Cedar Fair parks lapping rival Six Flags in pandemic recovery

The big picture: Attendance across Cedar Fair's 13 parks rose in 2022 compared to a year ago, but is still down slightly from pre-pandemic totals, per Cleveland.com.

• But the chain still reported record revenue this year, as guests are spending more on average than in years past.

What's next: Cedar Fair's attendance dip is expected to fully recover as parks roll out new attractions next year.

• Cedar Point is building a beachfront pavilion and Wild Mouse coaster, while Kings Island's Adventure Port themed area will feature new rides and restaurants.

Meanwhile, Six Flags has had a more painful ride this year, our colleague Mike Mooney reports for Axios Dallas.

• Revenue and attendance plummeted in 2022, and an increase in parkgoer spending didn't come close to offsetting those losses.

• Facing crowded, unruly parks — its CEO called them "a day care for teenagers" — the company plans to further raise prices in a deliberate effort to lower attendance and prevent long ride queues.

Between the lines: The two chains are longtime competitors. The entrance to Cedar Point, also the HQ for Cedar Fair, once subtly featured a row of seven flags.

💪 Our take: Ohio has the best coasters in America, and it looks like we now have the most profitable amusement park chain, too.