In an unexpected turn of events, Music City, USA, might be getting an amusement park, thanks to comedian Nate Bargatze. The Nashville local actually has experience in the theme park business, as he worked for Opryland USA as a teenager.
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Opryland USA was a theme park in Nashville from the early 70s to the late 90s, and was a significant draw for tourists at the time. The theme park had rides like any other similar attraction, but it also included Broadway-style musical shows and live music throughout. Unfortunately, it had to be taken down to make way for the Opry Mills Mall in 1997. Nate Bargatze says he knows what's "been missing in entertainment," and he's going to change that.
"Opryland was great," he spoke of the theme park earlier this year. "We were devastated when it closed. I want to make some movies and continue to tour and then hopefully build a world here. You see Universal Studios. I kind of would like that to be a Nateland. We can have rides and start making movies here. I think I know what is missing in entertainment and I think this would work."
Nateland, an entertainment company, was founded by Bargatze in 2023.
Nateland to Partner With Storyland Studios for New Theme Park
As of this morning, Bargatze's company, Nateland, is partnering with Storyland Studios, a design firm, to discuss the options for building a theme park. The company has already worked on several successful projects, including Sports Illustrated Resorts and Knott's Berry Farm.
Mel McGowan, Storyland founder and chief creative officer, gave insight into what this would look like in Middle Tennessee.
"This project has been a long time coming, and we're thrilled to officially announce that we have embarked on this journey with Nate, Felix, and the entire Nateland team. Our goal is to create a truly premium themed entertainment experience right in Music City that reflects the unique humor and heart of Nateland, while also delivering a world-class destination for families."
Currently, Storyland is looking at potential 100+ acre sites to build the park. The project is expected to have more details ready by early 2026, when investors will begin to be brought on.
Photo By: ESPN
