Dollywood is home to some of the fastest and most thrilling roller coasters and rides in the world, which is great if you’re an adrenaline junkie. However, not everyone who visits the south’s favorite theme park is looking to scream their lungs out on the Wild Eagle coaster or feel their stomach flip on the Drop Line freefall tower. Fortunately, there are other fun things to do in Dollywood that will keep your feet firmly planted on the ground! To help you make the most of your next vacation, check out these top 5 things to do at Dollywood if you don’t like rides.
1. Shows
Dollywood has won the Golden Ticket Award (which is like an Oscar in the theme park world) for “Best Shows” for 9 straight years! Of course, it should come as no surprise that Dollywood would have great entertainment, considering that Dolly Parton owns the park. Country fans will definitely not be disappointed in Dollywood’s music shows. However, the theme park’s concerts aren’t just limited to country music; they span many different genres, including bluegrass, gospel, contemporary hits, and classics from the 50s and 60s. Seeing one of the incredible shows is just one of the fun things to do in Dollywood that’s not a thrill ride!
2. Food
Believe it or not, Dollywood boasts some of the tastiest food in Pigeon Forge. Sure, the park has typical theme park fare like funnel cake and pizza, but that just scratches the surface. Dollywood is a paradise for anyone who loves old-fashioned Southern comfort food, like meatloaf, smoked ham pit, pot roast, fried chicken, cornbread, sweet potato casserole, and pinto beans. Be sure to save room for dessert, because Dollywood does not mess around when it comes to sweets! The theme park’s freshly baked cinnamon bread is the stuff of legend and a slice of the 25-pound apple pie is truly something to behold. For more information about these treats, check out our guide to the best food at Dollywood.
3. Museums
Visiting the theme park’s museums is another one of our favorite things to do at Dollywood. Dolly Parton fans will definitely want to explore the Chasing Rainbows Museum, which is dedicated to the life and career of the Queen of Country. Highlights of the museum include handwritten lyrics, Dolly’s Grammy awards, and a great collection of dresses that Dolly has worn in movies and on TV. Dollywood is also home to the Southern Gospel Museum & Hall of Fame, which profiles the legends of this popular musical genre.
4. Crafts
Craftsman’s Valley is a section of the theme park that showcases the work of some of the most talented artisans in the Smoky Mountains. As one of the most interesting things to do in Dollywood, guests can watch a variety of craft demonstrations, do some serious souvenir shopping, or even try their hand at one of these time-honored trades. Families will have a blast dipping their own candles at Old Flames Candles or creating glass blown ornaments at Mountain Blown Glass, which is situated near Craftsman’s Valley in Rivertown Junction.
5. Festivals
Dollywood hosts a number of awesome festivals throughout the year that bring special entertainment to the theme park. These are another fun thing to do in Dollywood without going on thrill rides. Here is a quick look at some of the fun you can expect in each season at Dollywood:
• Flower and Food Festival: see beautiful flower sculptures and try some amazing food from the Dollywood chefs.
• Summer Celebration: longer hours, nightly fireworks, and world-class entertainers from all over the nation.
• Harvest Festival: hundreds of free gospel concerts, visiting artisans, incredible jack-o’-lantern displays, and special autumn treats.
• Smoky Mountain Christmas: millions of twinkling lights, Christmas shows, and nightly holiday parades.
Where to Stay in Pigeon Forge
When you stay with us, you will be just a short drive away from all of these wonderful things to do at Dollywood. Our cabins come with your choice of incredible amenities, including beautiful mountain views, decks with hot tubs and rocking chairs, fully-equipped kitchens, awesome theater rooms, and excellent game rooms. With everything from 1 bedroom cabins for romantic getaways to 15 bedroom lodges for family reunions, we are guaranteed to have the perfect accommodations for your escape. To start planning your vacation, browse our selection of cabins in Pigeon Forge!
