Honor Dolly Parton’s Legacy Throughout Tennessee
Ask any Tennessean the name of their patron saint, and they will all give the same answer: Dolly Parton, Queen of Glitz and Goodwill. While she is revered worldwide for her genius songwriting and musical talent, she holds a special place in locals’ hearts due to her lifelong dedication to supporting education and healthcare in the Volunteer State. Moreover, Parton is more than a celebrity to us; she’s a beacon of creativity, community, and hope.
A trip to Tennessee wouldn’t be complete without a few stops that pay homage to this one-of-a-kind artist who has inspired so many. Here’s a curated list of the best places to honor Parton’s rhinestone-spangled legacy.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Parton hails from Sevierville, a small town in the foothills outside of the Great Smoky Mountains, and this setting strongly influenced her life and work. Experience the magic of the Appalachian ecosystem as Parton did with a visit to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, an expanse of 800 square miles of protected forests that blanket the country’s oldest mountain range.
- Hikers can explore over 850 miles of trails, including 70 miles of the renowned Appalachian Trail.
- Wildlife lovers may encounter black bears, bald eagles, and even the endangered hellbender salamander.
Dollywood, Pigeon Forge
Located just up the road from the Smokies in Pigeon Forge, Dollywood is a must-visit spot for any fan. The Appalachian-themed park features adrenaline-inducing rides and its own waterpark, perfect for energetic families. Additionally, culturally significant elements include:
- A replica of Dolly’s childhood home that inspired her hit “My Tennessee Mountain Home.”
- The Chasing Rainbows Museum, showcasing Parton’s iridescent gowns, platinum records, and memorabilia.
Country Music Hall of Fame, Nashville
The day after she graduated high school in 1964, Parton packed her bags and moved to Nashville to pursue her country music dreams. To learn more about her trajectory to fame and her impact on the country and pop music genres, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame. The museum also serves as a live music venue, hosting various performances including songwriter sessions and artist showcases.
Historic RCA Studio B, Nashville
RCA Studio B is considered one of the most significant music studios in Nashville, where some of the biggest artists recorded their hits. Parton recorded classics like “I Will Always Love You” and “Jolene” here. Visitors can experience an essential piece of Nashville music history firsthand.
Grand Ole Opry, Nashville
The Grand Ole Opry has been foundational to Nashville’s music scene, with Parton making her debut at just 13 years old. The venue continues to host live performances and celebrates the legacy of numerous country stars, making it a worthwhile stop for music lovers.
The Ryman
No visit to Nashville would be complete without experiencing the Ryman Auditorium, known as the “Mother Church of Country Music.” The Ryman has hosted countless stars throughout its history, and Parton’s performances here have been iconic.
White Limozeen
An architectural ode to Parton, this rooftop bar located on top of the Graduate Hotel is a colorful and whimsical representation of her style. Enjoy poolside cocktails surrounded by vibrant decor before capturing a memorable selfie with the Dolly sculpture.
Dolly Parton Murals
Parton’s signature style has inspired numerous artistic dedications. Tennessee is home to spectacular street art capturing her essence, inviting visitors to appreciate her impact on culture.
Knoxville
Knoxville, located near Parton’s hometown, features its own tributes. Stop by Central Filling Station for a unique portrait of her created from recycled materials, or admire the fresh mural by local artists in Market Square Alley.
