Herschend Family Entertainment: Parks, Rides, Memories

When you think about destinations that put families first, Herschend Family Entertainment stands out for its inviting parks, thrilling rides, and story-driven attractions. You’ll discover places built on values, with a genuine focus on creating memories that last. From Dollywood’s mountain charm to high-energy live shows and immersive events, you’re at the center of every experience. But what really goes into crafting these unforgettable moments, and what’s next for these beloved parks?

Company Overview and Mission

Herschend Family Entertainment is recognized as the largest family-owned operator of themed attractions, with a portfolio that encompasses over 40 destinations worldwide. Key locations include Dollywood, situated in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, Silver Dollar City near Table Rock Lake, and various resorts in Branson and Valdosta, Georgia.

The company operates under a core mission of "Bringing Families Closer Together through Memories Worth Repeating," which reflects its commitment to creating lasting experiences for visitors.

The concept of "Heartspitality" underscores the importance of genuine care towards all stakeholders, including guests, partners, and team members. Herschend Family Entertainment aims to foster a welcoming environment through its services and interactions.

The inclusion of properties from Palace Entertainment and the operation of various water parks further illustrate the company's dedication to the global entertainment sector.

Overall, Herschend Family Entertainment positions itself as a leader in the themed attractions market, leveraging its extensive network of properties and a strong mission to drive its initiatives in family-oriented experiences.

Immersive Attractions and Experiences

Immersive attractions have become a significant aspect of the entertainment industry, combining themed environments with interactive experiences. Notable examples include Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, and Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri. These parks have designed their attractions not merely for enjoyment but to create enduring memories for visitors through carefully curated thematic experiences.

Herschend Family Entertainment operates several parks, including water parks and aquariums, which provide family-oriented adventures and performances aimed at fostering connections among family members. This approach aligns with broader trends in the industry, which emphasize experiential engagement as a means of enhancing familial bonds.

Recent developments, such as the proposed SongTeller Hotel, indicate a trend towards expanding accommodations that complement existing entertainment offerings in key destinations. This kind of development is indicative of a strategic effort to enhance overall visitor engagement and satisfaction.

As a prominent player in the attractions sector, Herschend and its partners aim to deliver experiences that resonate on a global scale, while also focusing on cultural impact. The company’s mission includes the goal of promoting family togetherness through their various offerings, which positions them within a competitive market that increasingly values immersive, multi-dimensional entertainment experiences.

Heritage and Growth Over the Decades

The evolution of family entertainment in the United States significantly shifted in 1950 when the Herschend family acquired Marvel Cave. This acquisition marked the beginning of a transformation that would lead to the establishment of Silver Dollar City theme park in Branson, Missouri.

By the mid-1980s, the partnership with Dolly Parton resulted in the creation of Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, further diversifying the Herschend family’s entertainment offerings.

Over the years, Herschend’s portfolio has expanded to encompass a variety of attractions, including theme parks, water parks, aquariums, and resorts. The recent acquisition of Palace Entertainment properties has added to their diverse range of entertainment venues.

This strategic growth has enabled Herschend to cater to a wide audience, with a focus on creating family-oriented experiences.

As a prominent player in the attractions industry, Herschend and its partners have positioned themselves to connect multiple generations through shared experiences aimed at fostering family engagement.

This approach reflects an understanding of the evolving dynamics of family entertainment and suggests a commitment to building lasting memories for visitors across their various locations.

Heartspitality™ and Company Culture

Herschend Family Entertainment distinguishes itself from many companies by articulating a clear cultural framework known as Heartspitality™. This framework is centered around the organization’s mission to "Bring Families Closer Together," which serves as a guiding principle for employees and partners alike.

The culture is reinforced by a set of core virtues, including kindness and patience, which aim to enhance the experience for visitors across various venues, such as Dollywood, Silver Dollar City, and water parks.

The concept of "Share It Forward" plays a significant role in shaping the culture within the company. This approach not only affects the interactions between staff and guests but also fosters a sense of community among team members.

The culture encourages a collaborative environment where the well-being of both guests and employees is prioritized.

Moreover, the emphasis on a shared purpose and core virtues contributes to the overall operational strategy, aiming to create experiences that are memorable and impactful.

This approach to company culture can be seen as a strategic asset, potentially enhancing customer loyalty and employee satisfaction.

Joining the team offers individuals an opportunity to engage in this culture and connect with the underlying mission of Herschend Family Entertainment.

Notable Parks and Destinations

From the foothills of Tennessee to the heart of Missouri, numerous parks and attractions are operated by Herschend Family Entertainment, each aimed at promoting family engagement through shared experiences. Notable destinations include Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, and Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri. These parks not only offer entertainment options but also provide opportunities for families to spend quality time together.

In addition to these theme parks, Wild Adventures in Valdosta, Georgia, and Adventure Aquarium in Camden, New Jersey, present diverse experiences that encompass both water attractions and aquatic displays. Herschend's expansion into entertainment properties, such as Kentucky Kingdom, reflects the organization's commitment to creating environments conducive to family bonding.

Each park and resort provides unique attractions, activities, and showcases animals, thereby contributing to the overarching goal of fostering family connections. This aim is evident in their varied offerings, which include rides, performances, and educational exhibits designed to engage visitors of all ages.

Overall, these destinations represent a strategic approach to family-centered recreation.

Future Developments and Expansion

In the coming years, Herschend Family Entertainment is set to expand its portfolio of family entertainment destinations. Recent developments include the Dolly Parton’s SongTeller Hotel in Pigeon Forge and the Silver Dollar City Resort located near Table Rock Lake.

These projects are part of a broader strategy that encompasses theme parks, water parks, and resorts, catering to a diverse audience. The organization's overarching objective remains consistent: to facilitate family bonding through shared experiences.

To support this mission, Herschend is pursuing partnerships and strategic acquisitions, such as the recent addition of Palace Entertainment properties to its portfolio. This approach is intended to enhance the range of attractions and immersive experiences offered.

For those interested in further developments, updates can be accessed through the Newsroom, Blog, and Happenings sections. All rights reserved, © 2025.

Career Opportunities and Employee Values

Herschend Family Entertainment offers a range of career opportunities across its various attractions, including Dollywood, Silver Dollar City, the Harlem Globetrotters, and properties under Palace Entertainment. The organization prioritizes both personal development and the pursuit of meaningful work, fostering an environment where employees can advance their skills and contribute to a collective mission of enhancing family experiences.

With locations in Branson, Missouri, and Valdosta, Georgia, among others, Herschend places a strong emphasis on employee welfare through programs such as “Share It Forward.” This initiative reflects the company's commitment to creating a supportive workplace while promoting values such as 'Heartspitality.'

Herschend's diverse portfolio includes partnerships with resorts, aquariums, and water parks, providing a broad spectrum of employment opportunities. The organization seeks to create memorable experiences for its guests, thereby reinforcing the idea of family togetherness as a core element of its brand identity.

Overall, Herschend Family Entertainment represents a structured pathway for individuals seeking careers in the hospitality and entertainment sectors.

Conclusion

When you visit a Herschend Family Entertainment park, you step into a world designed for families like yours to connect, learn, and make memories. You’ll find immersive attractions, dedicated staff, and a focus on wholesome fun that sets these destinations apart. Whether you’re seeking thrills, education, or moments together, Herschend parks offer experiences that are both meaningful and entertaining. As they continue to innovate and grow, you’ll always discover something new to enjoy together.