14 Innovative Ways to Use QR Codes in Amusement Parks

For amusement parks, technology has been a key factor in managing crowds and delivering seamless experiences for visitors. For instance, barcodes have long been associated with amusement operators to streamline entry management, ticket validation, and access control.

Today, QR codes are taking this to the next level, making entry smoother, payments contactless, and visitor experiences richer with just a quick scan. As the amusement park market is projected to hit USD 65.29 billion by 2034, QR codes are unlocking ways to boost efficiency and visitor delight. 

14 innovative uses for QR codes in amusement parks

Here are 14 innovative uses for QR codes in amusement parks, accompanied by key benefits and real-world examples. Take a look. 

1. Digital ticketing & entry management

Say goodbye to paper tickets and long queues at the gate. With QR codes, guests can receive digital tickets directly on their smartphones. Scanning the code at the entrance enables contactless, fast, and secure entry, which results in reduced wait times and enhanced visitor convenience.

Benefits:

• Eliminates paper waste, speeds up entry lines, and reduces human error
• Streamlines entry management  

Real-world example: Disney Parks (Disneyland & Walt Disney World) leveraged QR codes for reserved ride entry. 

What you can do: Generate a unique QR code for each guest and share it via email or the link.

2. Virtual queue management

Long wait times are a common pain point for visitors. Guests can scan a QR code at a ride entrance to join a virtual queue, receiving real-time updates and notifications on the wait time on their phones. This frees them up to explore other areas of the park, grab a snack, or enjoy another attraction. 

Benefits: 

• Minimizes physical crowding 
• More freedom to explore the park while waiting

Real-world example: Universal Studios (Hollywood & Orlando) implemented the code for virtual queue management. 

What you can do: Install a QR code scanner that links to queue management software. 

3. Interactive park maps and navigation

Paper or printed maps become outdated quickly and can be damaged by weather conditions. By scanning a QR code, guests can instantly access interactive digital maps on their smartphones, showing their real-time location, nearby attractions, restrooms, and dining options, making navigation seamless.

Benefits:

• Enables interactive, GPS-enabled maps
• Easy navigation due to real-time or live location update

Real-world example: Six Flags offered a QR code for visitors to access park maps.

What you can do: Embed the QR code into the printed map or distribute it across sitting benches or signboards.    

4. Mobile food ordering and digital menus

No more standing in line at food stalls when QR codes are placed on tables or at kiosks, as visitors can directly access digital menus upon scanning. Guests can browse food options, customize their orders, and pay directly from their devices. This reduces wait times, improves order accuracy, and allows guests to maximize their park enjoyment.

Benefits:

• Simplifies food ordering, especially during peak times
• Improves food service and operations

Real-world example: Alton Towers (UK) utilized QR codes for mobile food ordering services. 

What you can do: Place the printed QR code on each table or near the food store area. 

5. Cashless payments

QR codes facilitate cashless transactions across various touchpoints in the park, such as shops, food stalls, and even game booths. Visitors simply scan the code and pay with their mobile payment methods to buy snacks or souvenirs, making transactions quick and secure.

Benefits: 

• Contactless payment and maintain hygiene across all touchpoints
• Enables seamless, cashless transactions by integrating QR codes

What you can do: Place the QR code next to the cash counter or help desk.  

6. Event & show schedules

Never miss a show or parade in the park. Guests can stay updated on parade timings, performances, and special events by scanning QR codes displayed on signboards. They can even set reminders for their favorite attractions.

Benefits:

• Better plan the activities for the day 
• No missing out on any special events 

What you can do: Display the event QR code near the event place or stages.  

7. Interactive games and scavenger hunts

Turn your park into a giant playground! QR codes can power digital scavenger hunts and interactive games. Guests scan codes around the park to unlock clues, complete missions, or win prizes, adding an extra layer of fun. Each scan can reveal a clue, a fun fact, or unlock a mini-game, turning a casual stroll into an exciting adventure.

Benefits:

• Boosts engagement with gamified experiences
• Fun experiences while exploring new areas

Real-world example: LEGOLAND Parks (California) attracted visitors using QR codes for a scavenger hunt. 

What you can do: Distribute and hide QR codes in different locations throughout the park. 

8. Emergency ID for kids

Using QR codes as an emergency ID for kids helps them return to their parents in case of separation. Parents and guardians must provide their contact information when creating the code and then place this code on their child’s wristband, clothing, or a dedicated tag. Upon scanning, users can easily contact the kid’s parents. 

Benefits:

• Lost children to reunite with parents or guardians 
• Peace of mind for parents 

What you can do: Create a unique QR code for each child who requires parents’ supervision.  

9. Merchandise sales and information

QR codes on merchandise displays can provide additional product information, such as materials, sizing guides, or even link to exclusive online-only items. For popular characters, a QR code could link to a short animation or backstory, enhancing the perceived value of the merchandise.

Benefits: 

• Provides a rich shopping experience
• Order online for home delivery to minimize carrying gifts around the park
• Avail merchandise sales offers and special discount coupons

What you can do: Attach QR codes to products in gift shops or kiosks.

10. Emergency information & safety guidelines

For guest safety, QR codes near rides or facilities can quickly deliver important updates, evacuation routes, or health guidelines directly to visitors’ phones, ensuring fast access to critical information.

Benefits:

• Instant information access to safety protocols and clear communication
• Useful for multilingual visitors who may need information in different languages

What you can do: Strategically place QR codes that link to emergency contact information, first aid stations, park exits, and real-time safety updates.

11. Mobile app download

A single QR code can direct visitors to download the official amusement park or resort app, tailored to their device type. Apps often offer additional features, including loyalty programs, advanced navigation, and virtual queuing.

Benefits:

• Uses QR codes to promote the official amusement park mobile app
• Visitors can get personalized suggestions 

Real-world example: Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea linked tickets to the Tokyo Disney Resort App.

What you can do: Use a smart rule QR code to set different download links for iOS and Android users. 

12. Feedback & surveys

Gather valuable insights from your guests on various aspects of their experience. A quick scan directs guests to a short survey, allowing you to understand what’s working and what needs improvement in real-time.

Benefits:

• Helps improve services and operations
• Enhances the park experience for future guests

What you can do: Place the QR codes at exit points or key locations, linking to short feedback surveys.

13. Augmented Reality experiences

Bring the park to life with Augmented Reality (AR)-powered QR codes. Guests can scan codes to interact with animated characters, see 3D models of dinosaurs or superheroes, or access immersive storytelling elements. Imagine scanning a code near a ride and seeing a virtual dragon fly overhead, or a historical character appearing to tell you about the park’s history.

Benefits:

• Provides interactive experiences and immersive games using AR
• Memorable experience for guests of all ages

What you can do: Integrate a QR code that triggers AR experiences on guests’ phones. 

14. Maintenance and inventory management

QR codes can power behind-the-scenes operations by tagging equipment and inventory. Scanning a code displays maintenance logs, schedules, or parts lists, enabling staff to manage upkeep and repairs efficiently. For inventory, QR codes on supplies can help track stock levels and automate reordering.

Benefits:

• Tracks equipment and maintenance tasks
• Streamlines park operations and maintenance

What you can do: Embed a QR code on each equipment and tool to instantly access service history, report issues, or mark items as repaired. 

Why choose QRCodeChimp to generate QR codes for amusement parks?

Selecting a reliable and feature-rich QR code generator is crucial when generating QR codes for amusement parks. Among platforms, QRCodeChimp stands out for several reasons:

✅ Extensive customization: Create QR codes that align perfectly with your park’s branding, incorporating logos, colors, frames, and unique shapes to make them visually appealing and match your park’s theme or identity.

✅ Templates for multiple use cases: QRCodeChimp provides a variety of pre-designed templates for almost all QR code solutions used in amusement parks, including tickets, QR code menus, feedback forms, coupons, and more.

✅ Dynamic QR codes: Update the content/information of your QR codes at any time without needing to reprint them. Dynamic QR codes offer unparalleled flexibility for ever-changing park information, such as showtimes or promotions.

✅ Bulk creation: Generate hundreds or even thousands of unique QR codes efficiently, ideal for ticketing, merchandise, or staff management across large parks or events.

✅ Advanced analytics: Track scan data to understand how guests are interacting with your QR codes, providing valuable insights into popular attractions, peak usage times, and more.

✅ User-friendly interface: QRCodeChimp provides an intuitive platform, enabling anyone, regardless of technical expertise, to easily create and manage QR code campaigns.

✅ High security: QRCodeChimp’s robust security features help users ensure data safety and protect against the misuse of visitor data and transactions.

Conclusion

QR codes are changing the way amusement parks operate and engage with their visitors. By adopting these 14 use case strategies, park operators can deliver a smoother, smarter, and more engaging guest experience while streamlining operations. With the right QR code partner like QRCodeChimp, the possibilities for innovation and improvement in your amusement parks can be truly limitless.

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