While Dollywood is home to a breathtaking collection of roller coasters and thrill rides, there are also lots of other fun activities at the world-famous theme park! The park is a fantastic destination for family members of all ages, ranging from toddlers to grandparents, and you can have a great time without going on any of the rides! From award-winning shows and unique shopping experiences to mouthwatering food options, there is truly something for everyone! Here are 5 fun things to do at Dollywood besides rides:
1. Enjoy a Spectacular Lineup of Entertainment
There is a spectacular lineup of entertainment at Dollywood throughout the year, including dazzling stage productions, roaming street performers, fireworks displays, and more! Enjoy the music of the mountains as you stroll through the theme park, then step into one of Dollywood’s beautiful theaters to catch a live stage show! Many of the shows reflect the themes of the park’s popular seasonal festivals, such as the Harvest Festival and Smoky Mountain Christmas!
2. Explore the Dolly Parton Experience
Another one of the fun things to do at Dollywood besides rides is to learn more about the life of Dolly Parton. If you’ve already toured her Tennessee Mountain Home, head over to the brand-new Dolly Parton Experience, an interactive attraction housed in multiple buildings that takes you along for a journey into Dolly’s fascinating life! You’ll find exhibits that span Dolly’s iconic career, the inspiration and results of her biggest dreams, the importance of her family, and even a curated exhibit that highlights Dolly’s signature style through the years!
3. Catch a Rare Glimpse of the Bald Eagle
The Eagle Mountain Sanctuary at Dollywood offers guests the exciting opportunity to catch a rare glimpse of some of nature's most impressive birds of prey! This 30,000-square-foot aviary houses the country's largest presentation of non-releasable bald eagles, all among a beautiful mountain setting! While visiting the aviary, you’ll also have the chance to see members of the American Eagle Foundation interact with these spectacular animals!
4. Taste the Delicious Smoky Mountain Flavors
Of course, one of the most fun things to do at Dollywood besides rides is eating! There are a wide variety of tempting dining experiences at Dollywood, including Aunt Granny’s Restaurant, Hickory House BBQ, Iron Horse Pizza, and Miss Lillian’s Mill House! You’ll also find all of your traditional theme park treats, such as ice cream cones, kettle corn, funnel cakes, and cotton candy!
Read More “ Top 4 Snacks You Need to Try When Visiting Dollywood”
5. Shop Until You Drop
If you’ve been looking for the perfect Smoky Mountain souvenirs to take back home, don’t miss the unique shops at Dollywood! The Hillside General Store offers a wonderful selection of old-fashioned goods that remind you of your favorite five and dime store, while the Smoky Mountain Christmas Shop celebrates the holiday season all year long! You also won’t want to miss the Grist Mill, where you can pick up a loaf of the park’s famous cinnamon bread!
Where to Stay Near Dollywood
Now that you know all of the fun things to do at Dollywood besides rides, it’s time to plan your Smoky Mountain vacation! Check out all of our cabins in Pigeon Forge TN today to stay close to Dollywood and all of the other exciting attractions throughout the Smokies! We look forward to seeing you soon!
