The leisure parks market is booming in France and Europe

According to a study published by Xerfi in June 2025, there are around 650 leisure parks in France, including theme parks, water parks, animal parks, and adventure parks. Together, they welcome over 70 million visitors every year and generate an estimated turnover of €4 billion.

This already rich offer is complemented by the 90 wakeparks listed in France by the French Federation of Water Ski and Wakeboard, as well as nearly 30 aquaparks, a number that continues to grow nationwide.

In Europe, the Europarks association brings together 225 leisure parks, representing about 180 million annual visitorsand a turnover of €2.15 billion.

Asia is experiencing spectacular growth with complexes such as Chimelong Water Park (China) and Sunway Lagoon (Malaysia), which rank among the most visited in the world.

In this article, we review:

• The main trends in the leisure parks market in France and Europe

• The rise of wakeparks

• The development of aquaparks

• The opportunities offered by innovation and sustainability for operators

Leisure parks in France and Europe: a growing sector

Leisure parks play a strategic role in the French and European tourism economy. Far from being mere entertainment venues, they have become regional attractions that stimulate accommodation, restaurants, and even local jobs. Their diversity is impressive: from international giants like Disneyland Paris or Europa-Park to regional sites specialized in adventure, water, or animal experiences.

In France, the sector shows remarkable vitality. A recent study counted around 650 leisure parks, reflecting the strong appetite of French families for fun and immersive experiences. Together, they attract more than 70 million visitors per year and generate nearly €4 billion in revenue.

After the pandemic, attendance rebounded sharply, driven by pent-up demand and families’ desire to return to outdoor activities. This revival came with a diversification of the offer: indoor activities to mitigate weather risks, technological innovations (augmented reality, gamification), and sustainable attractions.

In Europe, the trend is equally strong. Europarks unites 225 leisure parks with about 180 million annual visitors and more than €2.15 billion in revenue. Spain, Germany, and the Netherlands are among the most structured markets, with major complexes (PortAventura, Europa-Park, Efteling) as well as numerous regional parks.

Key trends to watch

• Premiumization: greater investments in service quality, immersive theming, and premium infrastructure.

• Diversification: boom in indoor leisure and hybrid concepts (sports + fun + digital).

• Sustainability: growing use of durable materials, energy optimization, and eco-friendly practices.

• Customer experience: demand for “Instagrammable” moments shared with family and friends.

Wakeparks: the wave of hybrid sports

Alongside traditional leisure parks, wakeparks are experiencing remarkable growth in France and Europe. Born from water skiing and wakeboarding, they attract more and more enthusiasts thanks to their accessible and playful infrastructure.

France now has more than 90 wakeparks, placing it among Europe’s leaders alongside Germany, Spain, and the Netherlands. Across Europe, there are over 400 cable parks, making it a structured and fast-growing leisure market.

 Wakepark clientele includes:

• Glide sports enthusiasts, seeking performance and progression

• Families and friends, drawn to the fun, accessible, and safe environment

• Young generations, attracted by the Instagrammable experience and new sensations

Wakeparks’ success is based on several assets:

• Small land footprint, suitable for modest water bodies

• Flexible offer, expandable with aerial courses, aquatic obstacles, or chill-out areas

• Attractive value for money, compared with other outdoor leisure activities

Beyond sport, wakeparks are evolving into real lifestyle hubs: restaurants, beach clubs, chill zones, and events (competitions, concerts, summer camps) make them complete tourist destinations.

Aquaparks: between fun and tourism appeal

Another booming segment, aquaparks have become summer must-haves. Installed on lakes or by the sea, they combine sport, play, and refreshment.

In France, there are nearly 30 aquaparks today, mainly located in coastal tourist areas. Their number grows every year, driven by vacationers’ appetite for family-friendly outdoor activities.

In Europe, Poland, Germany, and Spain stand out with increasingly large facilities featuring spectacular modules. Some complexes already combine aquaparks, wakeparks, and adventure activities to extend visits and maximize profitability.

In Asia, growth is spectacular. Sites like Chimelong Water Park (China) and Sunway Lagoon (Malaysia) welcome millions of visitors annually, setting global benchmarks.

Hydroclimb opportunities: innovate and last

In this fast-growing market, operators face key challenges: standing out, building visitor loyalty, and ensuring long-term investments. Visitors now expect not only entertainment but also safety, quality, and originality.

👉 This is where Hydroclimb solutions stand out.

• Durability: hot-dip galvanized and powder-coated steel structures, guaranteed for 10 years

• Modularity: wooden and steel courses, adaptable to all audiences

• Safety: tested and reliable systems, designed to reassure both operators and visitors

• Unique experience: concepts that combine fun, adrenaline, and conviviality

A market in motion, an opportunity to seize

From France to Asia, the leisure market shows strong and sustainable growth. Traditional leisure parks are reinventing themselves, wakeparks are becoming new anchors, and aquaparks keep attracting families.

In this context, innovation and durability are key drivers. With solutions designed to last, inspire trust, and engage, Hydroclimb helps operators create unforgettable experiences.

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