Change is important at all theme parks, especially those in Southern California where the competition is so heavy. Knott’s Berry Farm sits in the shadow of Disneyland and California Adventure, while Universal Studios Hollywood and Six Flags Magic Mountain are just up the road. A new attraction — or a revamped old one — gives visitors another reason to go back to the park.
Arthur Levine, a theme parks expert at about.com says that theme park officials must straddle the line between the old and the new when making any changes.
“People love going to parks — especially one as old as Knott’s — to experience the things they did as a child. They expect to see certain things,” Levine says. “Nostalgia is very important but at the same time, the parks must keep re-inventing themselves with the latest technology. It’s a curious blend of the old and new.”
The crowds the new attraction is drawing are rather unique for theme parks. Levine explains that there are generally two types of theme parks: major destination parks and seasonal ones. Knott’s isn’t a destination park but is more than a seasonal, too. It’s open all year long.
He sees “Voyage to the Reef” as Knott’s Berry Farm stepping up and taking the park to another level.
“Knott’s has carved out this unique space,” Levine says.
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