Last Updated: July 11, 2024
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Dollywood Triumphs Over Disney in Top Attractions List
Last Updated: July 11, 2024
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In a remarkable achievement, Dollywood, the brainchild of country music icon Dolly Parton, has outshone Disney World to become the top amusement park in the United States.
According to Tripadvisor’s 2024 Traveler’s Choice Awards, Dollywood has clinched the number one spot, pushing Disney World to the second position.
This victory is true evidence of the magic and charm that Dollywood brings to its visitors.
A Stellar Achievement
Tripadvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Awards are among the most prestigious in the travel industry, derived from the honest reviews and ratings of millions of travelers over the past year.
With only a tiny fraction of their 8 million listings earning this accolade, Dollywood’s triumph is a significant milestone.
It’s not just about rides and attractions; it’s about the overall experience that leaves a lasting impression on every visitor.
What Makes Dollywood Stand Out?
So, what makes Dollywood so special? For starters, it’s not just another theme park; it’s a whole world of its own.
Nestled in the picturesque Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, Dollywood combines thrilling rides, captivating shows, and the enchanting spirit of Dolly Parton herself.
The park boasts a stellar 4.5 rating from nearly 19,000 reviews, a clear indication of its widespread appeal.
Visitors rave about the park’s unique blend of attractions.
It’s a place where you can enjoy heart-pounding roller coasters one minute and then take a leisurely stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens the next.
The Dolly Parton Experience is a highlight for many, offering a glimpse into the life and career of the beloved star.
This immersive experience, coupled with the park’s natural beauty, makes Dollywood a standout destination.
Visitor Impressions
Dollywood’s charm is best captured through the eyes of its visitors. One enthusiastic guest shared their delight:
“Wow!! I was so impressed with the entire theme park, especially the Dolly Parton Experience. I didn’t want to leave. Thank you, Dolly, for providing such a fun experience.”
It’s this kind of heartfelt appreciation that sets Dollywood apart.
Another guest praised the park’s aesthetics and family-friendly atmosphere:
“The park was beautiful with lots of flowers and areas where we could get out of the sun. This park surpasses all other theme parks that I have been to. It had something for everyone in our family. The kids loved the rides, and my husband and I enjoyed the scenery and the historical buildings and shopping. My favorite part of the entire day was the new Dolly Parton Experience!”
A third review highlighted the variety of entertainment available:
“This is a fun place for a family. There are a lot of amazing rides, shows, and games. I love this place, and it is a recommended place to go to for a trip.”
These testimonials paint a vivid picture of why Dollywood has earned its top spot.
A Global Presence
Dollywood’s acclaim isn’t confined to the U.S. alone. The park has also earned a spot on the global stage, ranking at No. 10 on Tripadvisor’s Amusement & Water Parks – World list.
This places Dollywood among the elite, with Disneyland Paris in France, Siam Park in Spain, and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates leading the international rankings.
It’s clear that Dollywood’s appeal transcends borders, drawing visitors from all corners of the globe.
The Magic of Dolly Parton
At the heart of Dollywood’s success is Dolly Parton herself. Her vision and dedication have transformed the park into a place where dreams come true.
Dolly’s love for her hometown and her desire to create a magical experience for families shines through in every corner of Dollywood.
From the meticulously designed attractions to the heartwarming shows, Dollywood is a reflection of Dolly’s warmth and creativity.
What You Can Expect to See at Dollywood
At Dollywood, thrill-seekers can enjoy rides like the Lightning Rod and Wild Eagle.
For a relaxed pace, stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens and enjoy seasonal flowers.
Families will love the live shows, from bluegrass music to captivating theater productions, and the immersive Dolly Parton Experience.
Kids can have fun on the FireChaser Express, the Dollywood Express train, and various play areas.
Food lovers can indulge in Southern cuisine, including BBQ, fried chicken, and cinnamon bread, while unique stores offer handcrafted souvenirs and Dolly-themed merchandise.
Country Stars Turned Entrepreneurs
Dolly Parton isn’t the only country star with a successful business venture.
Reba McEntire, another beloved icon, has made waves in the hospitality industry with her restaurant, Reba’s Place, which combines her love for good food and Southern hospitality.
Willie Nelson, known for his laid-back lifestyle, has ventured into the cannabis industry with his brand, Willie’s Reserve, offering premium marijuana products.
Blake Shelton has tapped into his roots with his popular Ole Red restaurant and live music venues, bringing a piece of Nashville to various locations across the country.
Then there’s Miranda Lambert, who co-owns The Pink Pistol, a boutique that features unique clothing and merchandise reflecting her personal style.
These stars have not only excelled in music but have also proven their business acumen by creating ventures that resonate with their fans and beyond.
Dolly Parton: Beyond the Music and Theme Parks
Dolly Parton continues to expand her impressive portfolio beyond singing and her famed Dollywood theme park.
She’s diving into the culinary world with her sister Rachel, co-authoring a cookbook set to release on September 17.
Moreover, the Country music icon has teamed up with Krispy Kreme to unveil the “Dolly Southern Sweets Doughnut Collection,” featuring four new and delightful doughnut creations.
Additionally, Dolly has ventured into the wine industry with her own line, Dollywines.
But that’s not all—Dolly’s creative genius is also at work on Broadway.
For several years, she has been writing her life story as a musical, and now “Hello, I’m Dolly – An Original Musical” is finally in development for the Broadway stage.
Dolly’s multifaceted endeavors showcase her boundless talent and entrepreneurial spirit.
Dolly Parton’s Career Highlights
| Category | Achievements |
|---|---|
| Music | Over 100 million records sold, 11 Grammy Awards, inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame (1999) |
| Theme Parks | Founder of Dollywood, ranked as Tripadvisor’s No. 1 Amusement & Water Park in the U.S. (2024) |
| Film & Television | Starred in classics like “9 to 5” and “Steel Magnolias,” produced “Dolly Parton’s Heartstrings” on Netflix |
| Writing | Co-authoring a cookbook with sister Rachel, releasing September 17, author of multiple books |
| Wine | Launched her own wine brand, Dollywines |
| Broadway | Developing “Hello, I’m Dolly – An Original Musical” for the Broadway stage |
| Philanthropy | Founded the Imagination Library, donating over 100 million books to children |
| Business Ventures | Owner of several businesses including Dollywood, Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa, and more |
Conclusion
- Dollywood’s rise to the top of Tripadvisor’s 2024 Traveler’s Choice Awards for Amusement & Water Parks in the U.S. marks a significant achievement in the world of theme parks.
- Dolly Parton’s vision has transformed Dollywood into not just a park, but a cherished destination that blends thrilling rides, captivating shows, and the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains.
- Surpassing Disney World in ratings reflects the park’s ability to offer something special for every visitor, from adrenaline seekers to families seeking entertainment and relaxation.
- Dollywood’s success shows Dolly Parton’s enduring influence and commitment to creating unforgettable experiences, solidifying its place as a must-visit attraction for travelers of all ages.
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Bee DeloresAuthor
Bee DeloresLover of hiking, biking, horror movies, cats and camping. Writer at Wide Open Country, Holler and Nashville Gab.
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