Dolly Parton, the iconic figure renowned for her country music and philanthropic endeavors, recently marked the grand unveiling of her latest venture, Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort, in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
The new resort, featuring 302 rooms, serves as a heartfelt tribute to Dolly Parton’s profound connection with the Great Smoky Mountains, standing as the rustic or, as the Jolene hitmaker describes the resort as the chic sibling property of the adjacent DreamMore Resort & Spa, which first welcomed guests in 2015.
The lodge beautifully encapsulates Parton’s affection for her Smoky Mountain abode through its modern interpretation of a rustic mountain lodge. Adorned with soaring butterfly buttresses and guest room bathroom mirrors aglow with the semblance of fireflies, the lodge’s design masterfully captures the essence of the region’s natural splendor while tastefully showcasing depictions of Dolly Parton herself and her cherished memorabilia.
Highlights of the resort include elevated Southern cuisine served at Ember & Elm, enchanting evenings filled with s’mores and campfire sing-alongs for guests’ enjoyment, and a variety of room options, including family suites furnished with bunk beds. This immersive experience enables visitors to revel in the enchanting allure of the Great Smoky Mountains while indulging in the comfort and opulence of a contemporary lodge.
Dollywood, centrally located in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, offers guests an opportunity to step into the world of Dolly Parton. The replica of Dolly’s childhood home, a humble cabin in Locust Ridge, Tennessee, serves as a symbol of her modest beginnings and her extraordinary journey from a small mountain town to global stardom.
Throughout the park, visitors can explore many attractions, musical performances, and delectable culinary experiences, all paying homage to various aspects of Dolly Parton’s life, her music, her family, and her beloved Great Smoky Mountains.
Next year, an eagerly awaited addition to the park will be the Dolly Parton Experience, an interactive exhibit offering a captivating journey through Dolly’s life. It will showcase her lasting impact on the world through engaging displays, exhibitions, and representations of her iconic fashion over the years.
Celebrating its 40th year, Dollywood has become a renowned family destination, attracting over 2.5 million visitors annually. The park’s achievements reflect Dolly Parton’s vision of creating a place that honors her background and community while also supporting local employment and charitable initiatives.
When it comes to Dollywood, Dolly’s favored treat is the adored funnel cake. As for her ideal getaway, she relishes a serene and unassuming retreat at her own residence, where she can savor the company of her husband and the tranquility of her personal sanctuary.
She remembers feeling excited and a bit nervous, like a kid waiting for guests at their first big party. She’s seen Dollywood change a lot, from adding Splash Country, their first water park, to getting new rides, food, and shows.
As Dollywood continues to prosper and expand, it serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of a Tennessee native who has blossomed into an icon cherished by individuals across the globe.
