Disney’s theme parks in the US have had a bumper few months, helping the entertainment giant pocket $2.49 billion (£2bn) in profits from its “Experiences” business, which includes theme parks, hotels and cruise ships.
The company said profits from its US parks jumped 13% in the second quarter of its 2025 financial year.
That’s a big turnaround after a drop in the previous quarter. More visitors, bigger spending, and the successful debut of the new Disney Treasure cruise ship all played a part in the boost.
While the US parks performed strongly, Disney said things weren’t quite as rosy overseas.
Uncertainty in the global economy and growing competition – especially from Universal’s hotly-anticipated new Epic Universe park – is expected to put the pressure on in the coming months.
Still, Disney is confident about the year ahead. It expects profits from its parks and holiday businesses to grow by between 6% and 8% for this year.
CEO Bob Iger said Disney had made a “great start” to 2025 and teased even more excitement to come, from new films and a direct-to-consumer version of ESPN.
Iger also highlighted “an unprecedented number” of park expansions in the works, including the major upgrades underway at Disneyland Paris.
Disney’s Experiences arm includes its six resorts around the world – including Disneyland in California, Disney World in Florida, and parks in Paris, Tokyo, Shanghai and Hong Kong – plus its cruise line and holiday packages.
Also, today, Disney announced plans to build its seventh theme park, through a brand new project in Abu Dhabi.
