Gaylord Opryland’s “SoundWaves” is not just a waterpark, but a representation of Nashville Culture. From riding boats to ice skating, the four star hotel is known for its wide variety of activities for all ages. One of the main attractions is the indoor and outdoor waterpark, SoundWaves. The 111,000 square foot building includes slide towers, rapid and lazy rivers, activity pools for children and adults, restaurants, private cabana rentals, etcetera.
Many may see SoundWaves as a place to enjoy themselves. However, there is a big cultural tie to it, all starting with the name, which refers to Nashville’s diverse music scene. When the building process began in 2017, SoundWaves paid an intensive amount of detail to make visitors feel as if they were in the heart of Music City. For instance, the building is shaped like a guitar, forcing architects to plan the shape of pools and trajectories of slides. The park also has logos related to music in restaurants and the arcade.
“My job is not what I would call a job. It’s something that I love to do. … whenever a parent or guidance counselor has told you, ‘Oh, pick something fun, you’ll never work a day in your life,’ I did,” General Manager Donny Wensinger said.
Designed by BLUR Workshop and Ryman Hospitality Properties, the project took a total of 18 months, having an indoor grand opening in late 2018 and an outdoor opening in mid-2019 due to different seasons. Not only does the park resemble Nashville’s diverse music environment, but also highlights the broader culture of hospitality that every place aims to achieve. Since the management of Wesinger, employees have complemented a smooth experience with also putting smiles on peoples faces.
“The managers here are the nicest I’ve ever had since working… It’s very comfortable. It’s very flexible with hours and a very accommodating place. It’s kids, so you just see nice kids… It’s good to put a smile on someone’s face. It’s calm, it’s fun, and you’re helping people have a good day,” Front Desk Agent Reanna Myles said.
It is clear to say that SoundWaves does not just cover Nashville’s music and fun, but it’s hospitality and kindness. Another way the park does this is by limiting the amount of people in the park at a time. Out of the 2,888 rooms at the hotel, only a small percentage of guests are allowed to enter at once. Even though the 90 million dollar facility has lots of space, a way it differs from other action parks is that there are less lines and is meant for everyone. Featuring two kid sections, arcade, adult pool, and thrill seeking slides, SoundWaves can make anyone have to enjoy themselves.
By blending Resort Luxury and Music City Personality, the park creates an experience that is both authentic Nashville and a place with low stress due to fewer people. This makes lives for guests and employees much more enjoyable.
“I’ve been working here for a little over a year and a half. What makes this place so special though is the people that I have met. There are some people that don’t even work anymore, but just have friendships that I’ve acquired. The managers are great, the people I work with are great … the people that I’m with are what makes this a better place, and just a great place to work,” Supervisor and Lifeguard Amara Rey said.
