Dolly Parton is arguably the Smokies’ most famous (and most beloved) celebrity native. From her philanthropic work to her always-favorite shows and attractions in the area, you can hardly think of Pigeon Forge without thinking of her. Whether you’re a Dolly Parton fan or just want to have fun in the Smokies, you’ll love what she has to offer. Check it out!
NEW this year: Dolly Parton comes to Hallmark with her Christmas at Dollywood movie!
Dollywood Theme Park
Dollywood features rides and activities for all ages, with roller coasters to drop your stomach and smaller kids’ rides for the littles. It’s also known for its live music, with shows like Kingdom Heirs (gospel quartet), Smoky Mountain String Band, Gem Tones (50s & 60s music along the streets of Jukebox Junction), Country Crossroads, Dreamland Drive-In (Broadway-style show), The Little Engine Playhouse (children’s books live on stage), and more!
Dining covers just about everything, from jumbo desserts and lots of ice cream options to Southern favorites and pizza by the slice. There are also tons of shops to explore, and you can use their complimentary Package Pickup service, so you don’t have to carry your bags around all day. And of course, what would a visit in the Smokies be without some crafts? Dollywood has everything from custom glass and goat milk soap to wax hands and custom leather goods.
Dollywood Events
Harvest Festival | September 27 – November 2
Smoky Mountain Christmas | November 9 – January 4
Barbeque & Bluegrass (typically summer)
Festival of Nations (typically spring)
Dolly Parton’s Stampede Dinner Attraction
Spend the evening with good food, over-the-top pageantry and costumes, impressive lights and special effects, and toe-tapping music at Dolly Parton’s Stampede dinner show! Family friendly and great for couples up to large groups, this night out in downtown Pigeon Forge is an all-around good time. The North and South compete with horse riding stunts and more, and it’s all paired with a 4-course feast complete with Southern sides and hearty helpings (plus dessert)! Before the main event, stop in to see Mountain Ruckus, a country and bluegrass band that always puts on an energetic show.
A few details…
• Kids 2 and under are FREE if sitting on a parent’s lap and sharing a plate
• Saloon Opening Act (with Mountain Ruckus) starts 50 minutes before main show
• Ticket price includes: admission, opening act, 4-course meal, main show
• Menu: rotisserie chicken, BBQ pork loin, veggie soup, biscuit, corn on the cob, potato, dessert & unlimited Coca-Cola®, tea, or coffee
• Vegetarian Menu: veggie pasta, biscuit, veggie soup, corn on the cob, potato, dessert & unlimited Coca-Cola®, tea, or coffee
• Gluten free options are also available; let them know which meal you want when reserving
Christmas at Dolly Parton’s Stampede
Dolly Parton’s Stampede gets a festive makeover during the holidays, with a Christmas show that’s just as spectacular as the rest of the year. A live nativity is the star of the show, which also features live camels, singing angels, amazing costumes, a friendly elf competition, Santa Claus in his sleigh, gorgeous horses, and everyone’s favorite Christmas songs! There’s also a special Christmas preshow in the Saloon, so be sure to get there early!
Dollywood’s Splash Country
It’s summer in the Smokies. Where are you? Well, you should be (for at least 1 day) at Dollywood’s Splash Country! The sister theme park to Dollywood, this exciting attraction is the place to cool off when it gets hot in the Smoky Mountains. Escape from downtown Pigeon Forge to the biggest water park in Tennessee – with 35+ acres of rides, slides, and water features!
Get soaked at Bear Mountain Fire Tower, hit the rapids at Big Bear Plunge, relax on the Downbound Float Trip, let the kids play at Little Creek Falls, race the slides at Mountain Scream, spin at SwiftWater Run, and so much more! From the biggest thrill seekers to the littlest water fans, everyone will find something fun at Splash Country!
And just like Dollywood, Splash Country has plenty of dining and shopping options. Want to stay in the shade between playtime? Rent a canopy or retreat! Canopies give you some coverage, while retreats feature TVs, fans, dining tables, lounge chairs, safe storage, and more!