Comedian Nate Bargatze is officially one step closer to turning his long-time dream of a Nashville theme park into reality. His company, Nateland, has partnered with Storyland Studios to begin a full feasibility study for a 100+ acre family-friendly amusement park in Middle Tennessee.
Nateland Entertainment confirmed that teams are currently reviewing multiple potential sites across the greater Nashville area. The project includes plans for rides, entertainment zones, restaurants, retail spaces and even a hotel — all centered around Bargatze’s signature “good, clean family fun.”
Storyland Studios founder Mel McGowan said the partnership aims to deliver a “premium themed entertainment experience” that reflects Bargatze’s humor and the growing cultural energy of Music City.
The feasibility study is expected to finish in early 2026. Once completed, Nateland will present the final concept to investors, and early feedback indicates strong interest due to the rising popularity of Bargatze’s entertainment ventures.
Why Nate Bargatze Wants a Theme Park in Nashville
For years, Nate Bargatze has been vocal about wanting to revive the spirit of Opryland USA, the beloved Nashville amusement park that closed in 1997. Bargatze worked there as a teenager and often talks about the park during his specials and interviews.
He believes Nashville’s explosive growth makes this the perfect moment to create a world-class destination — one he envisions in the style of Universal Studios, complete with rides and future film production opportunities.
“They took Opryland from me, so I’m going to bring it back,” Bargatze said earlier this year. “My goal is to shoot movies here and build our own Universal-style park called Nateland.”
Who Is Nate Bargatze?
Nate Bargatze is a Grammy-nominated comedian known for clean, family-friendly stand-up that has earned him nationwide popularity. Born in Old Hickory, Tennessee, he worked reading water meters before pursuing comedy in 2001.
He has sold out arenas, performed at Bonnaroo, appeared on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon,” hosted SNL twice and recently hosted the 77th Emmy Awards. He also filmed a game show in Nashville earlier this year.
Now, he’s preparing to bring Nashville its first major theme park in nearly three decades — a move that could reshape entertainment in Middle Tennessee.