Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism

Commercial Recreation Professional Associations

Degree Plan 

Amusement Rides are only one example of commercial recreation

Professional Associations Related to Commercial Recreation:

  • International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions:
    • The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) is the largest international trade association for permanently situated amusement facilities worldwide and is dedicated to the preservation and prosperity of the amusement industry.

    • IAAPA represents more than 4,500 facility, supplier, and individual members from more than 90 countries, including most amusement parks and attractions in the United States.

    • Member facilities include amusement parks, theme parks, waterparks, family entertainment centers, zoos, aquariums, museums, science centers, resorts, and casinos.
  •  Resort and Commercial Recreation Association (RCRA)

    • RCRA membership represents the following key commercial recreation interest areas: Theme Parks, Hotel / Convention Centers, Concessionaires, Travel / Tourism, Resorts, Private Industries, Campgrounds, Vendors, Health Clubs, and Universities. The purpose of RCRA is to be a non-profit organization established to further the resort and commercial recreation industries through appropriate services to professionals, educators and students; and to increase the profitability of commercial enterprises with a recreation focus.
  • Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA)
    • The members of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) are a network of more than 6,000 committed zoo and aquarium professionals, organizations and suppliers world-wide. All share a commitment to wildlife conservation, education, science and animal care. AZA also welcomes non-professional members who support the conservation work of zoos and aquariums.

Resources to help you in your career decisions:

  • Careers in Commercial Recreation
  • Professional Associations in Commercial Recreation
  • Internships in Commercial Recreation
  • Alumni Spotlights

For further information please contact: Linda S. Ralston, Ph.D. or Kelly Bricker, Ph.D.