With the death of country music icon Dolly Parton, fans around the world are remembering her extraordinary career, philanthropy and larger-than-life personality. One of her most enduring legacies, however, is a place that brings together her love for music, her Tennessee roots and her passion for family entertainment — Dollywood. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)

Dollywood is located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, at the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The park is around 35 miles southeast of Knoxville and has become one of the region’s major tourist attractions. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)

The theme park’s history goes back much further than Dolly Parton’s involvement. The site first opened as Rebel Railroad in 1961. It later became Silver Dollar City before Dolly joined the Herschend family in the theme-park business in 1986. That year, the park was renamed Dollywood. Dolly’s involvement helped give the park a distinct identity rooted in the culture and traditions of the Smoky Mountains. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)

Dollywood isn’t just about roller coasters. A large part of the park celebrates Dolly’s childhood, family, music and career. (Image: Instagram/@dollywood)

The Dolly Parton Experience takes visitors through different chapters of her life and includes exhibits about her career, family and iconic style. It also features Songteller, Behind The Seams and Precious Memories. Dolly’s tour bus is also part of the experience. (Image: Instagram/@dollywood)

One of the more personal attractions is Dolly’s Tennessee Mountain Home, a two-room replica of the house where Dolly grew up in Locust Ridge. The modest home did not have electricity or running water, but Dolly has often spoken about the importance of her family and childhood. The attraction offers visitors a glimpse into those early years. (Image: Instagram/@dollywood)

The park has plenty for thrill-seekers, including roller coasters and other attractions. Among its attractions is NightFlight Expedition, an immersive indoor adventure coaster that opened as part of Dollywood’s 2026 season. The ride takes visitors through a Smoky Mountain-inspired journey involving landscapes, water and storytelling. Other popular attractions include Wild Eagle, Tennessee Tornado, Big Bear Mountain and Daredevil Falls. (Image: Instagram/@dollywood)

Given Dolly’s musical legacy, it is hardly surprising that live entertainment plays a major role at Dollywood. The park hosts shows, musical performances and seasonal festivals throughout the year. Its productions have also celebrated Dolly’s own music and career, including From The Heart – The Life and Music of Dolly Parton. Traditional crafts are another part of the experience, with visitors able to watch local craftsmen demonstrate skills such as blacksmithing. (Image: Instagram/@dollywood)

What began as a theme park has expanded into a broader vacation destination. The Dollywood Parks & Resorts complex now includes the theme park, Dollywood’s Splash Country water park and two resort hotels, DreamMore Resort and Spa and HeartSong Lodge & Resort. (Image: Instagram/@dollywood)

The park has also expanded significantly since Dolly became involved. According to Dollywood, the property now covers about 150 acres, more than twice its earlier size. (Image: Instagram/@dollywood)