Opryland USA

Opryland USA was a theme park in Nashville with roller coasters, water rides, and multiple performance theaters distributed across landscaped grounds near the Cumberland River. The facility combined amusement rides with indoor and outdoor entertainment venues across its grounds.

The park opened in 1972 as an expansion of the Grand Ole Opry radio show and operated as an independent entertainment destination for 25 years. It closed in December 1997, ending a significant chapter in Nashville's amusement entertainment history.

The park featured daily live music performances across multiple indoor theaters, showcasing country, jazz, gospel, and rock genres with professional musicians and dancers. This focus on performance was central to the visitor experience and connected directly to its origins in the Grand Ole Opry entertainment tradition.

The park operated seasonally from May through October, with special winter events in December featuring holiday-themed entertainment and decorations. Visitors should plan for walking across expansive grounds and bring comfortable shoes along with sun protection.

The Wabash Cannonball roller coaster featured a rare double corkscrew section combined with steep drops that made it one of the park's most thrilling rides. This track configuration created an especially intense experience that drew enthusiasts of extreme amusement attractions.