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Silver Dollar City & Celebration City Discussion => General Silver Dollar City Talk => Topic started by: sanddunerider on April 02, 2018, 07:17:54 AM

Title: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on April 02, 2018, 07:17:54 AM
WOW!!  wet weather, last day of the month and end of Spring Break...!!

   Sat the 31st.      Only 5,000 people.!!
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: Okiebenz on April 02, 2018, 08:46:58 PM
WOW really?  Saturday was a pretty nice day wasn't it?  Sunday not so much.  Guess I should have went up there.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sanddunerider on April 03, 2018, 07:46:09 AM
Yes, strange number for saturday..??...

Sunday doesnt count, park was closed for Easter.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: npd652 on April 03, 2018, 10:33:06 AM
I was there Saturday and can confirm that it wasn't busy at all. Every ride was walk on except for Time Traveler and after the rain storm it shut down for the rest of the day.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: HumphreyHawk on April 03, 2018, 01:51:46 PM
Mental note:  Rainy Saturdays before an Easter Sunday are good days to go.  lol.

In hindsight....it kind of makes since that it would be light on a weekend holiday that most families like to stay close to home.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sanddunerider on April 03, 2018, 01:57:56 PM
Mental note:  Rainy Saturdays before an Easter Sunday are good days to go.  lol.

In hindsight....it kind of makes since that it would be light on a weekend holiday that most families like to stay close to home.

That is true too... in fact the PTB estimated sat's attendence to only be about 9,000 people anyway...
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: Swoosh on April 03, 2018, 05:36:52 PM
Mental note:  Rainy Saturdays before an Easter Sunday are good days to go.  lol.

In hindsight....it kind of makes since that it would be light on a weekend holiday that most families like to stay close to home.

That is true too... in fact the PTB estimated sat's attendence to only be about 9,000 people anyway...

This is so not true of most tourist locations.  Orlando was slammed this past weekend
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: Tmboote on April 03, 2018, 08:49:26 PM
Mental note:  Rainy Saturdays before an Easter Sunday are good days to go.  lol.

In hindsight....it kind of makes since that it would be light on a weekend holiday that most families like to stay close to home.

That is true too... in fact the PTB estimated sat's attendence to only be about 9,000 people anyway...

This is so not true of most tourist locations.  Orlando was slammed this past weekend

Last year when I was at Disney over Easter it was actually less busy than I expected it to be.

Considering SDC isn’t actually open on Easter, it doesn’t surprise me that there wouldn’t be that many people there Saturday. I feel like people who go on trips over Easter break want to go somewhere they can do something on Sunday and how many Branson attractions are actually open on Easter?
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: Okiebenz on April 03, 2018, 09:20:16 PM
What do you all think Friday and Saturday this week will be like?  Weather looks colder and maybe rainy.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: Swoosh on April 03, 2018, 09:39:34 PM
What do you all think Friday and Saturday this week will be like?  Weather looks colder and maybe rainy.

This is Young Heathens Weekend.  It’ll be stupid busy with teenagers without adult supervision.  Massive line cutting and overall rude behavior.  It really is the worst weekend of the entire year.  It ticks me off too as these as supposed to be “Christians” too.  Takes the park a good week to recover from the vandalism. 
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: HumphreyHawk on April 03, 2018, 10:30:27 PM
What do you all think Friday and Saturday this week will be like?  Weather looks colder and maybe rainy.

This is Young Heathens Weekend.  It’ll be stupid busy with teenagers without adult supervision.  Massive line cutting and overall rude behavior.  It really is the worst weekend of the entire year.  It ticks me off too as these as supposed to be “Christians” too.  Takes the park a good week to recover from the vandalism.

lol...theirs got to be a least 2 entertaining stories behind these feelings.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sanddunerider on April 04, 2018, 07:45:39 AM
This is Young Heathens Weekend.  It’ll be stupid busy with teenagers without adult supervision.  Massive line cutting and overall rude behavior.  It really is the worst weekend of the entire year.  It ticks me off too as these as supposed to be “Christians” too.  Takes the park a good week to recover from the vandalism.

What a perfect weekend NOT to go to the city!! :o :o :o
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: Okiebenz on April 04, 2018, 08:23:35 AM
Crap, I just noticed that, I was just looking at potential cold rainy weather and figured it would be slow.  I guess I will cancel my room at the Classic and maybe go the following weekend.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: Okiebenz on April 04, 2018, 08:41:31 AM
So my original plan was Thursday Friday and Saturday but they are closed Thursday so we were going Friday and Saturday.  Won't these "Christians" be in school Friday?  Which is supposed to have PM rain. That leaves Saturday which looks like high is 48.  I am reading their website and it talks about youth groups.  I take that to mean bus load after bus load of kids?  Is that correct?  If so, they will be there rain or shine I would think.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sanddunerider on April 04, 2018, 08:51:38 AM
So my original plan was Thursday Friday and Saturday but they are closed Thursday so we were going Friday and Saturday.  Won't these "Christians" be in school Friday?  Which is supposed to have PM rain. That leaves Saturday which looks like high is 48.  I am reading their website and it talks about youth groups.  I take that to mean bus load after bus load of kids?  Is that correct?  If so, they will be there rain or shine I would think.
\

LOL>.. you should be good on Friday,  Yes, Bus load after Bus load after Bus load of "Young Christians (that act like little spoiled heathens)..  I am sure they will be there.. The City plans several "events" just for the them that weekend..

OK>  Dont get me wrong,  I think what the park is doing is a great idea, the special effort they put out for the Young Christians is awesome..!!  I love their effort...  The majority of the kids are fine, well behaved and more than deserve this weekend....
   
BUT those few kids., the troublemakers...... really take the fun our of it for everyone else..
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: chittlins on April 04, 2018, 10:08:48 AM
Mental note:  Rainy Saturdays before an Easter Sunday are good days to go.  lol.

In hindsight....it kind of makes since that it would be light on a weekend holiday that most families like to stay close to home.

That is true too... in fact the PTB estimated sat's attendence to only be about 9,000 people anyway...

This is so not true of most tourist locations.  Orlando was slammed this past weekend

Some regions all just now enjoying spring break. I was told last Tues that the next week would be busier. I was SO glad we had those extra 3 fast passes per person for our day at WDW.  We used our regular ones for BTMRR, 7DMT and Pan.  The GrandMom and Mother let the kids double dip at two of those with their FPs  and we used the freebies on rides we all rode, Jungle Cruise, POTC and again let the kids double dip at Space. We all hit Haunted Mansion right after fireworks for a 15 minute wait. The kids had zero interest in Barnstormer this trip, amazing what 3 years will do as they rode it over and over last time,(without much of a wait in the first week of Feb).  Presidents Hall had armed guards, something I missed seeing that the last time (and Conservatives are the hateful bunch 8)).

So, in summary, Disney is a different beast.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sirwillow on April 04, 2018, 03:55:36 PM
This is Young Heathens Weekend.  It’ll be stupid busy with teenagers without adult supervision.  Massive line cutting and overall rude behavior.  It really is the worst weekend of the entire year.  It ticks me off too as these as supposed to be “Christians” too.  Takes the park a good week to recover from the vandalism.

And it's so frustrating, both from a worker's point of view as well as a pastor's.  The lack of supervision is a huge part of the problem- what do teens do when they aren't supervised?  Test the limits of what they can get away with.  And there is this idiotic idea out there very common in churches that this is a great event to take all of those kids who would normally not go anywhere near the church to- kids they would normally have little or nothing to do with and that they don't know.  Because they think that somehow these kids will hear a few licks of music and it will transform them, but in the mean time they turn them loose to wreak havok (which is why they normally wouldn't be at church to begin with)

Meantime everyone else assumes that all of them are "Christian" and that is what Christians are like, and it becomes an utter failure all the way around.  Well, except for those trouble making kids who got a free (or nearly free) day at SDC out of it. *sigh*
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: History Buff on April 04, 2018, 05:56:21 PM
This is Young Heathens Weekend.  It’ll be stupid busy with teenagers without adult supervision.  Massive line cutting and overall rude behavior.  It really is the worst weekend of the entire year.  It ticks me off too as these as supposed to be “Christians” too.  Takes the park a good week to recover from the vandalism.

And it's so frustrating, both from a worker's point of view as well as a pastor's.  The lack of supervision is a huge part of the problem- what do teens do when they aren't supervised?  Test the limits of what they can get away with.  And there is this idiotic idea out there very common in churches that this is a great event to take all of those kids who would normally not go anywhere near the church to- kids they would normally have little or nothing to do with and that they don't know.  Because they think that somehow these kids will hear a few licks of music and it will transform them, but in the mean time they turn them loose to wreak havok (which is why they normally wouldn't be at church to begin with)

Meantime everyone else assumes that all of them are "Christian" and that is what Christians are like, and it becomes an utter failure all the way around.  Well, except for those trouble making kids who got a free (or nearly free) day at SDC out of it. *sigh*

On the nose.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: chittlins on April 04, 2018, 08:49:31 PM
Why does the park continue it? Couldn't most of this be spread out during a festival. It's like a park that's haVing some choir or band day.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: Swoosh on April 04, 2018, 09:32:54 PM
This is Young Heathens Weekend.  It’ll be stupid busy with teenagers without adult supervision.  Massive line cutting and overall rude behavior.  It really is the worst weekend of the entire year.  It ticks me off too as these as supposed to be “Christians” too.  Takes the park a good week to recover from the vandalism.

And it's so frustrating, both from a worker's point of view as well as a pastor's.  The lack of supervision is a huge part of the problem- what do teens do when they aren't supervised?  Test the limits of what they can get away with.  And there is this idiotic idea out there very common in churches that this is a great event to take all of those kids who would normally not go anywhere near the church to- kids they would normally have little or nothing to do with and that they don't know.  Because they think that somehow these kids will hear a few licks of music and it will transform them, but in the mean time they turn them loose to wreak havok (which is why they normally wouldn't be at church to begin with)

Meantime everyone else assumes that all of them are "Christian" and that is what Christians are like, and it becomes an utter failure all the way around.  Well, except for those trouble making kids who got a free (or nearly free) day at SDC out of it. *sigh*

Well it’s not so much a “lack of supervision” but rather a “lack of QUALITY supervison”.  They send youth pastors along on these trips and usually they’re only 3-4 years older than the kids they’re supposed to be watching.  Then add on to that that the youth pastors are more trying to be their friends than supervisors. 
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sanddunerider on April 05, 2018, 07:15:26 AM
This is Young Heathens Weekend.  It’ll be stupid busy with teenagers without adult supervision.  Massive line cutting and overall rude behavior.  It really is the worst weekend of the entire year.  It ticks me off too as these as supposed to be “Christians” too.  Takes the park a good week to recover from the vandalism.

And it's so frustrating, both from a worker's point of view as well as a pastor's.  The lack of supervision is a huge part of the problem- what do teens do when they aren't supervised?  Test the limits of what they can get away with.  And there is this idiotic idea out there very common in churches that this is a great event to take all of those kids who would normally not go anywhere near the church to- kids they would normally have little or nothing to do with and that they don't know.  Because they think that somehow these kids will hear a few licks of music and it will transform them, but in the mean time they turn them loose to wreak havok (which is why they normally wouldn't be at church to begin with)

Meantime everyone else assumes that all of them are "Christian" and that is what Christians are like, and it becomes an utter failure all the way around.  Well, except for those trouble making kids who got a free (or nearly free) day at SDC out of it. *sigh*

Well it’s not so much a “lack of supervision” but rather a “lack of QUALITY supervison”.  They send youth pastors along on these trips and usually they’re only 3-4 years older than the kids they’re supposed to be watching.  Then add on to that that the youth pastors are more trying to be their friends than supervisors.

Lets go back a little more than that,,,,  possibly lack of parenting at the home to begin with..
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: HumphreyHawk on April 05, 2018, 10:09:23 AM
This is Young Heathens Weekend.  It’ll be stupid busy with teenagers without adult supervision.  Massive line cutting and overall rude behavior.  It really is the worst weekend of the entire year.  It ticks me off too as these as supposed to be “Christians” too.  Takes the park a good week to recover from the vandalism.

And it's so frustrating, both from a worker's point of view as well as a pastor's.  The lack of supervision is a huge part of the problem- what do teens do when they aren't supervised?  Test the limits of what they can get away with.  And there is this idiotic idea out there very common in churches that this is a great event to take all of those kids who would normally not go anywhere near the church to- kids they would normally have little or nothing to do with and that they don't know.  Because they think that somehow these kids will hear a few licks of music and it will transform them, but in the mean time they turn them loose to wreak havok (which is why they normally wouldn't be at church to begin with)

Meantime everyone else assumes that all of them are "Christian" and that is what Christians are like, and it becomes an utter failure all the way around.  Well, except for those trouble making kids who got a free (or nearly free) day at SDC out of it. *sigh*

Youth ministry is a complex topic.  My church has a large youth ministry mission that is often a double edge sword for our church.  Our Wednesday night youth services are as large as the sunday morning services because we bring in a lot neighboring kids who's families are not active in church but basically use us as a babysitter or just a safe place to go out of the house once a week.  We have a youth lead worship band, full-time youth leader/minister, and feed them every Wednesday.  Our ministry goal is to just try build relationships with the kids and families and be a light in the community.  Maybe a seed or two can be planted.  The church does get a handful a new members/families regularly.  The downside is that we have families in the church that don't send their kids on Wednesday because we have a 'rougher' or less controlled environment because it's so open.  The church has had to deal with some incidents too from the kids and puts a lot of pressure on both the paid and volunteer leadership on those nights.  A few family's have left because of situations with non-churched kids.  Our facilities take a beating too when you have 70-100 pre-teen and teens in the building.  I used to volunteer to help and teach but I would only do it a quarter at a time.....it was exhausting....and they do struggle keeping good volunteers around.  I've personally gone back in forth myself on allowing my kids to go but I know the heart of the mission is solid...the leaders are good....and frankly that controlled environment is actually a good stepping stone to the real world. 

We don't do many trips like the SDC weekend (never have done SDC)...they do weekend conferences sometimes and when they do it's usually just select youth leaders in an effort to team build with each other and plan out events for the church.  But for smaller churches this might be a highlight of the year for the youth...and the churches best method to try to create some new relationships in there communities..."Come go to SDC with us" It's not really about them hearing the right song during the weekend....though it doesn't hurt....it's about possible planting a seed and hopefully creating some good relationships with kids who need them.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: coasterdad on April 05, 2018, 07:00:24 PM
This is Young Heathens Weekend.  It’ll be stupid busy with teenagers without adult supervision.  Massive line cutting and overall rude behavior.  It really is the worst weekend of the entire year.  It ticks me off too as these as supposed to be “Christians” too.  Takes the park a good week to recover from the vandalism.

And it's so frustrating, both from a worker's point of view as well as a pastor's.  The lack of supervision is a huge part of the problem- what do teens do when they aren't supervised?  Test the limits of what they can get away with.  And there is this idiotic idea out there very common in churches that this is a great event to take all of those kids who would normally not go anywhere near the church to- kids they would normally have little or nothing to do with and that they don't know.  Because they think that somehow these kids will hear a few licks of music and it will transform them, but in the mean time they turn them loose to wreak havok (which is why they normally wouldn't be at church to begin with)

Meantime everyone else assumes that all of them are "Christian" and that is what Christians are like, and it becomes an utter failure all the way around.  Well, except for those trouble making kids who got a free (or nearly free) day at SDC out of it. *sigh*

Youth ministry is a complex topic.  My church has a large youth ministry mission that is often a double edge sword for our church.  Our Wednesday night youth services are as large as the sunday morning services because we bring in a lot neighboring kids who's families are not active in church but basically use us as a babysitter or just a safe place to go out of the house once a week.  We have a youth lead worship band, full-time youth leader/minister, and feed them every Wednesday.  Our ministry goal is to just try build relationships with the kids and families and be a light in the community.  Maybe a seed or two can be planted.  The church does get a handful a new members/families regularly.  The downside is that we have families in the church that don't send their kids on Wednesday because we have a 'rougher' or less controlled environment because it's so open.  The church has had to deal with some incidents too from the kids and puts a lot of pressure on both the paid and volunteer leadership on those nights.  A few family's have left because of situations with non-churched kids.  Our facilities take a beating too when you have 70-100 pre-teen and teens in the building.  I used to volunteer to help and teach but I would only do it a quarter at a time.....it was exhausting....and they do struggle keeping good volunteers around.  I've personally gone back in forth myself on allowing my kids to go but I know the heart of the mission is solid...the leaders are good....and frankly that controlled environment is actually a good stepping stone to the real world. 

We don't do many trips like the SDC weekend (never have done SDC)...they do weekend conferences sometimes and when they do it's usually just select youth leaders in an effort to team build with each other and plan out events for the church.  But for smaller churches this might be a highlight of the year for the youth...and the churches best method to try to create some new relationships in there communities..."Come go to SDC with us" It's not really about them hearing the right song during the weekend....though it doesn't hurt....it's about possible planting a seed and hopefully creating some good relationships with kids who need them.


as a former YP I can say 100% you nailed this
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sirwillow on April 05, 2018, 07:57:09 PM
But for smaller churches this might be a highlight of the year for the youth...and the churches best method to try to create some new relationships in there communities..."Come go to SDC with us" It's not really about them hearing the right song during the weekend....though it doesn't hurt....it's about possible planting a seed and hopefully creating some good relationships with kids who need them.

But in cases like that, then the groups, including the leaders, tend to stick together.  They might break up into smaller groups, but because they are working on building relationships and planting seeds, they still keep them in groups and usually with some supervision.  Those are not the groups that cause problems.  As a youth pastor for years, that's what we did.  But I also insisted on knowing the kids before they could come on a trip like that.  We didn't allow kids that we didn't know to join us. They had to establish some sort of relationship with us first.

Those groups are NOT the problem at events like this. They ARE however also not typical of many of the groups that do go.  And that's the sad thing. 

Unfortunately I learned that the hard way as a youth pastor, lead pastor, and a theme park worker and having to deal with the large numbers of kids that were turned loose as soon as they walked in the gates to do whatever they please, and if you asked them what church or group they were with they couldn't even tell you because they had never done anything with them before.  And those are the ones that cause the problems.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: Okiebenz on April 06, 2018, 02:14:07 PM
Anybody over there today? If the ride times on the app can be believed it does not look like it is very busy.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sanddunerider on April 06, 2018, 03:08:51 PM
Anybody over there today? If the ride times on the app can be believed it does not look like it is very busy.

As of 2:00 this afternoon,  3000 people. had been through the gates today.. :-\
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sirwillow on April 07, 2018, 09:26:48 AM
Should be interesting to see what the numbers are like today, with the light dusting of snow on the ground.  Really tempted to get up and go myself.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sanddunerider on April 07, 2018, 09:34:54 AM
Should be interesting to see what the numbers are like today, with the light dusting of snow on the ground.  Really tempted to get up and go myself.

With this being Young Christians Weekend, no way to find out how many people going are affiliated with the groups... or just going//

The "good" thing is.. the colder weather will discourage everyday visitors and they wont have to put up with the kids and get frustrated... ;D ;D.

The bad thing is the kids will be going nuts with the rides closed and cooler temps.... ::) ::)
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: Okiebenz on April 07, 2018, 11:14:05 AM
Anybody over there today? If the ride times on the app can be believed it does not look like it is very busy.

As of 2:00 this afternoon,  3000 people. had been through the gates today.. :-\

Well darn maybe I should have went after all.  Looks like all the rides are closed today
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sirwillow on April 07, 2018, 10:01:08 PM

With this being Young Christians Weekend, no way to find out how many people going are affiliated with the groups... or just going//

The bad thing is the kids will be going nuts with the rides closed and cooler temps.... ::) ::)

That was why I didn't end up going.  I initially forgot it was Young Christians Weekend, but happy I remembered before I left.  And with all the rides closed because of the temps- not a place I would want to be...

I'll be out there next Sunday afternoon for a little bit at least.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sanddunerider on April 08, 2018, 07:13:36 AM
Saturday 9300 people.   Good thing they had the Young Christians weekend.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sanddunerider on April 08, 2018, 04:42:29 PM
As of 4 this afternoon..  (sunday),  8000 people
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: HumphreyHawk on April 08, 2018, 06:35:49 PM
Swoosh's doom and gloom comments scared everyone off....or maybe it was the weather  :P
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sanddunerider on April 08, 2018, 07:14:47 PM
Swoosh's doom and gloom comments scared everyone off....or maybe it was the weather  :P

NO, This time it was the weather AND Young Christians Weekend...........   


we can blame the next slow weekend on Swoosh ;)
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sanddunerider on April 11, 2018, 07:15:32 PM
Only 3500 people today  (wed).... 1st day of the new Festival....
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: Gilligan on April 11, 2018, 10:01:41 PM
Today was GREAT!  What can I say? Perfect weather, walk on rides, shows were great, small crowd all morning.  I'm sure there were more than 3500 people on park by mid afternoon.  Walkways were getting congested.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sanddunerider on April 12, 2018, 07:34:37 AM
Today was GREAT!  What can I say? Perfect weather, walk on rides, shows were great, small crowd all morning.  I'm sure there were more than 3500 people on park by mid afternoon.  Walkways were getting congested.

Im glad you had a good day,  i would like to hit the park sometime with that low of a count AND nice outside...

3500 was the official count....  maybe they were all on the same walkway at the same time..   LOL..  that seems to be the way it happens..
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: Okiebenz on April 12, 2018, 07:45:20 AM
Yes, it was perfect yesterday. Going back today
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: Okiebenz on April 12, 2018, 10:08:52 AM
Won’t be near as pleasant today. Many bus loads of kids out front. Hordes of kids everywhere.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sirwillow on April 12, 2018, 03:20:01 PM
Won’t be near as pleasant today. Many bus loads of kids out front. Hordes of kids everywhere.
It's also their cheap tickets day, so that brings in more people.  Combined with perfect weather...
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sanddunerider on April 12, 2018, 04:01:20 PM
Won’t be near as pleasant today. Many bus loads of kids out front. Hordes of kids everywhere.

As of 3:00.   6000 people, 

Hope it isnt to bad for you Okiebenz!
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: Gilligan on April 12, 2018, 08:21:00 PM
Today is Math/Science Day.  Yup, bus loads of kids.  A lot of them had math and science activities to complete that were set up for them around the park.  It was fairly busy when I got there right after 10.  Shows didn't seem to have much attendance this morning (very few kids - lol), but the rides sure did.  I have to say, though, I did not see one kid misbehaving.  I don't know if they were well supervised, or just busy, but it was a great day.  We had to leave early about 1:00 and we were walking out against the crowd, so definitely busier today.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sanddunerider on April 13, 2018, 06:47:42 AM
Today is Math/Science Day.  Yup, bus loads of kids.  A lot of them had math and science activities to complete that were set up for them around the park.  It was fairly busy when I got there right after 10.  Shows didn't seem to have much attendance this morning (and they weren't kids - lol), but the rides sure did.  I have to say, though, I did not see one kid misbehaving.  I don't know if they were well supervised, or just busy, but it was a great day.  We had to leave early about 1:00 and we were walking out against the crowd, so definitely busier today.

I am glad they were well behaved...  the final count was only 6300 people..    should have been a good day for everyone...  get you coats out! cold weekend ahead....(again :-[)
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: chittlins on April 13, 2018, 08:06:15 AM
Looks like SDC is stuck in a sucky weekend weather pattern as even next weekend's weather looks less than promising.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sanddunerider on April 13, 2018, 04:53:45 PM
WOW!!   as of 4:00 today (friday)....    2400 people....??? :o :o

Okiebenz.... How was it today?
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: chittlins on April 13, 2018, 05:20:03 PM
There's a tornado warned cell heading toward the city, ot's about over Green Forrest Arkansas. Mountainburg AR got hit and cars got blown over on I-49
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: Gilligan on April 13, 2018, 09:04:12 PM
Sand, I got there about 9:30.  It was light, but filling up fairly quickly. Steady stream of people in Delilah's while we were there for coffee (only place on park that has half and half that I know of). Couldn't get in the Pickers homestead - every seat taken. Illusionist show was 2/3 full and about the same for Harp and Hang.  I left about 2:30.  Hubs just said there were at least double 2400 people there before we left.  Train had a good crowd, but I noticed the cars weren't packed as usual. Most seats were taken on back porch of Culinary School, but too windy for me back there, so we left. 
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: Okiebenz on April 13, 2018, 10:25:22 PM
Won’t be near as pleasant today. Many bus loads of kids out front. Hordes of kids everywhere.

As of 3:00.   6000 people, 

Hope it isnt to bad for you Okiebenz!

It looked like it was going to be bad, but it turned out to be just great. 
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: Okiebenz on April 13, 2018, 10:26:51 PM
WOW!!   as of 4:00 today (friday)....    2400 people....??? :o :o

Okiebenz.... How was it today?

We did not go today, I figured it would be packed, so we just headed back home. I guess we should have hit it a 3rd day.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sanddunerider on April 15, 2018, 01:59:20 PM
Talked to a couple of people at the city today..(sunday)...   customers not employees,  almost nobody there...

As of noon-- 1300 people..
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: Jemmicat on April 15, 2018, 04:35:31 PM
It did not even feel like that many. I am guessing most left by 2 ish. I sae the saloon show with about 30 other people. I felt horrible for the performers.

It was horrible weather wise though. I have been there in winter and all but that wind today was just biting. And there was no hiding from it. They had pretty mich pulled thenheaters from everyplace so nowhere to go
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sanddunerider on April 15, 2018, 06:08:58 PM
It did not even feel like that many. I am guessing most left by 2 ish. I sae the saloon show with about 30 other people. I felt horrible for the performers.

It was horrible weather wise though. I have been there in winter and all but that wind today was just biting. And there was no hiding from it. They had pretty mich pulled thenheaters from everyplace so nowhere to go

Todays total........1650 :-\ :-\
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sirwillow on April 15, 2018, 06:48:24 PM
Figured it was low like that.  Haven't seen numbers that low in a long time.  As a guest, it was wonderful, though a lot was closed due to the cold.  No big deal.  For the shows it mean center seating near the front with awesome views.  And the shows I did see the performers did great, even with the small crowds.

This time of year the weather being so hit or miss can easily play havok, and it looks like it's doing it again this year.  I remember one year during World Fest when I worked there (might have been 2012 or 2013) we didn't have a decent weather weekend the whole month.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sanddunerider on April 15, 2018, 07:00:42 PM
Figured it was low like that.  Haven't seen numbers that low in a long time.  As a guest, it was wonderful, though a lot was closed due to the cold.  No big deal.  For the shows it mean center seating near the front with awesome views.  And the shows I did see the performers did great, even with the small crowds.

This time of year the weather being so hit or miss can easily play havok, and it looks like it's doing it again this year.  I remember one year during World Fest when I worked there (might have been 2012 or 2013) we didn't have a decent weather weekend the whole month.

Opening weekend for outlaw run, it was cold and snowing on sunday, wind blowing..I was there, walked through the new area for outlw run and then a quick look around the rest of the park... it was nasty.. no rides open, they cancelled outside shows... by noon there had only been 200 people through the gate.. they started sending employees home by 1...
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: Okiebenz on April 15, 2018, 09:36:13 PM
Makes me wish I was there today.  Instead the starter on my truck decided to die this morning so I got to swap it out in the cold windy weather today. 
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sanddunerider on April 16, 2018, 08:04:27 AM
Makes me wish I was there today.  Instead the starter on my truck decided to die this morning so I got to swap it out in the cold windy weather today. 

That sux... I do most of my own wrenching,   so I do understand.... ::)
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sanddunerider on April 18, 2018, 02:59:29 PM
Off to a slow start this week...
Wed the 18th.....
@ 2:00--3800 people

total for the day, only 4100 people.. 
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: HikerDan on April 19, 2018, 09:20:30 AM
Anybody know what a normal attendance total would be for a weekday during WorldFest/Festival of Wonder?  I have absolutely no idea, so there's really nothing for me to compare with the 4,000 through the gate on Wednesday number. It doesn't sound too bad for a Wednesday in April, but maybe SDC is hoping for better numbers this year.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: chittlins on April 19, 2018, 09:51:15 AM
The weekend weather has been craptastic and the trend will continue this weekend. Arkansas Baseball is Top 5 and even when we are average a decent weather weekend means 33,000 over three games. It's down this year...the darn weather.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sanddunerider on April 19, 2018, 10:26:59 AM
Anybody know what a normal attendance total would be for a weekday during WorldFest/Festival of Wonder?  I have absolutely no idea, so there's really nothing for me to compare with the 4,000 through the gate on Wednesday number. It doesn't sound too bad for a Wednesday in April, but maybe SDC is hoping for better numbers this year.

I dont know how the PTB arrive at the "Expected attendence",  But yestarday's  magic number was 7000 people..


Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: Jemmicat on April 19, 2018, 11:02:44 AM
"I dont know how the PTB arrive at the "Expected attendence",  But yestarday's  magic number was 7000 people.."

I have always wondered this. From what I was told some time ago, they base it on historical trends for the day. Not really related to weather. And that is how they get burned in my opinion. I mean, when a historical trend for say April 18 is 7k people without taking weather into account, there really is no way to be correct. If you staff for 7k people and it is an 85 degree day, you make everyone angry because you are understaffed. And if you staff for the same amount and it is 50 and raining, you have WAY too many people.

I do not know how far ahead they schedule workers, but it seems like using a historical attendance without taking into account so many other factors is what most of the problems are.

I go back into looking at it from an engineering perspective... If you look at it based off past value plus about 4 other factors, you could probably get your staffing estimates within about 10% and also keep a lot more people happy. SDC truly needs an industrial engineer or someone like that on staff. And why they don't is a bit beyond me...

I think it would be a fun job to do that. And perhaps you even pay the person a lesser amount and then they get bonuses based on accuracy of prediction and savings in labor or guest happiness.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sanddunerider on April 19, 2018, 04:06:57 PM
Another slow day at the park...

expected about 7,000

today at 4:00 ---  3900 people..   

the weather is supposed to be cool and rainy again this weekend, not a good start for the year.. :(.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sirwillow on April 19, 2018, 07:52:10 PM
Anybody know what a normal attendance total would be for a weekday during WorldFest/Festival of Wonder?  I have absolutely no idea, so there's really nothing for me to compare with the 4,000 through the gate on Wednesday number. It doesn't sound too bad for a Wednesday in April, but maybe SDC is hoping for better numbers this year.

4000 people is a light crowd.  To help translate that, it will mean that most rides are short to no waits, the train might run half full on almost all runs, and the shows won't be anywhere near capacity.  A more "proper" weekday crowd that would actually be closer to meeting their budgets would be around 7000 to 8000 during the week.
Being below 4000 means there is a good chance they are losing money on that day.

Busier times of year you should see 9-10,000 on weekdays.  Weekends shouldn't be below 12,000, and on a summer Saturday should be over 15,000.  Busy days will have 18,000, and the Christmas crowds you're looking around 20,000.  The busiest days the park has had are going to be in the 24,000 people range.  When the park is over 19,000, well, those are days you don't want to be there with the long lines for everything and it feeling on the packed side.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sirwillow on April 19, 2018, 07:57:20 PM

I have always wondered this. From what I was told some time ago, they base it on historical trends for the day. Not really related to weather. And that is how they get burned in my opinion.
I do not know how far ahead they schedule workers, but it seems like using a historical attendance without taking into account so many other factors is what most of the problems are.

Employees want their schedules ahead of time. Well ahead of time.  The goal is to have employee schedules done at least a week ahead, and oftentimes 2.  That's only fair to the workers so they can plan instead of having to wait until the last minute to know if they are going to work or not.

Unfortunately that doesn't work in conjunction with weather forecasts, which will often change, and may be unknown until 3 or 4 days ahead of time.  I don't know anyone who wants to be finding out if they work or not 2-3 days in advance, but if you're trying to make schedules based on weather reports, that is what you would end up doing.

While basing it on past attendance isn't perfect, it does at least show trends for festivals and times of year, along with events, and until someone learns how to see in to the future, I'm not aware of a better way to figure out what it might look like except to see what it was like averaged out in the past.  But it does mean "missing" sometimes, one way or the other.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sanddunerider on April 20, 2018, 02:00:37 PM
Actually making the work schedule for SDC wouldnt be any worse than any other retail orientated company...
you check sales and attendence for the same day a couple of years in the past... the current weather forecast would have nothing to do with setting a schedule ahead of time..  I am sure they schedule 2 weeks out at a minimum,..
average out sales and attendence, 
schedule employees accordingly for the expected sales and your done... 
IF you have bad weather, you send employees home early,, Bad deal for employee, smaller paycheck, But it really is that simple...   
However I would not be surprised if SDC has a scheduling program on the puter that does it all automatically..  That would save the labor cost immensely.



Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sanddunerider on April 20, 2018, 03:26:53 PM
Fridays numbers....  expected about 8500-    as of 3:00- 7500 in the gate
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: Jemmicat on April 20, 2018, 05:05:51 PM
I would not expect schedules changins 2-3 days beforehand, but I think a week ahead is not horrible. I mean, weather forecasts DO change, but they usually (key word) don't change drastically a week ahead. So if say I got my schedule for the next week on Friday, would not be horribly off.

Most hourly people I know it's about like that... they get a schedule for the next week on Friday.

It is not the days where there are too many employees that there are problems... Yes, they send people home - which sucks FAR MORE on a paycheck than finding out a few days early if you have to work or not. The problems stem when they play for 4000 and have 24000 because it is a nice day and the previous years there were not nice days. That is when complaints go up and it just goes horribly wrong.

And while yes, you probably can often predict employee needs at retail shops by analyzing previous years, how could anyone possibly think this is a smart way to do it for a theme park that is VERY weather related in attendance? That seems moronic to me... And if that is how they are analyzing things... well that explains most of the problems
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: HumphreyHawk on April 21, 2018, 09:17:17 AM
Actually making the work schedule for SDC wouldnt be any worse than any other retail orientated company...
you check sales and attendence for the same day a couple of years in the past... the current weather forecast would have nothing to do with setting a schedule ahead of time..  I am sure they schedule 2 weeks out at a minimum,..
average out sales and attendence, 
schedule employees accordingly for the expected sales and your done... 
IF you have bad weather, you send employees home early,, Bad deal for employee, smaller paycheck, But it really is that simple...   
However I would not be surprised if SDC has a scheduling program on the puter that does it all automatically..  That would save the labor cost immensely.

I can contribute to this conversation that at least one large retailer that has a HO in the area.....does include both historical weather and weather forecasting in making both staffing plans and merchandise planning.  Of course the merchandise planning is more of a seasonal forecasting thing.  Surely SDC tracks historical info around attendance and weather to help them make decisions along with the upcoming forecasts.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: chittlins on April 21, 2018, 09:58:05 PM
Actually making the work schedule for SDC wouldnt be any worse than any other retail orientated company...
you check sales and attendence for the same day a couple of years in the past... the current weather forecast would have nothing to do with setting a schedule ahead of time..  I am sure they schedule 2 weeks out at a minimum,..
average out sales and attendence, 
schedule employees accordingly for the expected sales and your done... 
IF you have bad weather, you send employees home early,, Bad deal for employee, smaller paycheck, But it really is that simple...   
However I would not be surprised if SDC has a scheduling program on the puter that does it all automatically..  That would save the labor cost immensely.

I can contribute to this conversation that at least one large retailer that has a HO in the area.....does include both historical weather and weather forecasting in making both staffing plans and merchandise planning.  Of course the merchandise planning is more of a seasonal forecasting thing.  Surely SDC tracks historical info around attendance and weather to help them make decisions along with the upcoming forecasts.

The same large retailer with such top notch SuperCenter managers that when they go down to a single register with a human running it at 9pm on a Saturday night in a college town and put a girl on it that's under 21 to run it so.she has to constantly go hold to call someone over to complete the transaction? I actually stopped the front end manager as he was walking away and told him to look at the 7 folks in line cause I did and that 6 had beer or wine and to stay put. I may have asked who the dumb@$% was that put her on that register.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sdcfan88 on April 22, 2018, 01:59:41 AM
Went on Friday and was very surprised by the light crowds despite how nice a day it was. One thing that is apparent which I am actually liking, TT has taken all the coaster crowds lol. Everything including PK was a one train wait or a walk on. Only things that had any sort of line or crowd was FITH, TT and of course the train.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: Duelist on April 22, 2018, 11:18:51 AM
Glad to see Fire in the Hole is still drawing crowds.  We had to wait almost every time we rode it last year (which was a lot).  Still one of the best after all these years!
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: sanddunerider on April 22, 2018, 04:01:50 PM
what does a cool rainy day on Branson on a sunday mean...??

1800 people at SDC>!!>
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Okiebenz on April 22, 2018, 04:18:58 PM
what does a cool rainy day on Branson on a sunday mean...??

1800 people at SDC>!!>

Sounds like a good day to be there today.
Title: Re: Attendence number....
Post by: HumphreyHawk on April 22, 2018, 10:27:28 PM
Actually making the work schedule for SDC wouldnt be any worse than any other retail orientated company...
you check sales and attendence for the same day a couple of years in the past... the current weather forecast would have nothing to do with setting a schedule ahead of time..  I am sure they schedule 2 weeks out at a minimum,..
average out sales and attendence, 
schedule employees accordingly for the expected sales and your done... 
IF you have bad weather, you send employees home early,, Bad deal for employee, smaller paycheck, But it really is that simple...   
However I would not be surprised if SDC has a scheduling program on the puter that does it all automatically..  That would save the labor cost immensely.

I can contribute to this conversation that at least one large retailer that has a HO in the area.....does include both historical weather and weather forecasting in making both staffing plans and merchandise planning.  Of course the merchandise planning is more of a seasonal forecasting thing.  Surely SDC tracks historical info around attendance and weather to help them make decisions along with the upcoming forecasts.

The same large retailer with such top notch SuperCenter managers that when they go down to a single register with a human running it at 9pm on a Saturday night in a college town and put a girl on it that's under 21 to run it so.she has to constantly go hold to call someone over to complete the transaction? I actually stopped the front end manager as he was walking away and told him to look at the 7 folks in line cause I did and that 6 had beer or wine and to stay put. I may have asked who the dumb@$% was that put her on that register.

I hear ya...that's not just a problem just in college towns.  Our local market seems to only have underage cashiers pretty much every evening after 7ish.  You'd think the only adult manager in the store would get tired of running up front every 5-10 minutes.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: chittlins on April 23, 2018, 03:48:28 PM
what does a cool rainy day on Branson on a sunday mean...??

1800 people at SDC>!!>

Sounds like a good day to be there today.

My Sister in Law and her crew went yestwrday, said is wasn't bad in the afternoon
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on April 23, 2018, 05:57:25 PM
what does a cool rainy day on Branson on a sunday mean...??

1800 people at SDC>!!>

Sounds like a good day to be there today.

My Sister in Law and her crew went yestwrday, said is wasn't bad in the afternoon

Sunday's total----2000 people.....
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on April 25, 2018, 07:07:34 AM
Well here we go again...  had a couple of nice days, park was closed..... today?  park will be open, it 50 degrees and rain coming....
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Okiebenz on April 25, 2018, 02:23:36 PM
I bet today is a good day to be there.  Looks like most rides are open per the app, even TT.  PK is closed of course.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on April 25, 2018, 07:50:06 PM
today total??     :o :o :o   

1300 people...
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Gilligan on April 26, 2018, 06:18:03 PM
It was crowded today!  Full house shows!
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on April 26, 2018, 07:32:00 PM
It was crowded today!  Full house shows!


6,000 people today-  thursday the 26th
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Okiebenz on April 27, 2018, 03:52:49 PM
I bet this weekend is going to be packed!
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on April 27, 2018, 05:20:18 PM
Friday-   7100 people!!   
Hold on to your hats! 
this weekend will be big numbers,  at least tomorrow will be anmyway
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on April 28, 2018, 03:59:32 PM
Finally !!!

18,000 people as of 3:00 this afternoon..!!   
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: DianaGail on April 28, 2018, 09:21:16 PM
We will be at the city tomorrow. Free passes through Tony’s work. We will upgrade them to season passes. I’m hoping tomorrow won’t be too packed.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on April 29, 2018, 02:34:18 PM
We will be at the city tomorrow. Free passes through Tony’s work. We will upgrade them to season passes. I’m hoping tomorrow won’t be too packed.

Should have been a good day,   only 11,500 people today, as of 2 pm..  15-20 minute wait on everything except TT...  site shows 90 minute wait..
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: DianaGail on April 29, 2018, 06:02:49 PM
It was a gorgeous day!  We were able to ride everything we wanted with very little wait.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on April 29, 2018, 06:15:21 PM
It was a gorgeous day!  We were able to ride everything we wanted with very little wait.

Todays final number was 14,500.   Finally a couple of nice days for the PTB to see some results,,!
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: shavethewhales on April 30, 2018, 10:12:19 AM
I'll bet this coming weekend will be pretty wild. ACE is in town for their spring convention at SDC, and I believe Cox health is having their annual family day at the park as well? Plus it will be a gorgeous weekend.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on April 30, 2018, 11:29:39 AM
I'll bet this coming weekend will be pretty wild. ACE is in town for their spring convention at SDC, and I believe Cox health is having their annual family day at the park as well? Plus it will be a gorgeous weekend.

TT will be backed up to the preferred parking area....!! :o :o
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Jemmicat on May 01, 2018, 01:34:37 PM
Is this correct on Cox Health day? Is it just Saturday? I planned to go Saturday and Sunday for a bit to hear the bands but I've been there accidentally on a Cox Health day before and miserable doesn't even begin to describe it.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on May 01, 2018, 02:16:06 PM
Opening weekend for Bluegrass and BBQ + Cox Saturday + Supposed to be a perfect weather weekend, so the unprepared public will be there.....  All that  =  A very busy Saturday.   

Will be an easy 15-20,000 people in attendence I am sure, Could easily go over that..
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: IASTClone on May 01, 2018, 03:08:26 PM
Is this correct on Cox Health day? Is it just Saturday? I planned to go Saturday and Sunday for a bit to hear the bands but I've been there accidentally on a Cox Health day before and miserable doesn't even begin to describe it.

Not Cox Health day.  I am employed there and nothing has been mentioned.  In fact there was not a Cox Health day at SDC last year, or this year (I believe).  Now Mercy, not sure about when their's is.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on May 01, 2018, 03:40:40 PM
regardless of what visitors weekend it is.. IF it is nice, they will be BUSY..   
With the nasty weather we have been having a nice saturday, there will be lots of people just waiting to go...... LOL.  And by "waiting",  I mean just that.... ;D
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sirwillow on May 01, 2018, 06:02:56 PM
Opening weekend for Bluegrass and BBQ + Cox Saturday + Supposed to be a perfect weather weekend, so the unprepared public will be there.....  All that  =  A very busy Saturday.   

Will be an easy 15-20,000 people in attendence I am sure, Could easily go over that..

It's also when ACE is having their conference at the park. They couldn't have picked a worse Saturday for it.  If I were coming in for it and paying the money they are and found this out, personally I'd be a bit ticked about it.

20k is going to be the low number for Saturday.  Cox Saturdays usually float in the 23-24k range when the weather is decent.  It's going to be an ugly madhouse.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on May 01, 2018, 06:09:39 PM
Does anyone know the "record" number for daily attendence?

I thought it was in the area of 24,500..??
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: shavethewhales on May 01, 2018, 07:06:39 PM
Is this correct on Cox Health day? Is it just Saturday? I planned to go Saturday and Sunday for a bit to hear the bands but I've been there accidentally on a Cox Health day before and miserable doesn't even begin to describe it.

Not Cox Health day.  I am employed there and nothing has been mentioned.  In fact there was not a Cox Health day at SDC last year, or this year (I believe).  Now Mercy, not sure about when their's is.

Ah, they told us that a regional medical group would be sharing the early access times with us. I assumed that meant Cox, but maybe it is Mercy. Hopefully it's a smaller group than Cox was.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Swoosh on May 01, 2018, 10:14:10 PM
Does anyone know the "record" number for daily attendence?

I thought it was in the area of 24,500..??

You're getting warmer, but still too low.  It was Christmas.  It was Coaster Christmas as well.  It was gridlocked.  Thank goodness I had connections to get into shows.  :o
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sirwillow on May 02, 2018, 08:25:20 AM
Ah, they told us that a regional medical group would be sharing the early access times with us. I assumed that meant Cox, but maybe it is Mercy. Hopefully it's a smaller group than Cox was.

For impact on SDC, Mercy isn't smaller than Cox.  The last Mercy day I worked park attendance was 23,800.  They're both huge groups.

I want to say the record attendance was almost 26k, but I don't remember for sure.  Regardless, anything over 20k I don't want to be anywhere near the park for, whether as an employee or a guest.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on May 03, 2018, 07:17:50 PM
Another rainy day....   1700 people....

Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Swoosh on May 03, 2018, 08:06:26 PM
Another rainy day....   1700 people....

Tomorrow and Saturday will make up for it.  :o
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: History Buff on May 03, 2018, 08:28:44 PM
They posted on facebook that they anticipate heavy attendance on Saturday since there are large groups visiting.

Kind of strange to advertise and actually discourage guests from attending, but maybe they have too many complaints when it's crowded.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sirwillow on May 03, 2018, 08:50:48 PM
They posted on facebook that they anticipate heavy attendance on Saturday since there are large groups visiting.

Kind of strange to advertise and actually discourage guests from attending, but maybe they have too many complaints when it's crowded.

I'd say yes, as well as possibly worried about hitting capacity numbers.  It's never fun when people have to take over an hour to drive just down Indian Point road to park.  It's going to be an ugly day to visit.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on May 03, 2018, 09:33:15 PM
They posted on facebook that they anticipate heavy attendance on Saturday since there are large groups visiting.

Kind of strange to advertise and actually discourage guests from attending, but maybe they have too many complaints when it's crowded.

I missed that post..  They really must be planning on a "busy" day...   I am glad i wont be anywhere in the area...   Good luck Shave.!
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sdcfan88 on May 04, 2018, 02:17:31 AM
Yeah sadly I backed out on doing the ACE Conference in anticipation of the impending madhouse. Not my thing.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: cowboy on May 04, 2018, 10:14:27 AM
I received an email about the weekend. They really didn't discourage coming, they just emphasized the best way to manage the crowds was to come early (have breakfast in the park at 8:30) and stay late.

I actually find crowded days some of the best days to experience SDC as a whole (however when you can't walk that's never good). When it's not crowded, our group just jumps from ride to ride......but on crowded days, we tend to shop more, catch a show, go to the petting zoo, eat more, etc. We also tend to shut down the park because the last hour or so the rides become walk-ons (especially if they decide to extend park hours).

Anyhow, that's my experience.......arrive way early, avoid the traffic on 76, and still have a great day. However, if you arrive late....traffic on 76 (no matter the crowd in SDC) can ruin a good day.

Jay
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Duelist on May 04, 2018, 10:16:51 AM
We will be there this weekend.  Really want to do the Bluegrass/BBQ fest and it's our only free weekend to go (lucky us)  :o

Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Gilligan on May 04, 2018, 11:19:48 AM
Yeah, I saw the post on Facebook about expecting large crowds.  I think that's commendable of them to announce it.  I really wanted to go Thursday, opening day, but life and rain got in the way.  Maybe next week!
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on May 04, 2018, 11:20:23 AM
We will be there this weekend.  Really want to do the Bluegrass/BBQ fest and it's our only free weekend to go (lucky us)  :o

OH MAN!!  GOOD LUCK!!.   if you can take some pictures of the crowd and post them.!!   
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: shavethewhales on May 05, 2018, 05:30:34 PM
Good Lord. Just saw the FB posts from SDC about today. I've never seen them warn several days in a row like that. Crazy.

They were right though, absolute mad house like I said in the trip reports thread. Making up for April in one day... I look forward to hearing the number.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on May 05, 2018, 07:37:11 PM
OK... Numbers??!!! :o :o

Friday- 8500.


wait for it......


.....


.....


Sat- 26,800!!!! :o :o :o
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: shavethewhales on May 06, 2018, 09:21:27 AM
Last I heard it was approx. 28187 for yesterday. Numbers still probably trickling in. This is a new record for the park!
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Gilligan on May 06, 2018, 09:44:54 AM
Last I heard it was approx. 28187 for yesterday. Numbers still probably trickling in. This is a new record for the park!

That is just MISERY!
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on May 06, 2018, 05:53:04 PM
Sunday was a little more manageble with 10,000 people
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: shavethewhales on May 07, 2018, 10:04:33 AM
Someone said the new attendance cap is 29,000. I don't know how accurate that is though. I guess with the new food court area + Time Traveler, they can theoretically squeeze a few more people in. Still, they HAVE to figure something out with parking.

This weekend's numbers were insane. Inside the park it was crowded and lines were long, but it wasn't anything worse than at other parks. Outside the park though, it sounds like it was hell. Some people reported waiting 2+ hours in line on the highway to get in, only to turn around and leave. The satellite parking system has always been crazy, but with people coming in from all over the country not everyone knows the gist of it and many people freak out when they are guided through the full parking lots and spit back out onto the road.

I don't know how to fix it... probably need a LOT more signage at the very least... They need to build more parking lots somewhere as well, obviously. Perhaps use Celebration city as a dedicated satellite parking lot, and advertise it as such. I know they were parking buses out there this weekend. Only problem is that they need a direct access route for the shuttles.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on May 09, 2018, 07:42:44 AM
Almost that time of year again..School will be out, temps will be warm and full time work begins.. The Park will be open 7 days a week.

First Tuesday of the year,,  5000 people.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Gilligan on May 09, 2018, 09:34:23 AM
Almost that time of year again..School will be out, temps will be warm and full time work begins.. The Park will be open 7 days a week.

First Tuesday of the year,,  5000 people.

Dang!  I almost went yesterday! Shoulda, coulda...
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on May 09, 2018, 11:29:34 AM
Almost that time of year again..School will be out, temps will be warm and full time work begins.. The Park will be open 7 days a week.

First Tuesday of the year,,  5000 people.

Dang!  I almost went yesterday! Shoulda, coulda...

GO TODAY>...should be a great day...  most of school still in session..
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Okiebenz on May 09, 2018, 03:44:25 PM
I have to go to Branson next Wednesday for "work" to meet up with one of my employees.  I am thinking I may go Wednesday for a while before I have to meet up with him.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on May 09, 2018, 04:24:38 PM
I have to go to Branson next Wednesday for "work" to meet up with one of my employees.  I am thinking I may go Wednesday for a while before I have to meet up with him.

Probably a good idea.  wed will be reasonable for the time being... Probably wont get busy during the week until after memorial day..

Today.  as of 4:00-  about 5500 people.. ;D
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Gilligan on May 09, 2018, 09:42:28 PM
I have to go to Branson next Wednesday for "work" to meet up with one of my employees.  I am thinking I may go Wednesday for a while before I have to meet up with him.

Probably a good idea.  wed will be reasonable for the time being... Probably wont get busy during the week until after memorial day..

Today.  as of 4:00-  about 5500 people.. ;D

No way do I believe that! Shows were full, walkways were full, and we waited in a couple of lines to eat.  There were at least 6 different field trips going on based on the kids with matching shirts.  I waited in line at the bathroom.  I left sometime between 3:30 and 4.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on May 10, 2018, 06:58:27 AM
No way do I believe that! Shows were full, walkways were full, and we waited in a couple of lines to eat.  There were at least 6 different field trips going on based on the kids with matching shirts.  I waited in line at the bathroom.  I left sometime between 3:30 and 4.

 Surprised to hear there was that much traffic..   When i checked last night the "official"  number was actually 5200.  could have been a couple of hundred more people slip in..... but that number should be close..

Hope you had a good visit..
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Gilligan on May 10, 2018, 07:54:53 PM
Sand, it was a great, but short, visit.  Watched opening ceremonies (they're back to honoring veterans), listened to the Homestead Pickers at the Gazebo, saw Rhonda Vincent at the Opera House, and left.  We planned to stay longer, but something came up (no emergency).  Here's a photo of today.  My guess is attendance was a bit higher than yesterday.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on May 10, 2018, 08:05:18 PM
Sand, it was a great, but short, visit.  Watched opening ceremonies (they're back to honoring veterans), listened to the Homestead Pickers at the Gazebo, saw Rhonda Vincent at the Opera House, and left.  We planned to stay longer, but something came up (no emergency).  Here's a photo of today.  My guess is attendance was a bit higher than yesterday.

Yes it was, a few more people today..  total about 7500 people..
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sirwillow on May 10, 2018, 08:55:55 PM
Sand, it was a great, but short, visit.  Watched opening ceremonies (they're back to honoring veterans), listened to the Homestead Pickers at the Gazebo, saw Rhonda Vincent at the Opera House, and left.  We planned to stay longer, but something came up (no emergency).  Here's a photo of today.  My guess is attendance was a bit higher than yesterday.

Yes it was, a few more people today..  total about 7500 people..

That's interesting.  I was there with my kids from about 2 to 5pm (we had a break for a few hours so stopped by, I left at 4 while they stayed later) and the crowds were very light.  Caught a show briefly at the gazebo.  Saw the 3:30 saloon show which didn't even have enough people to fill the floor seats.  Walked onto Wildfire, Powder Keg and Outlaw Run.  And did all of that in less than 2 hours.  Seemed more like a crowd of 4500 than 7500.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Swoosh on May 10, 2018, 10:44:18 PM
Sand, it was a great, but short, visit.  Watched opening ceremonies (they're back to honoring veterans), listened to the Homestead Pickers at the Gazebo, saw Rhonda Vincent at the Opera House, and left.  We planned to stay longer, but something came up (no emergency).  Here's a photo of today.  My guess is attendance was a bit higher than yesterday.

Yes it was, a few more people today..  total about 7500 people..

That's interesting.  I was there with my kids from about 2 to 5pm (we had a break for a few hours so stopped by, I left at 4 while they stayed later) and the crowds were very light.  Caught a show briefly at the gazebo.  Saw the 3:30 saloon show which didn't even have enough people to fill the floor seats.  Walked onto Wildfire, Powder Keg and Outlaw Run.  And did all of that in less than 2 hours.  Seemed more like a crowd of 4500 than 7500.

Probably because most of the school kids were in the process of leaving wheb you arrived and everybody was at the 4pm Rhonda Vincent show instead of Saloon.  FWIW, the 2:30 Saloon Show was SRO. 
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Gilligan on May 10, 2018, 10:57:16 PM
I saw the 11:30 Vincent show, and it was packed out! Seriously, not another person could fit in there, and people kept coming in after the show started. Opera House employees had their hands full today. I left right at 12:30, so not sure about afternoon crowd.  It did seem like there were far fewer kids there this morning than yesterday.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sirwillow on May 11, 2018, 09:28:53 AM

That's interesting.  I was there with my kids from about 2 to 5pm (we had a break for a few hours so stopped by, I left at 4 while they stayed later) and the crowds were very light.  Caught a show briefly at the gazebo.  Saw the 3:30 saloon show which didn't even have enough people to fill the floor seats.  Walked onto Wildfire, Powder Keg and Outlaw Run.  And did all of that in less than 2 hours.  Seemed more like a crowd of 4500 than 7500.

Probably because most of the school kids were in the process of leaving wheb you arrived and everybody was at the 4pm Rhonda Vincent show instead of Saloon.  FWIW, the 2:30 Saloon Show was SRO.

Were you there?  Must have missed you.

When we were riding Powder Keg (complete walk on) and then headed to the Saloon there was practically no one outside of the opera house.  Kids used the OH bathrooms at about 4:05 (right after we got out of the saloon)and there weren't that many strollers outside.  I highly doubt that there was a large crowd in the 4pm show just based on the crowds (or complete lack of them) before and after.

but if you were actually in the show, then you would know different.  Were you at the 2:30 saloon?  At that point we were coming down the hill and it didn't look like a large crowd outside but didn't go because the kids wanted to ride first.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Swoosh on May 11, 2018, 09:56:44 AM
Yes I was in the 4pm Vincent show and they turned people away.  The line to get into OH at 3pm stretched to the restrooms at the bottom of Hill Street.  The 2:30 Saloon Show also turned people away. 
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on May 11, 2018, 10:26:32 AM
I saw the 11:30 Vincent show, and it was packed out! Seriously, not another person could fit in there, and people kept coming in after the show started. Opera House employees had their hands full today. I left right at 12:30, so not sure about afternoon crowd.  It did seem like there were far fewer kids there this morning than yesterday.

Rhonda Vincent puts on a great show... I would to see one of her concerts....  The show she does at SDC is just a teaser..!!   LOL
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Swoosh on May 11, 2018, 11:05:12 AM
FWIW, each of her shows at SDC will be different sets.   So theoretically you could attend all 12 shows at SDC and they’d be different
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on May 11, 2018, 11:11:45 AM
FWIW, each of her shows at SDC will be different sets.   So theoretically you could attend all 12 shows at SDC and they’d be different

I had forgotten that detail.. I think she has done it that way for the few years..  Good for her..!  give the customers something different everytime..
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on May 13, 2018, 09:09:48 AM
Saturday.  a must more manageable number...

14,500 people
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Gilligan on May 13, 2018, 06:13:13 PM
Today was as crowded as I've seen it this year, but I don't go on weekends (excluding today  ;D), and it was very manageable.  Vincent's shows were great as usual.  I only planned to attend the first one, but Hubs wanted to see it one more time.  The first show was mostly gospel, which might turn a few off, but it was fantastic.  I saw the last one of the day, completely different, and Barbara Fairchild came up on stage from the crowd and sang a couple numbers with her. What's the attendance today, Sand?
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on May 14, 2018, 12:19:48 PM
Today was as crowded as I've seen it this year, but I don't go on weekends (excluding today  ;D), and it was very manageable.  Vincent's shows were great as usual.  I only planned to attend the first one, but Hubs wanted to see it one more time.  The first show was mostly gospel, which might turn a few off, but it was fantastic.  I saw the last one of the day, completely different, and Barbara Fairchild came up on stage from the crowd and sang a couple numbers with her. What's the attendance today, Sand?

about 8500 on sunday,  should have been a good day to visit..
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on May 15, 2018, 02:17:51 PM
1st Tuesday of the season...  about 5500 people..  I am sure the overnight rain, kept some people away today.  The park should have been nice and fresh though ;D
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Okiebenz on May 15, 2018, 03:50:51 PM
What is your prediction for tomorrow?
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on May 16, 2018, 12:50:11 PM
What is your prediction for tomorrow?

6500 expected today (wed)

as of noon about 3500
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Paul71 on May 16, 2018, 01:56:09 PM
We are planning to go to SDC either Wednesday+Thursday or Thursday+Friday of next week.  Thursday+Friday works better for our schedule, but I'm thinking that we might encounter lighter crowds on Wednesday as compared to Friday, especially since Friday is leading into Memorial Day weekend. 

Does anyone have an educated guess as to how the crowds will be next week, especially whether Friday will be significantly more crowded than earlier in the week?
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on May 16, 2018, 07:32:14 PM
We are planning to go to SDC either Wednesday+Thursday or Thursday+Friday of next week.  Thursday+Friday works better for our schedule, but I'm thinking that we might encounter lighter crowds on Wednesday as compared to Friday, especially since Friday is leading into Memorial Day weekend. 

Does anyone have an educated guess as to how the crowds will be next week, especially whether Friday will be significantly more crowded than earlier in the week?

Wed- Thurs will be much lighter crowds next week.. some schools still in session, But with memorial weekend coming up friday will be busier..
Enjoy the visit.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Okiebenz on May 16, 2018, 08:49:14 PM
We went this morning and it was pretty busy trying to get in, lots and lots of school groups.  There were a lot of kids but we still managed to get most rides in pretty much walk on.  FITH had a little bit of a wait because they were only running 2 trains.  WF was starting to back up because they were only running 1 train.  The barn swing was  backed up too because they only had 1 side going.  We rode TT on the way out and it was about a 15-20 minute wait.  We left about 2pm or a little after.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on May 16, 2018, 11:00:56 PM
We went this morning and it was pretty busy trying to get in, lots and lots of school groups.  There were a lot of kids but we still managed to get most rides in pretty much walk on.  FITH had a little bit of a wait because they were only running 2 trains.  WF was starting to back up because they were only running 1 train.  The barn swing was  backed up too because they only had 1 side going.  We rode TT on the way out and it was about a 15-20 minute wait.  We left about 2pm or a little after.

Had almost 5,000 people today...   Lots of kids this time of year, class trips and so on...
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Paul71 on May 17, 2018, 12:28:36 PM
Wed- Thurs will be much lighter crowds next week.. some schools still in session, But with memorial weekend coming up friday will be busier..
Enjoy the visit.

Thanks very much for the feedback.  We are going to give Wednesday and Thursday a try. 
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on May 17, 2018, 01:32:13 PM
Wed- Thurs will be much lighter crowds next week.. some schools still in session, But with memorial weekend coming up friday will be busier..
Enjoy the visit.

Thanks very much for the feedback.  We are going to give Wednesday and Thursday a try.

Have a great visit..!...

todays number so far is 6500 at 1:00..
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: KBCraig on May 19, 2018, 12:48:15 AM

This weekend's numbers were insane. ...

I don't know how to fix it... probably need a LOT more signage at the very least... They need to build more parking lots somewhere as well, obviously. Perhaps use Celebration city as a dedicated satellite parking lot, and advertise it as such. I know they were parking buses out there this weekend. Only problem is that they need a direct access route for the shuttles.

The answer is easy, as you point out: a dedicated entrance for shuttles, more satellite parking, and more buses.

The problem is getting people to know about it, understand it, and actually do it. We're Americans: we drive where we're going. We don't take the bus. We want our car right there and available to us so that we can choose our own schedule, even if it adds three hours to the trip.

People aren't logical. I retired four years ago, so now I work for a regional banner of a very large grocery chain (one of the top three in the country). People got mad when we took out the self-check lanes, even though they're ridiculously slow; the customers are "doing something", so it feels faster. We know objectively that having someone bagging makes the total checkout time much faster, but everyone hates being the second cart in line; they'd rather we open another lane so that they can actively put their groceries on the belt, and bag their own, because it feels faster, because they're doing something.

Same for driving: you can't convince people that being on that slow bus, making multiple stops, is faster.

Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: HumphreyHawk on May 19, 2018, 07:44:46 PM
Your not going to get Midwesterners to park miles form a park (parking in Branson) to get on a bus that takes them over the same roads that they could have took themselves to get to the same place they could have parked.  Unless it is the only free parking option....add a parking fee to all SDC lots....suddenly that plan could work.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on May 20, 2018, 02:28:35 PM
This weekends numbers weren't too bad...   Friday-8900,  Sat-15,000, Sunday by noon 6500...

Heard an interesting thing this weekend, was talking to an individual that is affiliated with the park and directly affected by the attendence numbers..   The record breaking sat, as you remember my count was around 26,500,  swoosh came in and stated the actual number was a little of 28,000.  I was told that they were having computer problems as the turnstyles throughout the day, and the not everyone was actually counted. So in theory the "real" actual number was a shade over 30,000!!!     Regardless of the number.... thats a bunch of people trying to park, and get into the park!!
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: HumphreyHawk on May 20, 2018, 05:28:55 PM
For 8-12 hours at a time....SDC is largest populated city in the region on busy days.....and probably the most densely populated in all of southern Mizzou.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on May 22, 2018, 09:17:05 AM
Summer has officailly started I would say..   1st Monday of the year---7500 people..

I will be there this sunday for a while. looking forward to another visit.. :D
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: DianaGail on May 22, 2018, 01:48:55 PM
We will be there Sunday afternoon and into the evening since they will be open til 10. We will go back on Monday before heading home.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on May 22, 2018, 01:56:02 PM
We will be there Sunday afternoon and into the evening since they will be open til 10. We will go back on Monday before heading home.

That sounds like a great plan.  enjoy your trip.
 
with extended hours sat-sun, and the concerts, and nice weather and memorial weekend has all the making for a busy 3 or 4 days..
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on May 25, 2018, 05:44:39 PM
Just in case your keeping track.,..  this week so far..
tues     -  6500
wed     -  7000
thurs   -10,000
Fri       -10,500

Estimated, but close numbers,,,  they had trouble again on thurs with the computer/counter..
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sirwillow on May 25, 2018, 08:13:26 PM
Over 10k today?  Really?  Wonder where all the people were.

My daughter and I were there for under 2 hours today (closer to 90 minutes), and the park didn't look like it had any more than 6k in it.  If that.  Time Traveler was a 15 minute wait at 2:30.  Wildfire and Outlaw Run were walk ons.  Trains weren't even always full.  When a steam train passed us the end seats were empty and it was only leaving every 30 minutes, which are signs of a slower day.  Otherwise it would be full and they would have trains every 20.

There weren't even lines for anything in Grand Expo, and the rides there were all only about half full when we were riding.  The number of rides we got in those 90 minutes, including a full lap around the park, in the middle of the afternoon, would be more like what I would expect in the first hour or two the park was open, and even then I think we beat that.

Just wish my daughter liked Blue Grass music more.  lol
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: HikerDan on May 27, 2018, 08:28:31 AM
We were there from 8:30 to 2:30 Friday, May 25 and I'd say 10,000+ was an accurate attendance estimate.

We finally got to see the new Saloon show that day. The older gentleman playing Koontz (Bill Townsend) was the Theatre/Stagecraft director for our hometown Nixa, MO high school for many years. Nixa is just 45 minutes north of SDC.  He's been involved in SDC during the summer for many years and after recently retiring from the high school is now performing in the saloon shows. He played Mean Murphy at a few of the shows we attended last year as well. He was named to the Missouri Thespian Hall of Fame in 2017. Looks like he's having a great time during his "retirement"!

http://ccheadliner.com/news/nixa-teacher-named-to-missouri-thespian-hall/article_41f6f3e4-e7dd-11e6-a5d8-a3c8753fc491.html

Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Preachin_Bill on May 27, 2018, 09:55:36 AM
We were there from 8:30 to 2:30 Friday, May 25 and I'd say 10,000+ was an accurate attendance estimate.

We finally got to see the new Saloon show that day. The older gentleman playing Koontz (Bill Townsend) was the Theatre/Stagecraft director for our hometown Nixa, MO high school for many years. Nixa is just 45 minutes north of SDC.  He's been involved in SDC during the summer for many years and after recently retiring from the high school is now performing in the saloon shows. He played Mean Murphy at a few of the shows we attended last year as well. He was named to the Missouri Thespian Hall of Fame in 2017. Looks like he's having a great time during his "retirement"!

http://ccheadliner.com/news/nixa-teacher-named-to-missouri-thespian-hall/article_41f6f3e4-e7dd-11e6-a5d8-a3c8753fc491.html
Thanks for that info..
Bill Townsend is the funniest and best actor ive ever seen in the saloon show. Love that guy and hope hes there when I visit next month. Hes perfect for SDC.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on May 28, 2018, 02:39:51 PM
Just got back home, unloaded and washer running,,,,   

Saturday was 14,500..

was there sunday for a couple of hours, left about 11, traffic backed up to 465. 2 lanes wide...  yea, i guess that construction really didnt help.. ,LOL

at 2:00 reported amount was ony 12,500?  I dont know... looked like ALOT more people than that going in!!   LOL

end of day- 17,200 total.  respectable Sunday,  and they had the Ricky Skaggs concert sunday..
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Gilligan on May 28, 2018, 05:45:54 PM
I was there yesterday, also.  It was more crowded than I've seen this year, but I rarely go on a weekend.  Crowd was manageable and we didn't have any trouble getting into any show.  Michael Cleveland's first show was cancelled - it was announced he was stuck in traffic.  We got there very early anticipating traffic, and it was a wise decision.  The Ricky Skaggs concert surprised me quite a bit.  They set up early for a crowd. I'm sure this was based on last year when the line last year was out past the gate.  This year they let people in early.  I had a dinner on the Culinary School which meant a very good view of Echo Hollow.  It wasn't full! Plenty of people there, but not in every square inch like last year. As the evening rolled on, more and more people left early to the point that whole rows were empty.  Not sure why that happened, but I hear there were many complaints about not being able to hear because of Time Traveler.  At one point Ricky made a joke while trying to talk and asked, "Hey, does anyone know there's something going on here?"  ;D From the porch, it was very difficult to hear what he was saying and many other diners also commented, so not sure I'll do that again.  Still, a very good concert. Well, I guess I should've just posted this in trip reports.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Paul71 on May 30, 2018, 04:29:24 PM
Wed- Thurs will be much lighter crowds next week.. some schools still in session, But with memorial weekend coming up friday will be busier..
Enjoy the visit.

Thanks very much for the feedback.  We are going to give Wednesday and Thursday a try.

Have a great visit..!...

todays number so far is 6500 at 1:00..

Thanks again for the feedback on which days to go.

We ended up going to SDC Wednesday, Thursday, and about half of Friday (May 23-25).  We rode Time Traveler as our first ride of each day, getting in line between 9:25 and 9:35 AM each day.  Wait time was about 15-20 minutes on Wednesday (also the day we got in line earliest), and 35-40 minutes the other two days.  (Time Traveler was AWESOME by the way).  For most rides, we were practically able to walk on, with almost no line.  Two exceptions were American Plunge (up to 10 minute wait) and Lost River of the Ozarks (we waited 25-30 minutes once, with a shorter wait later).  Friday appeared to be more crowded than Wednesday and Thursday, as expected, but we still experienced mostly very short lines on Friday -- for example, my son rode Outlaw Run three times in a row, with almost zero wait each time.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on June 03, 2018, 05:07:11 PM
Sat the 2nd--  20,000
Sun the 3rd--  14,000
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Swoosh on June 03, 2018, 05:17:02 PM
Sat the 2nd--  20,000
Sun the 3rd--  14,000

There was a large group there Saturday that had blue wristbands.  Started with an F.  I’m sure that helped make it busier.  I was surprised how busy the midways were even when I arrived at 3pm, but still got on all the coasters just fine.   3DN looked to have a capacity crowd. 
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on June 03, 2018, 08:20:49 PM
Sat the 2nd--  20,000
Sun the 3rd--  14,000

There was a large group there Saturday that had blue wristbands.  Started with an F.  I’m sure that helped make it busier.  I was surprised how busy the midways were even when I arrived at 3pm, but still got on all the coasters just fine.   3DN looked to have a capacity crowd.

That would explain that, I wondered why such a big count, weekend after memorial day..??
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Swoosh on June 03, 2018, 08:30:53 PM
Freeman Health!  That’s what the group was called.   

All I know was that the paid parking was full and they were using all of the lots.  I found a spot where I normally park out by the old Lot C turnaround
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Gilligan on June 04, 2018, 10:40:38 AM
Freeman Medical was there Sat. acc. to an Echo Hollow docent.  It was crowded at the Three Dog Night concert - more crowded than I've ever seen it. And, that brought with it a number of rude, hostile people.  I think even standing room only was full. Some of the workers had a rough night and were apologizing for bad behavior witnessed.  In spite of the few "entitled ones", it was a great concert and a lot of fun!
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: kscatman76 on June 04, 2018, 11:21:30 AM
where can you find these numbers or are they not public?  We are coming down the 8th thru the 17th of june.  I'm guessing Tuesday or wed would be our best bets or days it may rain and quit? 
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on June 04, 2018, 05:50:12 PM
where can you find these numbers or are they not public?  We are coming down the 8th thru the 17th of june.  I'm guessing Tuesday or wed would be our best bets or days it may rain and quit?

Mon-tue-wed, are usually the "slower" week days..  Bad weather of course will cause smaller crowds..

Enjoy your trip.!!..   
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on June 09, 2018, 05:10:25 PM
today, sat the 9th as of 3:00,   about 13,000 through the gate... 

Hot and Humid!!!
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: biscuitcreek on June 09, 2018, 09:27:46 PM
We went late Friday afternoon and had no trouble finding a spot in the lot for tram stop 2. Echo Hollow was maybe 1/2 -- 2/3 full for Atlanta Rhythm Section -- much of the crowd left early (will be surprised if ARS is ever asked back).

Was there before opening this morning and it was crowded early. Traffic really backed up.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on June 09, 2018, 10:16:01 PM
Was there before opening this morning and it was crowded early. Traffic really backed up.

People probably trying to hit it hard and fast before it warmed up.

90 degrees + 48% humidity + asphalt + trees + people = HOT!!!!
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Gilligan on June 09, 2018, 11:30:06 PM
We went late Friday afternoon and had no trouble finding a spot in the lot for tram stop 2. Echo Hollow was maybe 1/2 -- 2/3 full for Atlanta Rhythm Section -- much of the crowd left early (will be surprised if ARS is ever asked back).

ARS was not a good fit IMO.  Not much interaction with the crowd and just didn't seem to be into it.  Crowd was not responsive, as well.  More people around us were on phones or just sitting.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: biscuitcreek on June 10, 2018, 12:29:52 PM
We went late Friday afternoon and had no trouble finding a spot in the lot for tram stop 2. Echo Hollow was maybe 1/2 -- 2/3 full for Atlanta Rhythm Section -- much of the crowd left early (will be surprised if ARS is ever asked back).

ARS was not a good fit IMO.  Not much interaction with the crowd and just didn't seem to be into it.  Crowd was not responsive, as well.  More people around us were on phones or just sitting.

I was trying to remember if I ever heard the lead singer or any other band member of any other group at SDC use minor foul language off and on during a show. I noticed he stopped himself at one point when he said something about children in the audience. Probably some of the people who might have attended to see ARS were at the Marshall Tucker Concert at the Mansion.

I have attended many special concerts over the years at SDC. ARS was the least enjoyable of the ones I have attended.

Honestly the only reason we went Saturday morning was to get credit for attending Star Spangled Summer festival. Although we will be back in Branson more than once this summer, I'm not sure we will go back to SDC  until after the SPS festival is over.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on June 10, 2018, 01:44:09 PM
sunday....
91 degrees
48% humidity
UV Index- "Very high" !!

Oh yea!? as of 1:00 today, 7500 people
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Gilligan on June 10, 2018, 06:09:53 PM
We went late Friday afternoon and had no trouble finding a spot in the lot for tram stop 2. Echo Hollow was maybe 1/2 -- 2/3 full for Atlanta Rhythm Section -- much of the crowd left early (will be surprised if ARS is ever asked back).

ARS was not a good fit IMO.  Not much interaction with the crowd and just didn't seem to be into it.  Crowd was not responsive, as well.  More people around us were on phones or just sitting.



I was trying to remember if I ever heard the lead singer or any other band member of any other group at SDC use minor foul language off and on during a show. I noticed he stopped himself at one point when he said something about children in the audience. Probably some of the people who might have attended to see ARS were at the Marshall Tucker Concert at the Mansion.

I have attended many special concerts over the years at SDC. ARS was the least enjoyable of the ones I have attended.

Honestly the only reason we went Saturday morning was to get credit for attending Star Spangled Summer festival. Although we will be back in Branson more than once this summer, I'm not sure we will go back to SDC  until after the SPS festival is over.

Nope, Hubs and I talked about it, also.  Neither one of us remember any foul language from a band, either, or a band member whining about the cost of producing cd's with a production company, how they don't make much money on it, and the best way is to produce your own cd's.  Our least favorite of the concerts over the last couple years, and I've seen most of them. The whole thing was just off..
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Okiebenz on June 10, 2018, 09:13:04 PM
Yes, it was not too bad today.  We rode most coasters once, and rode the train and FM.  Attempted to ride TT when we got there, but after spending about 30 minutes in line it broke down with a train stuck out on the first launch.  We left by about 1pm.  I was wore out from the day before at WW.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on September 03, 2018, 03:23:13 PM
Labor Day numbers were a little weak I thought... 
especially on Sunday, Considering at 10 in the morning, traffic was backed up to the stoplight by RFD!!!!! :o :o

Sat - only 13,000

Sunday - 16,000

Monday as of 3:00 - 9500
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: DianaGail on September 03, 2018, 08:54:18 PM
Today was a great day to be at the city!  Our longest waits were powder keg and time traveler at 25 minutes each.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on September 03, 2018, 09:10:29 PM
Today was a great day to be at the city!  Our longest waits were powder keg and time traveler at 25 minutes each.

Labor Day Monday,      Final count 10,900
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: palallin on September 04, 2018, 11:00:56 AM
We didn't hear numbers, but we were told that the Saturday and Sunday crowds were huge.  Interesting to see the actual figures.

The City was a pleasure Monday.  The breeze helped to ameliorate the heat. 

Pleasant surprise to see the 504 dressed up in a near-authentic Frisco passenger livery!  One of the robbers' last day doing the skit--he's moving up to engine service.  Lucky robber!
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Okiebenz on September 05, 2018, 03:52:26 PM
Yea we were there Monday till about 1:30pm I think so not very long.  We did ride the train and heard about the robber getting moved to engineer.  Crowds were not too bad.  We did not even try the TT because the app said 45 minute wait.  Normally they under report the time.  Maybe they over reported it Monday?
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Tmboote on September 05, 2018, 03:59:18 PM
We did not even try the TT because the app said 45 minute wait.  Normally they under report the time.  Maybe they over reported it Monday?

Based on most of my experiences, the app wait times are usually longer than the actual wait times.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on September 16, 2018, 08:01:27 AM
I checked on the numbers, just because it was the first sat of fall festival, weather was a little warm, but a nice day..

13,000 people showed up, would have been a perfect day.   

I will be there next weekend, hoping to see Cheesehead and hubby that weekend. 
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on September 16, 2018, 07:31:15 PM
9500 people today, sunday the 16th...


total opening fall festival weekend almost 23000
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: How-doFolks on September 18, 2018, 07:11:24 PM
You are correct sanddune, there was 10 of us at SDC this past Sat. They predicted 16,000. The park did not get really busy until around 2-3pm. It was a good day. :)
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on November 04, 2018, 02:58:44 PM
Saturday-  Opening weekend for Christmas...  No rain, 50-55 degrees daytime, no wind....  =

20,000 people in attendence..   Nice start for the season
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: DianaGail on November 04, 2018, 08:44:55 PM
When we left at 6:00ish this evening, the taffy lady told me attendance was around 6000 today. It was amazingly slow and wonderful!!  :)
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: mg on November 04, 2018, 10:25:44 PM
On Saturday we got there around 4 and paid parking was full. They actually had us park on the road that is the entrance to the paid parking booths.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: bgtgwazi on November 05, 2018, 08:34:28 AM
Hello everyone, first time poster here and first time visitor to the park next Saturday. This site's been a wealth of knowledge and I'm very prepared for a very busy day at the park. I've tried searching the forums but have a couple questions in terms of dealing with the crowds that I wasn't able to find direct answers to:

1) We'll be driving in from St. Louis early Saturday morning with an expected arrival in the Branson area between 11-11:30. Google maps is showing that it takes about 10 minutes longer without traffic to come to the park via Branson West, so my question is, with the expected traffic getting to the parking lots coming from Branson, is this a better route to get into the park, or does it get equally jammed coming from both directions on 76?

2) With attendance of >20,000 expected, what impact does this have on wait times for the coasters? I've been to Dollywood many times on what appeared to be packed days (overflow parking, etc.) but everyone always seemed to be there for the shows and most of the ride wait times were relatively low, save the newest big coaster (last year, Lightning Rod). Is there a similar situation at SDC? Will it be worth it for me to purchase a Trailblazer pass if I'm going mainly for the rides and I can only go on Saturday?

Thanks everyone.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on November 05, 2018, 10:02:17 AM
Sunday-   7300 people... 
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: shavethewhales on November 05, 2018, 10:17:59 AM
Welcome bgtgwazi, you coming for Coaster Christmas?

Branson West is always the best way to get to SDC. Coming in at 11 will be tough... that is prime time for the road to be clogged. SDC's parking system is absolutely crazy. Keep in mind that they have limited capacity in the lots close to the park, and on days like these they know that they will exceed them, so they sometimes guide people down the road to the satellite parking lots, some of which are miles from the park. This causes endless confusion for first time visitors who think they are being turned away.

If you look on google maps, there is a Bear State Bank on 76 between SDC and Branson West. The dirt area behind that bank is one of the overflow lots, for example. They also park in the empty lot across from West Branson Marine, and there's a long skinny lot south of SDC on Indian Point Road. So if you end up being flagged through the parking lots, you will likely be redirected towards one of those lots. Don't worry though, the parking is free and there are lots of shuttles.

As for coaster waits, it will be crowded, but SDC is efficient. Even on busy days, Wildfire has pretty short waits of less than 30 mins. Sometimes it's a walk-on. Outlaw Run is about the same, sometimes a bit longer. Powderkeg will stay busy at around an hour or so wait since it is such an all-around hit with a short height limit. Time Traveler is still new and extremely popular, so wait times on it can reach two hours. Thunderation is next to TT and has had a massive popularity boost thanks to it, so it can get waits ~30 mins sometimes too.

But here's the good news, just like you mentioned about DW, a LOT of people come here for the shows, lights, and other things besides coasters. This park has a lot to offer, and it was popular long before all the modern coasters and rides were added. Around mid-day, the lines will be at their longest, but as it gets dark and the lights come out, they will actually drop off. By the end of the day WF and OR are often walk-ons. There's also often a change-over in guests, as some guests come early for rides and then leave to go to Branson for shows, while other people come later just to see the lights. Lots of interesting crowd dynamics at SDC, it's more complicated than most parks.

If you are coming for Coaster Christmas, there is a chance they will give us Trailblazers (SDC's fast pass system). It's not guaranteed, and it's always an awesome event either way, but sometimes they go all-out for ACE. They've already treated us once this year though, and this is going to be a busy weekend, so I wouldn't go in expecting it. Otherwise, buying a trailblazer pass may be worth it for you if you are gung-ho about the rides. Unfortunately for this year, trailblazers can only be used once on Time Traveler due to the extremely high demand.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sirwillow on November 05, 2018, 12:01:04 PM
1) We'll be driving in from St. Louis early Saturday morning with an expected arrival in the Branson area between 11-11:30. Google maps is showing that it takes about 10 minutes longer without traffic to come to the park via Branson West, so my question is, with the expected traffic getting to the parking lots coming from Branson, is this a better route to get into the park, or does it get equally jammed coming from both directions on 76?

2) With attendance of >20,000 expected, what impact does this have on wait times for the coasters? Will it be worth it for me to purchase a Trailblazer pass if I'm going mainly for the rides and I can only go on Saturday?

If you're coming in from St. Louis, then you're likely going to be coming down 65, in which case I would take the Mountain Highroad and go around Branson.  You can also bypass much of the wait coming that way.  If you wanted to come in through Branson West, then you're going to have to route through part of Springfield, Nixa and then Branson West and the extra miles could outweigh any time you'd save- more than likely they would.

I would suggest if at all possible hit the road an hour earlier if you can.  The time you save in the parking lot, getting into the park and much more will more than make up for that little bit of sleep lost.

I would also keep an eye on the temperatures.  There's a good chance that this weekend will be pretty cool, and if the temperature forecasts they are saying now hold up, many of the coasters may not be operating.  The highs have been estimated at 40-48 degrees, with lows from 25-20, depending on forecast, and at I'd hate to see you spend the money on a TrailBlazer only to not get much use out of it because the coasters are closed.  For example, it has to be over 40 degrees for Powder Keg and Wildfire to operate, and over 41 for Time Traveler, which may not give them much of a operating window to run.

A much better spending of money, in my opinion, would be on the show pass for Dickens and Wonderful Life.  It's $10/ person per show, but it will save you 30-50 minutes in line for each, and give you a much better seat for it.  As good as the coasters are, the shows are the highlights of Christmas at SDC.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: bgtgwazi on November 05, 2018, 02:18:16 PM
Sirwillow and shavethewhales:

Wow thank you so much for taking the time for such detailed responses. I truly appreciate it.

Regarding coming from Springfield, it appears that taking the "EE" exit to Highlandville from 65 to cut over to US 160, then down to 13 to Branson West actually shaves off half a mile but adds 6 minutes according to Google Maps (again not accounting for traffic). The traffic I'm concerned about is the predicted backup (again according to Google) that builds from the 465/76 intersection to Indian Point Road, which seems to be a longer backup (and longer than 6 minutes difference). Unfortunately, I'll be flying in from Orlando  (a $92 roundtrip flight was the impetus for this very spur of the moment trip) and can't get on the road any sooner (already praying for no flight delays).

Regarding the weather, the forecasts that I'm seeing call for a high of 45-50, and according to SDC most rides operate in the 30s and all rides operate above 42, so except for the first couple hours of the day I think I'm pretty safe for most of the day if the forecast holds.

Thanks again to you both. Looking forward to a great day at the park!
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sirwillow on November 05, 2018, 07:01:13 PM
I'll be flying in from Orlando  (a $92 roundtrip flight was the impetus for this very spur of the moment trip) and can't get on the road any sooner (already praying for no flight delays).

Regarding the weather, the forecasts that I'm seeing call for a high of 45-50, and according to SDC most rides operate in the 30s and all rides operate above 42, so except for the first couple hours of the day I think I'm pretty safe for most of the day if the forecast holds.

I should have figured Orlando based on your handle.  Duh!  LOL  Yeah, that kind of will affect what time you get on the road.

I haven't taken that particular route (I live to the west of SDC), but if Google has that right (and they usually do) then that sounds like a great option.  yes, the traffic back up on the Branson West side is MUCH shorter than the other direction, so that should work well.  You're actually coming in early enough that you should be ok on the parking as well.  At that point this last Saturday they were still parking in their regular lots and not using the satellites, so I think you'll be fine.

One thing with Missouri- the forecasts will change constantly, sometimes even within hours.  Unlike Florida where they go on for 15 minutes to tell you that every day is the same weather (that always amazed me watching the tv forecasts there), here's it's a constantly changing deal.  Two days ago they were talking about possible snow on Thursday, now it's looking warmer and little rain at all.  But that could change again by tomorrow.  lol  Hoping you get your warmer weather (though for Florida it'll feel like ice to you) and that everything gets open.  :-)
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: bgtgwazi on November 05, 2018, 08:09:40 PM

I should have figured Orlando based on your handle.  Duh!  LOL  Yeah, that kind of will affect what time you get on the road.

I haven't taken that particular route (I live to the west of SDC), but if Google has that right (and they usually do) then that sounds like a great option.  yes, the traffic back up on the Branson West side is MUCH shorter than the other direction, so that should work well.  You're actually coming in early enough that you should be ok on the parking as well.  At that point this last Saturday they were still parking in their regular lots and not using the satellites, so I think you'll be fine.


I was planning on parking in Preferred.. Do you know how early that tends to fill up?


One thing with Missouri- the forecasts will change constantly, sometimes even within hours.  Unlike Florida where they go on for 15 minutes to tell you that every day is the same weather (that always amazed me watching the tv forecasts there), here's it's a constantly changing deal.  Two days ago they were talking about possible snow on Thursday, now it's looking warmer and little rain at all.  But that could change again by tomorrow.  lol  Hoping you get your warmer weather (though for Florida it'll feel like ice to you) and that everything gets open.  :-)

While our temperature may stay constant for 6 months out of the year, summer rain is frustratingly unpredictable here! :-) You can rarely be sure of it whether it's a 20% chance or 90%.

I'll keep an eye on the forecast for sure.. when I booked the flight it was showing high of 51, now it's showing 48. But yes, as a Floridian I will be in full arctic attire regardless! :) As long as Outlaw Run opens I'll be a happy camper.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: shavethewhales on November 05, 2018, 08:29:18 PM
You shouldn't have trouble getting to Outlaw unless it goes down for maintenance. Hard to say which way the weather will go, but there's still time for it to warm up. Either way, it will be a fun trip just to see SDC at Christmas. (even though it's still early November)
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sirwillow on November 06, 2018, 01:36:29 PM
I was planning on parking in Preferred.. Do you know how early that tends to fill up?

I'll keep an eye on the forecast for sure.. when I booked the flight it was showing high of 51, now it's showing 48. But yes, as a Floridian I will be in full arctic attire regardless! :) As long as Outlaw Run opens I'll be a happy camper.

You'll have plenty of room in Preferred parking, but personally, I'd save the money.  Preferred parking is in between the regular lots and the entrance, with wheel chair parking between Preferred and the entrance.  You get to pay more to park a little closer, then have to walk in and out to your car instead of riding the tram.  I'd rather take one of the regular lots, save my money, and ride the tram in and out.  But then I'm a cheap skate and lazy.  lol

You should be able to get Outlaw Run in.  It has to get to 37 for it to open, which it will do, probably around noonish I'd think, and at that point it will keep going, and should have relatively short wait times.  Really your iffy ones will be Powder Keg, Wildfire and Time Traveler.  It will get warm enough for them to open, but not by a whole lot, and possibly not for more than 3 or 4 hours.  But that should be enough time.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Swoosh on November 09, 2018, 09:35:49 PM
I am so glad I went last weekend instead of going to Coaster Christmas this weekend.  Dang it’s cold outside
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on November 10, 2018, 06:33:42 AM
I am so glad I went last weekend instead of going to Coaster Christmas this weekend.  Dang it’s cold outside

No doubt..!!  18 here this morning....  feels a little "nippy" outside....
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Gilligan on November 10, 2018, 11:09:50 AM
I went to the 5K last night, and it was so cold I didn't enjoy it.  Finished and got out of there asap! Brrrrr!
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Swoosh on November 10, 2018, 03:59:14 PM
I went to the 5K last night, and it was so cold I didn't enjoy it.  Finished and got out of there asap! Brrrrr!

Did you get a cool medal?
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on November 10, 2018, 04:17:41 PM
As of 3:00 today,  9,000 people,  I would expect that number to double by dark..  we will see.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Okiebenz on November 10, 2018, 04:46:03 PM
That seems light but then again, it was cold and last I checked most of the coasters appeared to be closed per the app.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Gilligan on November 10, 2018, 05:46:46 PM
I went to the 5K last night, and it was so cold I didn't enjoy it.  Finished and got out of there asap! Brrrrr!

Did you get a cool medal?

Lol! Nope! Got nothing but cold!  We didn't do the whole track this time.  Made the last loop through the park and high tailed it out! Most of our winter gear is still in storage as we haven't moved into our new house yet, so I'm talking COLD! Heat packs, sweat shirts, layered clothes, and gloves didn't help enough!! The wind made it brutal. It was really cool, though; making the loop early gave us nearly the entire park to ourselves to look around for a bit.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on November 10, 2018, 06:43:07 PM
That seems light but then again, it was cold and last I checked most of the coasters appeared to be closed per the app.

As of 6, this evening, 16,500,  about 3500 short of last week..   

I will try to check final numbers later.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on November 11, 2018, 06:51:55 AM
Total sat the 10th -   17,500..     

Colder on sunday, and its sunday... will be a much lower number today
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on November 12, 2018, 07:36:50 AM
In case your keeping track,   Sunday- the 11th--    9100 people
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on November 18, 2018, 04:12:58 PM
this weekedn numbers,,,   

friday- 12,500

Saturday? lets see.....
65-70 degrees + Sunny + No Wind + Christmas season + Open until 10;00 + SDC =  25,800 people :o :o

Sunday- colder-cloudy-moisture in morning/early afternoon..  =  7,000
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: DeweyBald on November 19, 2018, 10:47:36 AM
It was nuts Saturday night!  It wasn't too bad around the park up until around 4pm, then it was shoulder-to-shoulder.  We walked in a little after 11am and like I said, it wasn't too bad.  We waited a little under an hour to ride TT, however after the 7pm parade, the line for the Train stretched to Cowboy Jepp's!
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on November 22, 2018, 09:14:41 PM
Happy Thanksgiving!!  - - - 15,000 people!
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Swoosh on November 22, 2018, 10:16:39 PM
Happy Thanksgiving!!  - - - 15,000 people!

What about yesterday?  They were parking in the satellite lots
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on November 23, 2018, 10:01:44 AM
Happy Thanksgiving!!  - - - 15,000 people!

What about yesterday?  They were parking in the satellite lots

Was told wed---  13-15,  but no way for me to verify that, right now anyway..
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on November 23, 2018, 07:34:56 PM
Good Friday!!!

Nice weather +
Christmas lights +
SDC     

===  7,000 people!!    WOW!!    Park was expecting 20,000,  only 7 today..  :o :o
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: chittlins on November 23, 2018, 07:41:06 PM
Good Friday!!!

Nice weather +
Christmas lights +
SDC     

===  7,000 people!!    WOW!!    Park was expecting 20,000,  only 7 today..  :o :o

Black friday  and most expected more rain than area got.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Gilligan on November 23, 2018, 07:50:15 PM
It was a ghost town this morning for Black Friday at 8 a.m.  We had a great time, purchased jams and salsas 25% off, and left about 10:30.  It rained a little bit, and began pouring about 11.  Glad we left when we did! Evidently, not all employees were aware of the Black Friday sale.  We walked into the Culinary School and was quickly told we had to leave as they weren't open and was asked if they were letting people into the park early.  We told the poor lady about the sale and the opening at 8:00.  She had no idea, and was embarrassed about telling us to leave, so she offered to turn on the fireplace and let us come in to warm up.  We were heading out, so we didn't.  ;D
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on November 24, 2018, 08:22:42 AM
Good Friday!!!

Nice weather +
Christmas lights +
SDC     

===  7,000 people!!    WOW!!    Park was expecting 20,000,  only 7 today..  :o :o

Black friday  and most expected more rain than area got.

I didnt realize it had rained there Friday,  otherwise I would have put that into the "equation"   :o :o,  then it would have added up properly and made more since. ::) ::)
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Coaster on November 24, 2018, 01:35:54 PM
I’m at the park today. This has to be record numbers. People took advantage of the $40 early entry. Combined with 70 degree weather and the park is packed.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on November 24, 2018, 02:13:05 PM
I’m at the park today. This has to be record numbers. People took advantage of the $40 early entry. Combined with 70 degree weather and the park is packed.

As of 1:00 today..  14,000 people... and its Early!! ;D ;D
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: runner1960 on November 24, 2018, 03:23:20 PM
Good Friday!!!

Nice weather +
Christmas lights +
SDC     

===  7,000 people!!    WOW!!    Park was expecting 20,000,  only 7 today..  :o :o

Black friday  and most expected more rain than area got.

I didnt realize it had rained there Friday,  otherwise I would have put that into the "equation"   :o :o,  then it would have added up properly and made more since. ::) ::)

My daughter and husband were there yesterday and they got rain check passes because of the weather. Just texted me and said it was a madhouse today.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: shavethewhales on November 24, 2018, 05:15:18 PM
Word on the street is that it's another record breaker... and it's just now getting dark. They've already closed everything off from the outside and are turning people away. 76 is a giant cluster as always. You can't exactly turn around until you get to the park...
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on November 24, 2018, 06:24:15 PM
Word on the street is that it's another record breaker... and it's just now getting dark. They've already closed everything off from the outside and are turning people away. 76 is a giant cluster as always. You can't exactly turn around until you get to the park...

WOW!!  turning people away? is that a first?..

as of 6:00 this evening 25,850...

Who in this group keeps track of top days of attendence??

today and last saturday should be in the top 5? maybe for sure top 10.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: DianaGail on November 24, 2018, 07:09:51 PM
I did a quick search last weekend and found a post about 29,000 one day in May 2018. 
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Coaster on November 24, 2018, 07:40:48 PM
Just left the park because it just got too miserable. I heard 35,000 as the number. All the parking lots were full and when we were leaving people were parked on the side of the highway. I will post a more detailed review later.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: shavethewhales on November 24, 2018, 08:11:37 PM
Word on the street is that it's another record breaker... and it's just now getting dark. They've already closed everything off from the outside and are turning people away. 76 is a giant cluster as always. You can't exactly turn around until you get to the park...

WOW!!  turning people away? is that a first?..

as of 6:00 this evening 25,850...

Who in this group keeps track of top days of attendence??

today and last saturday should be in the top 5? maybe for sure top 10.

Not even close to a first. This has happened numerous times at Christmas, and sometimes during some of the popular summer events if I recall correctly. We discussed it a lot last year as during our speculations about the area around TT.

I had thought that around 26000 was the limit, but who knows. I don't think 35000 is possible. Probably be a few days to hear the real number.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: chittlins on November 24, 2018, 11:22:04 PM
The wife had mentioned going today and I said no blanking way. The writing was on the wall for what the crowds would be today, sunny and 70, nope, no.way.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on November 25, 2018, 07:38:43 AM
Word on the street is that it's another record breaker... and it's just now getting dark. They've already closed everything off from the outside and are turning people away. 76 is a giant cluster as always. You can't exactly turn around until you get to the park...

WOW!!  turning people away? is that a first?..

as of 6:00 this evening 25,850...

Who in this group keeps track of top days of attendence??

today and last saturday should be in the top 5? maybe for sure top 10.

Not even close to a first. This has happened numerous times at Christmas, and sometimes during some of the popular summer events if I recall correctly. We discussed it a lot last year as during our speculations about the area around TT.

I had thought that around 26000 was the limit, but who knows. I don't think 35000 is possible. Probably be a few days to hear the real number.

Saturdays "official" number as of 10:30 sat night  was 28,600.     

The words "record number" was used,  I dont know if that is true or not...

regardless..... thats a bunch of people!!!     LOL>. :o :o
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: tmstephe on November 25, 2018, 07:51:05 AM
We drove down from Iowa for the weekend and had a great time, but Friday’s weather was our saving grace.  We got to the City around 3:00 on Thursday and the line for the Thanksgiving buffet stretched from the Mine/Mill/Ruinion Hall almost to the turnstiles. We waited just about 3 hours to be seated. I probably wouldn’t have, but it’s tradition, so what do you do?  After that, though, the crowd was pretty well dispersed and we didn’t really have any issues.  The park felt full but not crowded.

Friday was wonderful. The rain kept the crowd away, but it really only rained off and on a bit and we managed to get inside each time it was more than a mist/sprinkle. The temps didn’t bother us at all (48 is a lot nicer than what we’re getting in Iowa in late November), and the rain made the lights even prettier. We were probably at the City from 10:30 or so until 7:00 pm. When we left, the weather had cleared and there was quite a few people coming in, so I’m not sure when that 7000 attendance number was officially reached.

Saturday was bonkers from the word go.  We arrived at 9:00 am or so and the line for the $40 after Thanksgiving tickets stretched from the ticket booths all the way back to the stop sign where trams come up from stops 2/3 (I still refer to the stops by letter, which annoys my wife and entertains my kids... “lot C is for Car”). Luckily we had our season passes and we’re able to get right in, but everything was full, if not yet crowded, already.  We had to wait in line for literally everything - bathroom, cashiers, food, rides (of course). We ended up taking our time to see what we wanted and then left the City at 2:00. At that point, the cars were at a standstill in both lanes on Indian Point Rd back to the stoplight at 76. I’m interested to hear the official numbers for the weekend.

A few quick notes tag aren’t attendance related:

Time Traveller is awesome.  Very smooth and the rotating didn’t bother me at all.

As everyone else is saying, FM and FITH *really* need work.  It’s sad to see them in such a state.

For the first time EVER (I’ve been going to the City for 32 years), the lights didn’t work for Grandpa’s story (on Friday). Not sure if the rain caused issues, but about half of the lights were stuck on and none of them ran through the sequence.

Christmas in Midtown, to me, is just too much (this was my first time seeing it in person). I’m not a fan of the “sheets” of LED lights and false second stories. I MUCH prefer the traditional outlining of buildings, doorways, etc.  My 12 year old agreed.

As mentioned, the City really needs to do *something* to address crowds. I just worry that we’ll lose the atmosphere that makes SDC special.

Thanks for listening.
Tom
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on November 26, 2018, 06:27:00 AM
Sunday, another poor number for the park..  Was the weather that bad down there..  I know it was BAD here,
30-40- mph winds
4 degree wind chill
blowing snow ALL day...

But in Branson?...  anyway only 5400 people.~, 

May have been a good day to be there and look it all over...
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: DianaGail on November 26, 2018, 07:43:09 AM
Sunday, another poor number for the park..  Was the weather that bad down there..  I know it was BAD here,
30-40- mph winds
4 degree wind chill
blowing snow ALL day...

But in Branson?...  anyway only 5400 people.~, 

May have been a good day to be there and look it all over...

Well...the weather wasn’t great. It wasn’t too cold in Branson for most of the day, but once the temperature started to drop, it dropped 10-20 degrees in an hour and by dark they had snow flurries. The wind was horrific all day though. Gusts to 50 mph . It certainly shut the high flying rides I’d think.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: mg on November 26, 2018, 09:22:24 AM
Sunday, another poor number for the park..  Was the weather that bad down there..  I know it was BAD here,
30-40- mph winds
4 degree wind chill
blowing snow ALL day...

But in Branson?...  anyway only 5400 people.~, 

May have been a good day to be there and look it all over...

It was very windy with cold rain/mist/snow all afternoon and evening in Springfield. We arrived to the park around 5:00 and there were actually more cars in the lot than we expected. We were prepared for the cold and our son was prepared for his rides to be closed (which all outside rides except for the train and carousel were closed). It was a great evening to meet Santa, see Rudolph, ride the train and see the parade without any lines/crowds. Most of our pictures don't have a single other person in them. There were maybe 20 people total on the train when we rode it. For us, it was a perfect evening to visit the park.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on November 26, 2018, 09:47:31 AM
Sunday, another poor number for the park..  Was the weather that bad down there..  I know it was BAD here,
30-40- mph winds
4 degree wind chill
blowing snow ALL day...

But in Branson?...  anyway only 5400 people.~, 

May have been a good day to be there and look it all over...

It was very windy with cold rain/mist/snow all afternoon and evening in Springfield. We arrived to the park around 5:00 and there were actually more cars in the lot than we expected. We were prepared for the cold and our son was prepared for his rides to be closed (which all outside rides except for the train and carousel were closed). It was a great evening to meet Santa, see Rudolph, ride the train and see the parade without any lines/crowds. Most of our pictures don't have a single other person in them. There were maybe 20 people total on the train when we rode it. For us, it was a perfect evening to visit the park.

Glad you had a good visit...  should have been a near perfect night for almost 5500 people.. ;D
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: mhguy77 on November 27, 2018, 08:44:06 AM
Quote
Glad you had a good visit...  should have been a near perfect night for almost 5500 people.. ;D
I wonder on the topic just how many employees it takes to run the park on a slower day?
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on November 27, 2018, 09:28:35 PM
Quote
Glad you had a good visit...  should have been a near perfect night for almost 5500 people.. ;D
I wonder on the topic just how many employees it takes to run the park on a slower day?


Thats info I dont have access to.,   

But I would think the guys that used to work there could give us an idea..
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on November 28, 2018, 07:47:45 AM
I am seeing on a couple of other Branson related sites/Blogs,  they are calling saturday with 28,500 a "record breaker".

Any input on that statement..? 
agree? 
if you dont agree, what day(s) are you thinking about
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: mhguy77 on November 28, 2018, 08:45:02 AM
2 Coaster Chritmasses maybe 3 the count was 24000 I believe.   It because unmanageable as the day went on.
SDC has to make a move to give these crowds something to do when they are there.  The streets are gridlock.  These folks have paid 40-60 to get in, it will not take long for this to become an avoided event.  As the crowds grow the magic fades.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Pudgy Jones on November 28, 2018, 08:52:42 AM
I was at the city Saturday night. I was also there last year on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, which, if I remember correctly, was close to being a record-setter. IF you go into the City expecting these crowds, and IF you know where to go and what to do, it's still a great experience. Here are my tips:

1) Get there before rope drop and parking won't be an issue for you.
2) If you aren't a season pass holder, buy your tickets in advance.
3) Visit Midtown before dark OR after the parade.
4) Stay away from the depot while the train is running. Between people getting on and trains letting off, it's the most crowded point in the park.
5) Time your meals during non-peak meal times. For example, eat lunch at 11 or 1, not at noon.
6) Don't go with the expectation of riding a lot of rides. If you want to ride rides, come at a different time of year.
7) If you want to see the saloon show, be in line an hour in advance. (It's worth it, BTW).
8 ) If you absolutely must see IAWL or Christmas Carol, strongly consider the Show Lover's Pass. It's worth the money. 
9) Plan to stick around to enjoy the city AFTER the parades. Even on the busiest days, it becomes so serene after the parades. It makes fighting the crowds worth it. Plus, getting out of the parking lots will be so much easier.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: shavethewhales on November 28, 2018, 09:20:52 PM
2 Coaster Chritmasses maybe 3 the count was 24000 I believe.   It because unmanageable as the day went on.
SDC has to make a move to give these crowds something to do when they are there.  The streets are gridlock.  These folks have paid 40-60 to get in, it will not take long for this to become an avoided event.  As the crowds grow the magic fades.

I've been there on some days when ~26,000 were in the park. I think Spring Con was one of them? It was tough to enjoy rides at that point, and the whole park starts to feel cumbersome and more like an overburdened amusement park than a wooded wonderland.

On social media, plenty of people are saying they avoid Christmas weekends, and any weekend where the weather is forecast to be too nice. Of course it lights a fire under management. Heck, I'm sure they get plenty of flack from local authorities about the traffic issues alone. What can you do though, it's success, and it's good for Branson and the whole region. Just need to double the size of the park, that's all.

Over 28,000 means they have stepped up the number they will allow into the park at any one time. I thought for sure they were closing the gates at around 26,000 last year. I wonder if the re-done area and food stands lets them do that. Maybe the new riverfront will let them pack in another couple thousand bodies.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Swoosh on November 28, 2018, 10:06:23 PM
They need to address the intersection at 76 and Indian Point.  It’s time to do a flyover for that exit.  The blinking light for the turn lane doesn’t cut it.  What would be more beneficial is a back road in from over by the Wilderness to Indian Point to alleviate traffic turning off 76
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on November 29, 2018, 01:59:34 PM
They need to address the intersection at 76 and Indian Point.  It’s time to do a flyover for that exit.  The blinking light for the turn lane doesn’t cut it.  What would be more beneficial is a back road in from over by the Wilderness to Indian Point to alleviate traffic turning off 76

I am not sure a flyover would help much, traffic would still be backed up to 465, even without stoplight on busy days.. just have to check the logistics of it and design...

A new road off of 265, that would help for sure,  but there would serious logistics that have to be figured out and handled.

the road itself going to the west across the big ravines and cross country,

location the new road would tie-in.. cant be Indian road, just make it worst..  Maybe new parking lots on east side of indian road, accessed by new road.

Of course more parking for more cars,

Backup up traffic on 265, potential nightmare on this topic.

Not being negative, but it would take some real money and designs to make this work..  As we all know,  it just takes MONEY!!  it could be done..
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sirwillow on November 30, 2018, 06:02:00 PM

Not being negative, but it would take some real money and designs to make this work..  As we all know,  it just takes MONEY!!  it could be done..

yep, agreed.  It could be done if there was money.  Then the issues become who's paying the money?  SDC?  Branson?  The county? some mix of them?

Something needs to be done, but I don't think anyone is in any hurry to even acknowledge there is a problem there.  In particular because, for the most part, it's only a handful of days a year as opposed to a consistent problem most days the park is open.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on November 30, 2018, 09:13:00 PM

yep, agreed.  It could be done if there was money.  Then the issues become who's paying the money?  SDC?  Branson?  The county? some mix of them?


If something did happen, I doubt if Branson would help with funds...  Waaayy out of city limits,   !! 

 LOL,
as well as they have other unfinished project in town they need to tend to..
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Swoosh on November 30, 2018, 09:57:46 PM
I was just thinking that a new road from the bypass to Indian Point would allow for connection to a resort between Wildnerness and the park
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on December 01, 2018, 09:25:45 AM
I was just thinking that a new road from the bypass to Indian Point would allow for connection to a resort between Wildnerness and the park

Great thought and idea..

I am sure the PTB have already considered it or are considering right now as we speak..

HAS to be a better way in than 2 lanes of traffic and a bunch of orange cones!!
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on December 01, 2018, 05:50:56 PM
saturday the first....   mid 50's temp today,  decent weather.

another 20,000 people in attendance today.. ;D
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on December 03, 2018, 06:30:31 AM
Sunday-  12,500...  not bad for a sunday..   :)
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: tiffanylynnt on December 03, 2018, 12:32:34 PM
I was there yesterday. It didn't seem too crowded except for Midtown. We didn't get to see any shows though because the lines were too long. I guess that's where everybody was. Once the first parade was over, the park was pretty much empty.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: DianaGail on December 04, 2018, 07:43:14 PM
Looks like the area is in for a major snowstorm this weekend. If you plan on being in Branson, make sure you keep an eye on the weather. I know many people have already cancelled their plans. If it comes like they say it will,  the 8-12 inches of snow will cripple i44 and the Branson area from Friday evening and all day Saturday.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: KBCraig on December 04, 2018, 09:29:54 PM
Looks like the area is in for a major snowstorm this weekend. If you plan on being in Branson, make sure you keep an eye on the weather. I know many people have already cancelled their plans. If it comes like they say it will,  the 8-12 inches of snow will cripple i44 and the Branson area from Friday evening and all day Saturday.

I do not miss living where snow cripples everything.

Raised in Arkansas, three years in Germany, 24 years in Texas, now I'm in New Hampshire. I'm happy that the low tonight is 8F, because it's much safer than hovering around the freezing mark.

I have to make a 200 mile round trip Wednesday morning to get sworn in as a state representative. I don't mind the weather, just the time spent doing it.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Gilligan on December 04, 2018, 09:41:00 PM
Stormdar says too early to get excited about it.  Storm just now starting to come ashore.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: runner1960 on December 04, 2018, 09:58:15 PM
Already canceled my condo while I can still get a refund.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: DianaGail on December 04, 2018, 10:04:02 PM
Stormdar says too early to get excited about it.  Storm just now starting to come ashore.

Oh I agree. But people need to be aware of the possibility. Let’s face it.  3/4 of the people
In this country can’t find themselves in a map so there is no way they can read a radar. There are a lot of people that will need to make a decision on whether or not to cancel their trip before they know exactly what this storm is going to produce, if anything.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on December 05, 2018, 08:52:28 AM
Stormdar says too early to get excited about it.  Storm just now starting to come ashore.

Storm?  what storm?   LOL.    looks clear to me so far.... :o
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Gilligan on December 05, 2018, 12:03:38 PM
Stormdar now posting increased confidence that Branson could get a possible 4-5".
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: runner1960 on December 05, 2018, 01:24:07 PM
What is storm DAR?  Never heard of it. NWS though is predicting 6 inches of snow and ice mix.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Gilligan on December 05, 2018, 01:31:17 PM
Stormdar Weather is a facebook page that serves the weather in the Ozark area.  It's run by a couple of guys who are better at predicting the weather than the local news services.  They predictions are based on looking at several different informational and radar systems.  They are highly thought of around here and usually correct.  Look it up on Facebook - Stormdar Weather or more precisely for Branson - Stormdar Weather Southwestern.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Okiebenz on December 05, 2018, 06:58:45 PM
I wonder what the crowd will be like Friday and Saturday/Sunday?  If they do get 4-6" will they just shut the park down or keep it open?  Might be interesting to visit with 4-6" of snow.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Tmboote on December 05, 2018, 07:31:28 PM
I can’t imagine how hard it must be to deal with Branson roads when it snows.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sirwillow on December 05, 2018, 08:02:36 PM
I wonder what the crowd will be like Friday and Saturday/Sunday?  If they do get 4-6" will they just shut the park down or keep it open?  Might be interesting to visit with 4-6" of snow.

Depends on when it starts snowing, how much and how certain they are that more is on the way.  I've worked when they closed entirely because it was snowing, and also worked when it was snowing in the park at an inch an hour and we kept right on running. Made for an "interesting" drive home for those of us that live a little distance away.

They'll make what they think is the best decision based on what's known.  and around here that can change within a few hours.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Gilligan on December 06, 2018, 09:06:09 AM
I wonder what the crowd will be like Friday and Saturday/Sunday?  If they do get 4-6" will they just shut the park down or keep it open?  Might be interesting to visit with 4-6" of snow.

Slippery, but oh so beautiful! Years ago, the first time I visited the park during the winter season, there was snow on the ground.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on December 06, 2018, 09:57:05 AM
I wonder what the crowd will be like Friday and Saturday/Sunday?  If they do get 4-6" will they just shut the park down or keep it open?  Might be interesting to visit with 4-6" of snow.

Slippery, but oh so beautiful! Years ago, the first time I visited the park during the winter season, there was snow on the ground.

slippery? 
yes, 4 inches of snow?
Heart attack Hill?
Midtown?
yes, slippery.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: runner1960 on December 06, 2018, 02:34:12 PM
I wonder what the crowd will be like Friday and Saturday/Sunday?  If they do get 4-6" will they just shut the park down or keep it open?  Might be interesting to visit with 4-6" of snow.

Slippery, but oh so beautiful! Years ago, the first time I visited the park during the winter season, there was snow on the ground.



slippery? 
yes, 4 inches of snow?
Heart attack Hill?
Midtown?
yes, slippery.
I mentioned this in another thread but I believe if the snow is heavy enough they will close the park. And rope off Heart attack hill. We were run out of the park that night on a saturday when it closed early. With liability the way it is now it would not surprise me if it not more stringent now. Ice is a totally different monster. Breaking limbs and falling in the pathways.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sirwillow on December 07, 2018, 11:06:23 AM
At this point it looks like it's not going be a worry at all.  They've reduced the numbers to a trace to up to an inch, which is nothing that will slow the park down.

I've worked when there was 3 inches of snow on the ground in the park, so this little bit isnt' going to phase them.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Bigdog on December 07, 2018, 12:21:26 PM
We were there for a 5" snow during Spring Break 2013.  The park closed about an hour early that day to give the employees a head start getting home.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on December 08, 2018, 07:55:20 AM
Friday.. with weather and threat of weather,  then nothing happening ::) ::)

8500 people on friday.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: runner1960 on December 08, 2018, 09:44:40 AM
They must be expecting a sparse crowd today. Just posted on Facebook $40.00 tickets at the gate today.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Swoosh on December 08, 2018, 11:19:06 AM
They must be expecting a sparse crowd today. Just posted on Facebook $40.00 tickets at the gate today.

They expanded hours so I doubt it
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: runner1960 on December 08, 2018, 02:15:24 PM
They must be expecting a sparse crowd today. Just posted on Facebook $40.00 tickets at the gate today.

They expanded hours so I doubt it

Just checked with my kids who are there and they said the hours are as advertised. 11 to 10. I did not see any mention of it on Facebook or Twitter.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: U Smell Smoke on December 08, 2018, 02:50:43 PM
I thought I read where they expanded tomorrow's (Sunday) hours.  They are opening one hour earlier tomorrow, at noon.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on December 09, 2018, 03:06:44 PM
They must be expecting a sparse crowd today. Just posted on Facebook $40.00 tickets at the gate today.

I dont know if they did that or not...

BUT i was in town and the traffic count was waaay down..   Lots of cancellations...   

For example at The Haygoods show,  They had 6 buses cancel,  thats 300 or more people!!   Motels were bare, traffic was very manageable....  The Weather man cost Branson a fortune this weekend!!
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Swoosh on December 09, 2018, 03:09:43 PM
Well it’s beautiful outside today but it’s dead at the park.  I literally walked into the 1:45 Dickens Show at 1:35
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on December 09, 2018, 06:49:46 PM
Well it’s beautiful outside today but it’s dead at the park.  I literally walked into the 1:45 Dickens Show at 1:35

It is/was a great day outside today... 

I bet there are hundreds of people frustrated because of the missed weather forecast...  LOL...  Both business owners in town AND tourists....!! :o :o
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sdcfan88 on December 09, 2018, 06:59:27 PM
Ugh! I knew it. I almost went today.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Gilligan on December 09, 2018, 07:37:03 PM
Ugh! I knew it. I almost went today.

Me too....
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Swoosh on December 09, 2018, 10:56:03 PM
I was there 12-5
2x TNT
2x GBS
2x OR
2x PK
1x WF
1x FITH
1x FM
1x TT
1:45 Dickens
Lunch at Ribhouse

It was a good day. 
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on December 10, 2018, 07:31:16 AM
Sunday--   SNOWSTORM!!!   LOL-   NOPE!!

Nice day!  8600 people
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Okiebenz on December 12, 2018, 05:23:12 PM
I wonder what the numbers will be like tomorrow?  I assume they are talking about rain up there all day tomorrow.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on December 12, 2018, 08:16:05 PM
I wonder what the numbers will be like tomorrow?  I assume they are talking about rain up there all day tomorrow.

they had about 9,000 today,  doubt if it would be any more than that if weather is good tomorrow... school is still in session, and being middle of the week wont be too bad..

enjoy the visit.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sdcfan88 on December 15, 2018, 03:13:37 PM
My schedule opened up and I am gonna try to make an attempt to get out tomorrow (Sunday) to the city. Even with it being a Sunday I do suspect it will be a madhouse with the nicer weather we have now versus earlier this week when I originally tried to go. Probably a valid assessment right? I will NEVER go on a Saturday. lol
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on December 15, 2018, 04:05:35 PM
My schedule opened up and I am gonna try to make an attempt to get out tomorrow (Sunday) to the city. Even with it being a Sunday I do suspect it will be a madhouse with the nicer weather we have now versus earlier this week when I originally tried to go. Probably a valid assessment right? I will NEVER go on a Saturday. lol

Tomorrow (sunday) wont be bad, School is still in session for a couple of more days..

 I think last sunday was about 10,000.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: MCLFLN on December 15, 2018, 06:46:32 PM
I'm at the park right now (Saturday, December 15th) and I wonder if they haven't broken another attendance record.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on December 15, 2018, 07:31:47 PM
I'm at the park right now (Saturday, December 15th) and I wonder if they haven't broken another attendance record.

Today,  sat...  -- official count as off 7pm  ---  23,500
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: MCLFLN on December 15, 2018, 09:05:31 PM
Then I can't imagine the recent record day...
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: MCLFLN on December 16, 2018, 05:58:38 AM
sanddunerider, just curious if you know what the final count was?

Quote from: MCLFLN link=topic=3865.msg76736#msg76736
date=1544929531
Then I can't imagine the recent record day...
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on December 16, 2018, 08:10:04 AM
sanddunerider, just curious if you know what the final count was?

Quote from: MCLFLN link=topic=3865.msg76736#msg76736
date=1544929531
Then I can't imagine the recent record day...

Sure!   

final for sat 24,700.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: MCLFLN on December 16, 2018, 08:24:32 AM
Thank you!

sanddunerider, just curious if you know what the final count was?

Quote from: MCLFLN link=topic=3865.msg76736#msg76736
date=1544929531
Then I can't imagine the recent record day...

Sure!   

final for sat 24,700.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on December 16, 2018, 11:41:02 AM
Rumor has it , the could have squezzed in 2 more bus loads of people ;D
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sdcfan88 on December 16, 2018, 06:09:56 PM
Just a heads up today wound up being surprisingly busy. Staff saying they never seen a Sunday this busy.  All lots are near full.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: DianaGail on December 16, 2018, 07:42:53 PM
Just a heads up today wound up being surprisingly busy. Staff saying they never seen a Sunday this busy.  All lots are near full.

Friends posted a photo of the line they waited in for an hour and a half to get a parking spot. The park wasn’t even open yet.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on December 17, 2018, 08:03:19 AM
Just a heads up today wound up being surprisingly busy. Staff saying they never seen a Sunday this busy.  All lots are near full.

Friends posted a photo of the line they waited in for an hour and a half to get a parking spot. The park wasn’t even open yet.

UH?  Yeah?   Sunday??  over 20,000 people.!! :o :o   

Would that be a record Sunday?
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sdcfan88 on December 17, 2018, 02:11:32 PM
It could very well be. The entrance was rerouted to the Cave Tour path up to the Candy Factory and TNT. Or are they doing that all the time for the Christmas event now? This was my first OTC I attended so far this year.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on December 18, 2018, 06:25:58 PM
Countdown to christmas day!!----

Tuesday- 7,000 people..  that would have been a good day to be a visitor..
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sirwillow on December 19, 2018, 09:12:12 AM
Our schedule is working out where Friday is likely our only day to go in the next week and a half.  I'm hoping it's not to crowded, but not real optimistic with it starting off the holiday week.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on December 19, 2018, 10:19:08 AM
Our schedule is working out where Friday is likely our only day to go in the next week and a half.  I'm hoping it's not to crowded, but not real optimistic with it starting off the holiday week.

Schools out, nice weather,  BUT it is Christmas weekend.... Mmmmm?   Good luck!!
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Tmboote on December 19, 2018, 01:49:43 PM
Our schedule is working out where Friday is likely our only day to go in the next week and a half.  I'm hoping it's not to crowded, but not real optimistic with it starting off the holiday week.

I’ll be there Friday-Sunday and am telling myself it’s going to be packed, especially Saturday. Maybe it won’t be as bad as I’m expecting ;D
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Gilligan on December 19, 2018, 02:48:04 PM
What's it like after Christmas? Trying to decide if I want to treat a couple of out of towners.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: DollarCityBoy on December 19, 2018, 03:37:38 PM
We will be in Branson 20-23 (Thurs-Sun). We only plan to go to SDC on Friday the 21st.

We visited the park back in November for 3-solid days...so we got our fix, but taking our 9-year wedding anniversary trip before Christmas because we love it so much. Should be great weather the entire time we're there!
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on December 19, 2018, 04:14:02 PM
We will be in Branson 20-23 (Thurs-Sun). We only plan to go to SDC on Friday the 21st.

We visited the park back in November for 3-solid days...so we got our fix, but taking our 9-year wedding anniversary trip before Christmas because we love it so much. Should be great weather the entire time we're there!

Have a great visit, I am sure friday wont be too bad..
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on December 20, 2018, 09:52:14 AM
Wed-  7,000 people in attendance.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sirwillow on December 20, 2018, 12:25:37 PM
What's it like after Christmas? Trying to decide if I want to treat a couple of out of towners.

Expect it to be very very busy
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sdcfan88 on December 20, 2018, 02:25:42 PM
What's it like after Christmas? Trying to decide if I want to treat a couple of out of towners.

Expect it to be very very busy

Yeah I was gonna try to make it up there next Weds-Thurs as thats the only other time off I got that matches with the park being open. Its really that bad even thru the week?
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Swoosh on December 20, 2018, 02:46:23 PM
What's it like after Christmas? Trying to decide if I want to treat a couple of out of towners.

Expect it to be very very busy

Yeah I was gonna try to make it up there next Weds-Thurs as thats the only other time off I got that matches with the park being open. Its really that bad even thru the week?

It’s all weather dependent.  It’s not Saturday crazy but it can be busy
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on December 20, 2018, 03:57:31 PM
Yeah I was gonna try to make it up there next Weds-Thurs as thats the only other time off I got that matches with the park being open. Its really that bad even thru the week?

weather for sure is the big decision make, but it is expected to be nice all next week throguth New Years..

For sure be some traffic wed-thurs-friday,  but acceptable
but as in a typcal week, sat and sunday could be nuts!!   
and expect NYE day to be busy also.
New years Day?  thats still a toss up....
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: palallin on December 21, 2018, 08:46:22 AM
We're going on the 30th and plan to stay fairly late, so we got a room at the Classic for that night.  Nothing like going at the last minute, but best we could so with our work schedules.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on December 21, 2018, 08:56:21 AM
We're going on the 30th and plan to stay fairly late, so we got a room at the Classic for that night.  Nothing like going at the last minute, but best we could so with our work schedules.

we will be in town that weekend also..  last minute trips are usualy the best..


Thursday....   10,200..
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on December 21, 2018, 09:12:48 PM
The Holiday Vacation Weekend has officailly started..

Nice weather,

19,800 people...

Going to be there sat? better start early....
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Tmboote on December 21, 2018, 10:51:48 PM
It didn’t seem that bad today crowd wise. They do a great job of having more people working and directing people around, especially in the parking/tram area.

I’ll also be there tomorrow, hopefully before opening. We’ll see how long we want to deal with the crowds.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sirwillow on December 22, 2018, 11:03:51 AM
The Holiday Vacation Weekend has officailly started..

Nice weather,

19,800 people...


Was there really that many people out there Friday?  It didn't feel like it at all.  Felt much more like a 14k crowd maybe, even a bit less, than a 19k crowd.  Lots of walking room in most of the park, and lines for the rides and side shows weren't bad.  Second parade was completely empty and only took us about 10 minutes to get a tram out of the park after it.

I was very glad though that we purchased the show lover's pass for Dickens and Wonderful Life.  :-)
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on December 22, 2018, 01:46:07 PM
The Holiday Vacation Weekend has officailly started..

Nice weather,

19,800 people...


Was there really that many people out there Friday?  It didn't feel like it at all.  Felt much more like a 14k crowd maybe, even a bit less, than a 19k crowd.  Lots of walking room in most of the park, and lines for the rides and side shows weren't bad.  Second parade was completely empty and only took us about 10 minutes to get a tram out of the park after it.

I was very glad though that we purchased the show lover's pass for Dickens and Wonderful Life.  :-)

Yes, I double checked the numbers and that is an accurate count...,

No word yet for today... anyone on park.? how does it look?
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Tmboote on December 22, 2018, 02:17:00 PM
It doesn’t seem any worse than yesterday so far. Time Traveler/Thunderation area is hard to move around in, but other areas don’t seem that bad.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Gilligan on December 22, 2018, 08:09:21 PM
We drove by about 7, and there were about equal numbers of people leaving and entering.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on December 22, 2018, 08:22:59 PM
Saturday - around 8pm - 18,700 people...

great day to be out,
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on December 23, 2018, 08:01:52 PM
Sunday- 

More people than on friday or Saturday...  that doesnt happen very often...

21,400 as of about 7 this evening :o :o
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Tmboote on December 23, 2018, 10:12:36 PM
I though it seemed busier today than the past couple days. We were there at opening until about two then came back around six. It was weird coming at that time because it seemed like there were an equal amount of people coming into the park and leaving.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on December 24, 2018, 06:58:50 AM
I though it seemed busier today than the past couple days. We were there at opening until about two then came back around six. It was weird coming at that time because it seemed like there were an equal amount of people coming into the park and leaving.

It never fails,  People bail out of there right after first parade,   while at the smae time poeple are trying to get in to see lights and see the second parade, and ride do some rides if they are lucky.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: DianaGail on December 24, 2018, 08:31:03 AM
We were there for a few hours. Eventually the kids got tired of waiting in lines so we didn’t even stay til dark. When we left at 4:30, there was still a huge line at the entrance gates and the traffic was worse than when we arrived at 12:30.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Sdcnut on December 26, 2018, 11:04:53 AM
How are the crowds between Christmas and new years?
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on December 26, 2018, 11:46:09 AM
How are the crowds between Christmas and new years?

As we have said befor  the weather is the biggest factor.. if it going to be 20-25 degrees and warmer, and clear with no moisture,, 
the park will be busy,
the warmer the temp.. more people will attend..

6 more days!!
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Swoosh on December 26, 2018, 01:39:47 PM
How are the crowds between Christmas and new years?

The crowds seem small today but every one is in Dickens or IAWL right now. 
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sdcfan88 on December 26, 2018, 02:01:28 PM
Temps being near 60 and it being Christmas break it could get interesting.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on December 26, 2018, 08:55:11 PM
Wed...  easy day.   LOL.    10,800 people...
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: DianaGail on December 27, 2018, 04:12:47 PM
Just posted that they are reaching capacity and please come after 6:30 pm. They have extended today’s hours to 10 pm.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sdcfan88 on December 27, 2018, 04:13:41 PM
I'd be curious to see the numbers today. My bad luck with days off continues as apparently it's everyone else's too. Lol All the lots are at or near capacity. Unlike last time I was here even the preferred parking lots are full and they are using the dirt lot below the hill now.

EDIT: Lol just saw the post above ...sounds about right. Guess we posted at the same time. Yeah I got turned away for the first time.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sdcfan88 on December 27, 2018, 04:22:26 PM
Haven't seen wait times like this in a very long time, especially for WF. And of course TT is down.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Swoosh on December 27, 2018, 05:03:36 PM
Haven't seen wait times like this in a very long time, especially for WF. And of course TT is down.

Please.  This is typical After Christmas crowds
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Okiebenz on December 27, 2018, 05:17:07 PM
We went out yesterday and got there at about 4:30.  Made a beeline to check out the LR area.  It seemed busy but not that busy.  We had about a 15 minute wait at TGS, bailed out of line at OR.  Ride FM a few times with no other riders on as it looked like everyone was in line for the train or probably at shows.  Got on pretty quick on WF.  Ended up watching the 6pm parade at the start of the parade route then headed over and rode PK walk on a couple of times.  Aftwards FITH did have a little bit of a wait, rode that then left at about 6:30.  That will be our last visit of the year.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Tmboote on December 27, 2018, 05:37:13 PM
I never saw WF over 40 minutes Fri-Sun and never waited more than 20. I bet there are a lot of upset people that they’re only running one train.

When was the last time they reached maximum capacity on a Thursday?
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Swoosh on December 27, 2018, 05:44:09 PM
I never saw WF over 40 minutes Fri-Sun and never waited more than 20. I bet there are a lot of upset people that they’re only running one train.

When was the last time they reached maximum capacity on a Thursday?

Moonlight Madness
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on December 27, 2018, 07:12:30 PM
Over 23,000 today, no final numbers yet...

Just "wait",   LOL,   I will get that info later
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sdcfan88 on December 27, 2018, 07:20:22 PM
Its nice to see Flooded Mine getting some love tonight. The line is out mixing into the Train Station area. That I definately haven't seen in awhile. Lol
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on December 28, 2018, 10:08:03 AM
Its nice to see Flooded Mine getting some love tonight. The line is out mixing into the Train Station area. That I definately haven't seen in awhile. Lol

A lot of "lovin" going on last night..  LOL    :o :o

24,500 people on Thursday,,,,

A little different weather today,  lets see what happens.  Grab a coat!!

Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Wildfire on December 28, 2018, 10:19:52 AM
So glad we went Wednesday instead of Thursday.  Wednesday was probably the smallest crowd I've seen at OTC.  We waited about 10 minutes both times we rode TT.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Swoosh on December 28, 2018, 12:37:15 PM
Its nice to see Flooded Mine getting some love tonight. The line is out mixing into the Train Station area. That I definately haven't seen in awhile. Lol

A lot of "lovin" going on last night..  LOL    :o :o

24,500 people on Thursday,,,,

A little different weather today,  lets see what happens.  Grab a coat!!

It was busy, but we still rode everything we wanted to

PK x3
WF
OR x4
TNT
TT
FITH
FM
Train
TGS x3

Living Nativity
Dickens
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on December 28, 2018, 03:34:51 PM

It was busy, but we still rode everything we wanted to

PK x3
WF
OR x4
TNT
TT
FITH
FM
Train
TGS x3

Living Nativity
Dickens

You did pretty good, considering the numbers...
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Swoosh on December 28, 2018, 03:52:54 PM
We never waited more than 20 minutes.  All of those rides were in the front on the coasters (except FITH)
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: theymitbgi on December 28, 2018, 11:30:40 PM
Just wanted to see Thank You to those that recommended going to the park on Wednesday, with the wet/foggy weather, the park was empty. 
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on December 29, 2018, 07:23:47 AM
Friday-  only 14,000..

4 more days.....   cooler weather, moisture in the forecast....
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on January 01, 2019, 03:08:20 PM
Numbers for the weekend...

sat cool, rainy -                                       14,000
Sunday clear, decent temps  -                   19,500
Monday ! Rain in AM, Cool all day :(            4,200   :'(

Today is off to a VERY slow start, only about 1,000 people by 2:00,,
Hope some people show up.  Otherwise will be a looong day for employees..! (and management)   :o
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Swoosh on January 01, 2019, 06:50:51 PM
Numbers for the weekend...

sat cool, rainy -                                       14,000
Sunday clear, decent temps  -                   19,500
Monday ! Rain in AM, Cool all day :(            4,200   :'(

Today is off to a VERY slow start, only about 1,000 people by 2:00,,
Hope some people show up.  Otherwise will be a looong day for employees..! (and management)   :o

Did you hear what they predicted for today? 😂 Yeah I laughed too.  HFEC CEO was on park today.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on January 01, 2019, 07:24:36 PM
Numbers for the weekend...

sat cool, rainy -                                       14,000
Sunday clear, decent temps  -                   19,500
Monday ! Rain in AM, Cool all day :(            4,200   :'(

Today is off to a VERY slow start, only about 1,000 people by 2:00,,
Hope some people show up.  Otherwise will be a looong day for employees..! (and management)   :o

Did you hear what they predicted for today? 😂 Yeah I laughed too.  HFEC CEO was on park today.

Thats not good... LOL...
Well he could ride whatever he wanted to IF it was warm enough... 
Last count ONLY 2100 people!!!   :o :o
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Okiebenz on January 01, 2019, 07:39:34 PM
Dang, should have went up there.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Swoosh on January 01, 2019, 10:35:37 PM
Numbers for the weekend...

sat cool, rainy -                                       14,000
Sunday clear, decent temps  -                   19,500
Monday ! Rain in AM, Cool all day :(            4,200   :'(

Today is off to a VERY slow start, only about 1,000 people by 2:00,,
Hope some people show up.  Otherwise will be a looong day for employees..! (and management)   :o

Did you hear what they predicted for today? 😂 Yeah I laughed too.  HFEC CEO was on park today.

Thats not good... LOL...
Well he could ride whatever he wanted to IF it was warm enough... 
Last count ONLY 2100 people!!!   :o :o

Well they had 400 last year on NYD and 1000 on NYE.  I’d say it was a success.  They basically had a skeleton crew at the park for guest services and then everyone else was busy starting off season work.  They were stripping things and packing up everything in Rib House today.  I’d say it’s gone in the next few weeks. 
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on January 02, 2019, 08:22:37 AM
Well they had 400 last year on NYD and 1000 on NYE.  I’d say it was a success.  They basically had a skeleton crew at the park for guest services and then everyone else was busy starting off season work.  They were stripping things and packing up everything in Rib House today.  I’d say it’s gone in the next few weeks.

Be interetsing to know if the PTB considered it a success.!!  They had some good groups out there on NYE for only 4000 people..

Rib house,  oh yea, it will be gone in the next week or so if weather holds.  LOL. 

It is probably in the way now, as far as progress goes..
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: dkparks on January 02, 2019, 12:38:02 PM
Saw a post that 2018 year end attendance at The City was 2,184,000. Anyone confirm this?
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on January 02, 2019, 12:59:48 PM
Saw a post that 2018 year end attendance at The City was 2,184,000. Anyone confirm this?


interesting number..  :D   Not sure how to verify that.

Any idea of past years attendance?/..   Swoosh?
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Swoosh on January 02, 2019, 01:22:04 PM
Saw a post that 2018 year end attendance at The City was 2,184,000. Anyone confirm this?


interesting number..  :D   Not sure how to verify that.

Any idea of past years attendance?/..   Swoosh?

Just like you, I can only get the daily attendance and not the total attendance numbers
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: pintrader on January 02, 2019, 01:44:51 PM
Looks like KY3 is confirming that number.

https://www.ky3.com/content/news/Silver-Dollar-City-sets-record-for-attendance-in-2018-503794591.html
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Swoosh on January 02, 2019, 02:33:10 PM
Yep.  Park just sent out a presser with the same figures
And therein lies the biggest reason the park is investing so heavily in infrastructure upgrades
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: History Buff on January 02, 2019, 02:41:54 PM
I have to wonder how many of those are unique visitors and not people who are counted multiple times for multiple visits.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: shavethewhales on January 02, 2019, 02:44:24 PM
That is tremendous news. Years ago there was serious concern over HFEC's ability to grow the SDC market. Now it seems their biggest challenge is building up their infrastructure fast enough to handle the deluge of crowds. The only reason they didn't break through 2.2 million and beyond is that they had to turn people away on some days. The fear of massive crowds now is also starting to work against them as many are saying they'll never visit on a Saturday again...
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on January 02, 2019, 03:07:00 PM
That is tremendous news. Years ago there was serious concern over HFEC's ability to grow the SDC market. Now it seems their biggest challenge is building up their infrastructure fast enough to handle the deluge of crowds. The only reason they didn't break through 2.2 million and beyond is that they had to turn people away on some days. The fear of massive crowds now is also starting to work against them as many are saying they'll never visit on a Saturday again...

So true, I know I am on the "never on sat." list...
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: chittlins on January 02, 2019, 03:39:45 PM
That is tremendous news. Years ago there was serious concern over HFEC's ability to grow the SDC market. Now it seems their biggest challenge is building up their infrastructure fast enough to handle the deluge of crowds. The only reason they didn't break through 2.2 million and beyond is that they had to turn people away on some days. The fear of massive crowds now is also starting to work against them as many are saying they'll never visit on a Saturday again...

It doesn't hurt to have two very healthy and growing MSAs on your doorstep.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Swoosh on January 02, 2019, 06:21:32 PM
I have to wonder how many of those are unique visitors and not people who are counted multiple times for multiple visits.

Well it’s not so much the turnstiles count that’s important.  It’s the in park spending, which was also at record levels this year
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on January 02, 2019, 07:23:11 PM
I have to wonder how many of those are unique visitors and not people who are counted multiple times for multiple visits.

Well it’s not so much the turnstiles count that’s important.  It’s the in park spending, which was also at record levels this year

thats it exactly!!!. 
entry fees are all good, 
but the food,
drinks,
and souvenirs.....   

thats where the real money is. ;) ;)
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: History Buff on January 02, 2019, 10:00:30 PM
I'm just trying to do some math, but I'm pretty sure I can't count that high.
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on January 03, 2019, 07:28:14 AM
I'm just trying to do some math, but I'm pretty sure I can't count that high.

LOL>  Lets see......

Total number....  X   money spent per person.
average spent per person?   Any guesses? what?   30-40 maybe per person?  More or less?

LOL!! Regardless thats a BIG number with lots of Zero's!/   

Not all profit, Of course the overhead is huge too!
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: Swoosh on January 03, 2019, 09:13:02 AM
I'm just trying to do some math, but I'm pretty sure I can't count that high.

LOL>  Lets see......

Total number....  X   money spent per person.
average spent per person?   Any guesses? what?   30-40 maybe per person?  More or less?

LOL!! Regardless thats a BIG number with lots of Zero's!/   

Not all profit, Of course the overhead is huge too!

Yes PNL is a large number too, but utilities have gone down with some of the upgrades. 
Title: Re: Attendance numbers
Post by: sanddunerider on January 03, 2019, 09:29:12 AM
@ Swoosh..  your in the know on this kind of stuff, year to  year and park to park...

money spent per person..?  person not family?.    your thoughts/guess?