Cedar Fair's CEO expects good summer

Kinzel says amusement parks aren't likely to see a drop off in visitors this summer despite surging gas prices and the struggling economy.

Thursday, 08 May 2008

Amusement parks and water parks aren't likely to see a drop off in visitors this summer despite surging gas prices and the struggling economy, the head of North America's third-largest park operator says.

Families and teens still will come to ride roller coasters and gobble up funnel cakes and corn dogs, but they'll probably spend less on games and souvenirs, said Richard Kinzel, chief executive of Cedar Fair Entertainment Company.

He told The Associated Press that there are some encouraging signs already. Season pass and group sales are up over last year, although hotel reservations are down.

Read more from The Associated Press via Michigan Live