When you’re at an amusement park, you’re probably not thinking about the signage as you’re rushing to your favorite game, attraction, or roller coaster. But here at Ortwein Sign, we think about signage so you don’t have to. When it’s done right, you won’t even realize how much you rely on signs—from finding the parking lot and ticket booth to seeing if your child is tall enough for the ride.
Key Types of Signage for Amusement Parks
Amusement parks can make use of nearly every type of signage. From flag signs promoting food carts to large EMCs (Electronic Message Centers) at the entrance displaying ticket prices and showtimes, parks rely heavily on clear and engaging signs to keep things running smoothly. Below, we break down some of the most common sign types you’ll encounter at amusement parks.
1. Wayfinding Signage
Perhaps the most essential type of signage at any amusement park is wayfinding. Some of the first signs you see may guide you from miles away, directing you to the park entrance and parking areas. From there, you’ll encounter signs guiding you to the ticket booth, attractions, restrooms, eateries, and more.
Even the most iconic signs at amusement parks often double as wayfinding tools. These informational signs, which identify rides and attractions, are perfect opportunities for unique branding. In cases where a ride is based on intellectual property (IP), such as Snoopy or Dale Earnhardt, the signage can match that branding, further immersing visitors in the experience.
2. Safety Signage
Nothing is more critical at an amusement park than safety signage. These signs inform guests about health risks for certain rides, enforce height restrictions, and help ride operators ensure that safety protocols are followed.
Safety signage can take many forms, from simple placards to more permanent posts or even digital displays for high-traffic areas. They can even include signs in the case of a fire, natural disaster, or other type of emergency where an evacuation may be needed.
3. EMCs or Digital LED Signs
While not all parks have the capacity for EMCs, those that do benefit from their versatility. EMCs can entertain and inform guests as they arrive, display ticket prices or showtimes, and even provide information while visitors are waiting in line. For example, while queuing for a roller coaster, an EMC can share safety tips and fun facts about the ride, making the wait feel shorter and more enjoyable.
4. Food Stall and Restaurant Signage
Whether your park has food stalls, full restaurants, or both, signage is essential for attracting customers and clearly displaying menu options. Sit-down restaurants might use digital menu boards, while smaller food carts may rely on simpler designs. Branding is key—think of a hot dog cart with a hot dog logo to attract attention and make offerings clear.
5. Decorative Signage
Of course, signage is often functional—directing people where to go and informing patrons—but it can also be fun. That’s especially true at theme parks, where you can incorporate playful branding, vibrant colors, and even characters into the park’s signage. Colorful, lively, and character-filled signs can be used in abundance to enhance the guest experience and bring the park’s atmosphere to life!
These are just a few of the essential types of signage you’ll find at amusement parks, showcasing how important well-designed signage is in keeping the experience running smoothly.
We at Ortwein Sign can help your Entertainment Center or Amusement Park with your signage needs!
If you’re looking for a signage partner to help develop custom signs for your amusement park or attraction, give Ortwein Sign a call! With our expertise in designing and fabricating signage, we’ll work hard to provide solutions that meet your unique business needs.