Dolly Parton's Tennessee: A Wonderland of New Experiences
Dolly Parton's Tennessee homeland has long been a pilgrimage site for fans of the country music icon. Recently, this region has upped the ante, introducing a slew of new attractions and experiences that celebrate the life and legacy of the Queen of Country. With everything from moonshine tastings to overnight stays in Dolly's very own tour bus, these latest offerings are a testament to Parton's enduring influence and charisma.
Dollywood's Latest Thrills
Nestled 15 miles from Parton's birthplace in Eastern Tennessee, Dollywood has long been a beacon for enthusiasts of Americana and country music. The park's recent update includes Big Bear Mountain, now the longest roller-coaster at Dollywood, offering an adrenaline-packed journey across nearly 4,000 feet of track. For those looking for a more immersive experience into Dolly's journey from "rags-to-rhinestones," the Dolly Parton Experience presents an interactive exhibition that is not to be missed.
The Suite 1986 Tour Bus Experience
Imagine spending a night in Dolly Parton's own tour bus, a vehicle that for 15 years transported the star and her infamous wig collection across the United States. Now parked for good at Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort, this bus has been transformed into a unique accommodation option, complete with Dolly’s fuchsia velvet bed and a wardrobe that epitomizes maximalist glamour.
Shine Girl: Moonshine Reimagined
Moonshine, once the secret delight of Prohibition-era revelers, has received a fashionable makeover thanks to Dolly’s niece, Danielle Parton. At her Tennessee microdistillery, Shine Girl, visitors can explore the modern face of moonshine, culminating in tastings of inventive concoctions like red-velvet-flavored cocktails, sometimes served by Danielle herself.
HeartSong Lodge & Resort: A New Star in the Mountains
The much-anticipated HeartSong Lodge & Resort finally welcomed its first guests at the end of 2023. Inspired by Dolly’s affection for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this 302-room hotel is a tribute to the natural beauty of the region, offering guests a cozy retreat amidst the wilderness with a rustic, yet elegant, ambiance.
A Musical Journey with the Legends
A collaboration between the legacies of Dolly Parton and Elvis Presley, a new nine-day tour by Newmarket Holidays, is an adventure that music lovers dream of. The Ultimate Elvis Presley and Dolly Parton Experience weaves through significant landmarks in the lives of these two music giants, from Elvis's birthplace to the iconic RCA Studio B in Nashville, where Dolly recorded some of her most memorable hits.
For fans of Dolly Parton, these new experiences offer unprecedented ways to connect with the legend's music, history, and the landscapes that inspired her. Whether it's the thrill of a roller-coaster ride, a cozy night in a themed resort, or sipping on modern moonshine, Dolly's Tennessee is a testament to her lasting impact on the cultural landscape.