Kentucky Kingdom

Located in the heart of Louisville, Kentucky Kingdom is a 67-acre amusement and water park that has navigated a remarkably turbulent history since it first opened on May 23, 1987. Originally founded by out-of-state investors, the park famously went bankrupt and closed after just one season, sitting dormant until it was revived and expanded in 1990 by local businessman Ed Hart. The park’s identity has shifted through several eras: it operated as the independent Kentucky Kingdom (1987–1997) before being sold to Premier Parks, which rebranded it as Six Flags Kentucky Kingdom (1998–2010). After Six Flags filed for bankruptcy and a lease dispute led to the park’s closure in 2009, Hart returned to successfully reopen the gates as Kentucky Kingdom (2014–Present). In 2021, the park entered a new chapter when operating rights were acquired by Herschend Family Entertainment (owners of Dollywood). Today, it is known for its world-class coaster lineup—including Lightning Run and Storm Chaser—its expansive Hurricane Bay water park, and the newly debuted Discovery Meadow and Flying Fox (opening 2026) attractions.