Welcome to the Herschend Happenings Blog—your go-to source for planning unforgettable family getaways to our award-winning destinations, theme parks, water parks, scenic resorts, AZA-accredited aquariums, immersive entertainment experiences, and adventure tours.
Here, you’ll find travel tips, insider insights, and behind-the-scenes stories to help you get more out of your visits. Whether you're planning your next road trip, a seasonal escape, or a weekend full of fun, we’re here to inspire meaningful experiences your family will never forget.
No matter the destination, our promise is always the same: to create memories worth repeating.
August 20, 2025
Planning a memorable vacation with multiple generations means finding experiences that are both accessible and enjoyable for everyone, from young adults to grandparents. Herschend Properties offer ideal settings to connect, share experiences, and create memories worth repeating for the whole family.
August 20, 2025
Planning the perfect family getaway with toddlers and preschoolers can be both exciting and challenging, especially when seeking destinations that offer age-appropriate adventures. Luckily, Herschend properties are thoughtfully crafted with your youngest family members in mind, providing gentle thrills, sensory-rich explorations, and delightful experiences specifically designed for children ages 0–5.
August 20, 2025
Planning a family vacation with grade school kids means seeking out thrilling adventures and engaging experiences that spark curiosity and excitement. Herschend properties excel at delivering just that and offering attractions perfectly suited for children ages 6–10 who are ready for fun-filled rides, interactive exploration and memorable educational experiences.
August 20, 2025
Traveling with tweens (ages 10–12) requires finding destinations that offer just the right balance of thrilling experiences and opportunities for independence. At this age, kids crave interactive adventures and rides that push their comfort zones without going too far. Herschend properties specialize in attractions tailored specifically for tweens, delivering exhilarating rides, engaging activities and unforgettable experiences.
August 20, 2025
Planning a family vacation with teens means seeking out destinations packed with adrenaline-pumping adventures, memorable moments with friends, and plenty of opportunities for independence. At Herschend properties, teens will discover attractions designed specifically for their adventurous spirit and social experiences, ensuring an unforgettable trip.
August 16, 2025
August 16 is National Roller Coaster Day, a time to celebrate the rides that bring us together, one laugh, scream, and loop at a time. From the Smoky Mountains to the Ozarks and beyond, Herschend’s coasters deliver more than big thrills. They spark the kind of shared moments that turn a simple ride into a lasting memory.
June 05, 2025
As Dollywood celebrates its 40th season, an all-new documentary, The Dollywood Dream, offers a heartfelt look at how it all began. Hear the whole story, from Dolly Parton herself, now streaming on Dollywood’s YouTube channel.
June 03, 2025
From June 14 through Aug. 3, experience an exciting lineup of brand-new shows, high-energy performances, and unforgettable summer vibes, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Smokies.
May 28, 2025
The Newsweek’s 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards honor is based on nationwide public voting, highlighting Hurricane Bay’s position as one of the premier summer destinations in the United States.
May 14, 2025
Learn why Kentucky Kingdom’s new $11 million land is the place for families to laugh, explore, and create lifelong memories together.
April 30, 2025
American Eagle Foundation (AEF) has made its home at Dollywood Theme Park for over 30 years.
April 30, 2025
For 30 years, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has been changing lives—one book, one child, one dream at a time. What started as a small-town promise in Tennessee has grown into a worldwide gift of literacy, inspiring a love of reading in over 270 million children in 5 countries.
April 15, 2025
A cherished chapter of TV history—and ours—was written 56 years ago at Silver Dollar City, when the humble heart of the Ozarks met the glitz and glamour of Hollywood.
April 01, 2025
Silver Dollar City is marking 65 years of good old-fashioned fun by giving back to the guests and heroes who have made it all possible. To celebrate, “America’s Best Theme Park” is offering incredible savings throughout the year.
December 31, 2024
Hear the harrowing tale of Moira the Sea Turtle and learn about her rescue team from the Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Society.