Dollywood, a historical theme park located in Pigeon Forge, offers thrilling rides, live entertainment, Southern cuisine, seasonal events and classic Tennessee hospitality, making it an ideal location for families.
Here are 10 essential things to know about Dollywood before you go:
1. When to go
Dollywood is usually busiest during the summer, weekends and holidays. If you’re looking for a more intimate experience with less crowding and better weather, the best time to visit is in the spring (March-May) or fall (September-November).
Weekdays during these months are generally less crowded, especially in the off-season. This means shorter wait times for rides and a more relaxed experience, with ample time for families to explore park attractions and enjoy unique foods.
2. Attractions and rides
Dollywood has plenty of fun rides and attractions for kids of all ages. Kids will love Wildwood Grove, which includes several interactive play areas and rides for smaller visitors like the Dragonflier and Black Bear Trail. For bigger kids looking for an adrenaline rush, the Lightning Rod, one of USA Today’s top 10 best roller coasters in the country, is made of wood and features a thrilling 165 foot drop.
Families also won’t want to miss the iconic Dollywood Express, a coal-fired train with scenic views of the Smoky Mountains, or the Country Fair section, which has classic rides like Busy Bees and Flying Elephants, which give guests a nostalgic feel and provide plenty of fun for little ones.
3. Where to Stay
Dollywood offers two resorts, the Heartsong Lodge and Resort and the DreamMore Resort & Spa. Both offer exclusive perks, such as early park entry with Dollywood time saver passes, a complimentary trolley service and kid-friendly activities.
The DreamMore Resort and Spa offers a full service spa and six dining locations for families looking for a high-end vacation. For a more rustic experience, the HeartSong Lodge & Resort provides guests with a cozy stay and stunning mountain views. If you’re looking for more options, there are nearby cabins and hotels in Pigeon Forge that offer different amenities, serval of which provide easy access to the park and other attractions.
4. What to eat
Dollywood is known for its delicious Southern cuisine, which makes dining one of the highlights of a visit to the park. The Grist Mill & Cinnamon Bread got its name for a reason, with warm, sugary cinnamon bread that makes this grill a must-visit.
Aunt Granny’s All-You-Can-Eat Restaurant offers a huge buffet-style feast with southern favorites like fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and cornbread. For classic burgers and milkshakes in a 50’s themed diner, try Red’s Drive-In. Lastly, Miss Lillian’s Smokehouse is famous for mouth-watering barbecue and seasonal food stands that serve unique, limited-time dishes.
5. Special events and festivals
Dollywood also hosts many seasonal festivals that add extra fun to your visit. The Flower & Food Festival (April 18 – June 8, 2025) offer floral displays, sculptures, and special food like the Honey Garlic Chicken Skillet and Honey & Peach Bar-B-Q Sandwich. The Harvest Festival (Sept. 12 – Oct. 27, 2025) is a fall classic, with tunes from Dolly’s giant, glowing guitar, a 40-foot pumpkin tree during Great Pumpkin LumiNights and live Southern gospel, country and bluegrass music.
The Smoky Mountain Christmas event (Nov. 1, 2025 – Jan. 4, 2026) is another must-see with six million bright Christmas lights, dozens of Christmas trees, jaw-dropping holiday shows and the Parade of Many Colors.
6. Ways to Save Money
Dollywood offers discounts on tickets for military members, seniors and groups. The season passes are also more cost-effective than single-day tickets and allow visitors to explore more of the park without being rushed.
If you plan on taking multiple visits throughout the year a season pass would be the best option. It also comes with many extra, exclusive perks like food and merchandise discounts. Ranging from $129 to $244, the varying season passes offer options for East Tennessee residents and children and senior discounts.
Dollywood also offers a free season pass for Pre-K kids. Children born in 2020 or 2021 can now register for a free 2025 Pre-K Imagination Season Pass. Another way to save money is by bringing your own reusable water bottle and snacks for the little ones.
7. Ticket Prices & Add-Ons
The one, two and three day single ticket options range from $92 to $132 (ages 10 – 61), with children 4 to 9 and seniors 69 and up receiving a $10 discount, and the option to add Splash Country access for $10.
The park also offers add-ons like the TimeSaver Pass, starting at $60, which allow guests to skip lines at attractions. For families looking to prolong their adventure, the Dollywood & Splash Country combo ticket allows you to enjoy the theme and water park.
8. Dollywood’s Splash Country
If visiting in the summer or hotter months, be sure to visit Dollywood’s Splash Country, a water park filled with fun and attractions for all ages. The park has a large wave pool, lazy rivers, and thrilling water slides like Fire Tower Falls, which features a huge 70-foot drop.
For families looking to relax and unwind, there are also shaded cabanas available for rent, which offer guests a private space. The park also has splash areas for kiddos, which make it an awesome spot for younger kids to cool off, hydrate and play.
9. Accessibility & Stroller Rentals
Dollywood is very accessible, ensuring that all guests can enjoy their visit without issues. The park is stroller-friendly and has rentals near the entrance, which makes it easier for families with young children who need these services.
For disabled guests, Dollywood offers an accessibility guide, ride accommodations and wheelchair rentals also located near the front of the park. Companion restrooms and quiet areas are also available for those who need break from the never-ending excitement.
10. The Dollywood App
The Dollywood app is a good resource for visiting the park, with real-time wait times, show schedules and an interactive map. It also allows you to set reminders for showtimes, find dining options and locate restrooms, ensuring that you’re getting the most out of your visit.
Having the app helps families navigate the park more efficiently and plan their day to ensure so they don’t miss must-see shows and attractions, making your visit even better.
