Sit back in a lounge chair and relax under a shaded canopy. When you’re ready to relax from all of the aquatic thrills, unwind in a cozy canopy or retreat. Relax in The Cascades, an 8,000-square foot lagoon-style leisure pool, or test your courage on Fire Tower Falls, the state’s tallest twin speed slides. Challenge Tennessee’s first and only water coaster, RiverRush or splash around in any of the children’s interactive play areas.

Let’s not forget about Dollywood’s Splash Country, a 35-acre adventure water park adjacent to the theme park featuring a variety of water slides and attractions. Needless to say, the history is right on track when it comes to the Dollywood Express.Ĭlick here to read more about Dollywood’s rides. Army and both were used in Alaska during World War II to transport troops and lumber. The train’s two engines were originally built for the U.S. The Dollywood Express is a 110-ton coal-fired steam engine that takes up to 550 park guests on a scenic five-mile journey through the foothills of The Great Smoky Mountains.

Among the dozens of rollercoasters and rides at Dollywood, you will find plenty of other popular attractions that can only be found in the Smokies. There are a wide variety of rides around the park to enjoy such as the country’s first wing coaster, Wild Eagle, a wooden coaster, Thunderhead, the nation’s first dual-launch family coaster, FireChaser Express, and the steel thriller, Mystery Mine. It goes without saying that the rides at Dollywood are truly unique and fun for all ages. These awards, among dozens of others, are the reason why visitors from across the country and around the world flock to Pigeon Forge’s entertainment park to experience the heart and soul of The Great Smoky Mountains. Because Dollywood’s ongoing commitment to offering their guests something new each season has been so successful, the park has claimed its spot among industry award winners, including the 2010 Applause Award and third place in USA Today’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice contest for Best Theme Park as well as the leading honor for Friendliest Park, Best Shows, Best New Waterpark Attraction and Best Christmas Event. Since the mid-1980s, the park has had a tremendous increase in attendance, more than doubled in size and received more than $300 million in expansions and additions. Not only did she share her expertise and love of The Great Smoky Mountains, but she also shared her name, which is now why the theme park is known as Dollywood.

In 1986, singer, songwriter and native superstar Dolly Parton joined the Herschend brothers in the theme park business. After several other name changes, additional features and millions of dollars invested in improvements, the theme park eventually came under the ownership of Jack and Pete Herschend who soon welcomed a much-loved and recognizable east Tennessee tradition to the mix. Although the name changed, the entertainment was unaltered and, in fact, expanded with new attractions such as a wood shop, saw mill, outdoor theater, campground and several children’s rides. Later in 1970, Rebel Railroad was purchased by the owner of the NFL’s Cleveland Browns, Art Modell, who renamed the attraction to Goldrush Junction. Little did the Robbins Brothers know, they were laying the groundwork for what would later become Tennessee’s most visited attraction. The site brought in all types of intrigued visitors who were eager to catch of glimpse of all Rebel Railroad had to offer and who wanted to witness the Smoky Mountain way of life. Back in 1961, the Robbins Brothers opened a small-scale attraction on the Dollywood site, known as Rebel Railroad, which featured a coal-fired steam train, general store, blacksmith shop and a saloon. History of Dollywoodĭollywood is home to award-winning rides, world-class entertainment, one-of-a-kind food choices and hard-working staff members however, it wasn’t always the hugely successful theme park it is today. The 150-acre theme park filled is filled to the brim with entertainment and unique opportunities for families of all types! Located in Pigeon Forge near Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Dollywood is recognized worldwide for hosting nearly 2.5 million visitors annually, continually receiving a lengthy list of awards. With live music showcasing country, rock ‘n’ roll and bluegrass, daily demonstrations from world class master craftsmen, tasty southern-style food and, of course, more than 40 ground-breaking rides and attractions, Dollywood theme park is a family destination like none other. Experience the Charm and Excitement of Dollywood Dollywood is home to award-winning rides, world-class entertainment and one-of-a-kind food choices.

Dollywood tickets