The parent company of Dollywood, the popular theme park located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, has recently shuttered two of its newly acquired amusement parks in Georgia. According to WSB-TV, the closures involve the Malibu Norcross arcade and go-kart center in Gwinnett County and the Mountasia family entertainment center in Cobb County.
These parks were part of a larger acquisition by the Herschend Family Entertainment Corporation, which purchased Palace Entertainment and its 24 parks and attractions across the United States in May 2023. Notable parks previously under Palace Entertainment include Pennsylvania’s Dutch Wonderland and Kennywood, both now operated by Herschend.
In a statement to WSB-TV, Andrew Wexler, CEO of Herschend Family Entertainment, acknowledged the significance of these entertainment centers to their local communities. “These centers have played an important role in their communities, and we’re incredibly grateful to the hosts who’ve created so many joyful memories for families,” Wexler said.
He emphasized that the decision to close Malibu Norcross and Mountasia was not a reflection of the staff’s efforts or the quality of experiences provided. Instead, Wexler pointed out that the operations of Family Entertainment Centers differ from the attractions that Herschend is best equipped to support.
The move underscores Herschend’s strategic direction as it focuses on enhancing its portfolio of attractions that align more closely with its operational strengths. Closing these parks allows the company to concentrate its resources on developing and improving other venues, including the popular Dollywood, which it co-owns with singer Dolly Parton through her entertainment company, Dolly Parton Productions.
The closures come at a time when the entertainment sector is navigating the challenges posed by changing consumer preferences and competition from emerging entertainment options. As Herschend continues to evaluate its holdings, the company remains committed to creating memorable experiences at its remaining attractions.
The decision to close Malibu Norcross and Mountasia reflects a broader trend in the amusement park industry, where companies are increasingly reassessing their portfolios to ensure long-term sustainability and success. As the company moves forward, it will be essential to monitor how these changes impact its operations and community relationships.
