Dollywood in East Tennessee is set to honor the late Dolly Parton with several new features following her recent passing. The park will introduce a reflective area that includes a waterfall and a guitar sculpture, along with a memorial footpath, tribute kiosk, and a new character, the “Dream Maker,” who will engage children and inspire them with Dolly’s core values, such as dreaming big.
The tribute kiosk will allow guests to share and document their personal stories about Parton, which will then be integrated into the park’s narrative, showcasing her lasting impact. Dollywood will also maintain its ongoing $500 million investment plan, adding five new resorts, with plans continuing through 2036—approved by Parton herself before her death.
In her hometown of Sevierville, a “footsteps” path will soon be installed to tell stories of her history. Dollywood is set to close for the 2026 season in early January and will reopen in March 2027 with these new features.
