Nestled in the beautiful Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, Dollywood is not just a theme park – it’s a world of its own. Founded by country music legend Dolly Parton, Dollywood offers visitors an incredible blend of thrilling rides, live entertainment, family-friendly activities, and southern hospitality. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a lover of music, or simply looking for a fun family getaway, Dollywood is the perfect place to make lasting memories.
In this extensive guide, we’ll dive into the top attractions, experiences, and hidden gems you must explore at Dollywood. Let’s get started on your Dollywood adventure!
Things to Do in Dollywood
1. Take a Ride on the Thrilling Roller Coasters
Dollywood is home to some of the best roller coasters in the region, making it a must-visit destination for thrill-seekers. With a variety of rides for all ages and intensity levels, there’s no shortage of adrenaline-pumping experiences.
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- Lightning Rod: The first-ever launch coaster in the world to feature a wooden track, Lightning Rod offers one of the fastest and most thrilling rides in the park. Reaching speeds of 73 mph, this coaster delivers heart-racing drops and a fast-paced adventure through the Smoky Mountains.
- Thunderhead: This wooden coaster is a fan favorite and offers plenty of twists, turns, and airtime, making it one of Dollywood’s top attractions. Known for its smooth ride and fast drops, Thunderhead is a great option for those who love classic wooden coasters.
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- Wild Eagle: Soaring high above the park, Wild Eagle is an inverted coaster where riders hang below the track, feeling the wind rush by as they twist and loop through the air. It’s a breathtaking experience with incredible views of the surrounding mountains.
- FireChaser Express: Perfect for families, FireChaser Express is a dual-launch coaster that takes riders through a fun and thrilling adventure featuring 360-degree spins, twists, and great drops. It’s suitable for both kids and adults and offers a less intense experience while still delivering excitement.
2. Catch a Live Show at Dollywood’s Many Venues
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Dolly Parton’s love for entertainment is evident in Dollywood’s outstanding live shows. The park offers a variety of performances, from country music to bluegrass, gospel, and Broadway-style musicals. Here are some of the must-see performances:
- The Kingdom Heirs: This Southern gospel group is a crowd favorite, offering powerful performances that highlight the rich musical tradition of the Appalachian region.
- Dolly Parton’s Stampede: While technically part of the larger Dollywood entertainment empire, the Dolly Parton’s Stampede dinner show offers incredible acrobatics, horse-riding stunts, and amazing performances. You’ll enjoy a hearty meal while watching an action-packed performance with horses and thrilling competitions.
- The Dollywood Express: Don’t miss the chance to board the famous steam-powered train for a scenic ride through the park and into the surrounding Smoky Mountains. It’s a relaxing experience filled with fascinating history and great views.
- Dreamland Drive-In: This nostalgic live show pays tribute to the golden age of rock ‘n’ roll, complete with energetic performances and 1950s-style fun.
3. Explore Dollywood’s Themed Areas
Dollywood is divided into several beautifully-themed sections that each offer unique experiences. Take the time to explore these distinct areas to fully appreciate the charm of the park:
- Country Fair: This section is perfect for families with younger children. It features classic carnival rides such as the Rockin’ Tug and Lumberjack Lift, along with many fun games and attractions.
- Jukebox Junction: Step back in time to the 1950s in this vibrant area of Dollywood. Filled with retro music, diners, and dancing, Jukebox Junction is a celebration of rock and roll and good ol’ American fun. It’s also home to some great food, including classic burgers and milkshakes.
- Timber Canyon: If you love the outdoors and rustic charm, Timber Canyon will transport you to the heart of the Smoky Mountains. This area is home to some of the park’s best roller coasters, such as Thunderhead and the FireChaser Express.
- Granny’s Country Kitchen: A Southern-inspired eatery where you can enjoy authentic meals like fried chicken, cornbread, and mashed potatoes. This is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the taste of the Smoky Mountains.
4. Cool Off at Dollywood’s Splash Country Water Park
During the hot summer months, head over to Dollywood’s Splash Country to cool off and enjoy some water-based fun. This water park offers something for everyone, from adrenaline-pumping water slides to relaxing lazy rivers.
- RiverRush: The first and only water coaster in Tennessee, RiverRush features high-speed twists and turns, delivering the perfect mix of excitement and refreshment.
- Bear Mountain Fire Tower: This towering structure features a series of high-speed slides that send you spiraling into pools below. It’s a thrilling ride that’s perfect for those seeking an adrenaline rush.
- Lazy River: For a more relaxed experience, take a ride on the Lazy River, where you can float peacefully and enjoy the serene beauty of the park.
- Big Bear Plunge: This water ride takes you on a fast-paced, thrilling descent, perfect for those looking for a fun adventure in the water.
5. Take a Scenic Ride on the Dollywood Express
The Dollywood Express is a popular, historical steam train ride that travels through the park and into the Smoky Mountains. This 20-minute ride offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and gives guests a taste of the old-fashioned charm of the park. As you relax in the open-air cars, you’ll learn about the history of the park and the area, making it an enjoyable and educational experience.
6. Visit Dolly’s My People Gallery
For fans of Dolly Parton and her incredible career, a visit to Dolly’s My People Gallery is a must. This gallery showcases memorabilia from Dolly’s life, including her country music career, her movies, and her connection to the people of the Appalachian region. It’s a beautiful tribute to her roots and an emotional reminder of how much she’s done for her community.
7. Savor Delicious Southern Cuisine
Dollywood isn’t just about thrilling rides and live entertainment; it’s also a food lover’s paradise. The park offers an impressive variety of Southern-inspired cuisine, from hearty meals to sweet treats.
- Fried Chicken: A staple of Southern cooking, you can’t miss the fried chicken at Dollywood. Served with sides like mashed potatoes, cornbread, and green beans, it’s the ultimate comfort food.
- Cinnamon Bread: Don’t leave without trying the famous cinnamon bread, sold at the Granny’s Kitchen Bakery. Warm and gooey, this sweet treat is the perfect snack to enjoy while exploring the park.
- BBQ: Dollywood serves up some of the best BBQ in the region, from pulled pork sandwiches to brisket and ribs. Be sure to grab a plate of smoky goodness during your visit.
8. Celebrate the Holidays at Dollywood
Dollywood is known for its incredible festive events throughout the year, especially during the holiday season. In the winter months, Dollywood transforms into a winter wonderland, with over 5 million twinkling lights decorating the park, spectacular holiday shows, and themed attractions like Smoky Mountain Christmas.
The park hosts special events throughout the year, including Dollywood’s Harvest Festival (celebrating the fall season) and Spring Festival (featuring flower displays and spring-themed performances). If you visit during the holidays, be sure to enjoy the dazzling lights, the Christmas Parade, and the spectacular Tennessee Christmas show.
9. Shop for Unique Souvenirs
Dollywood is home to numerous shops that sell unique, handmade, and regional souvenirs. Whether you’re looking for a keepsake to remember your trip or a gift for someone special, you’ll find plenty of options, including:
- Handmade Jewelry: Browse local artisans’ jewelry creations for unique pieces that reflect the beauty of the Smoky Mountains.
- Dolly Parton Memorabilia: As the park’s namesake, Dolly’s influence is everywhere. Find everything from t-shirts to collectibles that celebrate her iconic career.
- Handcrafted Goods: Dollywood’s shops feature crafts and goods made by local artisans, such as pottery, quilts, and woodwork. These items make for one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Dollywood
1. What are the top attractions in Dollywood?
Dollywood has something for everyone, from thrilling roller coasters to heartwarming live performances. Some of the must-see attractions include:
- Lightning Rod: The world’s first wooden roller coaster with a launch feature, Lightning Rod is a high-speed ride with thrilling drops and curves.
- Thunderhead: A fan-favorite wooden coaster known for its smooth ride and fast-paced action.
- Wild Eagle: An exhilarating inverted coaster offering amazing views of the park and the Smoky Mountains.
- FireChaser Express: A family-friendly coaster that launches both forwards and backward with thrilling twists and turns.
- Dollywood Express: A scenic 20-minute train ride through the beautiful Smoky Mountains, offering both history and relaxation.
- The Kingdom Heirs: A top-tier Southern gospel group, performing live music throughout the park.
These are just a few examples of the many exciting rides and shows you’ll find at Dollywood.
2. What is Dollywood’s Splash Country?
Dollywood’s Splash Country is the park’s water park, providing refreshing fun during the warmer months. It features numerous water slides, a lazy river, wave pools, and family-friendly water play areas. Some of the top attractions in Splash Country include:
- RiverRush: The first water coaster in Tennessee, offering thrilling drops and water rapids.
- Bear Mountain Fire Tower: A towering water slide with high-speed twists and turns.
- Lazy River: Perfect for a relaxing float through beautiful surroundings.
- Big Bear Plunge: A high-speed water slide for those looking for an adrenaline rush.
It’s a great place to cool off and enjoy water-based fun after a day in the main park.
3. When is the best time to visit Dollywood?
The best time to visit Dollywood depends on your preferences:
- Spring (April to June): The weather is mild, and the park begins to come alive with new blooms and events. The Spring Festival showcases beautiful flower displays and live performances.
- Summer (June to August): Expect hot weather and larger crowds, but the water park and extended hours make it a great time for fun.
- Fall (September to November): Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds make this a wonderful time to visit, especially during the Harvest Festival, which includes stunning fall decorations and seasonal shows.
- Winter (December to February): Dollywood shines during the Smoky Mountain Christmas festival with millions of twinkling lights and festive performances. It’s also less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed experience.
If you prefer to avoid long lines and hot temperatures, the fall or winter months are ideal.
4. How much time should I spend at Dollywood?
The ideal amount of time to spend at Dollywood varies based on your interests and pace:
- 1 Day: If you want to see the major attractions like the roller coasters, live shows, and visit the Dollywood Express, one full day will suffice. You’ll have time to experience the park’s highlights and enjoy some of the best rides.
- 2-3 Days: If you want to explore everything in depth, including Dollywood’s Splash Country, attend multiple live performances, and take in the park’s more detailed features, a two- or three-day visit is ideal.
5. What are the best live shows at Dollywood?
Dollywood is known for its fantastic live performances, which range from country music to gospel and Broadway-style shows. Some of the top performances include:
- The Kingdom Heirs: A Southern gospel group that performs heartwarming music throughout the park.
- Dreamland Drive-In: A 1950s-style musical with plenty of rock ‘n’ roll tunes and fun energy.
- Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas: During the holidays, the park features stunning performances with holiday music and festive storytelling.
- Ballet and Bluegrass: Enjoy beautiful ballet performances set to lively bluegrass tunes in the Showstreet Palace Theater.
Check the schedule when you arrive to ensure you catch the live shows that interest you most!
6. Is Dollywood good for families with young children?
Absolutely! Dollywood is very family-friendly, with attractions and activities suitable for guests of all ages:
- FireChaser Express: A family-friendly roller coaster with mild thrills and great excitement for kids and adults alike.
- The Amazing Flying Elephants: A gentle ride where children can control their own flying elephant as they soar above the park.
- Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library: A great resource for kids and families, offering storytelling and creative activities to spark imaginations.
- Granny’s Kitchen: Families can sit down for hearty Southern meals in this cozy, family-oriented eatery.
There are also plenty of smaller, gentler rides, a petting zoo, and interactive areas that make Dollywood a perfect destination for younger children.
7. How can I save money at Dollywood?
Dollywood offers a variety of ways to make your visit more affordable:
- Purchase Tickets in Advance: Buying your tickets online ahead of time often comes with discounts or bundled packages.
- Season Passes: If you plan to visit more than once, consider purchasing a Dollywood Season Pass, which includes unlimited visits, free parking, and discounts on food and merchandise.
- Dining Plans: Dollywood offers meal plans that allow you to save money on food and snacks throughout the park.
- Group Discounts: If you’re visiting with a group, inquire about group discounts, which can reduce the cost per ticket.
Additionally, be sure to check for any ongoing promotions or special offers before booking your trip.
8. Can I bring my own food into Dollywood?
Dollywood generally does not allow guests to bring in outside food or drinks, with some exceptions:
- Dietary Restrictions: If you have specific dietary needs, you can bring in food to accommodate these requirements. Just inform the staff when you enter the park.
- Baby Food: If you’re traveling with a baby, you’re welcome to bring baby food and formula into the park.
Conclusion
Dollywood offers a perfect mix of thrilling rides, family-friendly activities, live entertainment, and Southern hospitality. If you’re visiting for the rides, the food, the shows, or the stunning scenery, you’re bound to have a fantastic time at this unique theme park.
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