Dollywood
Dolly Parton's beloved theme park in the Smokies, offering thrilling rides, delicious Southern food, and captivating live entertainment.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, shorter waits
Dollywood
Best Time
Fewer crowds, shorter waits
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dolly Parton's beloved theme park in the Smokies, offering thrilling rides, delicious Southern food, and captivating live entertainment.
"Dollywood is still a favorite of mine, and I’ll definitely keep going back—but I do wish the rides lasted just a little longer."
🎯 Ride Measurement Station
Use the station at the entrance to get a wristband indicating which rides your kids can enjoy. :child:
💧 Stay Hydrated for Free
Bring your own water bottle! Refill stations are available throughout the park. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lightning Rod Roller Coaster
Wilderness Pass
Experience the thrill of this iconic wooden coaster, known for its intense speed and airtime.
Dollywood's Harvest Festival
Throughout the park
America's #1 Fall Family Event features stunning pumpkin displays and seasonal treats.
Cinnamon Bread
Grist Mill
A must-try sweet treat! Warm, freshly baked cinnamon bread with a sweet icing.
Dolly Parton's Stampede
Near Dollywood
An immersive dinner show celebrating Southern heritage with music, horses, and a feast.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Savor the Southern Flavors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Ride Measurement Station
Use the station at the entrance to get a wristband indicating which rides your kids can enjoy. :child:
💧 Stay Hydrated for Free
Bring your own water bottle! Refill stations are available throughout the park. :droplet:
🍞 Don't Miss Cinnamon Bread!
The Grist Mill's famous cinnamon bread is a must-try treat. Get it fresh! :bread:
🚗 Consider Weekday Visits
Mondays and Tuesdays often have the smallest crowds, leading to shorter ride waits. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Ride Measurement Station
Use the station at the entrance to get a wristband indicating which rides your kids can enjoy. :child:
💧 Stay Hydrated for Free
Bring your own water bottle! Refill stations are available throughout the park. :droplet:
🍞 Don't Miss Cinnamon Bread!
The Grist Mill's famous cinnamon bread is a must-try treat. Get it fresh! :bread:
🚗 Consider Weekday Visits
Mondays and Tuesdays often have the smallest crowds, leading to shorter ride waits. :car:
🏨 Resort Perks
Staying at DreamMore or HeartSong Lodge offers perks like early park access and cinnamon bread room service. :bed:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Dollywood for its beautiful landscaping, friendly atmosphere, and delicious Southern food, especially the cinnamon bread. Many appreciate the variety of rides for all ages and the engaging live entertainment. However, some guests find the ride durations to be short relative to the wait times, which can be a point of frustration.
"Loved it! Place is so well done. Shaded through out so it makes for a more comfortable visit. Food although very expensive is yummy, and they do let you fill up water bottles throughout the park as well. Rides are fun with little to no wait times. Bald Eagle enclosure was awesome too. We did manage to come across a snake during our walk so just be mindful of your steps when going down the paths, lucky ours was down by the river out of the way. Stores are all different, so visit each one for a different vibe. Some rides are a bit bumpy, and rattle you around so take the right precautions to protect yourself. Definitely will be returning."
David E. Lillie III
"Get the cinnamon bread! Shows were great. Children's theatre is really cool with the decor. We also went on tge train ride which was fully wheelchair accessible. There is an accessibility center at the front gates, be sure to check this out before heading into the park. Lots to see and do. We only went for one day but could have easily gone for 2 or 3 days to see everything."
Justin Smith
"Something for everyone in the family! Great theme park! I came when I was a little girl and always loved it, now I bring my children! I appreciate at the entrance there is a place for children to be measured so we know what rides they can ride and a wrist band that shows it. Wait times were quick in the beginning of the day but got longer as the day progressed. We loved the indoor play place! Great place to bring your family!"
Amber Ross
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dollywood is located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. If you're flying in, the closest major airports are McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) in Knoxville, about an hour's drive away. Renting a car is recommended for flexibility, especially if you plan to explore other attractions in the Smoky Mountains. Public transportation options are limited in the area.
Yes, Dollywood offers ample parking for guests. There is a fee for parking, which can vary by season. Consider arriving early, especially during peak times, to secure a good spot.
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft do operate in the Pigeon Forge area and can be used to get to Dollywood. However, availability might be more limited during peak hours or days.
Dollywood is committed to accessibility. They offer an Accessibility Center at the front gates with information on services, including wheelchair rentals and accessible ride options. Many shows and attractions are also accessible.
While renting a car offers the most freedom, Pigeon Forge has a trolley system that can take you to many local attractions, including Dollywood. However, it may not be as convenient as having your own vehicle for exploring the wider Smoky Mountains region.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can purchase Dollywood tickets online through the official Dollywood website, which is often the best way to secure them in advance and sometimes find deals. Tickets are also available for purchase at the park's entrance. +1
Dollywood occasionally offers discounts, especially for online purchases, group rates, or through special promotions. Keep an eye on their website or social media for any available deals. Some TikTok creators offer discount codes.
Dollywood's operating hours vary by season and day. It's essential to check the official Dollywood website for the most up-to-date hours for your planned visit date. +1
Refund and exchange policies for Dollywood tickets typically depend on the type of ticket purchased and the circumstances. It's best to review the specific terms and conditions at the time of purchase or contact Dollywood guest services for assistance.
Generally, Dollywood does not require advance time slot reservations for general admission tickets. However, it's always a good idea to check their official website for any changes to their entry procedures, especially during peak seasons.
🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience
Thrill-seekers should not miss Lightning Rod, Tennessee Tornado, and Mystery Mine. For family fun, consider the Great Tree Swing and the Dollywood Express train ride. 
Dollywood is known for its live entertainment. Popular shows often include gospel music performances, country music revues, and seasonal productions. Check the park's daily schedule upon arrival for showtimes and locations.
Yes, Dollywood offers a variety of attractions for young children, including dedicated play areas and gentler rides. The park also provides a measurement station at the entrance to help identify rides suitable for children based on their height.
Dollywood transforms into a winter wonderland during its Christmas season, featuring festive decorations, holiday-themed shows, and special seasonal treats. The Great Pumpkin LumiNights during the Harvest Festival is also a major draw.
Guests are permitted to bring in sealed, non-alcoholic beverages and small snacks. However, full meals are generally not allowed. You can refill water bottles at water fountains throughout the park.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dollywood is famous for its delicious Southern-inspired cuisine. Popular items include cinnamon bread, smoked turkey legs, and various comfort food dishes. Many visitors rave about the quality and variety of food options.
For a sit-down meal, the Front Porch Cafe and Aunt Granny's Restaurant are highly recommended. For iconic treats, don't miss the Grist Mill for cinnamon bread and the various stands offering funnel cakes and other sweets.
Dollywood offers a range of dining options, and while many dishes are meat-centric, you can often find vegetarian choices like salads, sides, and some vegetarian entrees. It's advisable to check menus or ask staff about specific dietary accommodations.
Food at Dollywood can be on the pricier side, as is common in theme parks. However, many visitors find the quality and portion sizes to be worth the cost. Bringing your own snacks can help manage expenses.
Yes, guests at Dollywood's DreamMore Resort and HeartSong Lodge can order cinnamon bread and other items for room service, a delightful perk of staying on-site.
📸 📸 Photography
The park's charming Appalachian theme, lush landscaping, and seasonal decorations offer many photo opportunities. Look for scenic overlooks, the iconic Grist Mill, and vibrant festival displays.
Generally, personal photography and videography for non-commercial use are allowed. However, professional photography or filming may require special permits. Always be mindful of other guests and ride safety guidelines.
The 'golden hours' shortly after sunrise and before sunset offer beautiful, soft lighting. During the Harvest Festival, the nighttime glow of the pumpkins is also a magical photo opportunity.
Most rides do not permit cameras or phones to be used during the ride for safety reasons. Secure all personal belongings before boarding. Some rides may have photo packages available for purchase.
The 'Dolly' exhibit offers a glimpse into her life and career, providing a unique backdrop for photos. You'll also find various thematic elements throughout the park that reflect her personality and heritage.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider staying at one of Dollywood's resorts, like DreamMore Resort or HeartSong Lodge, for added convenience and perks such as early park access. The resorts also offer unique experiences like room service cinnamon bread, a delightful treat for kids (and adults!).
🎢 Thrill-Seekers
Don't miss Mystery Mine, with its unique theme and thrilling inversions, or the classic Tennessee Tornado. +1 The park consistently ranks high for its coaster offerings, providing plenty of excitement for seasoned riders. To maximize your ride time, aim for weekday visits to minimize wait times. Arriving early in the day can also help you get a few rides in before the crowds build. Check the park map and prioritize your must-ride coasters to make the most of your visit.
💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers
Consider visiting during the off-peak season or on weekdays when crowds are smaller, potentially leading to shorter wait times and a more relaxed experience without needing to purchase expensive skip-the-line passes. Staying at a resort off-site might also be more budget-friendly than the on-site hotels, though you'll miss out on some resort perks.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Rides for Every Thrill Level
Other notable thrill rides include the Tennessee Tornado, a classic wooden coaster with impressive drops, and Mystery Mine, an indoor/outdoor coaster with inversions and a unique theme. Families will find plenty of fun with rides like the Great Tree Swing, offering panoramic views, and the Dollywood Express, a scenic steam train ride through the park. Younger children will enjoy the dedicated areas with gentler attractions. The park's layout ensures that you can easily transition between high-thrill adventures and more relaxed family experiences.
It's worth noting that some visitors feel the ride durations are short compared to the wait times. However, the overall quality and uniqueness of the rides, combined with the park's atmosphere, often make the experience worthwhile.
A Culinary Journey Through the Smokies
+1 Many reviewers highlight the quality and deliciousness of the food, noting that it's a significant part of the Dollywood experience. For a more substantial meal, Aunt Granny's Restaurant offers a family-style dining experience with a generous spread of Southern comfort foods. The Front Porch Cafe is another popular sit-down option, praised for its flavorful dishes. Beyond these, the park offers a variety of food stalls and eateries serving everything from smoked turkey legs to butterfly funnel cakes, ensuring there's something to satisfy every craving.
While the food is a definite highlight, be prepared for theme park pricing. However, the generous portions and high quality often make it a worthwhile indulgence. Remember that you can bring in sealed, non-alcoholic beverages and small snacks, and refillable water bottles are a great way to stay hydrated and save money.
Seasonal Spectacles: Festivals and Holidays
This event offers a unique blend of seasonal treats, live performances, and a magical atmosphere that appeals to all ages. +1During the Christmas season, Dollywood is adorned with millions of lights, creating a breathtaking winter wonderland. The park hosts special holiday shows, festive parades, and seasonal culinary delights, making it a perfect destination for a family holiday outing.
These festivals not only enhance the park's visual appeal but also introduce unique entertainment and dining experiences that set Dollywood apart. Planning your visit around these events can significantly enrich your overall experience, offering a different charm and set of attractions compared to the regular operating season.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit