Dolly Parton’s Bold Vision: The Birth of Dollywood

GATLINBURG, Tenn. — Dolly Parton, the iconic country music star and actress, revealed her ambitious dream for a theme park called Dollywood during a 1982 interview with journalist Barbara Walters. Parton envisioned a ‘Smoky Mountain Disneyland’ that would bring tourists to her East Tennessee hometown.

After months out of the spotlight due to health issues, Parton discussed her career goals and aspirations with Walters in a candid conversation. ‘I have a big dream of building a center in Gatlinburg,’ she said, describing her vision for a family-friendly park that would rival Disneyland in creativity and appeal.

While some initially dismissed her idea as fanciful, Dollywood Vice President of Marketing Pete Owens later confirmed that Parton was serious about making the park a reality. ‘She had lined up investors and located a property on Highway 321 in Gatlinburg,’ Owens explained in a 2023 podcast interview, reflecting on the major steps she took towards her dream.

Shortly after the interview aired, Ted Miller, general manager of a local attraction known as Rebel Railroad, recognized the potential partnership. Faced with competing interests, he believed collaborating with Parton was the best approach. Rebel Railroad had a colorful history, originally opened in time for the centennial of the Civil War, and featured themes of train robberies and skirmishes between Confederate and Union soldiers.

In 1970, Cleveland Browns owner Art Modell acquired Rebel Railroad, transitioning it to Goldrush Junction in 1977. By the early 1980s, however, the competition began to heat up with Parton’s envisioned park. Miller urged the Herschend brothers, owners of Goldrush Junction, to partner with Parton, leading to a meeting while she toured with Kenny Rogers.

The partnership established a framework allowing Parton to invest, claim 50% ownership, and realize her vision without starting from scratch. The first year’s attendance figures after opening in 1986 were telling: up 75%, according to Yahoo! Entertainment.

Despite many misconceptions about the park’s origins, the Herschend family remained instrumental in Dollywood’s operations, while Parton took charge of marketing. ‘The partnership worked so well that many associate the park’s creation solely with Dolly,’ Owens noted.

From its humble beginnings, Dollywood has transformed into a renowned destination, celebrated for its thrilling rides and charming ambiance. The park’s cinnamon bread, a fan favorite, ironically predates its branding as a Parton family recipe, instead having roots in the Silver Dollar City attraction.

As Dollywood approaches its 40th anniversary, it has made significant strides in expansion, including the successful Wildwood Grove area, a sprawling water park, and two hotels. The park continues to thrive, evidenced by its consistent upgrades and popularity among visitors.

Dollywood is set to celebrate its milestone 40th season in 2025, commencing with the I Will Always Love You Music Festival and various seasonal events throughout the year. Locals and tourists alike are reminded to plan visits to enjoy the Smoky Mountains and the park’s offerings.