Dollywood Unveils Plans for 2027 in-Park Tributes and Resort Expansion
Dollywood has revealed a series of new tributes and expansions planned in honour of its late founder, Dolly Parton, alongside projects she had already approved before her death. The announcement, made during a Wednesday press conference in Sevierville, Tennessee, signals the theme park's intent to continue Parton's vision while formally memorialising her legacy across the resort.
Parks & Resorts President Eugene Naughton unveiled a new partnership with the city of Sevierville to create "In Dolly's Footsteps," a walkable trail linking around 11 sites significant to Parton's life, alongside expansions to The Dolly Parton Experience, including a new video in "Precious Memories" featuring family reflections and a grand finale for the "I Will Always Love You" room. Wildwood Grove will gain a new character called the Dream Maker and a Tribute Center for guests to share memories, while the park's Chapel will undergo its most significant redesign yet, adding a mountainside waterfall and stained-glass windows honouring Dr Robert F. Thomas, the doctor who delivered Parton at birth.
In short
- Dollywood unveils tributes and expansions honouring the late Dolly Parton
- New Sevierville walking trail traces sites tied to Parton's life
- Chapel redesign adds waterfall, stained glass and reflection space
Explained simply
Dollywood is a theme park and resort in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, in the Smoky Mountains. It takes its name from singer and songwriter Dolly Parton, who grew up in the area and helped establish the park as a celebration of Appalachian culture and her own life.
Parton’s influence is central to the resort’s identity, so changes made in her honour affect both the park’s attractions and how visitors encounter her story. The plans also refer to people and places from her life, including Dr Robert F. Thomas, who delivered her at birth.
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