“Find out who you are and do it on purpose.”
Dolly Parton
Pigeon Forge, Tennessee is the home to all things Dolly Parton. Not only is she an incredibly talented musician, she’s also a smart business woman and entrepreneur. Everywhere you turn you’ll find something created or inspired by her. It’s nearly impossible to visit Pigeon Forge and not check out one of her attractions. While on our Christmas vacation, we had the privilege of visiting ,Dolly Parton’s Stampede, ,DollyWood, and the ,DreamMore Resort. We created the most amazing memories while we were there and highly recommend you visit. Each place offers a unique experience and has something to offer everyone. Here’s what you need to know before planning your trip:
Dolly Parton’s Stampede
Dolly Parton’s Stampede is a full dinner experience and show. The meal is a four-course meal, including a drink, soup, a cheesy biscuit, a cornish hen, baked potato, corn on the cob, and a scone for dessert. The entire meal is eaten with your hands! That alone was an experience. The servers were fast, efficient, and did a great job of not interrupting the show. I was highly impressed with the service.
The Christmas show was absolutely spectacular. The spirit of the season filled the arena with a touching performance of the birth of Jesus, hilarious elf antics, winter games, and Christmas music. The trick riding and animal races were fun for the whole family, especially the littles.
Things to Know:
- Children 2 and under are free if they sit on a parent’s lap and eat from their plate. There is plenty of food to share. You can purchase a child’s ticket if you would rather.
- Ticket prices include the show and your meal
- It is a dust free arena, but if you are allergic to animals you may experience an allergy attack.
- There are no utensils. If this bothers you, bring your own.
- Masks are required to enter the building, but not required while dining/watching the show.
- You can book your tickets at the door or online ,HERE.
DollyWood Theme Park
DollyWood Theme Park is ranked one of the world’s best theme parks. The theme park sits on 160 acres in the Smoky Mountains and offers 50 rides, entertainment, dining, and shopping. There is plenty to do for children of all ages and offers unique experiences for the whole family. Local vendors and artisans can be found throughout the park, offering a one-of-a-kind shopping experience you cannot find in any other theme park. Dolly’s love for her local community and small businesses was evident throughout the park. The food was delicious, probably the best I’ve ever had at a theme park. The shows and Christmas light display were phenomenal and made the whole experience magical.
Things to Know:
- The park has many steep inclines and uneven grounds. Be cautious if you have physical limitations.
- TimeSaver Pass (similar to Disney’s Fast Pass) are available for purchase online or at the TimeSaver Pass Rentals at the end of Showstreet. For show reservations, you will need to see the TimeSaver booth.
- ParentSwap program is for families with small children. You can wait in line together and swap rides.
- Small children get their height checked at the beginning of the park with a colored wristband indicating what rides they are able to ride. This saves you time from waiting in line, only to find out they are to small.
- There is a tram service available for the parking lot so you do not need to walk the entire distance.
- Trolley’s take you back and forth from DreamMore Resort and DollyWood theme park. Trolley’s arrive every 15 minutes.
- Temperature screenings are required before getting on the trolley or tram.
- Masks are required for all people 3 and over.
DreamMore Resort
DollyWood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa is on-site oasis that overs housing, dining, shopping, and entertainment. The resort was ranked one of the top hotels in the south and one of the best resorts for families, and it shows! They offer a variety of lodging options to accommodate families of all sizes. We personally stayed in the King with Bunk room and it was a great option for our family of 4. The amenities include: indoor and outdoor pools, fitness center, game room, camp DW, playground, spa, gift shop, Song & Hearth: A Southern Eatery, poolside dining, DM Pantry, and The Lounge. The outdoor pool is seasonal, however, there are fire pits and outdoor activities around the pool area during winter months. The grounds were well maintained and very beautiful.
Things to Know:
- Masks are required indoors for all people 3 and up.
- Trolley services to DollyWood theme park are available for all guests.
- Park & attraction tickets are available at the concierge ticket desk inside the lobby.
- The spa, game room, playground, and fitness center are currently closed due to Covid-19.
- The DM Pantry has premade snacks and meals, made-to-order sandwiches and pizza, ice cream, and serves Starbucks coffee. It’s a great food option if you’re in a hurry.
- In-Room dining is available!
- Book your next stay ,HERE
DollyWood is a full experience that is great for people of all ages. Whether you’re an adrenaline junky looking for a thrill at the theme park, or you prefer a slower pace of shopping and good eats, DollyWood is the place for you.
Happy Travels!
