Nate Bargatze’s Nateland Begins Feasibility Study For Nashville Theme Park

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Comedian Nate Bargatze is exploring the possibility of building a theme park called Nateland near Nashville, Tennessee. His company, Nateland Entertainment, is working with Storyland Studios, a theme park design company from Southern California, to see if the project is viable.

Bargatze revealed his plans at the IAAPA Expo in Orlando. He explained that the idea comes partly from his personal experience – as a teen, he worked at Opryland USA, a now-closed theme park near Nashville, which shut down in 1997.

The team is exploring over 100 acres of land for a new park, operating under the name Nateland Experiences. The park could feature classic amusement park attractions, plus shops, restaurants, and even a hotel.

Nateland Feasibility Study

Storyland is currently conducting a feasibility study, which they anticipate finishing by early 2026. Once the study is complete, the Nateland team will start presenting their idea to potential investors.

Nateland and Storyland are collaborating with state and local leaders to find the best location for their project near Nashville.

Strategic Rationale

Many believe this project could be a great addition to Nashville’s tourism scene. When Opryland closed in 1997, the area lost a major amusement park, and the team behind this new attraction thinks it could appeal to both visitors and local families.

Felix Verdigets, CEO of Nateland Entertainment spoke of the location.

We’re local to middle Tennessee and understand there’s a real demand for a large-scale entertainment option for everyone in the Nashville region. We’re thrilled to be working with Storyland Studios and look forward to seeing what we create together.

Besides performing stand-up, Bargatze hopes to create a center for entertainment. He’s mentioned wanting to film movies in Nashville and use his Nateland club as a home for various creative projects.

Who Is Nate Bargatze?

Nate Bargatze is a comedian and writer from Nashville, Tennessee. Born in 1979, he’s known for his relaxed, storytelling style and dry wit, and started doing stand-up in the early 2000s.

Nate Bargatze has performed on popular late-night shows like The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Conan, and Late Night with Seth Meyers. He’s also released several comedy specials available on streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime. His comedy routines typically center around relatable topics such as daily life, family, and his experiences growing up in the South.

I’m really excited to hear that Nate Bargatze is moving into movies! He’s co-writing and producing a film called The Breadwinner, which is coming out in March 2026. And get this – the cast is amazing! Mandy Moore, Will Forte, Colin Jost, and Kumail Nanjiani are all going to be in it. As a big fan, I can’t wait to see what he does!

Nate Bargatze says he’s planning to spend less time on tour and more time making movies. He wants to create content the whole family can enjoy and expand his opportunities for different creative projects.

Challenges and Outlook

Even though a study is underway to see if it’s possible, experts warn that constructing a theme park is a long-term project that requires a lot of money.

Nateland and Storyland Studios revealed plans today at IAAPA for a large, new family theme park spanning over 100 acres near Nashville! You can find all the details in their official announcement.

— Storyland Studios (@StorylandStudio) November 18, 2025

A lot of work remains, including finding funding, acquiring property, getting the necessary permits and approvals, and building the required facilities.

The eventual site for the park has not been publicly disclosed.

Conclusion

Nate Bargatze’s planned Nateland theme park is still being investigated, but recent steps like a formal feasibility study and a partnership with a design firm indicate the project is moving forward with serious intent.

The park’s future hinges on the outcome of the study, whether investors are interested, and if the community and government get behind the project.

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2025-11-22 17:57