If you’ve ever wondered why your ten-year-old child is considered an adult when it comes to theme park ticket prices, you’re definitely not alone. This question is frequently asked in forums and during discussions about planning a visit to popular destinations like Walt Disney World or Universal Orlando. In this article, we’ll delve into the reasons behind this age classification and explore how theme parks generate revenue through ticket sales.
The Two-Tiered Ticket System
It’s important to note that the Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resorts are not the only parks with two distinct ticket categories. Many other theme parks across the USA and Canada follow a similar structure. For instance, Knotts Berry Farm and Dollywood classify children as aged 3-11 and adults as 12+, while parks like SeaWorld have a single price code for all guests aged 3 and above.
Understanding the Pricing Logic
The amusement park industry as a whole has chosen to base admission prices on space rather than age. This means that infants (under three years old), who can be held on laps and don’t require a separate seat, are not charged admission. Children aged three to nine are considered a separate category due to their smaller size, allowing more of them to occupy a given space compared to adults. From the age of ten, individuals take up about the same space as an adult, justifying the adult pricing classification.
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Implications and Consistency
While this pricing logic explains the age classification for admission tickets, it does not directly apply to other aspects such as food prices and hotel rates, which are influenced by various factors. Nevertheless, it’s important to recognize that classifying children as those under nine years old is not unique to Orlando theme parks. Similar age breakdowns can be found at Legoland Florida, Sea Life Orlando Aquarium, Gatorland, and other attractions in the area.
Conclusion
Understanding why theme parks classify ten-year-olds as adults in ticket prices boils down to a pricing strategy based on space occupancy rather than age. This approach allows parks to maximize their capacity and ensure fair pricing for different guest demographics. While it may seem puzzling at first, recognizing the industry-wide consistency in age classifications helps visitors navigate ticket purchasing with greater clarity. For more information and answers to your specific questions, reach out to us on social media, and we’ll be happy to assist you in planning your theme park adventure!
ORLANDO THEME PARK TICKET AGE BREAKDOWN
Walt Disney World (Child 3-9 and Adults 10+)
Universal Orlando (Child 3-9 and Adults 10+)
Legoland Florida (Child 3-12, Adults 12-60, Senior 60+)
SeaWorld (General Admission Ages 3+)
Crayola Experience (General Admission Ages 3+)
Coca-Cola Orlando Eye (Child 3-12, Adults 13+)
Gatorland (Child 3-12, Adults 13+)
Sea Life Orlando Aquarium (Child 3-12, Adults 13+)
Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament (Child 3-12, Adults 13+)
Kennedy Space Center – (Child 3-11, Adults 12+)
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