PDA at Amusement Parks: Expert Explains Reasons Why

Amusement parks somehow have a way of turning even the most demure couples into that couple — the ones who hang on each other, run their fingers through each other's hair, and intensely make out while waiting in line for the next rollercoaster. (This phenomenon has even become a bit on TikTok.)

Though this type of behavior is probably not what Walt Disney had in mind when he built the “most magical place on Earth,” it's not exactly offensive either. Is it mildly chaotic given the likely number of toddlers running around? Absolutely. But witnessing the PDA can also be kind of sweet.

Regardless of where your personal opinions lie, there is something about the spinny rides, overpriced pretzels, and sweaty crowds that can unexpectedly turn people into touchier, hornier versions of themselves. But why exactly? Relationship expert Nicole Moore explains.

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Nicole Moore is a relationship therapist and founder of the Love Works Method, a program that has helped people find lasting love, fast.

Why Is There So Much PDA at Amusement Parks?

According to Moore, the reason people are into PDA at amusement parks is most likely because of the adrenaline. “The thrill of riding rides can create the experience of cheating death or putting yourself in harm's way, and for some people, that's a really big turn-on,” Moore tells PS. “Intense emotional experiences like this can often trigger a primal instinct to mate or seek closeness with a love interest.” In other words, the thrill of the ride may make you want to cozy up to someone more than you normally would.

On an even more practical level though, engaging in PDA is a great way to pass the time. “Waiting in line is very boring, and PDA gives couples something to do,” Moore adds. Does that mean you should be sticking your tongue down your partner's throat whenever there's a lapse in conversation? Maybe not if there are other bodies around you, but it could be a good time to hold your partner's hand or caress their back.

Additionally, there's a feeling of anonymity at amusement parks. Someone may think, “Hey, I'm never going to see these people again,” and that may make them more willing to embrace the PDA, Moore says. “The combination of being anonymous while also being surrounded by people gives a bit of an exhibitionist thrill to the PDA,” she adds. (Welcome to the kink world, PDA-happy park-goers.)

At the end of the day, no one has to justify their PDA habits. So long as you're not breaking any rules or doing anything illegal, feel free to engage in the behavior however you like — whether you're at an amusement park or not. That said, Moore advises you to be aware of how far you take it: “There's a fine line between, ‘OMG that couple is so cute” and, “OMG that couple needs to get a room.'”

If there are children nearby or if someone is close enough to smell your breath, it's probably best to keep things PG. But if you find a little shady spot or want to give your partner a love tap on the way to your next ride, you probably won't be the only one kissing in front of the churro cart.

Taylor Andrews (she/her) is the balance editor at PS, specializing in topics relating to sex, relationships, dating, sexual health, mental health, travel, and more. With seven years of editorial experience, Taylor has a strong background in content creation and storytelling. Prior to joining PS in 2021, she worked at Cosmopolitan.