Full Breakdown
Nate Bargatze's Ambitious Plan for a Nashville Theme Park
11/22/2025, 1:21:12 AM
Overview of the Project
Comedian Nate Bargatze is taking significant steps toward realizing his dream of opening a family-friendly theme park in Nashville, Tennessee. Partnering with Storyland Studios, a Southern California-based design firm, Bargatze's company, Nateland, aims to explore the feasibility of a theme park that would span over 100 acres. This initiative marks the first major attempt to establish a theme park in Nashville since the closure of Opryland USA in 1997.
Background & Context
Opryland USA was a prominent theme park that operated from 1972 until its closure, attracting nearly 2.5 million visitors annually at its peak. Following its shutdown, the site was transformed into Opry Mills Mall, leaving Nashville without a major amusement park for nearly three decades. Bargatze, who worked at Opryland as a teenager, has expressed a deep nostalgia for the park and a desire to fill the entertainment void in the city.
Key Details of the Project
The proposed theme park, tentatively named "Nateland," is envisioned to include various attractions, retail spaces, dining options, and potentially a hotel. The feasibility study, which is expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2026, will assess potential sites in the greater Nashville area and help attract investors for the project. Bargatze and his team are actively engaging with local and state officials to facilitate this development.
Official Statements & Responses
Felix Verdigets, CEO of Nateland Entertainment, emphasized the commitment to providing "good, clean, family-friendly entertainment" in Nashville, recognizing the need for a major attraction for all ages. Mel McGowan, founder and chief creative officer of Storyland Studios, stated, “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.”
Criticism & Opposition
While the project has garnered excitement, some skepticism remains regarding its feasibility and the timeline for development. Critics question whether Nashville can support a large-scale theme park, given the existing attractions and the city's focus on music and nightlife. However, proponents argue that a family-oriented park could diversify Nashville's entertainment offerings and attract more visitors.
What's Next
Following the completion of the feasibility study, Nateland plans to engage with potential investors to secure funding for the project. If successful, construction could begin within the next few years, with hopes of creating a vibrant entertainment destination that resonates with both locals and tourists.
Verbatim Quotes
- “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.” — Mel McGowan, Founder and Chief Creative Officer of Storyland Studios
- “Nate and Nateland are committed to good, clean, family-friendly entertainment. We live in middle Tennessee and recognize the need for a major attraction for people of all ages in the Nashville area. We’re excited to see what our partnership with Storyland Studios will bring,” — Felix Verdigets, CEO of Nateland Entertainment
As Nate Bargatze continues to build momentum for this ambitious project, the Nashville community watches closely, hopeful for the return of a beloved entertainment option that has been absent for far too long.
