When Dollywood reopens for the 2025 season, guests will be stepping into a refreshed and expanded version of the beloved Tennessee theme park.
The park, which blends Southern hospitality, high-energy entertainment, and Dolly Parton’s signature charm, is undergoing more than 100 improvements as it gears up for its 40th-anniversary celebration. From infrastructure updates to brand-new experiences, Dollywood is making sure it stays on top of its game as one of the country’s most unique theme parks.
Dolly Parton’s Vision, Decades in the Making
For nearly 40 years, Dollywood has served as a love letter to East Tennessee, offering thrilling coasters, Appalachian crafts, and live music steeped in Parton’s roots. Since opening in 1986, the park has evolved into a full-fledged resort destination, with a water park, two hotels, and more expansion plans in the works.
Unlike most corporate-backed theme parks, Dollywood keeps its identity deeply personal, thanks to Parton’s hands-on involvement in shaping the experience. Her influence is everywhere—from the Southern-style comfort food to the emphasis on storytelling and music. The park’s cinnamon bread has even reached cult status among theme park foodies, rivaling some of Disney’s most iconic snacks.
100 Upgrades Coming to Dollywood
While Dollywood is currently closed for its annual winter maintenance, President Eugene Naughton confirmed that more than 100 projects are in progress to enhance the park experience before it reopens in March.
“Probably just like you think about in your own home, right?” Naughton said via WATE. “There’s a room that needs to get painted, there’s a room that sort of needs a refresh, might need a new piece of furniture. It’s the same thing for us.”
Among the biggest additions is a brand-new 750-space parking lot, aimed at improving traffic flow and accessibility. The Country Fair area—a fan-favorite section filled with nostalgic carnival rides—is also getting a full refresh. And for food lovers, Dollywood is adding a brand-new dining location, with details on the menu still under wraps.
A Bigger, Better Dollywood Experience
The 40th-anniversary celebration isn’t just about infrastructure—it’s also bringing new entertainment, themed decor, and experiences.
A new Dollywood sign, modeled after Hollywood’s iconic landmark, will welcome visitors in true show-stopping fashion. Meanwhile, families with young children can look forward to the debut of a permanent Imagination Playhouse, expanding Dollywood’s lineup of kid-friendly attractions.
One of the biggest entertainment highlights is “Play On”, a special anniversary show celebrating Dollywood’s history. Entertainment Director Paige Bales teased that the production will be packed with fan-favorite songs, characters, and moments from past performances, condensed into an exciting 35-minute spectacle.
“This is our new production that will be able to showcase our most beloved shows, characters, and experiences, and we’re really planning on packing as much as we can,” Bales said.
Saying Goodbye to a Piece of Dollywood’s History
While most of Dollywood’s 2025 updates focus on expansion and celebration, the park recently parted ways with Engine 107, a steam locomotive that had been part of its history for decades.
Instead of selling it, Dollywood donated the train to the Knoxville & Holston River Railroad, ensuring it would be preserved by a group dedicated to historic rail equipment. As part of the exchange, the railroad made a charitable donation to the Mountain Ways Foundation, an organization supporting East Tennessee residents impacted by Hurricane Helene.
“We felt this was the right thing to do,” Dollywood spokesperson Wes Ramey said. “Engine 107 has been a cherished part of our history, but its new home will ensure it’s preserved and appreciated for years to come. At the same time, this move supports those in need after a devastating natural disaster.”
Dollywood’s 2025 Season Kicks Off March 15
Dollywood officially reopens to the public on March 15, though Annual Passholders can get an early look on March 14 during the Passholder Preview Day. That same day also marks the launch of the I Will Always Love You Music Festival, a seasonal event celebrating Dolly Parton’s impact on music and entertainment.
With more than 100 updates, a major anniversary, and an expanded entertainment lineup, 2025 is shaping up to be a big year for Dollywood.
Are you planning a visit this year?
