Dolly Parton’s Dollywood Announces “Unscheduled” Indefinite Closure

Dollywood surprised guests on Saturday with an unexpected announcement regarding operational changes at the beloved Smoky Mountain theme park. The news arrived during one of the busiest times of the year for Tennessee tourism.

Saturday’s Unexpected Announcement

Dolly Parton’s beloved theme park destination utilized its official Instagram story to communicate with guests on December 20, confirming the “unscheduled” closure of the Dollywood Express Train Ride. Read it below:

“PARK UPDATE

The Dollywood Express is not currently operating due to unscheduled maintenance. We are sorry for the inconvenience. We hope you will enjoy all of Dollywood’s other award-winning rides and attractions during Smoky Mountain Christmas.”

Following the social media announcement, Dollywood made corresponding updates to its official website, ensuring all digital platforms reflected accurate operational information for guests planning visits or already on property.

The Dollywood Express: A Piece of Smoky Mountain History

The Dollywood Express holds special significance as one of the park’s most historically significant features. Its origins predate Dolly Parton’s association with the property by more than two decades, establishing a legacy that spans multiple generations of visitors.

Operations began in 1961 when the heritage railway launched as part of Rebel Railroad. The experience underwent its first rebranding five years later, becoming Gold Rush Junction in 1966. Ownership changed hands again in 1970 when the Cleveland Browns football organization purchased the property, maintaining the railway’s operations throughout the transition.

The Silver Dollar City organization assumed control in 1976, establishing Silver Dollar City Tennessee as a sister property to their established Branson, Missouri location. The railway served as the centerpiece attraction during this era, drawing guests throughout the property’s ten-year run under Silver Dollar City management.

In 1986, Dolly Parton acquired the property, fulfilling her promise to give back to her home state. The legendary entertainer rechristened both the park and its signature railway, creating the Dollywood and Dollywood Express brands that have defined the destination for nearly four decades.

Reopening Date Yet to Be Determined

Park officials have not established or announced a timeline for when normal operations will resume. The Dollywood Express underwent scheduled maintenance work during the summer of 2025, but it’s unclear whether the current unscheduled closure stems from the same mechanical or operational concerns addressed during that planned maintenance period.

Stay connected with Disney Dining for continuing coverage of Dollywood and news from theme park destinations across the globe.