When I mentioned on Twitter that I was a closet Dolly Parton fan, a follower, Sally told me I had to visit Dollywood. Honestly, I had no idea what she was talking about, so she explained it’s a Dolly Parton themed resort, theme park and water park, in America. When she told me about it, I asked her what it was like, and Sally offered to write a review for me. So without further ado, read on to find out is Dollywood worth the money?
Is Dollywood Worth The Money?
Amusement parks might not be on your to-do list when you visit Tennessee, but the Dollywood theme park and resort is considered one of the best places to visit, in the State. It is Tennessee’s largest ticketed tourist destination, with over 50 rides, attractions, shopping and dining venues.
Over 3 million people claim that this place can take you to a whole new world, with endless opportunities for you and your family to have a fantastic time. Let’s take a closer look at all the fun activities available for you. This video is the Dollywood promotion reel – it shows a snippet of what’s on offer…
Exciting Rides At Dollywood
You can experience a whole day of uninterrupted entertainment while visiting Dollywood. Due to the large number of rides offered, you won’t be disappointed at this theme park. Indoor roller coasters, a perilous boating adventure, water parks, and excursions on a vintage train in the Smoky Mountains are just a few of the entertainment options. The following are a few of the most well-known. The theme park’s rides are all included with your entire price, so that’s a plus when considering is Dollywood worth the money?
Dollywood Express
This tour particularly highlights the Smoky Mountains’ natural grandeur. You will get to be a part of a twenty-minute ride in an actual 110-ton coal-fired steam engine train. You’ll be travelling around five miles, while taking in Knoxville’s stunning surroundings. The Dollywood Express Train allows you to take in the picturesque landscape that nature has to offer.
Thunderhead
The Thunderhead’s location is in Timber Canyon, and it’s considered one of Dollywood’s most challenging activities. Thunderhead Gap’s historic sawmill used to carry lumber out of the mountains. The wood processing remains, but this massive ride is the canyon’s focal point.
The site of this coaster is above the tree canopies, and it passes between two mountains. Due to its steep terrain, the rollercoaster drops into a 100-foot fall at a velocity of 55 miles per hour.
Daredevil Falls
Your quest will begin after boarding this boat, deep within an isolated logging camp. Unless you’re a courageous passenger who can keep their nerves intact, it’s better to make use of the ride’s protection. The tour guide will lead you through the whole encounter, making navigation pretty straightforward.
While you’re on the excursion, you’re bound to come across some bears, but there should be no real danger. There’s no time for comfort, though, as the ride abruptly descends into a sixty-foot plunge. Your heart could end up in your mouth when the ride hits a top speed of fifty kilometers per hour.
Dollywood’s Splash Country
The water-based activities are well-balanced throughout this theme park. After all the outdoor rides, you can unwind in the perfect combination of stunning water rides and a relaxing pool. Thanks to the refreshing water and diversified entertainment, summertime visitors at the theme park are more likely to end up here.
Moreover, this splash country also has live music for your entertainment. You do pay extra to use the Water Park though, so bare that in mind when considering is Dollywood worth the money?
Dining at Dollywood
Spending the entire day at the theme park’s many attractions will undoubtedly leave you hungry. Thankfully, Dollywood has several eateries where you can replenish your energy. There’s something for most budgets, so that’s a plus when working out is Dollywood worth the money? Here are some of the most popular dining choices among the visitors.
Grandstand Cafe
This cafe is a fantastic place to stop for a rest on your way through Country Fair. Grandstand Café, which serves award-winning dishes worthy of a trophy, takes inspiration from the food stalls at the local fair. Chicken tenders, hot dogs, and nachos, served with seasoned chips, are spectacular lunch choices for your family.
Aunt Granny’s Restaurant
Aunt Granny’s is one of the best Dollywood restaurants in the whole amusement park. For proving how popular it is, USA Today ranked it one of the top 10 theme park restaurants in the country. This Dollywood favourite has you covered with one of the most loved all-you-can-eat buffets anywhere.
Aunt Granny organises a sumptuous lunch buffet for the entire family. From superb fried chicken to seafood, this feast has it all. There are also mashed potatoes, green beans, cornbread and cookies, and a selection of other side dishes too. It’s proper American food, so is loved by international tourists.
Dollywood’s Highlights
Dollywood pays homage to the mountainous heritage, culture, and history of the Great Smoky Mountains. The majority of the original attractions, including Dolly Parton’s home, are centered on the culture and traditions of the southern Appalachian region.
Eight of the eleven thematic sections are focused on East Tennessee’s various historical periods and cultures. Some of them are the Jukebox Junction, Country Fair, The Village, Craftsman’s Valley, Rivertown Junction, Wilderness Pass, Timber Canyon, and The Show-street. Moreover, the theme park also launched Wildwood Grove, a fan-favourite area at Dollywood.
Dollywood’s Location
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to Dollywood, which happens to be in the foothills of the mountains. Due to its proximity and access from the southeast United States, the Smoky Mountains are the most visited natural heritage year after year.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park attracted 11 million visitors in 2018, compared to 6.4 million at the Grand Canyon, the second most visited national park.
Ticket Rates
For a day visit to Dollywood, an adult ticket costs $79 (USD), while junior and senior citizen tickets cost $69. A two-day ticket will cost you at least an additional $20. Current or inactive military members, disabled USA veterans, and military employees, along with their families, may enjoy a 30% reduction at the front entrance by providing identification.
A season ticket will give considerably better value for money for someone who is not in a hurry. Dollywood alone will set you back by approximately $139. Season tickets to both Dollywood and Dollywood Splash Country, however, may cost up to $189. So if you’re local, I’d say a season ticket makes Dollywood worth the money.
Final Thoughts
Visitors come from all over the country to experience the heart and spirit of the Great Smoky Mountains at this Pigeon Forge amusement park. If you’re considering visiting from outside of the USA, I’d recommend you read this post for tips on travelling with kids. Dollywood takes pride in creating memorable experiences. It delivers thrilling rides, stunning performances, and skilled artisans amid the Great Smoky Mountains. All of this is done by personnel who genuinely care about the guests’ experience. If you’re still wondering is Dollywood worth the money, you probably need to visit to find out for yourself!
I’d say that if you’re on vacation in Tennessee, it’s worth visiting Pigeon Forge to check out this spectacular theme park.
