United Parks Shares Rise 10% as 2027 Outlook Offsets Third-Quarter Earnings Miss

United Parks & Resorts Inc. (NYSE:PRKS) reported third-quarter earnings and revenue below analysts’ expectations on Thursday, while its shares rose 10% in premarket trading following management’s comments on attendance trends and advance bookings for 2027.

The theme park operator posted adjusted earnings of $1.74 per share, compared with the consensus estimate of $1.90. Revenue declined 1.1% year over year to $506.5 million, below analysts’ expectations of $513.68 million.

Attendance Declines as Visitor Spending Increases

United Parks reported third-quarter attendance of 6.5 million guests, down 4.7% from 6.8 million in the corresponding period last year.

The company attributed approximately 325,000 fewer visits to unfavorable weather, calendar effects and international market conditions. A planned reduction in promotional admissions accounted for another 100,000 visits.

Despite lower attendance, total revenue per capita increased 3.8% to $78.29. In-park spending per visitor rose 4.4% to a record $37.39.

Adjusted EBITDA declined 5.1% to $205.1 million, compared with $216.3 million a year earlier.

Annual Pass Sales and Advance Bookings Support 2027 Outlook

United Parks reported an increase of almost 8% in total pass sales during the third quarter. Its total paid pass base returned to positive growth as of October 31, while sales of pass products specifically for 2027 increased more than 15%.

Advance booking revenue for Discovery Cove and group business for 2027 was also growing at double-digit rates compared with the previous year.

“Looking ahead to 2027 and beyond, we see a clear path to deliver significantly higher attendance, revenue, Adjusted EBITDA and free cash flow,” said CEO Marc Swanson.

The company identified these forward indicators as factors supporting its expectations for the coming year.

New Attractions Planned for 2027

United Parks also outlined upcoming attractions across its theme park portfolio.

The planned additions include SEAQuest: Legends of the Deep at SeaWorld Orlando and Return to Corkscrew Hill at Busch Gardens Williamsburg.

The attractions form part of the company’s plans for the 2027 operating season.

While third-quarter revenue and profitability declined, United Parks reported higher visitor spending and increased advance sales activity, with management forecasting improvements in attendance, revenue, adjusted EBITDA and free cash flow in 2027.

United Parks & Resorts stock price