Silverwood Theme Park Being Sold to Herschend, Parent Company of Dollywood

Silverwood Theme Park is entering a new era. Herschend Family Entertainment Corporation, the world’s largest family held themed attractions company, has signed an “exclusive term sheet” to acquire Silverwood, the Northwest’s largest theme and water park.

The Norton family, who founded Silverwood in 1988 and have operated it for more than 35 years, confirmed the news while sharing a the below message with fans online. The announcement marks a historic shift for one of the most successful independently owned parks in the country.

Silverwood has grown from a regional attraction into a 400 acre destination with more than 70 rides, slides, and experiences, including Boulder Beach Water Park and the park’s iconic 1915 steam engine train. The Norton family described the transition as a meaningful passing of the torch.

“Silverwood has been our family’s life’s work for more than three decades,” said Paul Norton, Chief Operating Officer. “When the time came to pass the torch, Herschend was the only choice. They share our values, our long term approach, and our belief that parks like this are built by people with heart.”

Herschend operates more than four dozen entertainment brands across North America, including Dollywood Parks and Resorts, Silver Dollar City, the Harlem Globetrotters, and several recently acquired parks such as Kennywood, Adventureland, and Lake Compounce. The company began more than 75 years ago when the Herschend family opened their first Ozark attraction, laying the foundation for a hospitality focused culture built around creating memories worth repeating.

“This is more than a business transaction. It is the continuation of a legacy,” said Andrew Wexler, CEO of Herschend. “We are honored that the Norton family has trusted us to carry their vision forward and excited to welcome the Silverwood hosts and guests to Herschend.”

Silverwood’s addition would solidify Herschend’s presence across the country, extending its footprint into the Pacific Northwest with a park known for high quality theming, strong operations, and a loyal guest base that returns year after year.

Both parties have begun the due diligence process and are now working toward finalizing the transaction.

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