Planning a trip to the Smoky Mountains isn't complete without a visit to Dollywood, country music icon Dolly Parton’s very own theme park, bursting with thrilling rides, toe-tapping shows and down-home Southern charm. Whether you're a seasoned theme park enthusiast or a first-time visitor, Dollywood offers something for everyone. This guide will equip you with all the information you need to make the most of your visit, from helpful tips to a suggested one-day itinerary to maximize your fun. So hold on tight — this is sure to be a wild ride!
Know Before You Go To Dollywood Theme Park
- Beat the Rush: Arrive early to snag prime parking and tackle popular rides like Wild Eagle, Thunderhead and Mystery Mine before the lines get long. To forego lines altogether, consider investing in a TimeSaver pass for expedited entry on select rides throughout the day.
- Season Pass Perks: Planning a multi-day adventure or hoping to come back later in the year? Think about a season pass! For a bit more than a one-day pass, you can gain unlimited access to Dollywood and get exclusive discounts on food, area attractions and more. If you get Gold or Diamond season passes, you also get free parking at Dollywood!
- Pack for Adventure: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking and navigating hilly terrain. Pack an extra change of clothes for water rides, and don't forget a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Download the Dollywood App: The Dollywood app is a game-changer. Find wait times for rides, show schedules, park maps and more! Download the free app before you go.
- Buy Your Parking Pass Ahead: Dollywood offers various parking options online. Remember, purchasing your parking pass in advance allows you to skip the line at the entrance and head straight for the fun! If you don’t get parking close to the park entrance, never fear! There's a free tram service that runs through the parking lot to take you there.
- Plan Around Events: Check Dollywood's festivals and events calendar and daily schedule to plan your visit around exciting festivals like the Flower & Food Festival or spooky Halloween Time. These immersive events add another layer of fun to your Dollywood experience.
One-Day Itinerary at Dollywood Theme Park
Have you ever wondered if you could do Dollywood in a single day? Buckle up! We’ve got you covered with this one-day Dollywood itinerary to help you experience the best the park has to offer on a time crunch.
Morning: Rise and shine early! If you’re staying at Camp Margaritaville, fuel up with Fins Breakfast Buffet. Then head to Dollywood for a head start on the day. Use the Dollywood app to check wait times and tackle the most popular rides first, like Wild Eagle, Thunderhead, or Mystery Mine. Remember, hitting those big coasters early helps avoid long lines later in the day.
Midday: Dollywood boasts a wide range of dining options, from classic Southern fare to funnel cake. For lunch, head to a quick-service spot like Miss Lillian's Restaurant or Red's Diner – their portions are generous and won’t break the bank. Splurge on a creamy Dollywood soft-serve ice cream cone or the legendary cinnamon bread at Grist Mill (trust us, you won’t want to skip this) in the afternoon for a refreshing pick-me-up.
Afternoon: Dollywood's award-winning shows are a fantastic way to rest your feet and experience some toe-tapping entertainment. The Smoky Mountain String Band is a crowd favorite, showcasing bluegrass tunes and Appalachian storytelling. For a unique experience, check out the hilarious antics of the Country Tonk Revue or the majestic Wings of America Birds of Prey show.
Optional: Planning a longer stay? Consider a combo ticket that includes access to Dollywood's sister park, Dollywood's Splash Country. This water park offers thrilling slides, relaxing wave pools and a chance to cool down after a day of theme park adventures.
Evening: After a day of excitement, head back to your comfortable haven at Camp Margaritaville RV Resort & Lodge. As one of the best hotels near Dollywood, Camp Margaritaville offers everything you need to unwind and recharge, from spacious rooms to a lazy river perfect for floating away your cares. Plus, on-site restaurants and a lively bar ensure you don’t have to venture far for delicious food and refreshing drinks. Explore our special offers and discounts and book your stay today!