AMC Entertainment became the first major movie theater chain to accept Bitcoin for ticket purchases in 2014, according to a 2022 report. This marked a pivotal moment in entertainment payment systems, followed by London Theater Direct, which adopted cryptocurrency transactions the same year. The UK agency's director emphasized benefits like secure mobile payments and cost efficiency.
The Great Lakes Science Center in Cleveland began accepting cryptocurrencies in 2017, with CEO Kristen Ellenbogen stating the move aligned with broader efforts to develop digital finance ecosystems. England's Avon Valley Adventure & Wildlife Park later expanded acceptance to multiple coins, including Bitcoin and Ethereum, in 2018. Park owner expressed optimism about crypto's potential to disrupt traditional financial systems.
Cryptocurrency adoption in entertainment accelerated through partnerships with ticketing platforms. While direct crypto ticket purchases remain limited, services like Ticketmaster gift cards enable crypto-based transactions. Online casinos in New Zealand and the UK highlighted advantages such as faster settlements and reduced fees, with 2022 data showing continued growth in blockchain payment integration.
