
Dollywood is one of the most popular theme parks in the United States, attracting millions of visitors every year. Founded by country music legend Dolly Parton, the park offers a unique blend of thrilling rides, live shows, and Southern charm. In this blog post, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your Dollywood experience.
History and Overview of Dollywood
Dollywood is one of the most popular theme parks in the United States, attracting millions of visitors every year. But how did it all begin? The story of Dollywood begins with country music legend Dolly Parton.
The Origins of Dollywood
Dolly Parton, born and raised in the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, had a dream of creating a place that would celebrate the music, culture, and natural beauty of the region. In 1985, she partnered with Herschend Family Entertainment, a theme park company known for its focus on family values, to bring her vision to life.
The park, originally named Silver Dollar City, was transformed into Dollywood in 1986. Parton’s involvement in the park was significant from the beginning, with her image and music woven throughout the park’s attractions and entertainment offerings.
Dollywood Today
Over the years, Dollywood has grown and evolved, becoming a beloved destination for families and thrill-seekers alike. The park is located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Dollywood features 12 themed areas with a variety of rides and attractions. From roller coasters like Lightning Rod and Wild Eagle to water rides like the Smoky Mountain River Rampage, there’s something for everyone. The park also hosts live shows, including the Dreamland Drive-In and Festival of Nations.
One of the reasons for Dollywood’s enduring popularity is its emphasis on Southern charm. The park features architecture and design elements inspired by the region, and many of the attractions and shows celebrate the music and culture of the South.
Dollywood is also committed to sustainability and the environment. The park has implemented numerous initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint, including a program to recycle cooking oil into biodiesel fuel.
Dollywood’s Impact on the Local Community
Dollywood is not only a popular tourist destination, but it also has a significant impact on the local community. The park employs over 4,000 people, making it one of the largest employers in the region.
In addition to job creation, Dollywood has also been a major force in economic development. The park has spurred the growth of businesses in the surrounding area, including hotels, restaurants, and retail shops. This has helped to create a thriving tourism industry in the region.
Dollywood is also committed to philanthropy and giving back to the community. The Dollywood Foundation, founded by Dolly Parton, has several programs that support education and literacy in the region. One of the most well-known programs is the Imagination Library, which provides free books to children from birth to age five.
Planning Your Visit to Dollywood
Dollywood is one of the most popular theme parks in the United States, and it’s easy to see why. With a variety of rides, attractions, and live entertainment, there’s something for everyone. But with so much to see and do, it’s important to plan your visit ahead of time. Here are some tips and tricks for making the most of your time at Dollywood.
1. Choosing the Right Time to Visit
The first step in planning your visit to Dollywood is choosing the right time to go. The park is open from late March through early January, with extended hours during the summer and holidays.
If you’re looking to avoid crowds, consider visiting on a weekday outside of peak season. The park is typically less crowded during the spring and fall months.
2. Buying Tickets and Passes
There are a variety of ticket and pass options available for Dollywood. If you’re only planning to visit for one day, a single-day ticket is the way to go. However, if you plan on visiting multiple times throughout the year, a season pass may be a better value.
Dollywood also offers a variety of add-ons, such as the TimeSaver pass, which allows you to skip the lines on select rides and attractions.
3. Planning Your Itinerary
With so much to see and do, it’s important to plan your itinerary ahead of time. Dollywood’s website has a helpful tool called “My Trip Planner,” which allows you to create a personalized itinerary based on your interests.
Be sure to check the park’s show schedule ahead of time, as many of the live entertainment offerings are only available at certain times throughout the day.
4. Navigating the Park
Dollywood is a large park, so it’s important to have a plan for navigating the various areas. The park is divided into 12 themed areas, each with its own unique attractions and rides.
Consider starting at the back of the park and working your way forward to avoid crowds. The park also offers a variety of transportation options, including a tram and a steam train.
5. Dining Options
Dollywood offers a variety of dining options, from quick service restaurants to sit-down meals. Consider purchasing a dining plan if you plan on eating multiple meals in the park.
If you have dietary restrictions, Dollywood also offers a variety of options for guests with allergies or special diets.
6. Staying Nearby
If you’re planning on spending multiple days at Dollywood, consider staying nearby. There are a variety of hotels and resorts in the area, many of which offer shuttle service to the park.
Staying nearby also allows you to explore the other attractions in the area, such as the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Top Attractions at Dollywood
Dollywood is home to a wide variety of rides, shows, and attractions, making it one of the most popular theme parks in the United States. With so much to see and do, it’s important to know which attractions are not to be missed. Here are the top attractions at Dollywood that are sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
1. Roller Coasters
Dollywood is known for its thrilling roller coasters, and there are several that should be at the top of your list. Here are a few not to be missed:
- Lightning Rod: The world’s fastest wooden coaster, Lightning Rod reaches speeds of up to 73 miles per hour and features a 165-foot drop.
- Wild Eagle: The first winged coaster in the United States, Wild Eagle provides riders with a unique flying sensation as they soar through the air at speeds of up to 61 miles per hour.
- Mystery Mine: This indoor coaster takes riders through a haunted mine shaft, featuring sudden drops and unexpected surprises.
2. Shows
Dollywood is also known for its live entertainment, with a variety of shows throughout the park. Here are a few not to be missed:
- Dreamland Drive-In: This musical show takes you back in time to the 1950s, featuring classic hits from the era.
- My People: This show celebrates the heritage and culture of the Appalachian region through music and storytelling.
- Sha-Kon-O-Hey!: This Native American show tells the story of the Cherokee people through dance and music.
3. Water Rides
If you’re visiting Dollywood during the hot summer months, be sure to check out the water rides. Here are a few of the most popular:
- River Rampage: This rafting adventure takes you through rapids and waterfalls, providing a thrilling and refreshing experience.
- Daredevil Falls: This log flume ride features a 60-foot drop, providing a thrilling splash at the end.
- Tennessee Tornado: This coaster includes a water element, taking riders through a splashdown finale.
4. Kiddie Rides
Dollywood also has a variety of rides for the little ones. Here are a few of the most popular:
- Lucky Ducky: This classic kiddie ride features rubber ducks that spin around a pond.
- Busy Bees: This spinning ride takes children on a journey through a garden, featuring buzzing bees and colorful flowers.
- Wonder Wheel: This miniature Ferris wheel provides a great view of the park for the little ones.
Dining and Shopping at Dollywood
Dollywood is not just a theme park – it’s also a shopping and dining destination. With a variety of options for both, visitors can enjoy a delicious meal or find the perfect souvenir to take home. Here’s a guide to the best dining and shopping at Dollywood.
Dining
Dollywood has a wide variety of dining options, from quick snacks to sit-down meals. Here are a few not to be missed:
- Spotlight Bakery: This bakery features delicious treats such as cinnamon bread, apple fritters, and funnel cakes.
- Hickory House BBQ: This quick-service restaurant offers delicious barbecue plates, sandwiches, and sides.
- Lumberjack’s Pizza: This pizza joint serves up delicious pies, with options for toppings and crusts.
- Front Porch Cafe: This sit-down restaurant offers a variety of Southern favorites, including fried chicken, catfish, and mashed potatoes.
Shopping
Dollywood also has a wide variety of shops, offering everything from clothing to souvenirs. Here are a few not to be missed:
- Mountain Laurel Home: This shop offers beautiful home decor items, including candles, pillows, and wall art.
- Craftsman’s Valley: This area of the park features artisan shops where you can watch craftsmen at work and purchase their handmade items, such as pottery, woodcarvings, and jewelry.
- Rivertown Trading Post: This shop offers a variety of souvenirs, including Dollywood-branded items, toys, and candy.
Festivals
Dollywood also hosts several festivals throughout the year, offering even more dining and shopping options. Here are a few of the most popular:
- Flower & Food Festival: This spring festival features a variety of topiaries, floral displays, and food booths serving up delicious snacks and meals.
- Harvest Festival: This fall festival features crafts and artisan booths, as well as special food items such as pumpkin funnel cakes and apple cider.
- Smoky Mountain Christmas: This winter festival features millions of twinkling lights, as well as special shows and holiday treats.
Additional Tips and Tricks for Visiting Dollywood
Visiting Dollywood can be an exciting and memorable experience, but it can also be overwhelming. Here are some additional tips and tricks to help make your trip to Dollywood even better:
Plan Ahead
Dollywood can get crowded, especially during peak season, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead to make the most of your visit. Here are a few tips:
- Buy Tickets in Advance: This can save you time and money, as well as guarantee your entry to the park.
- Check the Schedule: Be sure to check the park schedule ahead of time to plan your day accordingly and avoid any surprises.
- Download the App: The Dollywood app can help you navigate the park, find showtimes, and more.
Beat the Crowds
Dollywood can get busy, but there are ways to avoid the crowds and enjoy shorter wait times. Here are a few tips:
- Arrive Early: The park tends to be less crowded in the morning, so arriving early can help you beat the crowds.
- Take Advantage of Time-Saving Options: Dollywood offers several time-saving options, such as FastPasses and TimeSaver Passes, that can help you avoid long lines.
- Visit on a Weekday: Weekdays tend to be less busy than weekends, so consider visiting during the week if possible.
Stay Comfortable
A day at Dollywood can be tiring, but there are ways to stay comfortable throughout the day. Here are a few tips:
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes that can handle the terrain.
- Bring a Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is important, especially on hot days, so bring a refillable water bottle to save money and stay cool.
- Take Breaks: Dollywood has plenty of seating areas and shaded spots to take a break and rest your feet.
We hope this guide has been helpful in planning your visit to Dollywood. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned pro, there’s always something new to discover at the park. Remember to plan ahead, beat the crowds, and stay comfortable throughout the day to ensure a memorable experience. And most importantly, have fun! Dollywood is a place for families and friends to make lasting memories and have a great time together. So get out there and enjoy all that Dollywood has to offer!
READ MORE HERE: Dollywood – Plan Your Visit