Indoor trampoline parks have seen rapid growth in recent years. Both children and adults enjoy the thrill of jumping and bouncing on trampolines. It’s not only entertaining but also an effective way to exercise and stay active. Regular trampoline use offers multiple health benefits, such as increasing strength, supporting bone health, and improving coordination. If you are considering launching a trampoline park or upgrading an existing one, now is an excellent time. Families are seeking safe and engaging activities for kids, while fitness-minded adults are eager to bring excitement to their workouts. Running a trampoline park can be both enjoyable and profitable, especially with the ongoing expansion of the indoor recreation market.
Before launching a trampoline park or improving an existing one, having a clear plan is essential. While the idea may sound straightforward, there are many important factors to think about. A solid business plan should outline:
What resources are required to operate
Who your target customers are
Who will deliver the service to those customers
This guide will walk you through the process of opening an indoor trampoline park, from layout and equipment expenses to funding options. It will also explore industry trends and creative ways to upgrade a trampoline park. Creating a successful venue takes enthusiasm, commitment, and sound financial management.
With the right preparation, seeing customers enjoy themselves while the business grows will make the effort worthwhile.
Here’s what you’ll find in this guide:
Trampoline Park Business Overview
Key Costs When Building a Trampoline Park
Franchise or Independent Startup
Marketing and Growth Strategies
Latest Trends and Creative Ideas
Enhancing Your Park With Soft Play
Overview of a Trampoline Park Business
Trampolines were first created in 1934, originally designed for training athletes and astronauts. Over time, they became widely enjoyed by the public, thanks to their unique combination of fun and exercise.
The industry gained real momentum around 2004 with the launch of the first indoor trampoline park. Since then, the sector has expanded into a multi-billion-dollar market, with an estimated 1,500 parks operating worldwide.
Indoor trampoline parks remain popular because they attract visitors of all ages. They provide a fun and active way to spend time with friends, family, and the community. Beyond simple jumping, many parks also feature activities like dodgeball or basketball on trampolines, making the experience even more engaging.
Thinking about starting a trampoline park? Careful planning and professional guidance will help turn your vision into reality.
1. How Does a Trampoline Park Make Money?
A trampoline park generates revenue by charging admission for timed jumping sessions. For instance, guests may pay $10 for one hour or $15 for two hours of access. Additional income can come from gear rentals, such as grip socks, as well as food, beverages, or other entertainment options that not only boost profits but also enhance the visitor experience.
2. Who Will Be the Target Market?
Trampoline park fitness and fun
Trampoline parks attract a wide range of visitors, including adults, children, and families. While the focus often remains on kids, these venues provide an ideal outlet for parents seeking active, healthy activities for their children. Indoor trampoline parks are also a popular choice for birthday celebrations, offering families a convenient and exciting party venue.
In general, the primary target audience will be families with disposable income who are looking for engaging recreation options.
3. What Location Is Best?
The first step in choosing the right location for an indoor trampoline park is to study the competition. If a city already has several parks, finding success may be challenging, so selecting a less crowded area could be a smarter move. On the other hand, many towns still lack such facilities, offering great opportunities for new businesses. Even venues slightly outside city centers can draw visitors, as people are often willing to travel for a unique and enjoyable experience.
It’s also important to evaluate the type of building you plan to use. Trampoline parks need high ceilings and wide open areas to accommodate safe jumping activities. Former warehouses or industrial spaces often make excellent choices.
Additional factors include convenient parking and the surrounding businesses. For example, a large building located near a supermarket can be attractive to families who want to combine errands with fun activities for their children.
4. How Do You Design and Manufacture a Trampoline Park?
According to industry guidelines, it’s recommended that the building for a trampoline park have at least 18,000 square feet of space. This allows enough room for trampoline courts as well as other facilities. The ceiling height should be no less than 17 feet, measured to the lowest obstruction. Higher ceilings are preferable, but meeting the minimum is sufficient.
Most trampoline parks in the U.S. range between 25,000 and 35,000 square feet, with 45 to 50 percent of that space dedicated to the trampoline court. The remaining area can be used for lounges, restrooms, and additional attractions if you plan to expand later. It’s important to keep check-in areas, food service, and restrooms separate from the jumping zones for safety and organization.
The trampoline court itself usually includes 50 to 60 interconnected trampolines, surrounded by padding so that jumpers land safely whether they bounce onto another trampoline or onto cushioned surfaces.
When it comes to building the park, working with an experienced trampoline park builder is the best option. These professionals coordinate with licensed contractors, engineers, and other experts to ensure the facility is safe, durable, and high quality. Another possibility is to acquire an existing trampoline park, which can save the time and effort of constructing one from scratch.
Understanding Trampoline Park Costs: What You’ll Need to Budget
The first step in financing an indoor trampoline park is creating a solid business model. This model should clearly define the value your park offers to customers and how it stands out from competitors. It also needs to outline startup expenses, funding sources, marketing plans, and projected income and costs.
To get started with financial planning, it’s important to understand the typical expenses involved in building a trampoline park as well as the potential revenue you can expect.
1. How Much Does It Cost to Open a Trampoline Park?
When planning the costs of a trampoline park, the main expense is typically the trampoline court itself. Most of this cost comes from customizing the court to fit your building or space. Key equipment expenses may include:
Trampoline flooring: You can either purchase units priced by square foot, depending on your facility size, or opt for prebuilt trampoline floors.
Basketball hoops: These usually range from $20 to $50 each.
Toys: Items like soft footballs or basketballs can cost between $100 and $500, depending on quantity and quality.
Refreshments: Initial stocking of drinks and snacks may cost a few thousand dollars. Common options include bottled water, sports drinks, fountain drinks, fruit, candy, soft pretzels, and pizza.
Trampoline socks: These typically cost a few dollars per pair, depending on quality and order size.
To minimize construction costs, it’s wise to get quotes from multiple contractors and compare them before committing. Securing a building that meets the space requirements for your trampoline park is also a critical step toward a successful launch.
2. What Funding Options Do You Have?
There are multiple ways to secure financing for an indoor trampoline park. Many entrepreneurs rely on a combination of personal and external funding sources. Common options include:
Using your savings: Funding the business from your own checking or savings account is straightforward and shows commitment to potential investors. Selling personal assets is another way to raise money.
Credit cards: Useful for purchasing essential items, though interest rates can be high. Choosing a business card with rewards can help offset some costs.
Bank loans: While sometimes difficult to obtain, bank loans generally offer lower interest rates than credit cards.
Borrowing from friends or family: This can be a simple way to get funding. Agree on loan terms, including repayment and interest, and ensure everything is documented.
Small Business Administration (SBA) loans: SBA-guaranteed loans can provide up to $5 million, enough to start a trampoline park. Eligibility requires following SBA guidelines, and lenders can assist with the process.
Microloans: For partial funding needs, microloans typically range from $13,000 to banks but may charge slightly higher interest rates.
Angel investors: Individuals who invest in your business, often in exchange for an equity stake, can provide the necessary capital if other options aren’t available.
Crowdfunding: Platforms allow friends, family, and even strangers to contribute funds. Offering incentives and sharing a compelling story can help generate support and reach your funding goals.
By exploring a mix of these options, you can find the financing strategy that best suits your trampoline park startup.
3. How Much Profit Does a Trampoline Park Make?
Opening a trampoline park requires significant upfront investment, but the potential profits can also be substantial. Some established parks generate millions in annual revenue.
Pricing for jumping sessions is flexible and should take your location into account. Parks in high-rent areas may be able to charge above average rates, while those in lower-rent areas might set lower prices to match the local demographic.
Major operating expenses include rent, maintenance, and staff salaries, along with insurance, marketing, and utilities. Becoming a certified service technician through industry associations can help reduce maintenance costs by allowing you to manage some repairs in-house.
Profit can be boosted by offering concessions and additional entertainment, which also encourages visitors to stay longer. Typically, owners can expect to see a return on investment within eight to twelve months.
Franchise vs. Starting a Trampoline Park
Opening a trampoline park franchise can be a good choice for those who want to leverage an established brand. Franchise startups typically have higher initial costs than starting independently, but they offer several advantages:
Recognized brand name and market presence
Access to a built-in customer base
Higher chances of success using proven methods and systems
Support with site selection, construction, financing, training, and launch
Ongoing assistance with marketing, operations, and management
While a franchise provides these benefits, it limits your independence.
Starting your own trampoline park offers full control over your business, including:
Freedom to select the products and services you offer
No initial franchise fees
No ongoing royalties or advertising fees
Complete management flexibility
No binding franchise agreements
If you value full business autonomy, launching independently may be the best choice. On the other hand, if you are willing to invest more upfront and accept certain restrictions for added support, a franchise can be a profitable and guided path.
Safety Regulations and Insurance Needs
When setting up a trampoline park, it’s essential to follow safety standards, such as ISO 23659:2022, which provides detailed guidance on design, construction, inspections, and maintenance. Key considerations include:
Design and construction: The park should minimize injury risks, using padded frames and safety nets where needed.
Inspection and maintenance: Equipment must be regularly inspected, and any hazards promptly addressed. Proper maintenance protocols ensure all equipment remains safe and functional.
Operational requirements: Staff should be trained in safety procedures and emergency response. Clear signage and visible safety instructions should be provided for all visitors.
Insurance is another critical element before opening. Comprehensive coverage protects against potential accidents or injuries and may include:
General liability insurance: Covers bodily injury and property damage claims.
Product liability insurance: Protects against claims related to defective equipment.\
Workers' compensation insurance: Covers injuries sustained by employees while on the job.
Business Licensing and Legal Considerations
Obtaining the proper licenses and permits for a trampoline park requires compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. For detailed guidance specific to your area, consult resources such as the SBA guide on business licensing. Key licenses and permits often include:
Business license: A general license from your local government is required to legally operate your trampoline park.
Zoning permits: Ensure your chosen location is zoned for recreational use, or apply for a zoning permit if needed.
Building permit: Necessary if constructing a new facility or making major modifications to an existing building.
Health and safety permits: Verify that your park meets hygiene and safety standards, especially if you plan to sell food or beverages.
Legal considerations are equally important, including:
Liability waivers: Have all park users sign waivers to help protect your business from potential legal claims.
Employment laws: Comply with local and federal regulations regarding labor standards, workers’ compensation, and anti-discrimination rules.
Securing the required licenses and following legal requirements ensures your trampoline park operates smoothly while minimizing the risk of legal issues.
Staff Training and Management
To run a successful trampoline park, it’s important to implement a thorough training program for your employees. Well-prepared staff not only ensure guest safety but also enhance the overall customer experience. Key areas to focus on include:
Safety training: Staff should be trained in all safety procedures, including correct equipment use, emergency response, and first aid. Regular refresher courses help maintain a strong safety culture.
Operational training: Employees need to understand daily operations, including opening and closing procedures, equipment maintenance, and handling customer inquiries.
Customer service training: Emphasize professional and friendly interactions. Training should cover effective communication, conflict resolution, and creating a welcoming atmosphere.
Investing in staff training helps provide a safer, more enjoyable experience for visitors, which is essential for long-term success. Additional strategies to enhance service quality include:
Incentive programs: Reward excellent customer service and adherence to safety protocols to motivate your team.
Regular feedback: Implement systems to gather and act on customer feedback about staff performance, recognizing top performers and identifying areas for improvement.
Team building: Hold regular meetings and activities to foster a positive, collaborative environment, boosting morale and teamwork.
Trampoline Park Tips, Trends and Ideas
Whether you’re just starting out or have operated a trampoline park for years, these tips can help elevate your business.
1. Improve Your Ticket System
Customers value the convenience of online ticket purchasing. Set up an efficient system that allows tickets to be bought both online and on-site, letting visitors select date, time, and quantity easily. Digital waivers can help guests start jumping immediately upon arrival. Encouraging online booking helps ensure tickets don’t sell out.
New park owners should have this system ready before opening, while existing parks should consider adding online ticketing if it’s not available. Offering upgrades like VIP passes can increase revenue and improve customer satisfaction.
2. Offer Competitive Deals
Attract more customers by providing special deals and discounts. Consider group discounts, monthly passes, and advance sign-ups. For events such as birthday parties or corporate gatherings, outline package details and pricing clearly on your website. Include items like party favors, food, and optional upgrades to create a memorable experience.
3. Upgrade Your Food Options
Offer a variety of food that appeals to both kids and adults, including healthy options to meet growing consumer preferences. Consider bundling food packages with tickets at a discounted rate and promote these deals both online and in-store to boost sales.
4. Offer Innovative Equipment
Equipment is a key factor in creating a memorable trampoline park experience. Unique and engaging equipment encourages repeat visits and sets your park apart from competitors. Maximize your space by adding a variety of activities for all ages. For example, interactive games like STOMP—where players compete to achieve the highest score—can be installed in smaller areas and provide a standout experience that draws families to your park.
Enhance Your Trampoline Park with Adventure Play
Take your trampoline park to the next level by adding an adventure playground that the whole family can enjoy. Adventure courses provide a unique experience that attracts visitors and encourages them to return.
These structures are designed to engage people of all ages and abilities. Both belayed and non-belayed courses offer exciting climbing experiences, using safe, high-quality equipment. You can integrate an adventure course indoors or even expand your park to include outdoor options.
Pricing strategies can vary: you might charge a separate fee for the adventure course, include it in package deals, or offer it as part of the general admission. Including this feature can enhance visitor satisfaction and potentially boost overall revenue.
5. Show Customer Appreciation
Make your visitors feel valued by delivering excellent customer service and maintaining regular communication. Offer options to receive special deals via email and keep them informed about new equipment, events, or promotions. Highlight that the park is designed for their enjoyment and share photos of activities in action to provide an engaging visual experience. Showing that you care about your customers will encourage loyalty and ensure they keep returning.
Get a Customized Trampoline Park Solution
Elevate your indoor trampoline park by adding engaging play equipment tailored to your vision. Customization options are available to match any theme, and all equipment is built to high-quality standards and professionally installed.
Adding innovative play structures can help increase revenue by attracting more families and keeping visitors coming back. For a free quote on park attractions, adventure courses, or other trampoline park needs, contact us today and experience the difference with DILE SPACE-TIME
