Herschend buys Story Land and Water Country from Palace Entertainment

In a significant business development, Palace Entertainment announced the sale of its U.S. properties to Herschend, a North American company known for operating family-friendly attractions, including Dollywood. The transaction includes multiple properties, such as Story Land in Glen, New Hampshire, Living Shores Aquarium, Water Country in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and Lake Compounce in Bristol, Connecticut. This strategic decision by Palace is motivated by a shift in focus towards expanding its operations in the European market. The announcement of the sale has been met with optimism regarding the future of these beloved attractions, which have become integral to the local communities and have been cherished family destinations for generations. Herschend, committed to maintaining the legacy of these parks, assured visitors and employees that there would be "no immediate changes" to their operations and that transition plans would prioritize smooth communication with all stakeholders. As part of the transition process, Herschend has expressed intentions to explore potential enhancements to the parks, indicating a commitment to evolving the guest experience while honoring the traditions that have defined these venues. Opening days are already set, with Water Country scheduled to open on June 7, 2025, and Story Land welcoming guests for the season on May 24, 2025. Through this acquisition, Herschend reinforces its position within the family entertainment sector, while Palace Entertainment can redirect its resources and attention towards its European endeavors. The focus on enhancing guest experiences is likely to benefit both the parks themselves and the communities in which they operate, fostering continued engagement and investment in family-oriented entertainment within New England.