SHOCKING NEWS: During the 40th anniversary celebration of Dollywood, Dolly Parton, overwhelmed with excitement, exhibited some inappropriate behavior in front of the fans, and someone…

Dollywood Turns 40: A Glimpse into Dolly Parton’s Vision for Her Iconic Theme Park

Dolly Parton has long been a force to be reckoned with in country music, but her impact reaches far beyond the stage. One of her most celebrated ventures is Dollywood, a theme park she co-owns with Herschend Family Entertainment. This year marks the 40th anniversary of Dollywood, a milestone that’s a testament to the park’s growth, success, and Dolly’s indomitable spirit. Let’s take a closer look at how Dollywood came to be, what it offers, and the exciting future plans for this one-of-a-kind attraction.

A Dream Come True

Dolly Parton became a joint owner of the park in 1986, after it had undergone several transformations. Initially, the park was a five-mile train ride attraction called Goldrush Junction. It started out as Rebel Railroad in the 1960s and was later purchased by Art Modell, the then-owner of the Cleveland Browns. When Herschend Family Entertainment bought the park in 1977, they rebranded it as Silver Dollar City, Tennessee, expanding its offerings to include shops, rides, and shows. But it wasn’t until Dolly came on board that the park truly began to shine with her signature warmth and personality.

Reflecting on its opening in 1986, Dolly Parton recalled her hopes for Dollywood: “On opening day, I was just hoping that people would really want to come visit a theme park with my name on it,” she said during a celebration for the park’s 40th anniversary in March 2025. “Even though I always try to dream big, I’ll admit I was a little bit nervous that first morning.”

But, as always, Dolly’s dreams turned into reality. Dollywood became not only a beloved destination for families but also a place that encapsulates Dolly’s values of fun, togetherness, and creating unforgettable memories.

What Makes Dollywood Special?

Today, Dollywood is a 165-acre wonderland located at the base of the Great Smoky Mountains in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, where Dolly Parton grew up. The park features over 50 rides and attractions, including the iconic Big Bear Mountain Roller Coaster, which is the longest roller coaster in the park at 3,990 feet. It also boasts Wild Eagle, the first wing roller coaster to open in the U.S., among other thrilling rides and family-friendly activities.

But Dollywood is more than just a theme park—it’s a reflection of Dolly’s love for her home state and the Appalachian culture. The park’s shows are a huge draw, with musical performances like the famed Dolly Parton Stampede offering an entertaining blend of Southern hospitality and world-class entertainment. Additionally, Dollywood has expanded to include a 35-acre water park, two resort-style lodges, and numerous shops and restaurants that bring the local culture and flavor to life.

For the past 40 years, Dollywood has become a place where visitors can experience the magic of Dolly Parton, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains. It draws over 2 million visitors annually and continues to be a cornerstone of Tennessee tourism. Celebrities like Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban, Kelsea Ballerini, Chase Stokes, and Noah Kahan have all visited the park, proving that it holds universal appeal.

The Future of Dollywood

Looking ahead, Dolly Parton remains committed to Dollywood’s legacy while continuing to innovate. “We’re lucky to be in the part of the world that I believe is just absolutely the most perfect place that God has created,” Dolly said in an exclusive 2024 interview for National Geographic, reflecting on the stunning setting of the park. “We’re right on the front porch of the most-visited national park in the country, so we take what God gave us and use it to dream up the big dreams we want our guests to experience while they are here riding rides and making memories.”

Dolly has big plans for the future of Dollywood, including expanding the park to add new rides, attractions, and experiences that reflect her love for storytelling, music, and family-friendly entertainment. Her ultimate goal is to create a destination where every guest can leave with a sense of wonder and joy.

40 Years of Magic: A Bright Future Ahead

In honor of Dollywood’s 40th anniversary, the park is set to debut a history-making new ride in 2025, further cementing its place as a top-tier amusement destination. The park has grown far beyond Dolly’s initial hopes, and with new attractions and experiences on the horizon, Dollywood shows no signs of slowing down.

The theme park has always been an extension of Dolly Parton’s personal brand, rooted in her values of warmth, family, and hospitality. As the park continues to celebrate its 40-year legacy, it’s clear that Dollywood’s story is far from over—and Dolly’s vision for the future remains as strong as ever. Fans and visitors from around the world will continue to flock to the Smoky Mountains, ready to enjoy the magic Dolly Parton has created for them all.

With 40 years behind her and many more ahead, it’s clear that Dollywood will always be a place where Dolly’s dreams—and the dreams of her fans—come true.