Dollywood Map and Brochure (1989 – 2023)
Location: Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Years Active: 1961 – Active
Dollywood is a theme park jointly owned by entertainer Dolly Parton and Herschend Family Entertainment. It is located in the Knoxville-Smoky Mountains metroplex in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
Hosting nearly 3 million guests in a typical season from mid-March to the Christmas holidays, Dollywood is the biggest ticketed tourist attraction in Tennessee. It has won many international awards.
In addition to standard amusement park thrill rides, Dollywood features traditional crafts and music of the Smoky Mountain area.
The park hosts a number of concerts and musical events each year, including appearances by Dolly Parton and her family as well as other national and local musical acts. It was also the site of the Southern Gospel Museum and Hall of Fame.
The theme park is the anchor of Parton’s 150-acre Dollywood amusement destination, which also includes the 35-acre sister water park Dollywood’s Splash Country, the 20-acre Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa, and the 5-acre Dolly Parton’s Stampede Dinner Attraction.
Why is Dollywood so famous?
Dollywood is renowned for its status as a popular theme park and entertainment destination in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. It gained fame primarily due to its association with country music legend Dolly Parton, who co-owns and has a strong presence within the park, helping propel Dollywood into the ranks of the best amusement parks in America. Dollywood offers a unique blend of thrilling rides, live entertainment, cultural exhibits, and Southern hospitality, attracting millions of visitors each year. Its dedication to preserving the Appalachian heritage, coupled with Dolly Parton’s enduring appeal, has made Dollywood a cherished and iconic attraction in the Smoky Mountains region.
Why is Dolly Parton so famous in Pigeon Forge?
Dolly Parton’s fame in Pigeon Forge can be attributed to her deep-rooted ties to the area and her significant contributions to the community. She was born and raised in nearby Sevier County, and her philanthropic efforts, such as the Imagination Library program providing books to children, have greatly benefited the region. Dolly’s connection to Pigeon Forge is also cemented through her ownership and active involvement in Dollywood, an internationally recognized theme park that has become a symbol of the town’s cultural and economic growth. Her musical career, charismatic personality, and commitment to her hometown have made her an iconic figure in Pigeon Forge.
Is Dollywood just an amusement park?
Dollywood is more than just an amusement park; it is a comprehensive entertainment complex that offers a wide array of attractions and experiences. While it features thrilling rides and roller coasters, it also showcases live entertainment shows, craft demonstrations, museums, and cultural exhibits that celebrate the Appalachian heritage. Dollywood’s emphasis on preserving and sharing the rich traditions of the Smoky Mountains region sets it apart from a typical amusement park. Visitors can enjoy a diverse range of activities, making it a destination that combines amusement park elements with cultural and educational aspects.
