Dollywood Drops Ticket Prices to $5 as Shocking New Numbers Surface
Two major announcements have placed Dollywood at the center of theme park conversation this week. The Smoky Mountains destination, long a favorite among families and coaster enthusiasts, is seeing record-breaking attention at a moment when it is also offering its most surprising deal yet.
The park, famously rooted in both Appalachian culture and Dolly Parton’s musical legacy, has steadily expanded over the last decade. Its blend of top-tier attractions, hearty Southern dining, and seasonal festivals has created a formula that appeals to both locals and out-of-state visitors. Dollywood’s reputation for hospitality — combined with its location in the foothills of the Smokies — sets it apart in the crowded theme park market.
From record-breaking coasters like Lightning Rod to family-friendly staples like FireChaser Express, Dollywood balances thrills with tradition. Guests return for more than just rides, though. The park’s iconic cinnamon bread, Appalachian crafts, and music festivals remain key parts of its charm. That cultural mix has turned Dollywood into a regional powerhouse, and now, the numbers prove it.
Dollywood Enters the Top 20
For the first time, Dollywood has entered the ranks of North America’s most visited theme parks. The Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) reported the park at 18th place in 2024, placing it just below Canada’s Wonderland and ahead of major names like Six Flags Great America and Hersheypark.
The ranking confirms what visitors have long suspected: Dollywood is no longer just a regional favorite. It is now competing directly with some of the continent’s most recognizable parks. The achievement signals the payoff of years of investment in rides, infrastructure, and guest experience.
This momentum comes as Dollywood prepares for its next chapter. A $50 million family attraction, NightFlight Expedition, will open in spring 2026. Billed as a hybrid of an indoor coaster and whitewater adventure, the ride will expand the Wildwood Grove area and celebrate nighttime in the Smokies.
Dollywood VP Pete Owens described it as a continuation of the park’s storytelling ambitions, designed to “celebrate nighttime in the Smokies.” Dolly Parton herself echoed the sentiment, sharing, “A lot of people ask me about my favorite season in the Smokies, but no one ever asks me what my favorite time of day is. Our new ride sends you out into the mountains at night, which is the time that I think they really come to life. It’s pure mountain magic.”
$5 Tickets For Sevier County Residents
Alongside news of its growth, Dollywood shocked fans with a steep ticket discount. Admission will drop to just $5 from November 1 through November 9 as part of Sevier County Days. The limited-time deal applies to residents and employees with valid identification, with proceeds donated to local nonprofits.
“Dollywood is such a special place because of the community in which we are located,” said Carol Agee, Dollywood Community Affairs and Philanthropy Manager. “The people of our region provide the heartbeat of the Smokies, and they are the ones who create the welcoming environment our guests love so much when they visit.”
Agee added that nonprofits see surging demand in the lead-up to the holidays. The initiative helps fill those gaps while also giving families a chance to enjoy the park at an unprecedented price. Though the offer is limited to local residents, it underscores Dollywood’s ongoing commitment to its community roots.
In addition to preparing NightFlight Expedition, Dollywood also confirmed that Mystery Mine will close at the end of the Harvest Festival for a major refurbishment. The 2007 coaster, known for its 95-degree drop and two inversions, is expected to reopen in 2026.
Have you visited Dollywood yet this year?
