Visiting the Smokies is always special, what with the natural wonders, outdoor activities, sports, great dining experiences and great places to stay, like in any of our amazing Gatlinburg cabins that are near all the things to do like Dollywood. One of the area’s greatest attractions, Dollywood, is celebrating its 30^th anniversary this year. Dolly Parton hails from Sevierville, TN and the theme and water parks she developed in Pigeon Forge are known around the world as some of the most enjoyable amusement attractions for kids and adults alike.  We’ve collected a few highlights of what you can see and do at Dollywood. By no means an exhaustive list, our look-see into what Dollywood has to offer can help you plan a fun day discovering Smoky Mountain hospitality and adventure. Let’s start our mini-tour of Dollywood with some of the kids' rides:

1) Popular Rides (these are a few Dollywood fan favorites)

      a. Elephant Cars look like fun elephants with big ears and trunks. This ride is perfect for little ones who may ride with adults. Ride your elephant on an adventure; kids love this ride that makes them smile!

      b. Demolition Derby (fun for adults too) cars are the most fun bumper cars you've ever ridden! Steer through the bumpy fun as your friends and family members try to outmaneuver you through the mayhem!

If you love roller coasters, Dollywood has five of them! Here's a sneak peek at one of the popular coasters:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mHB7bgxkXc0

This is the Tennessee Tornado and the video will show you what it’s really like from the rider’s perspective. Amazing heights and drops await you on this much loved coaster. You’ll scream with delight at every twist and turn!

2) Kids love waterparks, and Dollywood has one of the best around, Dollywood's Splash Country Water Adventure Park! Here's what you can expect when you visit:

23 water adventure slides and thrill rides! These are two of the most popular:

      a. Big Bear Plunge® May 16 - September 07 Location: Near Cascades

One of the most popular rides at the water park! Immerse yourself in a white water rafting adventure with all the thrills of twisting turns, precipitous drops and dark caverns! This is the fun and exciting ride that everyone loves! http://www.dollywood.com/waterpark/rides/Big-Bear-Plunge 

       b. RiverRush May 16 - September 07 Location: Near Cascades 

Ever go on a water roller coaster before? You can now! This is a really unique ride that is a definite 'must-do' at Dollywood. It's a fun way to spend date night, or time with the family or friends. Season passes are worth a look at Splash Country because if you go even a few times per year, you've saved money over buying individual tickets.

Many Splash Country visitors report that they like how helpful the park hosts are and that they think they are getting a good value and lots of fun for their money.

3) Adults! Take a Stroll Down Memory Lane: Visit the Southern Gospel Museum And Hall Of Fame

Southern Gospel music is ingrained in the soul of the South and this museum at Dollywood will put you in touch with its roots! This music began in the church then spread around the world. Learn about the original artists and today's stars who carry on this musical style, built on the early days of gospel.

Many visitors return here every year because they want to revisit the origins of gospel and trace its beginnings. Fun for adults and kids alike, this museum offers:

• Lots of historical pictures
• Ability to listen to songs
• Instruments used by favorite gospel singers
• Sections of the museum categorized to various eras and singers

It's really a lot of fun; plus you don't have to pay extra admission!

These are but three ways to spend your day at Dollywood. Dollywood offers many attractions and we’ll cover more of them in future blogs. Since there are so many things to do, it’s easy to see why Dollywood consistently ranks as a top family fun destination in the Smokies.

 

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