Herschend Family Entertainment Corporation: Bringing Joy and Memories to Families Across America

---

Introduction: The Heart Behind Family Fun

When you think of family fun in America, one name stands tall — Herschend Family Entertainment Corporation. From thrilling theme parks to peaceful aquariums and entertaining dinner shows, Herschend has created smiles for generations. Their mission is simple — to bring families closer together through unforgettable experiences filled with laughter, adventure, and heart.

In this blog post, you’ll discover the story behind Herschend Family Entertainment Corporation, its popular attractions, how it began, and why it remains one of the most loved names in family entertainment.

---

What Is Herschend Family Entertainment Corporation?

Herschend Family Entertainment Corporation (HFE) is one of the largest family-owned theme park companies in the United States. Founded by brothers Jack and Pete Herschend, the company started small but grew into a nationwide entertainment empire.

Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, HFE owns and operates several well-known attractions across the country — all designed with one goal in mind: to create family fun that lasts a lifetime.

Their attractions are not just about rides and shows. They’re about creating moments that families remember forever — something that makes Herschend’s approach to entertainment truly special.

---

A Brief History: From a Small Cave to a Giant Brand

The story began in the 1950s, when the Herschend brothers leased Marvel Cave in Branson, Missouri. What started as a simple cave tour soon turned into a booming tourist attraction.

To entertain guests while they waited for cave tours, the brothers built a small 1880s-style town. That little town grew and became one of America’s most loved theme parks — Silver Dollar City.

The success of Silver Dollar City gave birth to Herschend Family Entertainment Corporation, and from there, the company expanded across the nation.

Today, HFE owns or operates dozens of attractions that draw millions of visitors each year.

---

Popular Attractions Owned by Herschend Family Entertainment

Here are some of the most popular attractions under the Herschend name:

1. Silver Dollar City (Branson, Missouri)

Silver Dollar City is where it all began. This 1880s-themed amusement park features thrilling roller coasters, live music, craft demonstrations, and family-friendly rides. It’s known for its warm hospitality and Christian values.

2. Dollywood (Pigeon Forge, Tennessee)

In partnership with country music legend Dolly Parton, Herschend helped create Dollywood, one of the most famous theme parks in the U.S. Dollywood combines Appalachian culture, music, and fun rides in one magical place.

3. Wild Adventures (Valdosta, Georgia)

This park offers a mix of amusement rides, a water park, and a zoo — perfect for families who want everything in one place.

4. Adventure Aquarium (Camden, New Jersey)

Home to sharks, stingrays, and rare sea creatures, Adventure Aquarium gives families a chance to explore marine life up close.

5. The Harlem Globetrotters

Yes, the world-famous basketball entertainment team is part of the Herschend family! Their shows mix comedy, sportsmanship, and athletic skill — loved by audiences everywhere.

6. Dolly Parton’s Stampede

A dinner show full of music, horses, and heartwarming performances — perfect for families who want a fun night out.

---

Herschend’s Mission and Values

What makes Herschend Family Entertainment Corporation stand out is its focus on family, faith, and fun. The company believes in creating wholesome entertainment that encourages families to spend time together.

Their core values include:

• Love and respect for all people
• Celebrating family and community
• Honesty and integrity in every action
• Spreading happiness through experiences

These values shine through in every park, every show, and every smiling guest.

---

Commitment to Community and Employees

Herschend is not just about profits — it’s about people. The company takes pride in caring for both its guests and its employees.

Through the Herschend Family Foundation, they support various community programs and charities. They even run an employee care program called “Love Works,” which provides financial and emotional support to workers in times of need.

This people-first approach has earned HFE great respect in the entertainment industry.

---

Herschend’s Impact on Family Entertainment

Herschend Family Entertainment has changed the way families experience amusement parks. Instead of focusing only on thrill rides, they focus on connection, storytelling, and emotion.

Each attraction is designed to make visitors feel welcome — as if they’re part of the Herschend family. That personal touch is what keeps families coming back year after year.

---

Why Herschend Continues to Grow

Several reasons explain why Herschend Family Entertainment keeps growing strong:

• Strong Values: Their faith-based approach and focus on family keep them authentic.
• Diverse Attractions: From caves to aquariums to dinner shows — there’s something for everyone.
• Partnerships: Collaborations like Dollywood help expand their brand reach.
• Quality Experiences: They prioritize guest satisfaction above all else.

This combination of heart, vision, and fun has turned HFE into one of the most trusted names in entertainment.

---

Interesting Facts About Herschend Family Entertainment

• HFE was officially formed in 1960.
• The company operates in more than 26 states.
• Herschend’s attractions welcome over 10 million visitors each year.
• The founders’ goal was always “creating memories worth repeating.”
• Their parks often feature live music and crafts, keeping American culture alive.

---

Conclusion: Creating Smiles for Generations

The Herschend Family Entertainment Corporation is more than a business — it’s a story of passion, family, and purpose. What started as a small cave attraction has become a nationwide symbol of joy and togetherness.

Every park, show, and experience reflects the founders’ belief in love, kindness, and the magic of shared memories. As long as families continue to seek fun, connection, and laughter, Herschend will remain at the heart of it all.

---

FAQs About Herschend Family Entertainment Corporation

1. Who owns Herschend Family Entertainment Corporation?
HFE is privately owned by the Herschend family.

2. When was Herschend Family Entertainment founded?
It was founded in 1960 by brothers Jack and Pete Herschend.

3. What attractions does Herschend Family Entertainment operate?
They own or operate Silver Dollar City, Dollywood, Adventure Aquarium, Wild Adventures, and Dolly Parton’s Stampede, among others.

4. Where is Herschend Family Entertainment headquartered?
The company’s headquarters is in Atlanta, Georgia, USA.

5. What makes Herschend different from other theme park companies?
Herschend focuses on family values, faith, and community — creating experiences that bring people closer together.