Dollywood’s Theme Park Family Just Added 20 Regional Attractions

Herschend, the privately-owned force behind Dollywood, has acquired more than 20 regional U.S. attractions, the company shared in a press release with Travel + Leisure.

The deal includes family entertainment centers, hotels, campgrounds, water parks, and historic amusement parks, like Dutch Wonderland in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania; Kennywood in West Mifflin, Pennsylvania; and Lake Compounce in Bristol and Southington, Connecticut, which is most famously known as “America’s First Amusement Park.” These newly added venues span across 10 U.S. states.

“This year, we’re celebrating 75 years of bringing families closer together—and looking ahead to the next 75,” Andrew Wexler, CEO of Herschend, said in a statement. “Today’s announcement marks a natural expansion and continuation of that vision. By growing wisely and staying true to our purpose, we are building a future where we can continue creating memories worth repeating for generations to come.”

The deal solidifies Herschend’s place as the largest family-helmed themed attractions company in the world. “The organization welcomes over 20 million guests each year at its varied portfolio of brands which includes theme parks, aquariums, resorts, and immersive attractions,” the release shared. 

While no immediate operational changes will impact the guest experience, the company said it will “seek to ensure consistency in visitor experiences” and provide resources for its new employees, including training and “opportunities that reflect the company’s people-first approach.” 

Herschend’s world-class portfolio includes its two iconic flagship properties: Dollywood and Silver Dollar City Parks & Resorts. It also operates Kentucky Kingdom, which recently revealed a new $11 million family-friendly land, set to open in May.