After an extensive search, CNL Lifestyle Properties has reached agreements regarding new management for eight of its amusement parks in the United States. Five operations partners have been selected, all starting on or before February 1.
Herschend Family Entertainment has been chosen to manage Elitch Gardens in Denver, Colorado, and Darien Lake in Darien Center, New York, while Palace Entertainment, owned Parques Reunidos, will manage Waterworld, Concord, California.
Premier Attractions Management has been selected to manage Frontier City and White Water Bay, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and Splashtown, Houston, Texas. Premier is led by former Six Flags executives Kieran Burke and Gary Story, who already own and operate Nashville Shores waterpark, marina and RV resort in Tennessee and recently completed a deal to acquire Ocean Breeze Waterpark in Virginia.
Amusement Management Partners, led by former IAAPA chairman and head of Ripley’s Entertainment Bob Masterson, has been named manager of Magic Springs and Crystal Falls, Hot Springs, Arkansas. AMP already manages eight family entertainment centres for CNL.
Managing Wild Waves in Seattle, Washington, will be NorPoint Entertainment, led by park founder Jeff Stock, who ran the property from 1990 to 2000.
“We are excited to transition to these industry-leading management teams as we finalise preparations for the new season,” reports Byron Carlock, president and CEO of CNL Lifestyle Properties. “These new managers are committed to creating positive, memorable experiences for our guests and fostering strong relationships with the communities our parks serve.”
