Kentucky Kingdom To Partner With Herschend Family Entertainment (w/VIDEO)

Kentucky Kingdom and Hurricane Bay in Louisville have a new majority partner that will bring new life to the park that opened in 1987 and re-opened in 2014.

During the official announcement Tuesday morning, Governor Andy Beshear said the announcement of a partnership with Herschend Family Entertainment is exciting for the state.

Alex Wexler, CEO of Herschend Family Entertainment, said after acquiring Newport Aquarium in 2008, the company has been looking for ways to expand in Kentucky.

Wexler added Herschend Family Entertainment’s culture is based on love.

Craig Ross will serve as Kentucky Kingdom’s interim General Manager. Ross recently served as President of Dollywood, where the park surpassed Disneyland and was named TripAdvisor and USA Today’s ‘Best Theme Parks in the World.’

Craig Ross

Officials said Kentucky Kingdom would be working in the months and years ahead to build the appeal for multi-generational families, host family-friendly seasonal and themed events and festivals, and enhancing product and guest experiences through re-branding and the addition of Herschend-owned programming; such as costume character appearances.

The company also hopes to expand the season in which the park is open to provide entertainment to more park guests and wants to build relationships with state and local tourism partners to increase awareness and entice travel to the park, Louisville, and the commonwealth.