How to become an entertainment and recreation manager, except gambling

Plan, direct, or coordinate entertainment and recreational activities and operations of a recreational facility, including cruise ships and parks.

Steps to get there

Most employers expect most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not..A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.

What entertainment and recreation managers, except gambling do

• Write budgets to plan recreational activities or programs.
• Talk to coworkers using electronic devices, such as computers and radios.
• Talk to customers to convey information about events or activities.
• Plan programs of events or schedules of activities.
• Explain rules and regulations of facilities and entertainment attractions to customers.
• Calculate and record department expenses and revenue.

Skills that matter most

• Reading Comprehension
• Active Listening
• Speaking
• Critical Thinking
• Monitoring
• Writing
• Active Learning
• Learning Strategies

Is entertainment and recreation manager, except gambling a good career?

On the numbers, this job pays above the typical job. Median pay is 56% above the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.

Where it pays most

• District of Columbia $113,930
• Minnesota $107,660
• New York $98,390
• Colorado $97,000
• Washington $96,790

Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling salary by state and city

Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.