Heritage USA Map and Brochure (1986)
Centered around its 21-story Heritage Grand Hotel and the sparkling Lakeside amphitheater, Heritage USA once combined a resort, ministry, and amusement complex on an ambitious scale. The Heritage USA map guided guests through its winding pedestrian mall, waterslides, and replica Main Street—easy to lose track of under the Carolina sun. You’d spot dining halls, tram routes to the waterpark, and evening revival shows crowding the amphitheater steps.
- Location
- Fort Mill, South Carolina
- Years Active
- 1978 – 1989
Crowd pinch point? The bridge between the Main Street shops and the upper plaza—packed after services. For a time, it felt like EPCOT met Sunday service, only louder and flashier.
Heritage USA Map 1986
In 1986, Heritage USA reported record attendance, drawing 6.1 million visitors over the course of the year. This attendance figure surpassed that of Knott’s Berry Farm, making it one of the most visited theme parks in the United States at the time.
No other major operational, closure, or rebranding changes were documented for the park during this year.
FAQ
What happened to Heritage USA?
Heritage USA closed in 1989 after the PTL ministry bankruptcy and a series of scandals involving its founder Jim Bakker. Flood damage and legal battles halted redevelopment, leaving much of the site abandoned or repurposed for churches and housing. Some original structures, such as the hotel and chapel, remain in adapted use while large portions of the property have been sold off.
Is Heritage USA considered a religious theme park?
Heritage USA is considered a religious theme park. The park was founded by televangelist Jim Bakker and featured Christian-themed attractions, church services, and facilities designed to promote biblical values. Its entire concept and operation centered on offering entertainment within a Christian context.
Where is the Heritage USA Park?
Heritage USA Park was located in Fort Mill, South Carolina, just south of Charlotte near the state line with North Carolina. The park’s grounds were primarily accessed via Heritage Boulevard in the Fort Mill area. Some remaining landmarks now occupy this site, including the Heritage Grand Hotel and Upper Room Chapel.
What is at Heritage USA now?
The Heritage USA property now contains housing developments, commercial buildings, the abandoned 21-story hotel tower, and the Heritage Grand Hotel, which is used as a conference center and church. The former theme park’s chapel, now called Upper Room Chapel, is open for prayer and worship, while other original park structures have either decayed or been repurposed. Portions of the land have been sold to various companies and MorningStar Fellowship Church owns a section with redevelopment plans subject to legal agreements.
