Dollywood in Pigeon Forge Tennessee
Dollywood in Pigeon Forge Tennessee is one of the most visited theme parks in the country. The park is owned by Dolly Parton and covers more than 150 acres. It has over 40 rides and attractions including seven roller coasters. Visitors also enjoy award winning live shows, a water park, and restaurants that serve Southern food.
History of Dollywood
The story of Dollywood began in the 1960s with a small park called Rebel Railroad. The Herschend family later purchased it and renamed it Silver Dollar City, which was built around a Wild West theme. In 1976 Dolly Parton joined the Herschend family and added her influence to the park. Dollywood grew quickly with new rides, live shows, and attractions inspired by her life and her connection to the Smoky Mountains.
Shows and Entertainment
Live entertainment is one of the main reasons people visit Dollywood. The park hosts concerts, comedy acts, and theatrical productions. The Kingdom Heirs, a well known Southern gospel group, has performed at Dollywood for more than 30 years. Another highlight is Dolly Parton’s Stampede, a dinner show that includes horseback riding, music, and comedy.
Dollywood’s Splash Country
Next to the main park is Splash Country, a 35 acre water park. It has slides, a wave pool, and rivers for floating and swimming. Splash Country gives families a way to cool off during the hot summer months in Tennessee.
Lightning Rod Roller Coaster
One of Dollywood’s most famous rides is the Lightning Rod. It is the fastest wooden roller coaster in the world and reaches speeds up to 73 miles per hour. The ride is styled after a 1950s hot rod and is named after Dolly Parton’s song “Lightning Rod.”
Food at Dollywood
Dollywood is also known for its food. With more than 20 dining spots, the park serves fried chicken, barbecue, and homemade desserts. Throughout the year Dollywood also hosts food festivals that highlight regional recipes and cooking.
DreamMore Resort
Dollywood includes more than just rides and shows. The DreamMore Resort gives guests a place to stay with direct access to the park. The resort was designed to reflect Dolly’s ties to the mountains and to provide visitors with a family friendly lodging option.
Plan a Visit to Dollywood
Dollywood has grown from a small mountain attraction into one of the best known theme parks in the United States. With roller coasters, live shows, a water park, and Southern food, it is a place where families can spend several days. A visit to Dollywood in Pigeon Forge is a highlight of any trip to East Tennessee.