Discover the best rides at Dollywood, from the thrilling Lightning Rod and Wild Eagle to family-friendly FireChaser Express and Lucky Ducky. Don’t miss seasonal events and live shows for all ages!
Roller Coasters
If you are a thrill-seeker, Dollywood’s are sure to satisfy your need for speed and excitement. Let’s take a closer look at three of the most popular roller coasters in the park: Lightning Rod, Mystery Mine, and Tennessee Tornado.
Lightning Rod
When it comes to roller coasters, Lightning Rod is the king of the park. This wooden coaster, which opened in 2016, is the world’s first launched wooden coaster and the fastest wooden coaster in the world, reaching speeds of up to 73 miles per hour. Lightning Rod is also the only wooden coaster with a vertical drop, which will leave you feeling weightless as you plummet 165 feet down the track.
The ride is inspired by the Tennessee moonshine runners of the 1930s, and the theming is spot-on. The queue line is designed to look like an old moonshine still, complete with barrels and rusted metal, and the coaster cars are designed to resemble old hot rods. The ride itself is packed with airtime, twists, and turns, giving riders a wild and thrilling experience.
Mystery Mine
If you want a coaster with a storyline, Mystery Mine is the ride for you. The coaster takes you on a journey through a haunted coal mine, complete with animatronic miners and a dark, spooky atmosphere. The coaster cars are designed to look like mine carts, and the ride is packed with surprises, including a vertical drop and a heartline roll.
Mystery Mine is a great coaster for those who want a thrill but may not be ready for the intensity of Lightning Rod. The coaster reaches speeds of up to 48 miles per hour and has a maximum drop of 95 feet. The ride lasts just over two minutes, but it packs a punch in that short amount of time.
Tennessee Tornado
Tennessee Tornado is a classic looping coaster that has been a staple of Dollywood since 1999. The coaster reaches speeds of up to 63 miles per hour and has three inversions, including a corkscrew and a vertical loop. The ride also features a tunnel, which adds to the intensity of the coaster.
The theming of Tennessee Tornado is based on the 1960s and features bright colors and retro designs. The coaster cars are designed to look like old convertibles, and the ride is known for its smoothness and reliability. Tennessee Tornado may not be the newest coaster in the park, but it is still a fan favorite and a must-ride for coaster enthusiasts.
Water Rides
When it comes to water rides, Dollywood’s Splash Country has some of the best in the country. From thrilling drops to lazy rivers, there is something for everyone in this water park. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular water rides at Splash Country.
Daredevil Falls
If you’re looking for a water ride that will get your adrenaline pumping, Daredevil Falls is the ride for you. This ride is a four-person raft ride that takes you on a thrilling journey through twists, turns, and drops. As you make your way down the ride, you’ll be met with a 60-foot drop into a pool of water below. The ride lasts for about two minutes and is sure to leave you breathless.
River Rampage
For those who want a more relaxed water ride, River Rampage is the perfect choice. This ride takes you on a lazy river journey through beautiful scenery and rapids. You can sit back and relax in a tube as the current takes you on a peaceful journey. The ride is perfect for families with children who may not be ready for the more intense rides.
Smoky Mountain River Rampage
If you’re looking for a water ride that offers a bit of both worlds, Smoky Mountain River Rampage is the perfect choice. This ride takes you on a white-water rafting adventure through rapids and waterfalls. You’ll be met with splashes and drops as you make your way down the ride. The ride is perfect for those who want a bit of a challenge but still want to have fun.
In addition to these three popular water rides, Splash Country has a variety of other water attractions, including a wave pool, kiddie play areas, and more. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling adventure or a relaxing day in the water, Splash Country has something for everyone.
- Daredevil Falls – a thrilling four-person raft ride with twists, turns, and a 60-foot drop
- River Rampage – a peaceful lazy river ride through beautiful scenery and rapids
- Smoky Mountain River Rampage – a white-water rafting adventure with splashes and drops
Family Rides
If you’re planning a family trip to Dollywood, then be sure to check out the family rides section. This area of the park is perfect for kids and adults alike, with plenty of attractions that will keep everyone entertained.
Dolly Parton’s Chasing Rainbows Museum
One of the must-see attractions in the family rides section is Dolly Parton’s Chasing Rainbows Museum. This museum is dedicated to the life and career of the iconic country singer, and it’s a great way to learn more about her and her music.
Inside the museum, you’ll find a wealth of memorabilia, including costumes, awards, and personal items that belonged to Dolly. You’ll also learn more about her childhood and early career, as well as her philanthropic work and other achievements.
If you’re a fan of Dolly Parton or just interested in learning more about her, then the Chasing Rainbows Museum is definitely worth a visit.
FireChaser Express
One of the most exciting rides in the family rides section is the FireChaser Express. This roller coaster takes you on a thrilling ride through the Great Smoky Mountains, with plenty of twists and turns along the way.
What makes the FireChaser Express unique is that it’s a hybrid coaster, meaning it combines elements of both a traditional wooden coaster and a steel coaster. This makes for a truly exhilarating experience, with plenty of unexpected drops and hairpin turns.
If you’re a thrill-seeker looking for a family-friendly ride, then the FireChaser Express is definitely worth checking out.
Rockin’ Roadway
For a more laid-back experience, be sure to check out Rockin’ Roadway. This ride takes you on a leisurely drive through a retro-inspired town, complete with classic cars and 50s-style storefronts.
What’s great about Rockin’ Roadway is that it’s a ride that the whole family can enjoy together. Kids will love the fun, colorful scenery, while adults will appreciate the nostalgic vibe.
Overall, the family rides section at Dollywood has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for thrills, nostalgia, or just a fun day out with the family, this section of the park is definitely worth a visit.
Here’s a quick summary of the attractions in the family rides section:
- Dolly Parton’s Chasing Rainbows Museum – A must-see for fans of the iconic country singer.
- FireChaser Express – A thrilling coaster with plenty of unexpected twists and turns.
- Rockin’ Roadway – A fun, nostalgic ride that the whole family can enjoy together.
Thrill Rides
Are you looking for an adrenaline-pumping experience that will leave you breathless? Look no further than the thrill rides at Dollywood, including the Drop Line, Thunderhead, and Wild Eagle.
Drop Line
The Drop Line is not for the faint of heart. This ride takes you up 230 feet in the air before dropping you at speeds of up to 77 miles per hour. The freefall lasts for several seconds, giving you a feeling of weightlessness before gently slowing down to a stop. The Drop Line is the perfect ride for thrill-seekers who want to push their limits.
Thunderhead
Named after the thundering sound it creates as it races around the track, Thunderhead is a wooden coaster that will have you screaming with excitement. With a top speed of 55 miles per hour and a 100-foot drop, Thunderhead is one of the fastest and most thrilling rides at Dollywood. The ride lasts for just over two minutes, but it will leave a lasting impression on you for much longer.
Wild Eagle
Are you ready to soar like an eagle? Wild Eagle is a wing coaster that gives you the sensation of flying through the air. The ride takes you up 21 stories before dropping you at speeds of up to 61 miles per hour. The twists and turns of the track will have you feeling like you’re flying, and the view from the top is breathtaking. Wild Eagle is a must-ride for anyone who loves the feeling of flight.
Kids Rides
If you’re planning a trip to Dollywood with your little ones, you won’t want to miss out on the park’s fantastic selection of kid-friendly rides. From gentle spinners to exciting , there’s something for every age and thrill level. Let’s take a closer look at a few of the top picks in this category.
Busy Bees
The Busy Bees ride is a charming spinning ride that’s perfect for young children. Shaped like a beehive, the ride takes little ones on a gentle spin through the air. The ride is beautifully decorated with flowers and bees, making it a fun and visually appealing experience for young riders. The ride is suitable for children who are at least 36 inches tall, and parents can ride with their child if they prefer.
Lucky Ducky
Another great option for young children is the Lucky Ducky ride. This ride is designed to look like a pond, and children ride on the back of a cute, colorful duck. The ride moves in a gentle circular motion, giving children a fun and safe experience. Like the Busy Bees ride, Lucky Ducky is suitable for children who are at least 36 inches tall and parents can ride with their child if they wish.
Piggy Parade
For slightly older children, the Piggy Parade ride is a great choice. This ride is shaped like a train and takes riders on a fun journey through the park. The ride features colorful pigs and other farm animals, making it a cute and engaging experience. The ride is suitable for children who are at least 36 inches tall and can accommodate up to two adults per car.
Overall, Dollywood’s selection of kids’ rides is impressive, with plenty of options for children of all ages. Whether your little ones are looking for a gentle ride or an exciting adventure, there’s something for everyone. So grab your camera and head to the park for a day of family fun and memories that will last a lifetime.
- Busy Bees ride is shaped like a beehive and takes riders on a gentle spin through the air
- Lucky Ducky ride is designed to look like a pond, and children ride on the back of a cute, colorful duck
- Piggy Parade ride is shaped like a train and takes riders on a fun journey through the park.
Live Shows
Dollywood’s live shows are world-renowned for their quality entertainment, and there’s no better way to experience them than at the Dreamland Drive-In. This outdoor theater offers a unique experience that transports audiences back to the 1950s with classic cars, drive-in movie screens, and vintage concessions. The shows range from musical performances to comedy acts and feature top-notch performers.
One of the most popular shows at the Dreamland Drive-In is Heartsong, a touching tribute to Dolly Parton’s upbringing in the Great Smoky Mountains. The show tells the story of Parton’s family and their struggles, set against a backdrop of traditional Appalachian music. It’s a heartwarming and emotional production that is sure to leave audiences feeling inspired.
Another must-see show at Dollywood is My People, My Music. This musical journey celebrates the diverse cultures and musical traditions that make up the American South. From gospel to bluegrass to country, the show features a wide range of musical styles and showcases the incredible talent of Dollywood’s performers.
In addition to the Dreamland Drive-In, Dollywood offers a variety of other live shows throughout the park. From acrobatic feats to musical performances, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to check the schedule and plan your day accordingly to catch all of the incredible entertainment that Dollywood has to offer.
Dreamland Drive-In
The Dreamland Drive-In is a unique outdoor theater that offers a one-of-a-kind entertainment experience. The theater is designed to look like a classic 1950s drive-in, complete with vintage cars, movie screens, and concessions. It’s the perfect place to catch a show while enjoying the beautiful scenery of the Great Smoky Mountains.
The theater offers a rotating lineup of shows throughout the season, so there’s always something new to see. From musical productions to comedy acts, the shows are top-notch and feature some of the best performers in the industry. The theater also features state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, ensuring that every show is a truly immersive experience.
In addition to the live shows, the Dreamland Drive-In also offers a variety of concessions, including classic movie theater snacks like popcorn and candy. There are also food trucks and vendors on-site, offering a wide range of delicious treats and meals.
Overall, the Dreamland Drive-In is a must-see attraction at Dollywood. Whether you’re a fan of classic movies, live entertainment, or just want to experience something unique, this outdoor theater is sure to impress.
Heartsong
Heartsong is one of the most popular shows at Dollywood, and for good reason. This touching tribute to Dolly Parton’s upbringing in the Great Smoky Mountains tells the story of her family and their struggles, set against a backdrop of traditional Appalachian music.
The show features a talented cast of musicians and performers who bring the story to life with their incredible voices and heartfelt performances. From gospel hymns to bluegrass ballads, the music is both moving and entertaining.
But what really sets Heartsong apart is its emotional impact. The show touches on themes of family, sacrifice, and perseverance, and is sure to leave audiences feeling inspired and uplifted. It’s a testament to the power of music and the human spirit, and a must-see for anyone visiting Dollywood.
My People, My Music
My People, My Music is another incredible live show at Dollywood that celebrates the diverse cultures and musical traditions of the American South. The show features a talented cast of performers who showcase a wide range of musical styles, from gospel to bluegrass to country.
One of the highlights of the show is its focus on the stories behind the music. Each performance is accompanied by a narrative that explores the history and cultural significance of the music, making it both entertaining and educational.
But what really sets My People, My Music apart is its celebration of diversity. The show highlights the many different cultures and traditions that make up the American South, showcasing the unique contributions of each group. It’s a powerful reminder of the beauty and richness of diversity, and a must-see for anyone visiting Dollywood.
Seasonal Rides
If you’re looking for a theme park that celebrates all seasons, Dollywood is the place to be. With a variety of seasonal rides, you’ll never run out of things to do. Let’s take a closer look at the three main seasonal events that Dollywood offers.
Great Pumpkin LumiNights
During the fall season, Dollywood transforms into a pumpkin wonderland with their Great Pumpkin LumiNights event. This event features over 10,000 illuminated pumpkins, intricate pumpkin carvings, and seasonal food and drink offerings. Guests can take a stroll through the park and admire the beautiful pumpkins, or they can enjoy one of the many seasonal rides. One of the most popular rides is the Wildwood Grove, which is a family-friendly area that features a variety of rides and attractions. The Great Pumpkin LumiNights event is perfect for families who want to experience the magic of fall.
Smoky Mountain Christmas
During the winter season, Dollywood transforms into a winter wonderland with their Smoky Mountain Christmas event. This event features over 5 million Christmas lights, festive holiday shows, and seasonal food and drink offerings. Guests can take a ride on the Polar Express, a train ride that takes guests on a journey to the North Pole. They can also enjoy one of the many seasonal rides, such as the Blazing Fury or the Thunderhead. The Smoky Mountain Christmas event is perfect for families who want to experience the magic of the holiday season.
Summer Celebration
During the summer season, Dollywood celebrates with their Summer Celebration event. This event features nightly fireworks, a variety of seasonal shows, and seasonal food and drink offerings. Guests can take a ride on the Lightning Rod, a thrilling roller coaster that reaches speeds of up to 73 mph. They can also enjoy one of the many water rides, such as the River Rampage or the Smoky Mountain River Rampage. The Summer Celebration event is perfect for families who want to enjoy the warm weather and experience the excitement of summer.
In conclusion, Dollywood offers a variety of seasonal events that cater to all ages and interests. Whether you’re looking for a pumpkin wonderland, a winter wonderland, or a summer celebration, Dollywood has something for everyone. Be sure to check out their seasonal rides and attractions, as they are sure to provide you with unforgettable memories.
