Dollywood Announces 2027 Tributes and Resort Plans

Dollywood Reveals 2027 Plans for Park Tributes to Dolly Parton

Dollywood has announced a series of exhibits and developments that aim to honor its late founder, Dolly Parton. This information was disclosed during a press conference on September 2, 2026, by Eugene Naughton, the park's president, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter. The tribute experiences are set to open in March 2027, coinciding with the legacy of Parton, who passed away at 80 following a brief health battle.

Dollywood: Eugene Naughton Discusses Dolly Parton’s Vision

During the press conference, Naughton emphasized the spirit of Parton's vision for Dollywood, stating that she would have urged the team to continue working to realize her dreams for the park. He conveyed that Dolly always wanted Dollywood to embody fun, togetherness, and the importance of dreams. This sentiment resonated through announcements that included both new attractions and expansions of existing experiences, all part of Parton’s lasting legacy.

New Experiences and Expansion Plans in Dollywood

Among the major announcements is the expansion of the multimedia walkthrough titled "The Dolly Parton Experience." This section, which originally opened in 2024, will expand to include additional zones and a new portal into its park segment, enhancing guests' experiences as they learn about Parton’s life story from her humble beginnings to international fame. New video content narrated by Parton's family will further enrich this experience, highlighting memories shared with the singer.

Additionally, a new character named the Dream Maker will join the park's Wildwood Grove area, symbolizing Parton’s dedication to inspiring children and cultivating big dreams. This character aims to connect with younger audiences by teaching them about storytelling, echoing Parton’s lifelong message of dreaming boldly.

A new Tribute Center will also be established for sharing memories of Parton, both privately and publicly, integrating guests' sentiments into Dollywood’s narrative. Furthermore, expansions include plans for a new lakeside chapel area, which will feature stained glass windows and a cascading waterfall to honor Dr. Robert F. Thomas, the man who delivered Dolly, reflecting on her birth and early life.

2027 Marks a New Era at Dollywood

The plans announced by Dollywood also underline a half-billion-dollar investment strategy for the park’s resort expansion. Naughton confirmed that Parton had approved these plans, ensuring that her vision for Dollywood's future is preserved and carried forward. The developments are likely to attract a wider audience and provide various new entertaining and educational experiences, maintaining Parton’s cherished legacy.

What this means

The unveiling of these tributes and expansions signifies Dollywood's commitment to honoring Dolly Parton’s legacy, even after her passing. The new experiences aim to not only preserve her memory but also continue to inspire future generations of visitors. With major attractions and alterations slated for 2027, Dollywood is poised to reinforce its position as a beloved destination that captures the spirit of community and creativity that Parton championed throughout her life. This period of transition may also allow visitors to engage with the memories of Parton in an immersive manner, ensuring they remain involved long after her passing.

These updates reflect a powerful combination of nostalgia and forward-thinking that aligns with Parton's enduring influence on both Dollywood and her fans.

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