Tucked into Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains, about a 3½-hour drive from Nashville and 45 minutes from Knoxville, Dollywood is Dolly Parton’s famous theme park in Pigeon Forge.
Dolly became involved with the park in 1986, creating an attraction that celebrates both her story and her Appalachian roots. Today, Dollywood has more than 50 rides and attractions, live music, traditional crafts, Southern food and plenty of Dolly sparkle.
📍 Location: Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, around 45 minutes from Knoxville and 3½ hours from Nashville.
🎟 Entrance fee: In 2026, a one-day adult ticket starts at around $94.99, with discounts available for children and seniors. Prices vary depending on the date you visit.
🚗 Parking: General parking is $25 per vehicle.
🎢 Don’t miss: Lightning Rod, Dollywood’s famous hot-rod-themed roller coaster, features a 165-foot drop and 3,800 feet of track.
🐻 Best family coaster: Big Bear Mountain is Dollywood’s longest roller coaster, with nearly 4,000 feet of track and a top speed of 48 mph.
🆕 New for 2026: NightFlight Expedition is a huge indoor adventure ride inspired by the Smoky Mountains. It combines a coaster with immersive storytelling and is designed for both families and thrill-seekers.
🦅 For thrill-seekers: Wild Eagle reaches 61 mph, includes four inversions and sends riders down a 135-foot drop.
🎤 For Dolly fans: Don’t skip The Dolly Parton Experience, dedicated to Dolly’s life, music, fashion and career.
⏰ How long to spend: Give yourself a full day if it’s your first visit.
📱 Before you go: Download the Dollywood app for maps, ride wait times and show schedules.
💡 Good to know: Dollywood operates on a seasonal calendar, so opening days and hours change throughout the year. Check the calendar before making the drive.
Fun fact: Dolly has said that she wanted to create Dollywood partly to bring jobs to the area where she grew up. 💖
🔐 Mystery Unlocked: Dollywood STEM Challenges for Kids 🎢
Turn your trip to Dollywood into a little science adventure! Here are five family STEM challenges inspired by the park that you can try at home.
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