interest of your intended target market; otherwise you will not be able to generate a substantial amount of capital that will keep your business running for as long as you want it to.

There is no entrepreneur looking to start a business that does not want it to be successful; however in order that a business might become successful, it is important that the entrepreneur consciously comes up with promotional strategies that will enable the business attain the level of success that it has dreamed about.

The many benefits that come with boosting awareness for one’s brand as well as creating a corporate identity is why many businesses especially those that are already in existence do not mind setting aside a particular sum of money every year in order to promote their brand to their intended target market and even the general public.

The internet has made it very possible for businesses to promote and boost awareness for their brands easily and more effectively than it did before. Companies can now decide to promote their services only to the segment of people they want. Not only has this become more effective but it also saves costs as well.

Below are some of the strategies that you can use to boost awareness for your brand and also create a corporate identity for your water park;

• Leverage on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube in order to promote your brand.
• Use incentives such as promotional offers to boost awareness for your water park.
• Install billboards in strategic locations in order to draw attention to your water park.
• Place adverts on local and national newspapers as well as radio and television stations about your water park.
• Develop an interactive website and use this to promote the water park

Related Posts:

• 6 Best Insurance for Water Parks [Cost Included]
• Water Park Financial Projection – Profit & Loss Statement
• How Much Does It Cost to Run a Water Park Business Yearly?
• How Much Do Water Parks Make Yearly? [Profit Margin]
• How Much Water Do Water Parks Use Daily?

• Attractions
• Design & Planning

Water park business plan: from idea to profit

In recent years, we can observe the following situation: in the UAE, the demand for water park services never decreases; rather, it grows in tandem with the increase in tourist traffic. This is an excellent activity for people who enjoy swimming and experiencing intense attractions, as well as for families. We may conclude that water parks are a profitable company based on the strong demand and occupancy rate of water parks in the United Arab Emirates. Everyone wins: the investor receives a profitable project with a quick payback period, and customers get to enjoy a high-quality holiday and diversify their free time. However, there are some nuances.

A significant and consistent flow of consumers is the only way to ensure a strong income from the water park. To assure it, the entrepreneur must consider a variety of critical issues, such as the target audience's interest, tourist safety, comfort, pricing policy, and so on. Furthermore, because it is a complicated and massive technical construction, the water park necessitates a considerable start-up capital. As a result, responsibility for budgeting is required. Everything contributes to the development of a well-thought-out business plan. Among its duties are determining the water park's level of financial efficiency, strategies to secure loans or attract investors, establishing prospects, business hazards, and the algorithm for opening a water park. Simply defined, a business plan is a document that explains everything, absolutely everything: from the smallest details to the most fundamental features of the water park.

Obviously, preparing such a paper is a very responsible task. You will acquire a loan and attract an investor if you have a clear business plan that is based on trustworthy data and real research. The entrepreneur should have a comprehensive understanding of the market into which he is venturing, as well as future goals and elements that could jeopardize the operation of the water park.

Let's take a look at the most important aspects of a water park business plan.

Summarizing a brief plan

The entrepreneur briefly outlines his idea, the concept of the future water park, in this section.It is vital to provide a general overview of the projected enterprise. A master plan for the water park, architectural solutions to be implemented, project completion timeline, and estimated cost should all be included.

Risks and guarantees

This item should contain the most important information - a forecast of attendance. It should be based on actual research and figures. There are variables in the assurances section that should have a good impact on the water park, such as a lack of competition in the market, the uniqueness of the plan, and consistent demand for water fun in a certain region. It considers the target audience, such as local inhabitants or tourists in the case of a popular resort town. The entrepreneur must specify which groups he is most reliant on, such as students, adults, children, and so on. It is vital to examine the hazards objectively, without concealing anything. Some of the hazards associated with water parks include consumer damage to equipment, reliance on weather conditions, seasonality of the business, and a delayed return period due to large initial investments.

Description of the Product and Service

This section describes the technological and economic elements of the planned water park, as well as the corporate development strategy.

Market research and marketing strategy for water parks

It is vital at this point to investigate the available supply and demand. The ideal alternative is to demonstrate that the current product is insufficient to suit the needs of the target demographic, and that the proposed water park will be the ideal solution. The marketing plan is the way by which the company will grow and acquire new clients. Consider initiatives geared at boosting your consumer base, for example. The water park may include additional areas such as an SPA-salon, cafe or restaurant, sauna or bath complex. It's fantastic if you can outfit a water park with features that your competitors don't have. This will be a compelling case for the bank or investors.

A market analysis is an in-depth examination of a specific area. The analysis results demonstrate what opportunities a company has to establish itself in a specific market niche.

Analysis of competitors

This material could be included in the preceding section or handled individually. The second choice appears to be preferable because it delivers more information.

We investigate water parks both locally and distant from the potential development site. The study's subject matter comprises the estimated number of visitors, the equipment used, the layout, the list of services, promotion methods, advertising campaign elements, and the estimated profitability. The disadvantages are considered separately.

Technical strategy

This is one of the most important aspects of the water park business strategy. The fact that this part deals with large-scale construction planning explains the significance. There includes information regarding the proposed capacity, layout, and logistics elements. It is required to include subcontractors, the cost of the work, a list of the work, the materials utilized, and the human resources.

When completing this section, the entrepreneur assigns himself the responsibility of calculating the actual scale of development while accounting for the available budget, including planned loans and investments. Provide information about equipment providers as well. This is critical since the equipment is a significant aspect of the water park as an entertainment venue. It has an impact on the range of entertainment available to guests, the quality of the water, the microclimate in the building, and, in general, the project's rate of return and payback period. You should compare the various market offers in order to select the most profitable option while maintaining the quality of the installed equipment.

Organisational Strategy

There is a need to ground the organisational structure regardless of whether we are talking about a private water park or a municipal one. The major items to consider in this part are: the personnel management system, the facility supply, and the project's organisational and staffing structure. The major topics to consider in this part are the human resource management system, the facility supply, and the project's organisational and staffing structure.

Essentially, this is a to-do list with due dates. Everything begins with an investment decision and prepares for construction, commissioning, and loan payback schedules.The timeline also includes the amounts required to complete specific works to keep the water park operational and modern. These elements should be based on acceptable calculations.

Plan for Investing in a Water Park

We examine all costs and specify the amount of investment required to complete the project on schedule. Costs are capital expenditures and net capital of turnover. By capital expenses, we indicate the resources required to create and equip the facility, and by turnover capital, we mean the funds required to operate the finished water park. This point takes practically all of the effort and attention because it is critical for those considering investing in the project.

Some company plans comprises the following items:

• Water Park corporate identity
• A list of events to be held when the facility opens
• PR tools to be used in project promotion.

ExpertFun's water park business plan is a document that covers all of the information about the economic and financial performance, as well as the timing and complexity of work, as well as the feasibility study. The document will provide justifications for the project's financial attractiveness to an investor or credit institution. When we create a plan, we maintain it systematic, flexible, exact, and detailed. A reader of the document will have no questions about your project.

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Marketing Your Water Park Business: 9+ Ideas to Get Customers

List of the best marketing ideas for your water park business:, 1. unique marketing idea for water park business., 2. build a website for your water park business., 3. leverage social media for your water park business., 4. run a promotion for your business., 5. run digital advertisments for your water park business., 6. start a referral program., 7. improve your water park business google rankings through seo., 8. leverage print marketing., 9. build your water park business email list & use email marketing., where can i find marketing resources for my water park business.

I'm Nick, co-founder of newfoundr.com, dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs succeed. As a small business owner with over five years of experience, I have garnered valuable knowledge and insights across a diverse range of industries. My passion for entrepreneurship drives me to share my expertise with aspiring entrepreneurs, empowering them to turn their business dreams into reality.

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Alturas Technology Park

A quiet sanctuary perfect for the business person to take a quiet break, this park is found at the entrance of the Alturas Technology Park. The presence of the slow streaming water fountain adds an element of peace and tranquil- ity here at Alturas Park. 0.9 Acre.  

1241 Alturas Drive, Moscow, ID, USA

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LOCAL UPDATE: Noise-detecting cameras could be Montgomery County's next traffic enforcement tool

Armenian leader announces plan to leave Russia-dominated security alliance as ties with Moscow sour

The Associated Press

June 12, 2024, 5:44 PM

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YEREVAN, Armenia (AP) — The leader of Armenia on Wednesday declared his intention to pull out of a Russia-dominated security alliance of several ex-Soviet nations as tensions rise between the two allies .

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said his government will decide later when to leave the Collective Security Treaty Organization, or CSTO , a grouping that includes Russia and the former Soviet Central Asian nations of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan.

Amid the widening rift with Russia, Armenia earlier froze its participation in the alliance, canceled its involvement in joint military drills and snubbed CSTO summits.

Pashinyan said Wednesday for the first time that Armenia will leave CSTO altogether. He spoke during a question-and-answer session in parliament, saying that the government will decide later when to make the final move.

“We will leave,” Pashinyan said. “We will decide when to leave. We won’t come back, there is no other way.”

Shortly after, in an apparent attempt to soften the blow to Moscow, Armenia’s Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan emphasized that Pashinyan hadn’t announced the full withdrawal yet.

“Those who assert that the prime minister said that Armenia is withdrawing from the CSTO are mistaken,” Mirzoyan said.

There was no immediate comment from Moscow.

Armenia’s ties with Russia, its longtime sponsor and ally, have grown increasingly strained after Azerbaijan waged a lightning military campaign in September to take the Karabakh region, ending three decades of ethnic Armenian separatist rule there.

Armenian authorities accused Russian peacekeepers who were deployed to Nagorno-Karabakh after a previous round of hostilities in 2020 of failing to stop Azerbaijan’s onslaught. Moscow, which has a military base in Armenia, rejected the accusations, arguing that its troops didn’t have a mandate to intervene.

Speaking to lawmakers Wednesday, Pashinyan denounced the CSTO for its failure to offer protection to Armenia and alleged that some of its members sided with Azerbaijan.

“It turned out that its members failed to fulfill their obligations under the treaty and planned the war against us alongside Azerbaijan,” he said, without elaborating.

Russia has engaged in a delicate balancing act, trying to preserve close relations with Armenia while also maintaining warm ties with Azerbaijan and its main ally Turkey, a key economic partner for Moscow amid Western sanctions.

The Kremlin has been angered by Pashinyan’s efforts to deepen Armenia’s ties with the West and distance his country from Moscow-dominated alliances. Russia was particularly vexed by Armenia’s decision to join the International Criminal Court, which last year indicted Putin for alleged war crimes connected to Russian actions in Ukraine.

Moscow, however, has sought to downplay the differences as it focused on the war in Ukraine that has dragged into a third year.

Pashinyan’s move comes as he faces a wave of large protests demanding he step down over his government’s decision to turn over four border villages to Azerbaijan as part of an effort to negotiate a peace agreement with its longtime adversary.

Violent clashes erupted Wednesday when thousands of protesters gathering outside the parliament building tried to break through police cordons. Demonstrators threw bottles and stones at police, who used stun grenades to ward off the crowds. About 100 people, including 17 police officers, were injured and 98 demonstrators were detained by police, officials said.

There were at least 10 journalists among the injured, and the country’s Union of Journalists issued a statement condemning what it described as unproportionate police response and demanding to prosecute the culprits.

Copyright © 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.

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Ukraine war latest: Putin makes 'absurd attempt to seduce West'; leaders call for Olympics truce

Analysts have branded Vladimir Putin's proposals for peace negotiations "absurd" and "hollow", as Volodymyr Zelenskyy hosts a two-day peace summit with world leaders - excluding Russia. Meanwhile, the Group of Seven have unanimously backed a global conflict truce during the Olympic Games.

Sunday 16 June 2024 03:01, UK

• Putin's 'absurd' peace proposal a 'hollow attempt to seduce the West'
• Western leaders back Olympic global conflict truce, Italy says
• More than 90 countries at peace summit - but Biden and other key players skip talks
• US announces $1.5bn in aid for Ukraine
• Dominic Waghorn analysis: It's a bad week for Putin - but Kyiv's allies face an uncertain future
• Big picture: Everything you need to know about the war right now
• Your questions answered:  Are there any signs of an underground resistance in Russia?
• Live reporting by Brad Young

That's all for our live coverage today, but we'll be back with more live updates and analysis soon.

If you're just checking in, here is a recap of the key moments that occurred over the last 24 hours.

• Volodymyr Zelenskyy kicked off a peace summit in Switzerland that excluded Russia;
• Joe Biden skipped the event - sending vice president Kamala Harris instead - and China declined an invitation;
• White House national security adviser branded Russia's latest so-called peace proposal a "completely absurd vision", after Vladimir Putin called for Ukraine to give up almost 20% of its land;
• The head of the EU Commission said freezing the conflict as it stands was "a recipe for future wars of aggression";
• But Saudi Arabia - touted as the potential host of a follow-up summit - said peace talks must involve "difficult compromise";
• Meanwhile, Russia blamed Ukraine for attacks that killed six people in Belgorod last night, while Ukraine said Russia killed three people with cluster munitions in a Ukrainian village today;
• The G7 unanimously backed a French proposal to request a global truce during the Olympic Games, the Italian prime minister said.

A draft statement at the Swiss peace summit recognises Russia's war in Ukraine continues to cause large-scale human suffering and destruction, Reuters reports.

"We reaffirm out commitment to refraining from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state... including Ukraine," reads the statement.

"Any threat or use of nuclear weapons in the context of the ongoing war against Ukraine is inadmissible."

The communique continues: "Ukrainian nuclear power plants and installations... must operate safely and securely under full sovereign control of Ukraine."

It calls for prisoners of war to be released, and all deported and unlawfully displaced Ukrainian children or unlawfully detained Ukrainian civilians to be returned to Ukraine.

The statement also pushes for "free, full and safe" commercial travel via sea ports in the Black Sea and Azov Sea.

"We underscore our commitment to upholding international law, including the UN charter."

The first batch of Russian and Belarusian athletes have been cleared to compete at next month's Paris Olympics, with a total of 25 making the cut.

Another 16 failed an International Olympic Committee vetting process over the war in Ukraine, the IOC said, the spaces for which will be distributed to other countries.

Russian and Belarusian athletes are allowed to qualify as neutrals so long as they have not actively supported the war in Ukraine and have not been contracted to any military or security agency.

The vetting process means the countries will have sportspeople competing in some events, like road cycling and trampolining, but in others neither country has qualified, such as taekwondo.

In this round of vetting, Russia cleared 14 athletes for 24 allocated spots, while 11 Belarusian athletes passed the process for 17 spots. 

Once all applicants are vetted, the IOC said it expects to see about 36 Russian and 22 Belarusian athletes competing as neutrals, out of 54 and 28 spots respectively.

Russia has blamed Ukraine for attacks that killed six people in Belgorod last night.

Russia's emergencies ministry said four bodies were pulled from the rubble of a five-story apartment building in the town of Shebekino.

Pictures showed a crane clearing debris and a building's facade shattered, with one stairwell collapsed. 

Regional governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said a Ukrainian drone struck a car in a village near Shebekino, killing the driver.

He also said a woman was killed in her home when it was struck by rocket fire in the village of Oktyabrsky, further west.

There was no immediate comment from Kyiv.

Russia launched a fresh incursion across the border from Belgorod in Kharkiv last month, opening up a second front in the war.

While world leaders gather to discuss peace in Switzerland,  troops continue to fight on the frontlines in Ukraine.

Pictures show apartment buildings reduced to rubble in residential areas turned to ghost-towns to the east.

In Toretsk, Donetsk region, the frames of windows are all that is left of one block, hanging between two others.

Meanwhile, in Chasiv Yar, Ukrainian soldiers were photographed firing 120mm mortar towards Russian positions.

Saudi Arabia's foreign minister says any peace talks will involve "difficult compromise".

The country is viewed as one of the leading candidates to host what is being mooted as a follow-up conference to this weekend's gathering of dozens of world leaders in Switzerland. 

Speaking at the Swiss peace summit, Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud said any credible negotiations will need Russia's participation.

"We believe it is important that the international community encourage any step towards serious negotiations which will require difficult compromise as part of a road map that leads to peace."

World leaders are speaking throughout the day in Switzerland at a peace summit called by Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

We're bringing you the key moments from the talks, and this update includes comments on nuclear safety, war crimes and Vladimir Putin's "absurd vision".

Emmanuel Macron

The French leader says one of the key priorities of the talks must be about securing nuclear safety around the Zaporizhizhia power plant.

Allies must also "not to accept any complacency vis-a-vis the attacks targeting civilian targets and infrastructure in Ukraine. These are war crimes", he said.

Russia has denied all allegations of war crimes.

"What is at stake is our international rules and the possibility to have peace everywhere. Because in launching this war, Russia decided first to be an imperialist regime," said Mr Macron.

"This summit is a milestone to reiterate our attachment to the core principles of our international laws."

Jake Sullivan

The White House national security adviser branded Russia's latest peace proposal a "completely absurd vision."

It would only lead to further domination of the country, he said.

China's absence from the peace summit was probably a result of entreaties from Russia not to attend, Mr Sullivan added.

Finnish president

Finland's president Alexander Stubb called for follow-up talks as soon as possible because "peace is... always a process".

"We have 1,300 kilometres of border with Russia... Russia invaded Finland in World War Two, we lost 10% of our territory, including the land where my grandparents were born and where my father was born." 

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said Moscow was not invited to the Swiss summit because the Kremlin is not interested in peace.

European commission President Ursula von der Leyen told world leaders accepting Russian troops on Ukrainian land was a "recipe for future wars of aggression".

And Rishi Sunak was asked whether the West has been too scared of Vladimir Putin to help Ukraine defeat him.

Here are the details...

Volodymyr Zelenskyy

"There is no need to reinvent the wheel when the UN charter already defines the foundations of peace and normal co-existence of peoples," he told leaders gathered near Lucerne.

"There is no Russia here - why? Because if Russia was interested in peace, there would be no war.

"We must decide together what a just peace means for the world and how it can be achieved in a truly lasting way."

Ursula von der Leyen

"Freezing the conflict today, with foreign troops occupying Ukrainian land, is not the answer.

"It is a recipe for future wars of aggression.

"Instead we need to support a comprehensive, just and sustainable peace for Ukraine. One that restores Ukraine's sovereignty and its territorial integrity."

Rishi Sunak

Asked if the West has been too scared of Vladimir Putin to help Ukraine defeat him, he said the UK was " not going anywhere" and Kyiv's allies are "with Ukraine for as long as it takes".

"Crucially at the G7 summit over the past few days we reached a landmark agreement to make sure it's Russia who pays for more military support and economic reconstruction of Ukraine using trapped and seized Russian assets".

Vladimir Putin's purported interest in peace negotiations is a hollow attempt to "seduce" the West, war analysts say.

His "absurd ultimatums" are part of a campaign to sabotage the Swiss peace conference and mislead Kyiv's allies to permit the violation of Ukrainian sovereignty, according to the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).

The Russian leader's so-called peace plan included Ukraine surrendering almost 20% of its territory and abandoning its aspirations to join NATO, and the West lifting all sanctions and recognising part of Ukraine as Russian.

"The Kremlin is not interested in good faith negotiations with Ukraine and only feigns its interest in negotiations as part of a wider informational effort intended to convince the West to pre-emptively make concessions that violate Ukraine's sovereignty," said the ISW.

Mr Putin's demands would "irrevocably damage the principle of state sovereignty and the inviolability of international borders".

The ISW called Mr Putin's promise to respect a ceasefire "particularly hollow following months of Russian war crimes against Ukrainian civilians and prisoners of war".

Russia denies allegations of committing war crimes.

The International Criminal Court has issued a warrant for Mr Putin's arrest.

"Putin's demands continue to reflect his long-demanded ultimatums that are based on presuppositions that deny the existence of an independent and sovereign Ukraine and that seek to seduce the West to pre-emptively compromise on Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity," said the ISW.

Demonstrators have travelled hundreds of miles to plead their case as world leaders arrive in Switzerland.

Some 250 people, many of them relatives of Ukrainian soldiers, waved banners and shouted slogans in Lucerne to draw attention to the fate of troops taken prisoner by Russia.

Many do not know if their loved ones have been killed or taken.

"I must do everything in my power to get my husband back," said Svitlana Bilous, 34, from Kharkiv.

"I'm clinging to the idea that my husband is still alive... that's what keeps me going. If I could send him a message, it would be simply that I love him."

Anatoliy went missing in April last year and Svitlana has only heard he is alive but has had no direct contact with him.

"We want specific actions regarding the return of prisoners of war, admission of the International Committee of the Red Cross to all places of detention," she said.

The families want the world powers in attendance at Volodymyr Zelenskyy's peace summit to find ways to press Moscow to hand over information, improve the conditions of any captives and send them home.

Approximately 8,000 people - civilians and soldiers - are in Russian hands, Ukrainian officials said in February.

"All of us have the same dream," said one women at the demonstration.

"We want our relatives to be found and returned from captivity."

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