Experience Dollywood: A Tribute to Dolly Parton

If you’ve been looking for a reason to make that pilgrimage to Dollywood ⁠— the Tennessee mecca of all things Dolly Parton ⁠— it’s time to start planning. The opening of a new rollercoaster and a special anniversary makes it the perfect time to celebrate all things Dolly Parton.

Overview of Dollywood

Located in the mountain town of Pigeon Forge, Dollywood started small in 1986. Since then, it has transformed the area into a major family recreation destination. At the heart of it all is Dollywood and its adjacent water park, Dolly’s Splash Country. The main park is a sprawling 160-acre property celebrating all things Dolly. Visitors can enjoy rustic-themed rides, live country and folk music, artisanal crafts, Dolly-style fashion, and mouthwatering food (the cinnamon bread is famous!). Additionally, you can explore a replica of Dolly’s childhood home and even visit a bald eagle rehabilitation area. A one-day ticket to the park is priced at $89; however, you might want to consider at least a two-day pass for $109 to experience everything the park has to offer.

New Attractions in Dollywood

This year is particularly special at Dollywood. During her annual appearance at the park’s opening day, Dolly Parton announced the opening of a new roller coaster: Big Bear Mountain. This ride is set to be the park’s longest, spanning nearly 4,000 feet in the Wildwood Grove section. Although the ride is now open to guests, Dolly herself humorously stated, “Y’all know as well as you know my name I won’t be riding that thing,” acknowledging her motion sickness.

Moreover, this year marks the 50th anniversary of Dolly Parton’s unforgettable ballad “I Will Always Love You.” Dolly also shared exciting news about the fall 2023 opening of a major new property, the Smokies-themed, 302-room HeartSong Lodge & Resort.

Outdoor Activities Near Dollywood

On your days off from the park, consider exploring Great Smoky Mountains National Park. One fantastic trail to check out is the Metcalf Bottoms Trail, which leads to an old schoolhouse and the Walker Cabin, where six “spinster” sisters chose not to sell their property when the area became a national park in the 1930s. This cabin was occupied until 1964 when Louisa, the last surviving sister, passed away.

Dining Options Near Dollywood

If you crave the full Dolly experience, you can’t miss Dolly Parton’s Stampede, a dinner theater featuring performances on horseback and aerial stunts, paired with a four-course meal. It’s far from your only option in this culinary subgenre. Nearby, you can also enjoy Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud, Biblical Times Dinner Theater, and Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show.

For a quieter dining experience, head to Sevierville, the town where Dolly attended high school. Here, you can indulge in lobster rolls and cornmeal-fried okra at Pinchy’s Lobster and Beer, a delightful spot combining New England-style seafood and Southern hospitality.

Drink Options Near Dollywood

Although Sevier County is technically dry, there’s a city option for liquor sales, much to the relief of frazzled parents and recovering roller-coaster riders year-round. Most major restaurants offer beer on tap, providing a casual drinking option. For a unique experience, visit Gatlinburg’s Fox & Parrot Tavern, located along the eight-mile loop of the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community, showcasing a variety of craftsman shops. The tavern features a pub menu along with traditional draft beers.

Finding a decent cocktail can be a bit of a challenge; however, you’ll be well served at Seasons 101, the upscale bistro located in Sevierville’s historic Central Hotel.

Accommodations Near Dollywood

The DreamMore Resort and Spa is your most Dolly-centric option, even featuring Dolly’s secret song, entitled “My Place in History.” This song is kept in a locked wooden box set to be opened on the singer’s 100th birthday. Furthermore, starting in June, the HeartSong Lodge & Resort will begin taking reservations for fall stays.

For a more rustic experience, there are numerous rental cabins available around Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. You can consider exploring options like Bear Cove Cabins or look for charming rentals on popular vacation sites, including options that feature hot tubs or entertaining amenities.