The Future of Faith-Based Theme Parks in America

The Future of Faith-Based Theme Parks in America

March 28, 2025

Faith-based attractions like the Holy Land Experience in Orlando, the Ark Encounter, and the Creation Museum offer unique experiences that blend education, entertainment, and spiritual enrichment. While the Holy Land Experience unfortunately closed, likely due to stiff competition from Disney and Universal, the Ark Encounter and the Creation Museum continue to thrive. This raises an important question: Could faith-based theme parks succeed in different locations across the United States?

One of the key reasons the Ark Encounter and the Creation Museum have remained successful is their strategic placement. Located in areas with fewer major attractions, they draw visitors who are specifically interested in biblical history and education. Unlike Orlando, which is packed with world-famous entertainment giants, these locations allow faith-based attractions to operate without direct competition, ensuring a steady stream of like-minded guests. The Holy Land Experience might have had a better chance if it had been situated in a less saturated market.

Expanding faith-based theme parks to other regions could be a game-changer. Imagine a Holy Land-style park in a location where families and faith groups could visit without the distractions of massive commercial theme parks. Enhancing such parks with rides, roller coasters, and immersive experiences could attract an even broader audience, blending the thrill of amusement parks with meaningful storytelling and education. This approach could make biblical history more engaging for younger generations while preserving the depth of historical and spiritual learning for adults.

I have fond memories of my dad enjoying the Holy Land Experience, appreciating the educational aspects, the immersive atmosphere, and even the legendary turkey legs. While I personally lean more towards thrill-seeking attractions, I recognize the value these parks bring and would love to take my family to the Ark Encounter or the Creation Museum one day. Exploring these sites could be a unique bonding experience, offering both fun and faith-centered learning opportunities.

Ultimately, there is a market for faith-based attractions in the U.S., but their success hinges on strategic location choices and the ability to blend education with entertainment. If done right, these parks could continue to inspire and educate generations to come, making biblical history more accessible and engaging for all.