Dollywood, located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, is one of the most popular theme parks in the United States. Owned by legendary country music singer Dolly Parton. It is a popular destination for families and thrill-seekers alike. Dollywood has undergone several expansions and renovations, making it one of the top theme parks in the country. The park covers over 150 acres and features more than 40 rides and attractions, including seven world-class roller coasters. Dollywood is also known for its award-winning shows, featuring live music, dance, and comedy performances.
History:
The story of Dollywood begins with a small mountain community known as Rebel Railroad. In the early 1960s, the Herschend family, who owned a steam train attraction in Georgia, purchased this struggling theme park and renamed it Silver Dollar City. The park was initially themed around the Wild West and featured live entertainment, crafts, and small rides. In 1976, country music superstar Dolly Parton joined forces with the Herschend family to create the Dollywood we know and love today. Dolly brought in a new era of growth and expansion. She added her own personal touch to the park, incorporating elements of her childhood and love for the Smoky Mountains.
Shows:
One of the highlights of Dollywood is its shows. The park offers a variety of live entertainment, including musical performances, comedy shows, and Broadway-style productions. The Kingdom Heirs, a Southern gospel group, has been performing at Dollywood for over 30 years and is a crowd favorite. Another popular show is Dolly Parton’s Stampede, a dinner show that combines horseback riding, music, and comedy into one unforgettable experience.
Waterpark:
For those looking to cool off from the Tennessee heat, Dollywood has a water park called Splash Country. With 35 acres of water attractions, including slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool, it is the perfect place to beat the summer heat.
Lightning Rod Wooden Coaster:
The Lightning Rod, is the world’s fastest wooden roller coaster! It reaches a top speed of 73 miles per hour. This one-of-a-kind ride is designed to resemble a vintage 1950s hot rod and pays homage to Dolly Parton’s hit song, ‘Lightning Rod’.
Southern Food:
Dollywood also boasts some of the best food in the region. With over 20 restaurants and food stands, visitors can indulge in Southern favorites like fried chicken, BBQ, and homemade desserts. The park also hosts several food festivals throughout the year, showcasing the best of Southern cuisine.
DreamMore Resort:
Dollywood is not just a theme park, but a complete vacation destination. The resort is designed to provide guests with a unique experience that reflects the spirit of Dolly and her love for the mountains.
Dollywood is more than just a theme park – it is a symbol of the culture of East Tennessee. It has evolved from a small mountain attraction to a world-class theme park that now draws in millions of visitors each year. Dollywood is the perfect destination for a family vacation.