Dollywood Crowned America’s Top Theme Park, Outshining Disneyland for Third Year!

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In an impressive addition to her illustrious career, country music icon Dolly Parton has secured another triumph – this time in the scenic Smoky Mountains, as Dollywood was recognized as America’s preferred theme park, surpassing the renowned Disneyland.

Based on the National Amusement Park Historical Association’s (NAPHA) survey results from their 39th annual poll, it was announced that Dollywood emerged as America’s favorite theme park for the year 2024. This is the third consecutive year that this cherished attraction in Pigeon Forge has taken the top position, outranking Disneyland in California, which finished second.

Established back in 1986 by both Parton and Herschend Family Entertainment, Dollywood has expanded significantly from a small local concept into a widely admired destination, welcoming over 2 million visitors annually on its sprawling 165-acre site.

“I Was Just Hoping People Would Come”

During the festivities marking Dollywood’s 40th anniversary in March, country icon Dolly Parton confessed that her early aspirations for the park were rather humble.

Speaking on the opening day in 1986, she shared her hope that people would be eager to explore a theme park bearing her name. Despite my habitual ambitions, I must confess I felt a touch of apprehension that initial morning. However, the support shown by the people on that first day eased my worries, and it brings me immense pride to witness how Dollywood has blossomed over the years into an enjoyable and unifying destination for countless visitors.

Dollywood: Built on Faith, Family, and the Smokies

Tucked within the Great Smoky Mountains, Dollywood’s charm transcends roller coasters and cotton candy. According to an interview given to National Geographic in 2024, Dolly Parton herself attributed the nearby community and breathtaking scenery as the essence of the park.

She mentioned that Dollywood stands out from numerous theme parks globally due to its unique blend with the Smoky Mountains and the fantastic staff. Since we’re located next to the most frequented national park in America, we make the most of our natural surroundings by using them as inspiration for creating extraordinary experiences for our visitors.

At Dollywood, you’ll find an array of over 50 attractions spread across a vast area. These include the acclaimed Wild Eagle roller coaster and the expansive Splash Country water park. Many of these spots are themed around Appalachian culture and the music that Dolly Parton is famous for.

A New Attraction in 2025

Dollywood’s reign at the top isn’t just built on nostalgia—it’s evolving.

At the 2025 Season Preview gathering, Dolly Parton and Eugene Naughton, president of Dollywood Company, hinted at a groundbreaking new attraction. The sneak peek video portrayed this future ride as one that would venture “above, across, and within the magnificent Great Smoky Mountains before reaching the core of an ancient forest giant.

Although specifics are yet to be officially disclosed, there’s buzz that the new ride could incorporate innovative terrain-related roller coaster features, potentially centered on local legends of mountains or enchanting natural elements. This seems fitting as an addition to a park steeped in Tennessee folklore and creativity.

What It Means to Beat Disneyland

Achieving top rank over Disneyland in any theme park comparison is no minor accomplishment. Despite Disney’s consistent headlines due to their billion-dollar acquisitions and cinematic universes, Dollywood has chosen a unique route – emphasizing authenticity, charm, warmth, and let’s face it, delicious cinnamon bread. This strategy seems to be striking a chord with the visitors.

The NAPHA award is determined by guest reviews and passionate opinions, rather than a company’s promotional spending, which adds to Dollywood’s three consecutive wins being even more remarkable.

In my experience, there’s no denying that Dollywood stands out among its peers. With its heartwarming charm, cutting-edge attractions, and a burgeoning recognition for quality, it’s not just holding its own against the giants—it’s triumphing as America’s beloved theme park.

And with Dolly Parton at the helm, who would expect anything less?

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2025-05-29 17:55