(0)
Wanting to share her Appalachian roots with the world, Dolly Parton opened Dollywood Theme Park in 1986 in beautiful Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Featuring live music, epic roller coasters, kiddie rides, carnival games and prizes, Appalachian crafts, cookies bigger than your face, and oh-so-much more, memorable moments await.
Themed after various aspects of Dolly’s life, keep your eyes peeled for all the sweet details of her past and persona throughout this award-winning park. Get ready for 50+ world-class rides, a multiplicity of shows, 5 huge festivals during the year, and endless smiles only minutes from the main strip of the Parkway.
On top of everything, the park offers convenient guest services to make your visit simpler and more enjoyable. And you can stay at a cozy cabin close to Dollywood for added ease and fun. From the food, shops, and coasters to the exciting events and special sections at the park, Dollywood is Southern charm and a memorable Smoky Mountain experience at its best!
Explore a Fun Variety of Dollywood Rides & Attractions
Dollywood's charm lies in its themed areas, each offering a unique blend of must-see attractions, live entertainment, and Southern hospitality. With over 50 rides and activities spread across 165 acres, the amusement park caters to thrill-seekers, families with young children, and fans of Dolly Parton alike.
From best guest experiences to most beautiful park, Dollywood has taken home a record-breaking number of Golden Ticket Awards over the years, the theme park industry’s top-tier honors. And it all starts here! The park's blend of exhilarating rides, engaging attractions, and rich cultural nods makes it a must-visit destination in the Smokies.
The Dolly Parton Experience
Immerse yourself in Dolly's world through interactive exhibits.
- Dolly’s Home on Wheels — Step inside her actual tour bus.
- Dreamsong Theater — Enjoy performances celebrating her music.
- Precious Memories — Explore personal artifacts and stories.
- Songteller — Discover the inspirations behind her hits.
- Behind the Seams — Get a glimpse of her iconic wardrobe.
Jukebox Junction
Step back into the 1950s and enjoy high-speed thrills and vintage charm.
- Lightning Rod — Launch on the world’s fastest wooden coaster.
- Pines Theater — Enjoy toe-tapping live performances.
- Rockin’ Roadway — Cruise through a retro route in a classic car.
See what it’s like to be lightning!
Rivertown Junction
Embrace Appalachian charm, splashy adventures, and a few of Dolly’s roots in this riverside area.
- Backporch Theater — Tap along to live Appalachian music and performances.
- Dolly’s Tennessee Mountain Home — Peek into a replica of her childhood home.
- Smoky Mountain River Rampage — Cool off on this wild whitewater rafting ride.
Country Fair
Step into a whimsical carnival packed with kiddie rides, bright colors, and nostalgic charm.
- Busy Bees — Spin around the hive on this gentle ride for small children.
- Country Fair Splash & Play — Cool off at this fun splash pad with water features.
- Demolition Derby — Bump and laugh in classic bumper cars.
- Lemon Twist — Twirl in giant spinning teacups.
- Lucky Ducky — Ride around in adorable duck-themed cars.
- Piggy Parade — Bounce along in colorful pig-shaped vehicles.
- Shooting Star — Drop and giggle on this kid-sized thrill ride.
- Sky Rider — Soar high on this rotating ride with elevated views.
- The Amazing Flying Elephants — Glide and rise aboard elephant-themed flyers.
- The Scrambler — Whirl around in classic carnival style.
- The Waltzing Swinger — Swing through the air in vintage-style seats.
The Village
Find classic rides and delightful experiences surrounded by vintage village charm.
- Dollywood Express Train Depot — Ride a real coal-fired steam engine.
- Imagination Playhouse — Catch live performances of classic children’s tales.
- Village Carousel — Take a spin on a beautifully detailed, old-fashioned carousel.
Owens Farm
Discover a playful slice of farm life with barnyard fun and sky-high thrills.
- Barnstormer — Soar high and swing through the air on a giant pendulum ride.
- Granny’s Garden — Let the little ones explore and play among oversized veggies.
- Lil’ Pilots Playground — Imagine and explore this aviation-themed play area.
Craftsman’s Valley
Experience the heart of Dollywood with thrilling coasters, artisan heritage, and mountain culture.
- Blazing Fury — Journey through fire and folklore on this indoor roller coaster.
- Calico Falls Schoolhouse — Step inside a quaint schoolhouse from the past.
- Daredevil Falls — Plunge down a 60-foot waterfall in a thrilling logging adventure.
- Eagle Mountain Sanctuary — Marvel at rescued bald eagles in a natural aviary. Check out the Dollywood Eagle Nest Cams for a sneak peek!
- Robert F. Thomas Chapel — Reflect in a peaceful chapel with Sunday services.
- Tennessee Tornado — Twist on 3 loops and 70-mph turns on this steel coaster.
- Valley Theater — Catch entertaining shows celebrating Southern spirit.
- Wings of America Theater — Watch majestic birds of prey take flight.
Wilderness Pass
Unleash your inner adventurer with record-breaking coasters and interactive fun for all ages.
- FireChaser Express — Ride the nation's first dual-launch family coaster!
- Firehouse Fun Yard — Let kids explore themed play zones with firefighting flair.
- Wild Eagle — Soar like a bird on America’s first wing coaster, with mountain vistas.
Get an eagle-eye view of Dollywood!
Wildwood Grove
Step into a whimsical woodland filled with interactive play, gentle rides, and imagination.
- Big Bear Mountain — Race through the Smokies on Dollywood’s longest coaster.
- Black Bear Trail — Ride friendly bear cubs on a gentle outdoor track.
- Dragonflier — Glide through the air on a thrilling suspended coaster.
- Frogs & Fireflies — Hop aboard for a nighttime critter adventure.
- Great Tree Swing — Sway through the sky on a giant leaf-shaped swing.
- Hidden Hollow — Climb and crawl through an indoor forest-themed playground.
- The Mad Mockingbird — Spin and swoop with a feathered friend’s wild flight.
- The Wildwood Tree — Watch magical shows light up this glowing centerpiece.
- Treetop Tower — Rise and rotate among the treetops in acorn-shaped gondolas.
- Wildwood Creek — Splash around with interactive fountains and musical fun.
Timber Canyon
Channel your inner adventurer in this rugged, mountainous section packed with thrill rides and logging camp vibes.
- Drop Line — Plunge from 20 stories high with sweeping mountain views.
- Lumberjack Lifts — Hoist yourself to the top using good old-fashioned grit.
- Lumberjack Jam Band — Catch toe-tapping tunes with a backwoods beat.
- Mystery Mine — Zoom through an eerie mine and plummet 85 feet at 95 degrees!
- Thunderhead — Brave this wild, wooden coaster with a 100-foot drop at 55 mph.
- Whistle Punk Chaser — Let younger thrill-seekers tackle their first coaster ride.
Showstreet
Kick off or wrap up your Dollywood day with live entertainment and a warm Southern welcome.
- Celebrity Theater — Watch Broadway-style shows and seasonal spectacles.
- Market Square Stage — Enjoy local acts, live music, and open-air performances.
- Showstreet Gazebo — Relax with delightful entertainment in an outdoor setting.
- Showstreet Palace Theater — Take in larger productions with impressive sets.
Ooh & Aah with Live Entertainment: Music, Memories & More
Dollywood’s entertainment lineup is a vibrant celebration of Appalachian heritage, Dolly Parton’s legacy, and the joy of live performance. From toe-tapping tunes to awe-inspiring bird shows, there's something for every guest to enjoy.
Year-Round Performances
At Dollywood, the music never stops — and neither do the memories. The park offers a wide range of live entertainment options year-round, each one bringing something unique to the stage.
Guests can enjoy classic Appalachian music from groups like the Smoky Mountain String Band, The Kingdom Heirs, and Wild Roots Band or settle in for polished productions that showcase Dolly Parton's own story, such as From the Heart or Heidi Parton’s Kin & Friends — performed by Dolly’s niece.
For something a little different, shows like A Cappella Fusion put a modern spin on classic hits using only voice, while Wings of America: Birds of Prey offers a rare opportunity to see majestic raptors up close.
Whether it's music, storytelling, or wildlife encounters, there’s always something fresh and engaging to discover.
Seasonal Productions
Dollywood also shines when the seasons change, offering special performances and experiences that elevate your visit.
In the summer, dazzling fireworks and drone displays light up the night sky. Come fall, the park transforms into a celebration of harvest and harmony with hundreds of Southern gospel, bluegrass, and Americana performances during the Harvest Festival.
Winter brings cozy charm to the Smokies with magical moments like Snow in the Grove, where dazzling lights, whimsical characters, and a glowing Wildwood Tree set the scene. Beloved holiday stage shows like Appalachian Christmas and Christmas in the Smokies make it easy to embrace the spirit of the season.
Each event adds a unique rhythm to the park, making every visit feel like a new adventure.
Enjoy Unique Experiences: Seasonal Events for the Whole Family
Dollywood isn't just a theme park — it's a celebration of Appalachian culture, family fun, and seasonal magic all year long. From springtime blooms and summer nights to glowing jack-o-lanterns and holiday lights, Dollywood’s calendar is packed with signature festivals and events.
These unforgettable experiences add a fresh layer of excitement every time you visit. Adding to the fun is their special 40th anniversary celebration in 2025!
I Will Always Love You Music Festival
Held from mid-March through mid-April, this music-focused event celebrates the art of songwriting and Dolly Parton’s iconic contributions to the industry. Enjoy a cross-genre blend of live performances, exclusive eats, and experience the park’s musical roots in a Dolly Parton sing-along.
Flower & Food Festival
Spring blooms in full color from mid-April to early June with half a million fresh flowers and towering Mosaiculture sculptures. Stroll beneath the iconic umbrella sky, snap vibrant photos, and indulge in seasonal culinary creations that spotlight Southern flavors.
Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration
Running from mid-June through early August, summer at Dollywood brings extended hours and endless fun. Expect exciting nighttime shows like a dazzling drone and fireworks display, the mesmerizing Gazillion Bubble Show, and the action-packed Stunt Dog Experience from Chris Perondi.
Go behind the scenes of Sweet Summer Nights.
Harvest Festival
As autumn settles into the Smokies, the park lights up with the sights and sounds of the Harvest Festival. From late September through October, explore Candy Corn Country in the reimagined Country Fair and marvel at Great Pumpkin LumiNights — featuring more than 12,000 intricately carved jack-o-lanterns.
Smoky Mountain Christmas
From early November through early January, the park transforms into a winter wonderland for the award-winning Smoky Mountain Christmas at Dollywood. Wrap up the year with festive cheer, heartwarming holiday shows, sparkling lights, Christmas treats, and classic traditions — including photos with Santa himself!
Savor Southern Flavors: Restaurants, Cafes & Desserts
When you need to refuel between rides and scenic strolls through the park, you’ll have a flavorful mix of sit-down restaurants, quick-service cafes, and seasonal food booths. Whether you're craving Southern comfort food or sweet treats, there's something delicious around every corner.
From hearty meals to creative snacks and over-the-top desserts, Dollywood is as much a food destination as it is a theme park!
Top 11 Eateries
Savor Southern staples like fried chicken, pulled pork, cornbread, and mac-and-cheese. For something fast and filling, grab burgers, wraps, or barbecue at casual eateries.
- Aunt Granny’s Restaurant
- Front Porch Café
- Grandstand Cafe
- Granny Ogle’s Ham ‘n’ Beans
- Hickory House BBQ
- Lumber Jack’s Pizza
- Market Square Big Skillet
- Miss Lillian’s Mill House
- Red’s Drive-in
- Till & Harvest Food Hall
- Wilderness Pass Restaurant
Top 7 Treateries
Bite into massive cookies, gooey cinnamon bread, hand-dipped ice cream, and a slice of their famous 25-pound apple pie! Chocolate lovers will love fudge, truffles, mousse, and more.
- Blue Ribbon Cones
- Cinnamon Bread at The Grist Mill
- Country Cookers – Kettle Korn
- Crossroads Funnel Cakes
- Showstreet Candy Kitchen
- Spotlight Bakery
- Sweets & Treats
Shop for Treasures & Traditions: Stores & Appalachian Crafts
Between coasters and shows, Dollywood in Pigeon Forge offers a rich shopping experience filled with Great Smoky Mountain charm. From handmade goods to quirky souvenirs, every shop is another chance to bring a piece of the park home.
Souvenirs Galore
Browse a wide array of shops offering Dollywood gear, ride-themed merchandise, local foods, home goods, and mountain-style clothing. Fun extras include airbrushed T-shirts, old-time photo studios, and a wide selection of Dolly-inspired gifts.
Package Pickup: Use this complimentary service to send purchases over $25 to the Dollywood Emporium at the front gate for easy pickup on your way out. Keep in mind this service ends 2 hours before closing.
Handmade Mementos
Step into the world of Appalachian craftsmanship as you watch artisans create hand-forged steel tools, hand-dipped candles, pottery, carved wood art, and more. Explore the historic Grist Mill, where cornmeal is still ground fresh, and witness a blacksmith forge a hammer!
Make-Your-Own Craft Experiences: Take part in hands-on experiences like blowing glass, forging a knife, or crafting your own leather bracelet or belt — each piece a lasting reminder of your day in the Smokies.
Take a stroll through Craftsman’s Valley.
Enhance Your Day at Dollywood with Guided Tours
Want to make your visit to Dollywood even more memorable? Book a guided tour to enjoy exclusive perks like front-of-the-line access, reserved seating at shows, and insider details you won’t get anywhere else.
Whether you’re diving into Dolly’s personal history or joining a seasonal experience, these tours add an extra layer of fun and convenience to your day.
Dolly Parton Experience Tour
Step into the life and legacy of a music icon with the Dolly Parton Experience Tour — a must for Dolly fans and anyone curious about her inspiring journey. This guided group tour gives you a deeper look at Dolly’s story, from her Great Smoky Mountain roots to worldwide fame, through personal artifacts and immersive exhibits.
Perks of the tour include:
- Front-of-the-line access to The Dolly Parton Experience exhibits
- One-hour guided walk through Dolly’s life, career & memorabilia
- Reserved seating at a featured live music performance
- Souvenir lanyard to commemorate your experience
Seasonal Tours
Make your visit to Dollywood even more special with a seasonal guided tour — available during select festivals throughout the year. These limited-time experiences add extra magic to your day with exclusive perks and insider access tailored to each unique celebration.
Seasonal tour highlights include:
- Front-of-the-line ride access for select attractions
- Reserved seating for popular seasonal shows & performances
- Limited-time treats or small gifts themed to the festival
- Knowledgeable guide sharing behind-the-scenes insights & tips
VIP Tour
If you’re going to be at Dollywood for a special occasion, like a honeymoon, anniversary, or birthday, or you just want to add something extra special to your day, book the Dollywood VIP Tour. It’s all the fun of Dollywood — plus more!
The VIP Tour requires a minimum of 2 guests, begins when the park opens, and includes:
- Dedicated personal tour guide for the whole day
- Complimentary preferred parking near the entrance
- Front-of-the-line access to all rides & attractions
- Exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences (where available)
- Reserved seating at select live shows and performances
- Collectible lanyard & special gift from Dolly!
Alleviate Planning with Guest Services: Comfort & Care for Every Guest
Dolly Parton, Herschend Family Entertainment, and their team have thought of everything for guests at Dollywood, from saving time in line to caring for individual needs to providing a place for pups to play.
TimeSaver Pass
When you get inside, cut down the wait time with a TimeSaver pass that allows you to reserve a spot in line at select shows and rides. You can grab a bite to eat, play games, or check out other parts of the park and head over to your ride or show when you get a buzz!
Plus and premium versions of the TimeSaver pass are also available, lifting the 5-ride limit and giving you total freedom to pass others in line.
Facilities for Different Needs
Dollywood goes the extra mile to make sure everyone can enjoy their day in the park. With thoughtful facilities and inclusive services, the park is designed to meet a wide range of needs and ensure a welcoming, accessible experience for all.
- Infants: New moms will appreciate the Baby Care Centers and nursing stations found throughout the park, which feature private rooms with comfortable gliders, changing tables, and space to nurse and rock babies.
- Diets: Those with special dietary needs can head over to the Front Porch Café, where the chefs can whip up menu items customized to specific needs. Plus, there are many gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian options available throughout the park.
- Accessibility: Visit the Ride Accessibility Center for boarding passes for guests with special accessibility needs. The passes are tailored to the individual and explain which rides are safest and offer accessible entrances.
- Sensory: Experiencing sensory overload? Head to the Calming Room that provides soothing items, like a weighted blanket and a tipi, so you or a loved one can take a break and reset before exploring more of the park.
Doggywood for Furry Friends
For the safety and comfort of guests and pets, Dollywood only allows service animals inside the park. However, non-service canines can be temporarily boarded at Doggywood — a fun, safe, and comfortable place for your precious pups to play while you enjoy the park!
Located at the front gate next to Guest Services, Doggywood features kennel runs and cottages on a first-come, first-served basis, unless you make a reservation. They open 30 minutes before Dollywood opens and close 15 minutes after the park closes, so you can spend a full day in the park while your doggies unwind and frolic in good care.
Note: There are service animal relief areas throughout the park.
Top Tips for the Best Dollywood Experience
Make the most of your visit to Dollywood with a little planning and insider know-how. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a returning guest, these tips can help you enjoy smoother park navigation, fewer lines, and more time for fun with your crew.
- Grab tickets or passes online — Prices vary based on season, age, and add-ons like multi-day passes or park hopper access. Check their official website for Dollywood’s current rates and special deals.
- Download the Dollywood app — It includes a digital park map, showtimes, wait times, dining locations, and mobile food ordering.
- Get your kids measured at the park entrance — They’ll receive colored wristbands indicating ride height restrictions, so you don’t have to second-guess or wait in line unnecessarily.
- Plan your meals wisely — Eat around your ride schedule to avoid queasiness. Dining earlier or later than the crowds can also cut down wait times at popular food spots.
- Visit on weekdays, Sundays, or in the off-season — These times typically see smaller crowds, making it easier to explore and enjoy attractions without the long lines.
- Save water rides for last — Getting soaked early on can make the rest of your day uncomfortable, especially for kids. Leave towels in the car or plan time to dry off before heading out.
- Bring refillable water bottles — Refill stations are available for free throughout the park to help you stay hydrated and eco friendly.
Park Details: What to Know Before You Go
Review key information to arrive with ease — from convenient parking to daily park hours and location information.
Paid Parking
At Dollywood, there’s plenty of parking right at the park, along with complimentary shuttles that take you to the front gate. Yay — you won’t have to worry about driving around to find a spot or walking too far to get to the park!
FREE parking is yours if you buy a Dollywood Gold or Diamond Season Pass. Otherwise, it’s $25 for standard-size vehicles. Traveling in an RV or bus or pulling a trailer? Large vehicle parking is available for $30.
Prefer your own entrance, a separate ticket window, plus no tram rides? Opt for Preferred Parking for an additional charge. This lot also offers EV charging stations. Better yet, go for the best of the best with valet parking!
Hours: the Earlier, the Better!
Dollywood’s operating hours vary by season, day of the week, and events, so it’s always best to check the official calendar before planning your visit. Typically, the park opens at 10:00 a.m. and closes between 7:00–10:00 p.m., depending on the time of year and special events.
During peak seasons and festivals, Dollywood often extends its hours, giving guests even more time to enjoy the rides, shows, and attractions.
On the Map
Easily pop the address into your GPS to arrive with ease. Remember to double-check that your device is heading to the main park, not the summer attraction.
Park Address: 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Check Out Other Dolly Parton Attractions in Pigeon Forge
The Dolly Parton magic doesn’t stop at Dollywood! In Pigeon Forge and Sevierville, you’ll find more attractions inspired by her legacy of music, family fun, and Southern hospitality.
- Dollywood’s Splash Country — Swim, wade, sunbathe & soar down waterslides at the sister water park in summer!
- Dolly Parton Statue in Sevierville — Stop by the town square to see the beloved bronze statue honoring Dolly in her hometown.
- Dolly Parton’s Stampede Dinner Attraction — Enjoy a high-energy performance with horseback stunts, music, and a four-course feast.
- Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show — Dive into a swashbuckling dinner show adventure complete with acrobatics, sea creatures, and a hearty meal.
Stay at a Smoky Mountain Cabin Near Dollywood
Ready to turn your Dollywood trip into a full-blown Smoky Mountain getaway in East Tennessee? At Cabins for YOU, we offer cabins near Dollywood that suit every style — from cozy 1-bedroom retreats for couples to sprawling 16-bedroom lodges for large groups. After a day of rides, shows, and sweets, unwind in a private indoor pool, kick back in a theater room, or soak in a steamy outdoor hot tub with breathtaking mountain views.
Whether you're here for family fun, a romantic escape, or a group adventure, our cabins provide comfort, convenience, and space to recharge. Enjoy king suites with jetted tubs, game-packed rec rooms, cozy fireplaces, and full kitchens for easy breakfasts before heading back to the park. And for those bringing furry friends along, our pet-friendly cabins in Pigeon Forge ensure no family member gets left behind.
Plan your Dollywood adventure with a cabin stay that keeps the fun going long after the park closes — with Cabins for YOU!