Dollywood Park Set to Relocate: New Destination Announced
In a surprising turn of events, Dollywood Park, the beloved theme park founded by country music legend Dolly Parton, will be relocating from its current home in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
The announcement, made earlier this week, has stunned fans and industry observers alike. The park, which has been a staple of the Smoky Mountains region since its opening in 1986, is set to move to a new location in Orlando, Florida.
The decision to relocate comes after extensive negotiations and strategic planning by the Dollywood Company. According to Parton, the move is driven by a desire to expand the park’s offerings and enhance the overall guest experience. “This has been a difficult decision, but it’s one that we believe will allow us to bring even more joy and excitement to our guests,” Parton said in a statement. “Orlando is a vibrant and growing area with incredible potential, and we’re thrilled to be a part of its future.”
The relocation to Orlando, a city already renowned for its world-class theme parks and attractions, is expected to position Dollywood Park as a key player in the competitive Florida theme park market. Orlando, known for its strong tourism infrastructure and family-friendly attractions, offers an opportunity for Dollywood to broaden its reach and appeal to a new audience.
Parton and her team have revealed that the new Dollywood Park will feature many of the beloved attractions from the original park, as well as a host of new additions. Plans include expanding the park’s footprint to accommodate more rides, shows, and themed areas. Additionally, the new location will boast enhanced dining options and accommodations, promising an upgraded experience for visitors.
The relocation is also seen as a strategic move to capitalize on Orlando’s status as a major tourist destination. The city is home to renowned parks such as Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, making it an ideal location for Dollywood to attract a diverse range of guests. With its new home in Orlando, Dollywood aims to leverage the region’s existing tourism traffic while adding its unique charm and southern hospitality to the mix.
Reaction to the announcement has been mixed. While many fans express excitement about the park’s new chapter, others are nostalgic about the original Dollywood’s departure from its home in Tennessee. The park has been a cornerstone of the local economy in Pigeon Forge, generating significant employment and drawing millions of visitors annually. Local officials have expressed their gratitude for the economic benefits the park has brought to the area but understand the reasons behind the move.
“As much as we will miss Dollywood, we understand the need for growth and evolution in the theme park industry,” said Pigeon Forge Mayor David Wear. “We wish them all the best in their new location and hope they continue to bring joy and entertainment to families for years to come.”
Construction of the new Dollywood Park in Orlando is expected to begin later this year, with an anticipated opening date projected for late 2026. In the meantime, the existing Dollywood Park in Tennessee will remain operational, allowing fans to visit and experience their favorite attractions one last time before the move.
As Dollywood embarks on this exciting new journey, the theme park industry and fans alike will be watching closely to see how the transition unfolds and how the new park will reshape the landscape of entertainment in Orlando.
Leave a Reply