New Land Officially Unveiled: Kentucky Kingdom Cuts Ribbon On Discovery Meadow

$11 million family-focused theme park experience opens to the public on Saturday

LOUISVILLE, KY (May 8, 2025) – Kentucky Kingdom officially unveiled Discovery Meadow today with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by state and local leaders and community partners. This $11 million family-focused addition marks the largest investment ever made by parent company Herschend in Kentucky Kingdom and represents the first part of a $25 million investment planned over the next two seasons.

Discovery Meadow is a vibrant, six-acre land designed specifically with families in mind. With three new rides, 24 re-themed experiences, updated dining options, shaded play zones, classic yard games, and original characters, this expansion brings a fresh wave of interactive, immersive fun to Kentucky Kingdom. Discovery Meadow will also feature four "wow" moments offering fans photo ops to capture the beauty of the new land. Opening to the public on May 10, guests can look forward to more fun and more ways to make memories worth repeating in an atmosphere that celebrates the spirit of Kentucky. “Discovery Meadow represents more than just six new acres—it represents our promise. A promise to the people of Kentucky that Herschend is here to stay, to invest, and grow alongside this park and this community,” said Andrew Wexler, president and CEO of Kentucky Kingdom’s parent company, Herschend. “Our multi-year investment reflects a belief not just in Kentucky Kingdom’s bright future, but in the families and traditions that make this place so special.”

The highlights of Discovery Meadow include three brand-new family rides and its two newest characters, Scout the Squirrel and Robin Bloom.

Three Brand-New Family Rides:

• Redbird Racer – Spin and swoop aboard a vibrant cardinal defending its home.

Get ready to dash through the trees on our new swinging family ride inspired by one of Kentucky’s famous flyers. This ride promises an exciting adventure for guests of all ages.

• Scout’s Squirrel Race – Playful squirrels chase the ultimate prize—a giant acorn.

Bounce around on our new family ride nestled in the lush gardens of the new land. This experience highlights one of nature’s most diligent and resourceful foragers, promising fun for the entire family.

• Cumberland Express – A whimsical garden train adventure wrapped in vines.

Hop aboard our family-friendly train that winds through the wilderness. Spot and hear the furry friends who call this beautiful landscape home as you embark on this delightful journey!

More Comfort, More Fun:

• Shaded 4,800 square foot playground – The perfect cool-down spot for explorers of all ages.
• Two refreshed eateries plus a brand-new Dippin’ Dots cart.
• More seating & shade
• Games Garden – Classic yard game fun with a Kentucky twist
• Two refurbished restrooms
• Two new retail locations

“We’re thrilled to introduce Discovery Meadow to the community as part of our ongoing commitment that reflects a deep pride in Louisville and the Commonwealth,” said Sarah Worrell, General Manager of Kentucky Kingdom. “Our goal has always been to spark family joy and connection and create memories worth repeating. Discovery Meadow is a major milestone in that journey as we continue building on this momentum through our multi-year plan to grow, enhance, and reimagine the park as a regional beacon of Kentucky’s beauty and spirit.”

Following its opening, more details will be shared about the remaining $14 million in improvements— part of the total $25 million investment in Kentucky Kingdom—that will keep the park flying into 2026. Discovery Meadow and Kentucky Kingdom Theme and Water Park officially open May 10, 2025, but Season Passholders will get an exclusive first look tomorrow, May 9.

For more details and to purchase season passes, visit www.kentuckykingdom.com.

About Kentucky Kingdom

Kentucky Kingdom Theme and Water Park is Kentucky’s largest amusement and water park in the heart of Louisville, Kentucky. Spanning 67 acres, it offers family-friendly entertainment with over 70 rides and attractions – including one of the region's largest selections of children’s rides (King Louie’s Playland), five world-class roller coasters, and two giant wave pools. Learn more at kentuckykingdom.com.

Kentucky Kingdom is part of Herschend’s collection of family brands. Herschend, the world’s largest family-owned themed attractions company, has been Bringing Families Closer Together by Creating Memories Worth Repeating® for 75 years. Its 14,000+ passionate employees (hosts) collectively entertain 15 million families every year across North America, including at iconic award-winning destinations such as Dollywood® Parks & Resorts, Silver Dollar City Parks & Resorts®, Adventure Aquarium®, Callaway Resort & Gardens®, Kentucky Kingdom®, Newport Aquarium®, The Vancouver Aquarium® and Wild Adventures®. In addition to its premier themed attractions, Herschend is proud to steward the World- Famous Harlem Globetrotters® legacy and provide immersive content and experiences through our Herschend Entertainment Studios® and Pink Adventure Tours® brands. Learn more at www.herschendenterprises.com.

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