Dollywood
Tennessee
Dollywood is a renowned theme park located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, near the Great Smoky Mountains. Co-owned by country music icon Dolly Parton and Herschend Family Entertainment, it attracts nearly 3 million visitors annually, making it Tennessee's largest ticketed attraction. The park offers a unique blend of amusement rides, traditional Appalachian crafts, authentic regional cuisine, and live musical performances that celebrate the Smoky Mountain heritage. Visitors can enjoy concerts featuring Dolly Parton and other national and local artists, alongside seasonal festivals and events. Dollywood also anchors a larger entertainment complex including a water park, resort, and dinner attraction, providing a comprehensive visitor experience. Its charming architecture and themed areas pay homage to the region's history and culture, making it both an exciting and culturally enriching destination.
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Tip: The best time to visit Dollywood is from mid-March through the Christmas holidays, when the park hosts various festivals and musical events. Purchasing season passes or stay & play packages in advance offers perks such as priority park access and complimentary transportation. Visitors should check the official website for current event schedules and consider visiting on weekdays or outside peak holiday periods for shorter lines. Discounts are available for groups, seniors, and children, and advance reservations are recommended during major festivals.
Interesting facts
- •Dollywood is Tennessee's largest ticketed tourist attraction, welcoming nearly 3 million guests each season.
- •The park is co-owned by Dolly Parton, who grew up near the Smoky Mountains and is actively involved in its promotion.
- •Dollywood has won the prestigious Liseberg Applause Award, recognizing excellence in the amusement park industry.
- •The park features authentic Appalachian crafts and hosts numerous concerts, including performances by Dolly Parton herself.
- •Dollywood’s complex includes a water park, resort and spa, and a dinner attraction, making it a comprehensive entertainment destination.
History
Dollywood began in 1961 as Rebel Railroad, a Civil War-themed park featuring a steam train and frontier attractions.
It was renamed Goldrush Junction in 1964, adopting a Wild West theme.
Ownership changed several times until 1977 when the Herschend family acquired it and named it Silver Dollar City Tennessee.
In 1986, Dolly Parton bought an interest and the park was rebranded as Dollywood, expanding significantly over the following decades.
It has since become a cultural landmark and major employer in the region, recognized internationally for its contributions to tourism and entertainment.
Place Guide
Rivertown Junction1986
This themed area recreates a historic mountain town featuring attractions like the Smoky Mountain River Rampage whitewater rafting ride and the Back Porch Theater. It includes Aunt Granny's Dixie Fixins' Restaurant and a replica of Dolly Parton's childhood cabin, offering immersive cultural experiences.
Dolly Parton’s Stampede Dinner Attraction
A separate 5-acre dinner theater attraction featuring live horse riding stunts, musical performances, and a four-course feast, celebrating Southern hospitality and entertainment.
Dollywood’s Splash Country
A 35-acre water park sister to Dollywood, offering water slides, wave pools, and family-friendly aquatic attractions, with special events like Neon Nights during summer.
DreamMore Resort and Spa
A 20-acre resort adjacent to Dollywood providing lodging, spa services, and exclusive guest privileges including priority park access and complimentary transportation.
Contact
Phone: (800) 365-5996
