Dollywood, Dolly Parton’s beloved theme park nestled in the Smoky Mountains, continues to evolve, bringing her Appalachian dreams to life with exciting new additions.(Travel + Leisure)
In May 2023, Dollywood unveiled its most significant investment to date: the Big Bear Mountain roller coaster. Costing $25 million, this steel coaster stretches 3,990 feet, making it the park’s longest ride. Located in the Wildwood Grove section, it features three launches, onboard audio—a first for Dollywood—and reaches speeds up to 48 mph. Dolly Parton humorously remarked she wouldn’t ride it herself, joking about her hair flying off on national television .(The Points Guy, Times Free Press)
Complementing the thrill of Big Bear Mountain, Dollywood opened the HeartSong Lodge & Resort in November 2023. This 302-room lodge, situated across from the DreamMore Resort & Spa, offers guests a rustic yet luxurious experience. Amenities include a 26,000-square-foot indoor and outdoor meeting space, a pool, restaurant, bar, and exclusive early Saturday park access. The lodge’s design reflects the natural beauty of the Smokies, featuring elements like a four-story stone fireplace and décor inspired by local flora and fauna .(amusementparkwarehouse.com, Travel + Leisure, Times Free Press, Condé Nast Traveler)
Culinary offerings at Dollywood have also expanded. New menu items across the park’s eateries include the Back Yard Crispy Chicken Sandwich at the Front Porch Café and a sweet potato taco stuffed with black beans. Guests can still enjoy classics like Dolly’s famous cinnamon bread, now served at both breakfast and dinner at the HeartSong Lodge’s Ember & Elm restaurant .(Times Free Press, Food & Wine)
For fans seeking a deeper connection to Dolly’s life, the Dolly Parton Experience opened in May 2024. This multi-building attraction offers interactive exhibits showcasing her journey from Locust Ridge to global stardom, including displays of her iconic wardrobe and personal artifacts. Visitors can also tour her retired tour bus, now a luxurious suite available for overnight stays, with proceeds supporting her Imagination Library, a program that has distributed over 270 million books to children worldwide .(Dolly Parton | Official Website, Times Free Press)
As Dollywood celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2025, these additions underscore Dolly Parton’s commitment to honoring her roots and providing memorable experiences for families. Through thrilling rides, cozy accommodations, and heartfelt exhibits, she continues to share the spirit of the Smoky Mountains with visitors from around the world.(Southern Living)
