dollywood for Kids & adults
Our recent (Oct 2022) trip to Dollywood was fun for all ages. We had a group of 11 ranging in ages from 3 to 70 and we all had a blast, especially the parents of the young kids! It was the first time in Dollywood for most of our group but we benefitted from the tips of a regular so now I’m passing that along to you!
dollywood tips and recommendations
IT’S BIG BUT NOT MASSIVE. This depends on what you’re used to, I suppose. We got into the park as soon as they opened at 10am and stayed until closing (9pm). We were able to cover the whole park twice and everyone rode everything they wanted to with plenty of time to spare. And that included plenty of breaks for snacks, potty, and just linger in certain areas.
HOW TO TACKLE IT. I’m no pro here but our tipster told us to go left at the entrance and we did. And that was a good choice for us. Most of the roller coasters are to the left but it also has options for the younger kids, they’re just more spread out this way. The area to the right is where more of the little kid rides are clustered plus the train, shows, most food options, etc. It is one big loop so you shouldn’t miss any big sections regardless of which way you go.
MAKE IT A BIG FAMILY TRIP. It worked beautifully for us to go as a large group. That way someone was always able to sit out with the little kids when the adults wanted to ride the big rides and adults could take turns cramming into the little kid rides. I don’t think this trip would have been worth the time and money if it had just been our family of four because… (see next point).
IT’S A GREAT PARK FOR KIDS BUT IT’S BETTER FOR ADULTS. I was surprised how much of Dollywood was big rollercoasters. There are plenty of rides for kids but if you’re *just* going for the younger kids then I’d likely opt for a smaller park like Tweetsie in Boone, NC. Tickets are a hefty $89 for 10+ and $79 for ages 4-9. The place isn’t cheap and, of course, the food, merch, parking, etc. is all extra and pricey too. IMO, this is a park to save for when the kids are older or make it a big family/friend trip so everyone can enjoy it!
**See note below on where to look for discounts on tickets**
IT’S BEAUTIFUL, CLEAN AND FAMILY FOCUSED. We were there while the park was decorated for Harvest Fest and it was incredible. I’m sure they do an equally amazing job year-round. I can see why people likely want to go back to see it in different seasons. The park is super clean and very family-friendly. You’re never more than a 2-3 minute walk to restrooms, food, or a comfortable and shaded place to sit. It’s stroller friendly and very walkable for young ones. Our 3-year old walked most of the time without complaint.
TRY TO STAY UNTIL DARK. A few of my favorite moments of the day was riding the last rollercoasters as the sun was setting and the park was transforming. The lights from all the pumpkins and decorations were coming on and it was just spectacular! PLUS, that is the best time to be able to walk onto rides without a wait!
FIND A DISCOUNT CODE, IF YOU CAN. Many local employers, credit unions, banks, etc. based in NC, TN, SC, GA will have discount codes to Dollywood. If your company doesn’t then ask around. It could save as much as $30 per ticket!
OTHER FEATURES. There is so much to see and do. A replica of Dolly’s childhood home, a chapel, a refuge for injured bald eagles, farming demonstrations, shopping, dining, shows, the train, etc. I see why the 2-day pass is appealing!
THE FOOD. Apparently this is a big feature for some people. There are food passes and guides of the best places to eat in the park. The only thing we made sure we got was the cinnamon bread. That is phenomenal and not to be missed.
basic info
DISTANCE | 6.5 hours from Myrtle Beach
ADDRESS | 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN
PRICE | $89 ages 10-61; $79 for ages 4-9 and seniors
MORE INFO | Website here.
WHERE TO STAY | Pigeon Forge and Sevierville will be closest but Gatlinburg is only a 15-20 minute drive.
what else to do
Anakeesta | I loved this place! It’s not all that pricey, compared to Dollywood. It is fun for all ages and the views and setting are top notch. There are tons of swinging bridges, the big lookout, the chair lift, great food and music, and beautiful backdrops/photo opps.
Ogle Brothers General Store | We happened upon this place because we were waiting for a table at the restaurant below. They have some beautiful locally made pottery, souvenirs, spices & gourmet food, seasonal decor, etc.
Five Oaks Farm Kitchen | Great brunch! And walk up the hill to shop at the general store while you wait for your table.
Old Olge Homeplace | Sadly the weather didn’t cooperate for our 2nd full day in the Smokies. We would have loved to hike but we only managed to make it to this old homestead. This requires little walking and is close to the main strip in Gatlinburg.