Storyland Studios, a global experience design and strategy firm with offices and staff across the US and Europe, alongside Darren Sloniger, master developer and managing director of Libertyland USA LLC and former CEO of Marquette Companies, has announced that it is seeking attraction, retail, dining and entertainment developers and operators as part of phase one development of LIBERTYLAND.
Storyland unveiled the family Retail, Dining & Entertainment District (RDE) located near Mount Rushmore and Rapid City, South Dakota, during IAAPA Expo 2023 in Orlando.
“We’re building a destination where you can live the dream of not only visiting an immersive environment, but living in it,” says Mel McGowan, chief creative officer at Storyland Studios. “LIBERTYLAND USA will integrate everything from suites and campgrounds to residential lodging, all within a themed district that doesn’t require an admission ticket.”
Live, work, and play
A major year-round attraction will be located in the heart of LIBERTYLAND’s RDE district. This indoor ride experience is being developed in collaboration with Storyland and the renowned attraction developer Dynamic Attractions, with whom the company is in advanced discussions.
Dynamic Attractions created the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride at Universal Parks & Resorts in Orlando, Florida; Universal Studios Hollywood, California; Universal Studios Beijing; and Universal Studios Japan. It also developed The Island’s SkyFly: Soar America in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, and Futuroscope’s Tornado Chasers in Chasseneuil-du-Poitou, France, among others.
Libertyland USA LLC invites proposals from qualified developers and operators who consider their services suitable for this market. An incentive package awaits potential partners.
LIBERTYLAND USA’s residential, retail, dining, and entertainment sectors will feature immersive themed environments designed for both residents and guests to live, work, and play. This area will offer convenient access to hospitality, dining, shopping, and entertainment options, enhancing its appeal to a wide range of tourists.
“We’re bringing a new entertainment and real estate typology to life,” McGowan says. “The model follows places that have grown organically over time, such as Knott’s Berry Farm, Dollywood and Silver Dollar City.”
LIBERTYLAND USA’s residential phase resembles developments like “Storyliving by Disney.” However, its key distinction lies in the inclusion of a world-class regional theme park, which is currently under development. The project draws inspiration from places like Downtown Disney, Disney Springs, and Universal City Walk. McGowan also references locations such as The Island in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, as sources of inspiration.
A new destination for South Dakota’s 14.9 million annual visitors
LIBERTYLAND merges the experimental spirit of Walt Disney’s original Epcot concept with an immersive themed attraction. It’s situated within a walkable district—the largest master plan of its kind in South Dakota’s history, according to McGowan. The community features five themed zones: Black Hills, Liberty Landing, Dakota Territory, Freedom Fair, and Victory Field.
The Black Hills area stretches from Mount Rushmore to Rapid City and is rich in American heritage. Each year, visitors flock to national parks such as Grand Teton, the Rocky Mountains, and Yellowstone. South Dakota attracts 14.9 million visitors annually, with 4.6 million opting to visit a national park located just a short drive from the planned LIBERTYLAND USA site, as reported by South Dakota Searchlight, part of States Newsroom, the largest nonprofit news organisation focusing on state issues in the country.
LIBERTYLAND will be near popular attractions, including Badlands National Park, Black Hills National Forest, Crazy Horse, Devil’s Tower, Mount Rushmore, and more.
“We’re thrilled with the progress our development partners are making to identify development, hospitality and entertainment partners to bring this vision to fruition,” says Ben Thompson, chief strategy officer at Storyland Studios. “The entertainment anchor we’re working hard on for the heart of LIBERTYLAND’s RDE district is just the first step in a much larger plan for entertainment in this development.”
The planned theme park is still in the development phase.
“We remain passionate and confident about the possibility of bringing the full LIBERTYLAND theme park to Rapid City in the near future,” Thompson says.
“LIBERTYLAND USA is all about finding common ground by aiming for higher ground,” McGowan adds. “It’s about finding the things we have to celebrate, rather than the things that divide us. We’re excited to give Americans and people from around the world a place to celebrate the American dream.”
Libertyland USA LLC welcomes proposals from skilled entertainment developers and operators whose projects resonate with the market surrounding Mount Rushmore. Contact enquiries@storylandstudios.com to express interest and obtain further details about available incentives.
Last year, Storyland Studio also revealed plans to create the biggest sports entertainment destination in the US. Located on over 800 acres in Pasco County, Florida, this development is set to welcome thousands of fans, teams, and families as they celebrate, compete, and create unforgettable memories. The project, dubbed “Trinity”, will be designed and themed by Storyland Studios.
