Storm Smarts:
Creative Weather Strategies for Attractions
Weathering It Together: Lessons from the Field
The ITPS team recently spent four days at a major theme park conducting ride operations audits—and we got a firsthand look at just how tough extreme weather can be. With temperatures climbing into the 90s, a heat index above 100, and humidity hanging thick in the air, both guests and employees were battling the elements. A severe storm even shut down all rides for two hours. Like everyone else in the park, we found ourselves dodging the rain and trying to stay cool while staying focused. It was a vivid reminder that weather isn’t just a background factor—it’s a constant, operational reality that can test even the most seasoned teams.
Rainy forecasts and scorching temps can be a headache for attraction operators. But parks have weathered these challenges for decades, learning to adapt and find new ways to keep guests smiling even when the skies don’t cooperate. Many have created clever strategies to make rainy or hot days just as enjoyable—and we've helped operators implement a number of them. With a little creativity (and the right tools), you can turn gray skies into golden opportunities. A week of storms or blazing heat doesn’t just affect the guest count—it can also challenge the guest experience. But with a little creativity (and the right tools), you can turn gray skies into golden opportunities.
Let's take a look at some of the strategies that parks have used—or could use—to make the most of less-than-perfect weather.
Dynamic Pricing That Changes with the Forecast
Got a stormy week ahead? Use it as a hook. Dynamic pricing lets you adjust admission costs based on weather predictions. For example, if there’s a 75% chance of rain, drop ticket prices by 15%. It feels like a deal to guests and gets more people through the gates on days they might normally skip.
Push the Indoor (or Weather-Friendly) Fun
Help guests rethink what a day in the park looks like. Use your app, website, and signage to promote indoor attractions, covered rides, theaters, arcades, and interactive exhibits. If they know there’s plenty to do without getting drenched or overheated, they’re more likely to come.
Offer Rain Guarantees and Weather Protection
Give guests peace of mind with weather-friendly policies. This can include offering rain checks, vouchers for future visits if major attractions close, or even partnering with weather insurance providers to offer protected ticketing. When guests know they won’t lose out because of bad weather, they’re more likely to buy—and show up. These programs also reduce your risk and show guests you stand behind their experience.
Bring the Entertainment Inside
Can’t control the weather? Change the programming. Roll out surprise indoor shows, workshops, character meet-and-greets, or live music in covered spaces. Even a roaming magician or themed selfie station can brighten up a gloomy day and keep people entertained.
Make Bad Weather Feel Exclusive
Rainy-day-only treats? Limited-edition merch? Pop-up character sightings that only happen when the forecast sours? Give people a reason to want to visit because of the weather. It’s a great way to turn a negative into a unique experience.
Play the Long Game: Weather Wins Loyalty
Sometimes, the rain stops and the park still fills up. Guests who expected to suffer through a bad weather day and instead had a great experience? Those are the ones who come back—and spend more. A surprise win goes a long way.
Final Thought: You Can't Change the Forecast, But You Can Change the Experience
Guests may not remember the weather, but they’ll remember how your park made them feel despite it. With the right mix of flexibility, perks, and programming, bad weather days can become some of your best reviews.
How ITPS Can Help
At ITPS, we help parks turn operational challenges into strategic wins. From feasibility studies and master planning to operations consulting, guest experience design, and revenue optimization, our services cover every phase of development and day-to-day performance. Weather-related disruptions are just one of many areas where we bring smart, proven solutions—like dynamic pricing, adaptive programming, and guest-first policies that keep satisfaction high and visits steady. With decades of experience serving parks around the globe, we know how to help you respond, adapt, and thrive.
Let us help you create experiences that work in every season - and in any weather.
Contact ITPS
International Theme Park Services, Inc.
2200 Victory Parkway, Suite 500A
Cincinnati, Ohio 45206
United States of America
Phone: 513-381-6131
http://www.xnznkj-xf.com
itps@interthemepark.com