Abstract

The revolutionary innovations in themed entertainment attractions, starting with the 'Bakken', north of Copenhagen, in 1583 and given modern form by Disney at Anaheim, California in 1955 have spread outwards through successive imitation and adaptation by the amusement park industry. Developments have been slower in the Nordic region due to small populations and seasonality, tending to focus on the refurbishment of traditional parks. This paper reviews some of the historical aspects of theme parks and then, with the aid of case examples, goes on to model key design, economic and financial aspects in developing such attractions in a Nordic context. Concepts of creativity and issues of failure are examined, in order to define the boundaries of what may be currently considered good practice to minimize the downside risks that can result in financial, if not project, collapse. Finally, prospects for the future are discussed.