HOUSTON — A recent survey conducted by the University of Houston’s Hobby School of Public Affairs highlights a growing desire among residents for enhanced entertainment offerings, including the introduction of a major theme park and new professional sports teams. The survey, which gathered responses from 1,400 registered voters in Houston, was conducted between March 29 and April 4.
The findings show that Houstonians are eager for attractions similar to those found in other major cities, such as the Dallas-Fort Worth area, which is home to a wide range of sports teams and theme parks. According to the survey, 64% of residents expressed interest in the possibility of a major theme park, such as a Disney World or Universal Studios-style resort, coming to the city. This comes more than two decades after the closure of AstroWorld, Houston’s last major theme park, in 2005.
In addition to the demand for a theme park, Houston residents are also enthusiastic about the prospect of new professional sports teams. The survey revealed that 60% of respondents would support the addition of a Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) team, while 57% expressed interest in a National Hockey League (NHL) team. The possibility of a Major Arena Soccer League (MASL) team garnered 45% support, and a Major League Cricket (MLC) team attracted interest from 29% of those surveyed.
The results also suggest that demographic factors play a role in shaping these preferences. Women, for example, were more likely to express enthusiasm for a WNBA team and a MASL team. Additionally, Black and Latino residents showed a greater interest in a major theme park, a WNBA team, and a MASL team. Younger residents were particularly excited about the possibility of an NHL team, while families with children were more likely to support the introduction of a major theme park.
If Houston were to secure a major theme park, 29% of respondents said they would visit it more than once a year, further demonstrating the potential for such an attraction to become a popular and recurring destination.
The survey also delved into the sources of news for Houstonians, with local television stations identified as the primary source for 37% of residents. Social media followed closely at 29%, while 16% of respondents cited the Houston Chronicle as their main news outlet.
These findings underscore a clear desire among Houston residents for more diverse entertainment options, with the potential for new sports teams and a major theme park to elevate the city’s appeal and quality of life. City leaders may want to consider these preferences as they plan for the city’s future development.
