Dolly Parton is celebrating a major milestone this year—Dollywood’s 40th anniversary! The country music legend, who co-owns the beloved theme park with Herschend, recently opened up about its history, growth, and her deep pride in the park’s success.
In a conversation with USA TODAY, Parton recalled her initial dreams of building a theme park when she first tasted success in her career. She shared, “When I first started getting successful, I used to think if I ever made it as big as I hoped to, then I would want to have my own theme park.” Parton’s dream was to create a place where people could come together, enjoy themselves, and create memories—all while providing jobs for her family and community. “We’ve got all that now,” she proudly declared.
Dollywood opened 40 years ago and, according to Parton, it’s exceeded her wildest expectations. She went on to explain that it wasn’t just the park itself but the location in the Great Smoky Mountains that made it special. “I can’t take credit for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park,” she humbly said, “but they were drawing people for many years before we came. That’s why I knew this would be a good place to have a business like Dollywood.”
In the four decades since Dollywood first opened its gates, the park has grown in size and popularity. Every year, it continues to offer visitors an unforgettable experience, with something for every age group. Parton explained, “Our slogan is creating memories worth repeating and love every moment,” and she believes that’s exactly what visitors do when they come to Dollywood. Families can enjoy roller coasters, arts and crafts, and beautiful shopping experiences. “There’s something for everybody to enjoy without being in each other’s face all day,” she added.
Parton’s deep pride in the park is clear as she highlights the other attractions around Dollywood as well, including the Pirates Voyage, Stampede, and Comedy Barn, not to mention the stunning Splash Country. “There’s something for everybody in this whole area,” she says.When asked why people should visit Dollywood now, Parton urged fans, “Get here and do whatever you gotta do to get here, because once you’ve been here, you’re going to love it.”
As Dollywood celebrates this milestone anniversary, Parton reflects on how far the park has come and how it’s more than just a theme park—it’s a family destination. Whether it’s the thrilling rides, the beautiful scenery, or the local businesses that add charm to the region, Dollywood and the surrounding areas of Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and Gatlinburg are places that leave lasting memories.
“To me, this is sincerely one of the greatest places that anyone could visit,” Parton said, and with the continued growth and evolution of Dollywood, it’s clear that the legend herself has created something truly special.