How One Pizza Man is Building a $2B Theme Park to Rival Disney

[@jayone8891]

That retro 1950s and art deco aesthetic looks incredible. I love this and hope that I can one day go to this park

[@jerseyforhawks]

I especially like the Art Deco area as well.

[@MiamiCoffee2023]

If I visit from Miami, I hope there will be Malt Shop! Ice Cream shakes are yummy! 🍨🍧

[@brainysmurf74]

Says it all and clearly it will be family friendly. But he will need to be onguard because the competition will try to smear the parks image, either with might ming or hascism/anti-rainbow claims. They may even go so far as to set up all kinds of karen/crime events to tarnish the park. They are going to have to be cleaver and know who and what they are up against.

[@birdflox1337]

​@@brainysmurf74what on earth are you talking about

[@deemen7132]

Pure Americana, my wife and I have been chasing it for a while now, well visit this place

[@razorchuckles]

I grew up loving Disney, I worked at WDW on the College Program, and I've taken my family to WDW several times with our kids. That said, Disney has made some questionable decisions in recent years (ie. nixing Magical Express), and they have priced themselves out of many middle class families, such as ours. We can't afford $5,000-$9,000 for a five day trip to Orlando on a consistent basis. Competition is a good thing, and this location will be within driving distance for a lot of folks in flyover states.

[@TheDylanJoyce]

I drove the Magical Express

[@followthebradleysfun]

This park will already have major competition in the area of Silver Dollar City in Branson, MO. And Venita is in the heart of tornado alley. I'm just not sure how this could actually work...

[@connorallgood0922]

Yes, usually we will fly to Florida from Louisiana, where I live, and I believe, haven't checked pricing, but I believe flights to Tulsa would be cheaper than Orlando, so if this park pulls it off and can have a competitive pricing, it's definitely going to be making some big money. Only thing that parks like Disney and Universal have is brand recognition and their brands within their companies like Star Wars or Harry Potter. Those will always attract people, but it's great to have options.

[@chriscabcabin557]

Disney Adults ruining everything lol

[@followthebradleysfun]

@@connorallgood0922 so why not go to Silver Dollar City?

[@Lovesapuzzle]

A park that is driving distance from most of the Midwest is sure to be a hit. I hope the attraction quality and theming details are a priority.

[@himynameiscorey]

The money doesn’t really speak for it though…

[@jdos5643]

But I think the problem with this is the location Not because of tourist but because of tornado alley.

[@deo3367]

FYI. They already have one in Branson Missouri that is very successful.

[@RedRoseSeptember22]

@@jdos5643 That's my biggest worry too. The park will cease to exist if they get a big tornado.

[@DJ_Dave_Montoya]

People said the same thing about Myrtle Beach and Hard Rock Park.

[@daledickey8400]

As a former Disney employee I think the name is fitting and can become very recognizable as a new contender for theme park industry. The attractions artwork is very reminiscent of 1960s future design. The time frame seems a little too ambitious and the price tag of $2 billion seems to be on the low side for something this grand. Being built this far out should work to their advantage just like WDW. I wish this venture all the best and hope it will not be a political divide just pure fun and educational experience. The concept is awesome, I really hope it does become a reality, we will have to wait and see.

[@Superman679]

It's not just right wing or left wing, if it's too heavily Murkin themed it will not last and many, many, many people will stay away because of that. If it's nothing but Murkin propaganda, it will fail, maybe not for a few years but once all the Murkins go a few times, they will get tired of it and then they will have little to no guests coming to the park. Only Murkins think that Murika is the greatest country

[@potato-kw1er]

​@@Superman679it doesn't seem overwhelmingly patriotic. Rather focusing on different aspects of America as a whole. Plus we need competition in a market like this.

[@ghostofthefuture]

It's a shame that "American" has become so sullied in recent years. If they start promoting it as an "anti-woke" theme park, it's over.

[@orangecayman520]

@@Superman679murkins are not the only ones who think America is the greatest country

[@Iruntodrink]

Very similar name to a Disney project right outside of DC that got canceled even after the land was purchased. Former Disny folks working on this new one a coincidence ? I think not!

[@Bubblewrap34]

More theme parks are always a good thing. Hopefully the project has as much heart behind it as Disneyland did many decades ago. It’s one thing to start a theme park but it’s another to create a lasting legacy. Just wish it was its own concept and not a Disneyland rip off

[@ChatGPT1111]

....unless they're woke

[@daledickey8400]

I was a cast member for over ten years of WDW twenty-four years ago. I watched them remove roaming musician from the Yacht & Beach Club Resort to add overpriced suites ruining the magic for the guests. The concept may be similar but it is a formula for success. Disney has not been willing to invest in areas such as Oklahoma because it is too risky. The man is ninty-three and it is refreshing to see someone taking a chance with an investment like this. Disney keeps duplicating their parks around the world. I welcome a variant of that concept stripped of media icons Don't get me wrong I am a huge fan of Disney but nice to see a group of imagineers taking on this project. Just hope it's not religious or political in nature. The people in the heartland deserve something closer to home and hopefully not overpriced.

[@wolfstriker9619]

Im a big Disney Park person but I like that other people are being inspired to build theme parks in places that disney parks are not

[@jdos5643]

Disney placed its parks in strategic locations or rather The most perfect places in the world actually. For example Disney could not be in Mexico nor any part of Central America. Disney could not be in Philippines either or any place in Africa. It had to be where all the buzz and hype are at. Where wealthy and safety are one in one. This is why Disney did not build a park just anywhere in the us. Vegas for example couldn’t hold the rep for Disney. So the places the park sit are essentially perfect in almost every way. But to say One is going to compete against Disney is basically setting themselves for failure. Disney is a multi billion dollar empire. Disney owns so much not just stocks but other mayor businesses. Disney is influential in nature. Many ppl have heard of Disney. It’s everywhere. Let’s not forget the worlds within the parks which no other theme park can get to because Disney has the movies they are based on. Mexico is supposedly building the biggest theme park in the world called vidanta resort but it won’t be finished until 2025 or so as of now it is only half done and there is already visitors to the park. So there’s ppl out there trying to compete.

[@FanceeName]

America heartland probably won’t push grooming and have men in princess costumes.

[@jdos5643]

@@FanceeName what are you talking about? Dads dress in dresses all the times.

[@rickpollen4984]

Very excited about this! I like the “American Heartland theme park” name, and like the logo too. The theming looks fantastic! That log flume ride looks fantastic! I want to see this if it opens.

[@AmusementLabs]

$2B is what Royal Caribbean spends on a cruise ship....

[@Big_Caesar1]

And yet, morons still go on cruises, which are honestly not even fun

[@Meloncito1976]

Awesome Video! I am already so excited about the "American Heartland Theme Park. What a wonderful ideal to have a park focused in the greatest country on earth! I was born and raised in Venezuela and came here for true freedom. I am so thanksful for this country and its beautiful people. May God Bless America!

[@MonkeyspankO]

More themeparks are a good thing. Not any easy thing to pull off, I wish them luck

[@daa589]

Yeah but there's 1,000,000 new theme park announcements.every year lol

[@At_Amsterdam]

@daa589 Not really? Universal has announced new parks this year but other than that it’s been pretty silent

[@TempoLOOKING]

6 flags, adventure land, house on the rock

[@supertouring1]

​@@At_AmsterdamI​'m guessing they're referring to the global theme park business. Dubai sea world just opened up and is incredibly impressive for example.

[@Kev-O33]

it seems too good to be true let alone open in 2 1/2 years

[@Terriannandallenallthingshome]

We are lifelong Disney ppl gone to many times to count. Our last trip was awful everything broke down. This is two hours away from me! We will be there and spending our money. The name is perfect you don't understand just how proud we are of the heartland ❤ the concept art is fabulous. Your reporting is always spot on!😊

[@m2kaay]

Just bc it's shiny and new, doesn't mean it will be better or work. I'm sticking to Disney and Universals

[@Terriannandallenallthingshome]

@@m2kaay I live by this so if it gets built I will be there! We still have Disney trips planned. So

[@lovemychi2372]

I couldn’t agree more. I’m excited to take my son once this is built!

[@Imzadi]

Looking forward to it! Will drive from Kentucky! My kids will be 10, 8, and 6. Perfect ages for a big adventure.

[@waltersobchak8080]

I really hope that this park reaches out to local mom and pop stores to help incorporate them to a sort of Downtown Disney project. Considering the location and theme, this would put the park on par with Silver Dollar City and Dollywood. I’m also interested to see how those two parks respond, especially given SDC’s recent land acquisition.

[@aluna1234]

I completely agree, I also think they should reach out to Oklahoma staples. Like Braums, I know they aren't mom and pop, but its the most popular ice cream brand in the state. They could be the ice cream supplier for the park. They could even make a new flavor for every section of the park. I really hope they are willing to partner with Oklahoma owned business, we Okie's would eat that up and support it even more

[@EDub513]

@@aluna1234 Braums needs to up their game. Blue Bell ice cream from the grocery store is 100 times better and that's just SAD! Braums is just as generic as Dairy Queen. Is it even considered ice cream?

[@evijade1]

Brayden provides such high quality reporting on theme park news. Love that.

[@bjvincent8786]

I wish them the best but like most ambitious projects that get announced I will be surprised if it comes to fruition. This is giving Disney’s unbuilt theme park in the early 1990s in Haymarket, Virginia called Disney's America vibes. I kind of love it and am so excited for this because It seems they are going for less historically specific lands which is smart IMHO. Also I having just heard and read there are 20+ former Disney parks builders and Imagineers. In addition to additional design firms include THG, FORREC and Cuningham, whose portfolios feature the world’s foremost theme park brands including Six Flags, Disney Parks and Universal Studios; this project sounds amazing.

[@andrewjackson8421]

I always look forward to your posts Brayden. You are one of the most professional park channels out there. You keep the news fresh and up beat giving the facts then giving your opinions but clearly defining the difference and allowing viewers to make up their own mind. You’re a great Journalist! So glad you moved here to Orlando. Hope everything is going well for you! Keep it up buddy! All of us fans love you!

[@AlyDee01]

This is interesting. There was a theme park similar to this concept called Freedomland in the Bronx, NY back in the 60s. Initially, it did well but ultimately didn’t sustain for reasons I can’t recall. At the time it was meant to rival Disneyland as an east coast option before WDW was developed. I’m rooting for this project I hope it goes well!

[@oliverPvoliver]

As an Oklahoman and a theme park lover, I'm extremely skeptical that this actually happens. Vinita is a town of 5,000 people an hour away from any major metropolitan area. Oklahoma is full of cheap, available land much closer to heavily populated areas like the Tulsa or OKC suburbs. This feels like a cost saving move and one that could severely backfire. Where are you expecting to find workers to staff the park, resort, and RV park in a town of 5,000? I'm not sure people in the Tulsa area are gonna want to commute an hour everyday to work. I guess what I'm trying to say is that I don't think that a park in Oklahoma is a bad thing at all. It's literally smack dab in the middle of the country, with many major highways converging here and making low-cost travel easier. And literally anything is better than Frontier City! (the local park in OKC) It's just that there are probably 10 or 15 towns in the state that a project like this could make sense, and Vinita is not even close to one of them.

[@BradWilson1969]

I can see why nobody would want to make that commute (unless you live near Los Angeles 🙄), but those same people might be interested in buying a more affordable (maybe?) brand new house in the new neighborhoods that are sure to be built.

[@dawg897]

And the park will be closed for the winter

[@writerpatrick]

People will come for the jobs.

[@oliverPvoliver]

@BradWilson1969 sure, how long would it take before A.) You can build out the town and add all the needed infrastructure for people to move in B.) You can convince people to move to the literal middle of nowhere (sorry, Vinita) and fill out those hypothetical houses. What I really mean is that I don't think that a park in Oklahoma is a bad thing at all. It's literally smack dab in the middle of the country, with many major highways converging here and making low-cost travel easier. It's just that there are probably 10 or 15 towns in the state that a project like this could make sense, and Vinita is not even close to one of them.

[@oliverPvoliver]

@@writerpatrick The unemployment rate in Oklahoma is only 2.7%. Those would have to be some really competitive wages and benefits in order to get people out there.

[@macbrun7]

I'm very excited for this park! the fact that I bought and RV just this week and there's a 750-spot RV park planned - well, perfect. Really, really hope this goes through and the concept art reflects the reality. Thanks for this info Brayden!

[@sonofzingo7]

This is the video I've been waiting for. Super excited to be working on this project

[@cowboib4680]

Good luck! I live in Oklahoma, so I hope it's a huge success!

[@michaelsullivan3581]

Very thoughtful and balanced report Brayden! It looks really exciting! Hope it gets built. Remains intact and is very successful!

[@peanutismint]

This looks great. More theme parks is always a good thing, and although I don’t think we’re seeing anything truly ‘original’ here (a bayou/jungle land, a pirate land, a futuristic/sci-fi land, etc…), I love the idea that they could basically be a Disneyland 2.0, giving us the same kinds of attractions but plussed in various ways for a 21st century audience.

[@jeandavidnau8314]

Im fune with some disney rip off

[@MonsterKidCory]

A park picking up the slack that Disney USED to do isn't a bad thing. As someone who is not even American myself, much of what I found most engaging at Disneyland was the Americana stuff: Main St., Frontierland, Mark Twain, New Orleans Square, etc.

[@kevinkunzmann8782]

He’s the right guy to open a Theme Park. Pizza Hut used to be awesome years ago 🍕

[@JasonMAlexander]

I think American Heartland is a pretty decent name. It tells you where it’s located and the name means different things to different people. I can’t wait. It does need an icon though

[@angelface925]

I feel like it's gonna be a golden retriever 😅

[@worldsgreatestdude1784]

I heard about this several days ago. I’m glad that you mentioned this going on.

[@briansieve]

For those of us from the mid- central/ Midwest the region is commonly called the Heartland. But I agree there needs to be something unique to the park, AND also a running heart theme to go with this.

[@briansieve]

I've been waiting for a great breakdown of this. Thank you

[@EDub513]

Should build that huge tornado museum structure that was proposed to be built in Tulsa x number of years ago.. Or a large oil derrick or a huge windmill that could double as a Ferris wheel or something, idk.

[@connorallgood0922]

I'd love to see this come to fruition, the theming of this park is just amazing. I kind of wish they'd have a old west land as well, but you can only do so much.

[@bensalisbury6535]

This looks really interesting. I love that it has no IP, the anti-IP park. Just give us some hometown entertainment and imagination. Remember WDW opened with a lot of non IP rides. As always great video, thanks.

[@Wilkins325]

Why are people so against IP? I never really understood it.

[@lisapratt166]

Whats a IP

[@melissahuang600]

Intellectual property - i.e. frozen, cars, Marvel, etc. - non-IP would have been many of the Epcot rides before they were redone to their known IPs

[@brianonthescene]

To be fair, this is probably because deals haven’t been struck yet. I did see a Charlotte’s Web attraction which is owned by publisher HarperCollins, so there is *some* IP already reflected.

[@nathanwatson8609]

Good luck with that plan.@@stanfordite1

[@alexandriabowser6105]

Your so intelligent, your insight on the theme parks seems beyond your years. I enjoy listening to your work and obvious extensive research. Been a listener for years, this is coming from the heart, thank you ❤

[@buster5661]

As someone who loves the Disney campgrounds, I'm down with another theme park campground

[@Thazo79]

Tornadoes are a concern for sure in Oklahoma.

[@buster5661]

@@omnicognatesnr5947 don't forget about tomatoes too. Those tomatoes can be quite the handful

[@PTMcMullen]

Disney is converting their Fort Wilderness cabins to Vacation Club lodgings.

[@buster5661]

@@PTMcMullen don't remind me

[@chadalac1977]

​@@PTMcMullenDisney is adding dvc cabins , to fort wilderness not taking cabins away or converting!

[@tippytoes2358]

Carowinds was started by a man who wanted to build a Disney-like park and put his heart and finances into it. There was a monorail, river boat, shows, and all these rides with a southern theme that sits right on the NC/SC border. It changed owners over the years to where it is now owned by Cedar parks. Roller coasters are more of the attraction. Somehow American Heartland almost reminds me, though, more of Dollywood, which was also supposed to be another Disney-like park.

[@user-fe8uq9zp2g]

I went to Carowinds when I was younger and absolutely loved it. I’m from Florida so Disney and Universal was all I knew but I loved the theming of Carowinds and how fun the rides were. Highly underrated theme park.

[@tippytoes2358]

It's underrated because Charlotte is not really a vacation destination, and the nearest popular tourist attraction is 2 hours away in Asheville, NC. The locals are the main guests at the park. This Oklahoma theme park in this video, unfortunately, is in a state where not that many tourists go to visit. UPDATE: I just noticed it is actually near Branson, Missouri, which is similiar to Gatlingburg/Pigeon Forge attractions with Dollywood as the main theme park. So, maybe this OK park will do very well!

[@stephenf8840]

I feel like it’s going to be a Six Flags type amusement park. It may light a small fire under Disney but not sure it will impact them. Disney needs to worry about Universal who is starting to gain ground on them.

[@matthewnelson5699]

Almost nothing about the proposal is Six Flags like in my opinion (unless the definition is it is not in Orlando/Cali). The proposed Universal looks more Six Flags. This is much more in line with Dollywood mixed with hopes of touching Disney. The campground is a nice touch too.

[@stephenf8840]

@@matthewnelson5699 what makes it look like Six Flags to me is everything is a rude and not just an attraction like you have at WDW. I love rollercoasters and would ride nothing but them but that’s what makes me feel this is like a SF type park. They are going to have all amusements rides. Just my opinion.

[@matthewnelson5699]

@@stephenf8840 there are about 4 shows shown, stores and theaters. Only a few roller coasters shown.

[@wimberkers6901]

It certaintly looks way less thought trough, immersive and deigetic compared to disney more a highly themed amusement park focusing on physical sensations rather than communicational experience as far as this shows.

[@followthebradleysfun]

That area already is surrounded by theme parks: Silver Dollar City in Branson, Six Flags St. Louis, Worlds of Fun in Kansas City and a few others. They have massive local competition

[@hollyhagelin2451]

WDW & USO have hurricanes to worry about. Disneyland & USLA have earthquakes. So it makes perfect sense to locate a new theme park in the middle of "tornado alley". What could possibly go wrong. Also, I agree with another commenter's concern about where the employees are going to live . . . This really is in the middle of nowhere, so, hopefully, plans are also on the idea board for housing and the accompanying infrastructure. ( shades of Reedy Creek . . )

[@Huskerstar922]

Tornado Alley is real...North East Oklahoma gets a lot of Tornado's...they get ice, they get snow, they get cold, etc. I think that is the biggest issue they are going to have.

[@bethgandy4173]

I was wondering if there will be tornado shelters all around the Park.

[@gregorycerven3484]

Hey, they should have named one of their park areas Tornado Alley and they could put some serious thrill rides in there. And the tornados in that part of the country are no joke. Just ask Joplin, MO a few hundred miles away.

[@sonic23233]

After that, it will close forever

[@Fedora-_-Laura]

I agree also it’s an hour drive away from the closest city, there’s nothing but farmland really in Vinita. They should just build it in texas, I wouldn’t call Oklahoma American heartland

[@xJDMWaRRi0Rx]

I didn’t think the name was forgettable at all. It’s very fitting for the theme as well, and lacking an icon? The icon is America itself and the beautiful landscapes and different cultures we all share and experience that is very rarely celebrated in modern times. This place seems very wholesome and family oriented. I wish them nothing but the best

[@spinstercatlady]

This puts me in mind of Dollywood quite a bit. Dollywood has lots of the historical "good ol days" type themes and similar rides, though on a smaller scale (from what I can tell). Don't know that I'd make a trip to Oklahoma for it (I'm in KY),but it looks cool!

[@mmorri24]

and Dollywood is in many ways, much better than Disney World.

[@ericteneyck8691]

Dollywood's sister park Silver Dollar City is only 125 miles away from where they are planning to put this park.

[@berserkasaurusrex4233]

I’ve been to both, and Dollywood is a virtual twin of Silver Dollar City, except SDC has a big cave you can tour and I like their public glass blowing exhibition.

[@grace7701]

Love Dollywood, thankfully live just 4 hours away, Disney is 6 but Disney is crap now.

[@sarahmcd_NC]

Love it! I agree, Brayden: the theming looks incredible, and it’s somewhere I’d like to go! RVs have gotten really popular since the pandemic began, so the huge RV park makes a lot of sense! Great reporting, as always. 🇺🇸👍😁

[@smith9808]

Great to see a lot ex-imagineers get work and have their talents actually utilised properly.

[@paulfsemicolen01]

I'm super excited about this! But my biggest concern is, did you see the city that was just Northeast of this location. Joplin, MO... That place was wiped off the planet by a massive tornado 10 years ago. This is right smack dab in the middle of tornado alley so hopefully a lot of things are tornado proof

[@razorchuckles]

I love that it is so close to Fayetteville, AR, where I went to college - now we can combine the two destinations on a family trip!

[@deo3367]

Joplin got hit once. Oklahoma gets hit yearly. And no. It didn’t get wiped off the planet. Half of it was destroyed. But rebuilt really quickly. FYI. I lived in Joplin post tornado. And you cannot tell a tornado hit it minus the memorials. My house was 2 blocks down from the destruction, the woman didn’t need to get a new roof for the house. Oklahoma also gets earthquakes… but you don’t see anyone getting excited about that. It also depends on the location of Vanita, it is a hill or valley location? That depends on if a tornado will hit it. Midwesterns don’t get too excited about tornadoes. We usually go out and watch them.

[@HamguyBacon]

looks like the area is barren and just grassland, tree's stop tornados from forming.

[@cagunder]

I love you breaking out of Disney content. This is really well done.

[@keltblioux4967]

The name American Heartland is perfect. That's what much of that part of the country is called. I love someone's come up with an idea that goes back to a time where tradition was important in this country.

[@KyraHogue]

My biggest concern would be infrastructure. Roads, basic needs, they all need to be met for 10 to 100 times or even more people than the small town is used to accommodating. So not only is it ambitious for 2026 to have the theme park built, it's ambitious to have people move there, living there, getting all of this stuff set up to support what seems to be a gigantic theme park. With most parks they start out small and grow bigger if they can. This one seems to be pretty big and only wanting to grow bigger. It'll be fascinating to watch and see how this plays out.

[@johnna4487]

This. Won't they have to build a community just for the people who will be building the park to live at WHILE they build the park?

[@MonsterKidCory]

Maybe they can get a special district or something 😉

[@AlyDee01]

I haven’t come across these videos before but this was so well done! Commentary and all. Subscribed!

[@BaronKilaton]

With that many years building pizza chains he probably has a good construction connection too. I’m sure a park like that will hire every contractor in Tulsa

[@Trolltastically]

The electric land area reminds me of the 1901 pan American expo’s Electric Tower, which was the first large scale electric exposition in the US. From buffalo and recognized it immediately.

[@jaysonpida5379]

Liberty Village looks like the 'Back-to-the-Future' set...which is great. A big issue that I hope they have put a lot of thought into is the weather. There was a theme park in the New York area that competed with Disney pretty well but it had to close every winter and that was a major issue in its final ending. Oklahoma winters can be harsh and then there are the spring/summer thunderstorms and tornados. Anyway, I hope it succeeds (along with the campsites) and becomes a hit! :)

[@cara2283]

I got the same vibe.

[@EDub513]

Oklahoma winters aren't harsh.. There's an occasional week here and there where the weather can get a little wild, but the winters are relatively mild compared with most of the country.

[@tammymathis3148]

If Dollywood can survive the Tennessee winters, this one will be fine in Oklahoma.

[@brianonthescene]

The relatively close proximity to Branson should help them with talent. It’s a big bet but could be transformative for this region if they pull it off. The level of creativity is impressive. I hope they’re successful!

[@BuzzDoesDisney]

That’s up near Missouri, why that’s important is because of seasons. I lived in OKC for 7 years and they very much get winter in that state, maybe not snow as much but ice. Ice is not something any theme park wants to mess around with. Six Flags over Great America is just outside Chicago as well

[@megamoze]

Six Flags is a seasonal park. I wonder if that will be true of this one as well.

[@luvadventuresandart]

Did you know that they are building a Mattle theme park here in Glendale,AZ? Most of the park will be inside with AC, and there will be an outside area as well. Hot wheels ride, Barbie's beach house, He man, ext. It should open next year. You can even view the construction camera on the website.

[@JohnAJohnson]

With that ambitious deadline, it seems pretty clear they might be worried about going over budget and losing the sole funder...meaning unfortunately it never opens. Fun to talk about though. Brayden you always make quality content and I'm excited for every upload.

[@deo3367]

I love Gene. I do. He is such a spunky man. But, he has one foot in the grave and his other foot on a banana peel. He is old. And my husband and I are thinking he isn’t making wise money choices in his old age. It’s kind of sus and scary. He has donated A LOT. I’m talking a CT machine to a not for profit clinic I used to work at, and the new (AMAZING) performance center at PSU (which I am so jealous of. I was a music performance major, and would have died for a center like that). But $2b makes me worried.

[@nicolaxoxo1]

I think he said the guy was born in 1931…..so yeah, I wonder if he will live to finish this park?

[@wildcraftone]

So I need to clarify something here, they don't actually have 40+ former Disney veterans under their payroll, they're using a creative agency, THG. Not a dig, and not at all uncommon, even Disney themselves uses creative groups like this. For example, a lot of the work for Galaxy's Edge for example was done by a company called AOA (made from former Disney Imagineers). These companies specialize in things like pre-planning, master planning, design work, documentation, and much much much more.

[@frankieamsden7918]

I hope that they have rides for adults that are neither roller coasters or high motion like Disney. Pirates of the Caribbean and Peter Pan are good rides for me. I have issues with a lot of motion and I find that most amusement parks are either coasters or kiddie rides.

[@roseNthorn]

I was thinking the same thing. This really seems like it might be more of a regional park, like Knotts Berry Farm or Dollywood, both have some great themeing but also have either big coasters or kiddie rides and very few rides everyone will enjoy which is where Disney really excels.

[@0dylan]

What are you wanting then? Rides for adults are coasters and immersive omnimover attractions. If it's low motion the is it really even a ride anymore? What current day rides do you consider a ride for adults?

[@frankieamsden7918]

@@0dylan Pirates of the Caribbean . They are ride through rides. And yes they are still rides. There are plenty of people who for different reasons can't do coasters, spins or big drops

[@0dylan]

@@frankieamsden7918 oh ok, I read you lr comment as if that was one of the high motion rides. That's why I was a bit confused.

[@Imzadi]

@@0dylanI had to read their comment a few times before I realized they weren’t suggesting POTC and Peter were high motion but rather the type of ride they prefer. Punctuation needed!

[@lawrencegatt4515]

❤ love your wonderful videos mate from down under 🏁🇦🇺

[@i.r.8272]

Thanks Brayden! Another amazing video, product of your effort. I live in Japan and if this gets built, I am buying a ticket to Oklahoma. I never thought I would say something like that. There are many parks that give the impression that they will be the next big thing but I´ve learned to not believe that. After a long time, I feel like this has a chance to become a reality. Please give us an update in the future!

[@tessdurberville711]

You live in Japan, but you would buy a ticket to Oklahoma? Ungrateful.

[@i.r.8272]

@@tessdurberville711 hey, I like theme parks 🤷‍♂️

[@optic_reviews2472]

I genuinely believe that this is going to go very well I'm with this 100% . Apparently more and more newer theme parks are opening up for the next couple of years besides universal and Disney and other parks . Other major business owners and companies are looking into investing into creating newer parks . I know Sony has a theme park under there built they want to create and open up. But there that I am with this .

[@HereforaMoment]

Just remember that Disney and Universal at one point was probably hard to remember.This is amazing.Also, another very underrated theme park can be found only 2 hours away and thats Silver Dollar City. This is great for middle America.

[@PastTime777]

Yes, I'm going to SDC in September. They have great thrill rides, a beautiful park, many hotels and shows in the area. Yet they're not on the attendance list. One reason is the major airport (Kansas City) is almost 4 hours away. The airports that are closer are very expensive.

[@HereforaMoment]

@@PastTime777 Totally agree with you.

[@Zrich98]

This company thinks they’ll compete with universal and Disney when in reality they’ll actually be going up against SDC

[@PastTime777]

@@Zrich98 Exactly. In 2018, the attendance at SDC was 2.2 million and this was from an actual report. The 2018 attendance for Dollywood was 2.5 million. To be in the top 20, a park has to be at 2.8 million to 3 million.

[@zerxilk8169]

Dolly-wood too in Tn where the other silver dollar city used to be.

[@bkitayama]

I just drove through Oklahoma (twice) in my RV while on a cross country trip, and I did not stop once… I came in through Missouri and exited in Texas only stopping to pay tolls. There was no other reason for me to stop. This needs to change! Something like this would have made me think of stopping for a few days. 2 billion doesn’t seem like enough money to make something at the Disney/Universal level however. 2 billion is a lot of money, but not Disney park level. Unlike the host, I think the name is fine. I think people will eventually call it Heartland park.

[@MonsterKidCory]

So you weren't interested in the Will Rogers Memorial Museum and Birthplace Ranch, Philbrook Museum of Art, Museum of Pioneer History, National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, First Americans Museum, Museum of Osteology, Fort Reno, Heartland of America Museum, Stafford Air and Space Museum, Washita Battlefield National Historic Site and Black Kettle National Grassland, • Old Town Museum, National Route 66 and Transportation Museum or any of the Route 66 attractions? Okay, fair enough.

[@BumblyBear]

I agree with almost all of your criticisms. I'm skeptical but tentatively optimistic for this project. Very ambitious...

[@nataliewalters2759]

I think this is ambitious and is great to have another park . However , they would have to go way above and beyond to surpass Disney and Universal. Disney and Universal have been around for decades and have nostalgic characters and experiences . There needs to be characters that people love and can relate to. Often new parks if not done correctly don’t last and are forgotten .

[@AARDFD]

Come on, it won’t be close. Six Flagsish

[@apprentice_jedi]

I don’t think the goal is to surpass Disney or Universal

[@JasonSterlingRMC]

I live in Oklahoma and think it's going to be hard to pull this off, even at two billion. I mean if it opens I'd go at least once a year with my son but I live here so it's an easy trip. Tulsa airport is super small and still a hour away from this place and the park really seems like a two day ticket at most. Then what? Then what do you do if you're on a standard 1 week vacation? I don't know, we'll see how it plays out. I wish Gene luck.

[@witheandstone7267]

Branson and Silver Dollar City, are two and a half hours away, so you could park hop for a family vacation. Grand Lake o' the Cherokees is also just a few miles down the road.

[@Keither754]

Honestly, this looks incredible and I’m really excited 🤩

[@Josh-hz8vz]

I think “Heartland” by itself is what most will refer to it as and I think that’s actually pretty catchy.

[@Thazo79]

Like Dollywood. One word names work well for theme parks.

[@jennifereddleman6656]

Love this new theme park idea!!! Exactly what we need!!

[@brianna_lynch]

I hope this park has at least a few dark rides. I don’t usually go to non-Disney theme parks because i’m a dark ride enthusiast, and most non-Disney theme parks only have 2, 1 or even 0 dark rides.

[@MetaverseAdventures]

Have you tried the emerging VR Dark Rides on the Meta Quest?

[@duplexidemic]

Was very skeptical on the theming of this project since "america" is absolutely the most overdone, basic, and low effort themeing possible at amusement parks (Dollywood, Silver Dollar City, California Adventure, Liberty Square, etc) but the concepts here are actually really strong. Electropolis is a clear winner, its interwoven art deco attractions fill a void left by Magic Kingdom's recent Tomorrowland refurbishment. The other more rural themed areas seem to heavily focus on the paranormal and myths/legends which is perfect. The jackelope coaster, Bigfoot Expedition Everest, alien invaders and haunted lighthouse are excellent ways to add more color and intrigue to the typically drab and uninspired Americana themes. Swamp tour seems really promising as well, I'm very interested to see if any of this comes to fruition.

[@shadowwind4775]

I think it's really cool that one guy can pursue a dream like this like Walt did. Amazing actually. However, aren't tornadoes a problem in Oklahoma for a theme park like this?

[@Zrich98]

Tornadoes aren’t that bad. California has earthquakes and Florida has hurricanes. It’s pick your poison i suppose

[@Kurt_Cobains]

@@Zrich98 we barley get any bad earthquakes here though 💀

[@highway2heaven91]

Not really, most of the tornadoes in this area are usually much weaker than the ones that hit Central OK (save for the 2011 Joplin tornado).

[@shadowwind4775]

@@highway2heaven91 Good to know. I spent about a week in Oklahoma City in the summer and it was wall to wall tornadoes (3 in one day). It's good that they aren't as bad there. I know Florida also gets tornadoes, but not nearly as bad either in relation to Disney World.

[@OTBDBOY]

@@shadowwind4775Florida gets baby tornados the strongest tornado ever to hit Florida was a f3 and that was a rare case most tornados are F0-F1

[@stranger975]

I think Branson, MO and Silver Dollar City will be more concerned about this new theme park far more than any attraction in Orlando.

[@andreakristen2168]

I love this! I recently went to Disney and everyone seems tired and the magic is hard to find. I’m ready for something fresh!

[@NewAgeGigolo]

GREAT point at the end of this video. I appreciated that philosophical discussion on theme parks. You should devote a whole episode to that.

[@checksandbalences]

I love it. Excited for their journey to become a successful Theme Park and I wish them the best. I would like them to include a nice grand water show to be kind of a showpiece in the park. Maybe a company like WET technologies can work with them.

[@genxkay358]

I agree with everything you said. Bravo Brayden. Great job as usual and I appreciate it so much. ❤😊

[@maui3551]

This theme park sounds awesome and would love go to there if it does happens

[@benvolio28]

It seems suited for the local audience. Interesting to see how it all shakes out. Even Universal still can't get to Disney level of quality, so a company that never opened a theme park or produced entertainment is a big challenge.

[@loicvercammen6509]

What? Universal has overtaken Disney a while ago. The newest rides at Islands of adventure and epic Universe are good examples.

[@tylersmith6267]

They both made questionable decisions throughout the years. (Fast n furious) But they learn and grow.

[@eightiesman]

I live in Oklahoma 2 hours from this planned resort. I'm skeptical of this project in several ways. Anything that starts with an RV park especially makes me wonder. Also, the fact that its at least an hour from a major airport and that only a 300 room hotel is being built. Where are 4.9 million people a year going to stay? And the 4.9 million figure seems totally unrealistic. Silver Dollar City a little over 2 hours away gets only a bit over 2 million in a good year. And now you'll have two theme parks in the region competing. Something else I thought about as I watched your video is that the CEO is 92 years old! What if he dies before this place is done?

[@MickeyViews]

His age is such an obvious concern I would assume they've got a plan worked out in the event he passes. But even if Bicknell is still all in on the project post-mortem, estate tax will take a serious bite of whatever capital he has, no? At some point more investors will have to come in if this is going to become a serious theme park. We'll see!

[@Imzadi]

I think the RV park is brilliant. Middle Americans love our RV trips since you have to drive days just to get anywhere! But I do agree more hotel rooms is an obvious need.

[@dancrane2]

It looks nice. However, operating between November & February is going to be a big challenge. Picture feet of snow and ice all around the park and over the water attractions. That why the other parks are in Southern California & Florida.

[@tiffanyc8307]

You make a great point!!!!

[@xXpearcider19Xx]

But like... what if a tornado hits

[@Monica-zv7bh]

That’s what I was wondering

[@jaesea323]

Probably the same as when hurricanes hit Disney World

[@tylerb14-d9g]

@@jaesea323 that is actually totally different. As someone who lives in Florida right near Disney, we have almost a week warning before a hurricane hits us and even in a cat 5 the wind speed has only reached 185 mph. Tornados spin up in minutes and can reach speeds over 300 mph.

[@jillwachbrit6630]

I am excited about the prospect of this new destination. Thank you for highlighting this and please keep us posted on the construction progress.

[@eric_in_florida]

$2B is not that much these days, a new stadium costs costs $5-6B. If this was $20B you might have my attention. This is like Dollywood.

[@LowTide941]

Spot on.

[@buster5661]

Only way to get something like this done is to do like Walt did and make your own construction company

[@xXpearcider19Xx]

Epic universe is reported to cost around $1 billion

[@speedybuilds2878]

Yeah, but how much government grift goes into those stadiums? I remember when the Pittsburgh Penguins were trying to build their new stadium. It was an absolute s-show dealing with the city.

[@sweezey1981]

A new stadium doesn't cost that much....especially in BFE Oklahoma. The braves stadium and the entire battery cost just over a billion. But I think this is going to be more like dollywood.

[@keepitclassc7551]

I am so ready for more rv capable theme parks. Very excited

[@disneyscott98]

I hope this succeeds. This looks fantastic, and looks like it'll be of amazing quality. I'm with you, I'd be glad to buy a plane ticket there and visit this place.

[@Zrich98]

As an okie, this is quite risky. Vinita is literally in the middle of nowhere. It would help the state… if it works. I don’t think it’d be competing with Disney or Universal as much as it would be Silver Dollar City and all the stuff Branson, MO has to offer just 2 hours away. If you’re putting a park in Oklahoma I’d almost suggest putting it in SE Oklahoma near Durant or even Ardmore and have it close to Texas to tap into the DFW market and be closer to OKC.

[@ejamesl]

A $2Billion price tag may be a bit of pipedream

[@drewcorry5056]

Absolutely Outstanding. Absolutely Can’t Wait. I will be there opening weekend.

[@keithwillis3761]

Maybe name it; "American Dream"? Or just; "Heritage Park"? I would definitely fly there. My dad was from the south and loved the more earthy classic middle American style and pace. If they learn from Walt they should have more control of the development around the park. And work with known entities or well established ones that are compatible with their brand like Buc-ee's. A mid western theme park I think is a great idea. I hope this place gets built. Maybe some of the subcontractors will even have a HQ there.

[@rmdewberry2482]

Thanks for your all-sides, fair perspective and thoughts on something so interesting and potentially exciting!

[@TheScottSlater]

I would gladly travel to Oklahoma to visit a well-realized theme park! Especially knowing that it would benefit a local economy that really needs it.

[@Justin-gv8ob]

I think for the town this will be great and help transform it. I hope this turns out to be as good as it looks.

[@Live_Scott]

It’s odd they didn’t mention funding in the initial press release and had to be asked about it. Bicknell is loaded and is connected to a lot of money-there’s no doubt about that. There is no mention of how the funding is being distributed among the phases, ect. There is no way this park is going be the 10th most visited park that fast-maybe in a decade. The county has no information how they will handle the park infrastructure wise even though they knew about the project for 1.5 years already. The producer of the project was involved the fraudulent DreamVision project-probably not a big deal but worth noting. I will give merit on the land being purchased and the money appearing to be locked. Even then, a quote from the marketing VP alludes that MEG might not want to take on the full financial responsibility being quoted “At this time…there aren’t any investors”. It appears there are a lot of things that still need to be figured out.

[@MickeyViews]

I wonder how the company is prepared to weather the potential passing of their founder given he is in his 90's, and then there's also the problem of even if he makes it to the opening, how on Earth does it open on time in 2026, and where will additional money come from when this project likely ends up ballooning to $5-10B actual cost before completed.

[@Imzadi]

@@MickeyViewsI agree that 2026 is an ambitious timeline. Likely set by a quickly aging founder. Either way, Bicknell should be good for a balloon at least x4.

[@Iruntodrink]

​@@MickeyViewslike every other project that is announced here. It starts out as a under budgeted idea then starts to ask the state to pitch in 3 times the amount of the original budget. Then we find out it will get snuck in by rasing our taxes for another "MAPS project extension". We here the Hugh ideas and hype at least once a year. Heck we've had 5 of these different pipe dreams announced in the last 4 weeks. This was originally announced a few weeks ago as simply a new "Countries Largest" RV Park and Water Park. And here we are with a completely new direction!

[@scottwendt9575]

@@Iruntodrink Obviously, the plans and those models didn’t just materialize in the last few weeks. They were just keeping it under wraps. Actually, just using the RV Park as a cover to buy the land without causing corporate speculators like Blackrock from swooping in to drive up prices may have been the plan… 😉

[@scottwendt9575]

The comment about no investors is mute because they don’t need other investors when they are getting all the financing from Bicknell. Other sources breaks down the costs of different phases….

[@bb4burstbear]

13:57 Something to remember when it comes to icons, specifically in theme parks in this case, you do not directly need a stand alone structure or even any. Alton Towers, a very well known UK theme park home to rides such as The Smiler, has a large portion of its rides as its icons such as Oblivion and Nemesis though with the biggest one being the towers that the park was built around though does still house the entrance to a ride. And on a side note: Anything new that comes along with a new name is always difficult to remember at first however if this park succeeds then I am sure that while forgetful to all who learn it at the start, the name will eventually stick within their minds with the possible ride icons along side.

[@DewJohnson1]

I live nearby, the land is purchased, construction stakes are up, they are buying the old rock quarry that already is full of deep blue water, state is building a new highway (66), seems on track.

[@doglover094]

any updates?

[@apprentice_jedi]

@@doglover094I’ll let you know next time I’m up there. I live in southern Oklahoma

[@nobodyspecial-zy2wy]

I am intrigued! I will continue to follow the news of this theme park, and might visit when it first opens.

[@ducktails1695]

This will never get off the ground. Poor location, and I bet it will lack proper funding. I don't think $2 Billion will be enough to build a park like this and do it right. And no way in hell will it open in 2026. How is a park like this gonna operate properly in December when it's -10F with the windchill and 1ft of snow on the ground? There's a reason why Disney and Universal build and operate their parks in Florida and California.

[@frontierlandfrank5314]

Just close it and make it seasonal? They do that for Disney France.

[@jonnym4670]

yea the one in china cost 6 billion and that's a lot cheaper to build there than in America 1/3 wages zoning laws and construction material cost

[@Thazo79]

Heartland winter wonderland. Sounds dreamy walking around with hot chocolate in hand.

[@SubSonicGorilla]

Regionally there’s a park in Branson MO, Silver Dollar City, that has some of its highest attendance during the Christmas season. However I suspect they will close from Jan-Feb. open back up for spring break.

[@vytallicaq.6881]

The Branson, Bentonville, Fayetteville area has been growing rapidly. More and more residents and tourists. Big Cedar Lodge and Silver Dollar City have been drawing lots of development money and crowds. Lots of beautiful lakes and scenic vistas. This is just west of there. And with global warming, the winters are going to get milder going forward. While Florida gets unbearably hot. 🥵

[@randolphwilliams2365]

Thanks for covering this.

[@joelester7704]

I think that if, and I suppose that it is a big if, a big theme park was built in Oklahoma people from surrounding states would flock there. Yes it would compete directly with Branson, Missouri and all of the entertainment there. It is also relatively close to Six Flags over Texas which is really an amusement park rather than a theme park and it has no room for expansion. I could see it being a big hit. Will it change the small town to something unrecognizable? Yes, but it would provide jobs and opportunities for that part of the country. I hope that it does come into existence but I doubt the timeline.

[@felipesolares]

Your reporting and analysis are just spectacular. Keep up the great work

[@Hologram]

Regarding branding, it might be worth considering dropping the "American" part from the name. While I truly appreciate the ode to the American dream and spirit, "Heartland" by itself has incredible potential as a standalone name. It has a unique charm and can resonate with a broader audience, making it even more captivating!

[@itcamefromthe90s89]

Super excited about this idea! If it does indeed open its doors Ill definitely be there on opening day!

[@christopheheylen7180]

The two last lands remind me of two lands in Tokyo Disney Sea. The small cape cod village of the American Waterfront and Port Discovery. Really Really hopes this goes thru the blue sky fase. Looks amazing

[@mikefrost6646]

This looks awesome! That being said a theme park in Tornado Alley…😅

[@barbarahomrighaus6852]

Ever since we lost Astroworld in Houston, I've been wanting a new theme park. I realize I have to pass Six Flag Over Texas Arlington to get there, but I would definitely go. They'll have to build everything tornado resistant. I truly hope this works 🎉

[@tylerpontius9978]

I think the name fits perfectly and I love the name and am so excited if this gets built