Staying near Dollywood puts you close to one of the Smoky Mountains’ most popular theme parks, with easy access to rides, shows, festivals, and seasonal events. This area offers quick routes to Pigeon Forge attractions, restaurants, shops, and the Parkway, making it a convenient choice for guests who want entertainment, family activities, and a short drive to everything in the area.
Dollywood began in 1986 when Dolly Parton partnered with the existing Silver Dollar City theme park in Pigeon Forge, expanding it into a Smoky Mountain destination focused on rides, shows, and Appalachian culture. The park has grown steadily over the years with new roller coasters, live entertainment, festivals, and family attractions, becoming one of Tennessee’s most recognized theme parks.
Click here to learn more about Dollywood’s history.
Just minutes from your cabin you’ll find Dollywood along with other top Pigeon Forge attractions, including dinner shows, mountain coasters, shopping, and family-friendly activities across the Parkway.
See more in our blog post about activities in Pigeon Forge.
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| Feature | Dollywood | The Island | WonderWorks |
| Type of Attraction | Theme park with rides, shows, and festivals | Entertainment, dining, shops, and rides | Indoor interactive museum |
| Best For | Families, thrill seekers, all-day trips | Shopping, dining, casual entertainment | Kids, families, educational activities |
| Location | Pigeon Forge | Pigeon Forge Parkway | Pigeon Forge Parkway |
| Indoor / Outdoor | Mostly outdoor with indoor shows | Mix of outdoor and indoor | Fully indoor |
| Time Needed | Half-day to full day | 2–4 hours | 2–3 hours |
| Kid-Friendly | Very | Yes | Very |
| Views | Mountain views inside the park | Limited; Ferris wheel offers views | Indoor only |
| Seasonal Factors | Seasonal festivals and events | Open year-round | Open year-round |
Q: Are pets allowed in your Pigeon Forge cabins?
A: Yes. All our properties are pet-friendly. The pet fee is $100 per pet plus tax, and each listing includes details about bringing pets.
Q: What’s the check-in / check-out policy?
A: Standard check-in is 4 PM and check-out 10 AM.
Q: What city is Dollywood closest to?
A: Dollywood is located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, with quick access to the Parkway, restaurants, shops, and nearby attractions.
Q: Can you do Dollywood in one day?
A: Yes. Most visitors can experience the main rides and shows in a full day, though festivals and peak seasons may require extra time.
Q: Is Dollywood good for families, couples, or groups?
A: Dollywood is popular with all types of travelers, offering family attractions, thrill rides, live shows, and seasonal events.
Q: Why is Pigeon Forge so popular?
A: Pigeon Forge is known for its major attractions, theme parks, dinner shows, shopping, and family-friendly activities all along the Parkway, making it one of the busiest and most convenient areas in the Smokies.
Q: Is Pigeon Forge better for couples, families, or groups?
A: Pigeon Forge works well for all types of trips, especially families and groups, thanks to its entertainment options, large cabins, and easy access to Dollywood and the Parkway.
Q: What is the best month to visit Pigeon Forge?
A: Summer and Fall are the most popular seasons for weather, things to do, and scenery, but Pigeon Forge stays active year-round due to its attractions and shows.
Q: Is traffic bad in Pigeon Forge?
A: Traffic can get busy along the Parkway, especially during peak seasons and weekends. Staying close to the attractions you plan to visit can help reduce drive times.
Q: Is it better to visit Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg?
A: Choose Pigeon Forge for theme parks, dinner shows, and entertainment. Choose Gatlinburg if you want walkability and quick access to the national park. Pigeon Forge is 20–30 minutes from the Gatlinburg Strip, depending on traffic.
How many people will be going?
