Herschend Family Entertainment

Herschend Family Entertainment: Leaders in Family-Oriented Entertainment

Herschend Family Entertainment (HFE) is a privately held company that specializes in family-oriented entertainment, tourism, and hospitality. Founded in 1950 by Hugo and Mary Herschend and their sons Jack and Pete, the company started with Marvel Cave operations in Branson, Missouri.

To enhance visitor experience, the Herschends created an 1880s-themed village above the cave. This innovation led to the establishment of Silver Dollar City, a pioneering theme park that laid the foundation for HFE's subsequent growth.

Expanding Portfolio of Attractions

Over the years, HFE expanded to include a broad array of attractions across North America. Key properties include Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, co-owned with Dolly Parton, Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri, Wild Adventures in Valdosta, Georgia, and Kentucky Kingdom in Louisville, Kentucky.

In 2025, the company expanded further by acquiring Palace Entertainment. This added renowned parks like Kennywood in Pennsylvania and Lake Compounce in Connecticut to its collection, significantly increasing its footprint in the amusement industry.

Mission and Culture

HFE’s mission is "Bringing Families Closer Together by Creating Memories Worth Repeating®." This focus is reinforced through a culture called "Heartspitality®," which stresses genuine care, warmth, and service in every customer interaction.

Diverse Portfolio Beyond Theme Parks

Beyond theme parks, HFE's offerings include aquariums such as Adventure Aquarium in Camden, New Jersey, and Newport Aquarium in Newport, Kentucky. The company also operates resorts like Dollywood's DreamMore Resort in Pigeon Forge and live entertainment ventures, including the Harlem Globetrotters who were acquired in 2015.

Company Headquarters and Locations

Headquartered in Peachtree Corners, Georgia, HFE operates many locations across the United States:

• Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
• Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri
• Wild Adventures in Valdosta, Georgia
• Kentucky Kingdom in Louisville, Kentucky
• Kennywood in West Mifflin, Pennsylvania
• Lake Compounce in Bristol, Connecticut
• Castle Park in Riverside, California
• Dutch Wonderland in Lancaster, Pennsylvania
• Idlewild & SoakZone in Ligonier, Pennsylvania
• Story Land in Glen, New Hampshire
• Atlanta, GA, USA

Each location offers unique entertainment experiences, aligning with HFE’s commitment to foster family connections through shared adventures and memorable moments.