Celebrate the Heart of Country, Americana, and Roots Music!

Drop Us A Line, Y'all

Y'all interested in advertising, partnering up, contributing stories, joining our team, or just got a question? Well, don't be shy, drop us a line!

Follow Us

What Will Happen to Dollywood When Dolly Parton Is No Longer Here

Dollywood’s future is secure with Dolly Parton’s careful planning, ensuring her vision and legacy will continue for generations to come.
by
  • Riley is a Senior Country Music Journalist for Country Thang Daily, known for her engaging storytelling and insightful coverage of the genre.
  • Before joining Country Thang Daily, Riley developed her expertise at Billboard and People magazine, focusing on feature stories and music reviews.
  • Riley has a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from Belmont University, with a minor in Cultural Studies.

Dolly Parton is more than just the heart and soul of Dollywood—she is Dollywood. Her signature warmth, creativity, and commitment to her Smoky Mountain roots have turned the Pigeon Forge theme park into one of the most beloved attractions in the country. But as much as fans don’t want to think about it, a question looms in the distance: What happens to Dollywood when Dolly Parton is no longer around?

The answer? Dollywood isn’t going anywhere. Thanks to her careful planning, a dedicated leadership team, and a clear vision for the future, Dolly’s legacy will live long after she takes her final bow.

A Legacy Built to Last

If there’s one thing Dolly Parton has never been, it’s unprepared. She’s spent her career making smart business moves, and Dollywood is no exception. The theme park, which started as a modest Smoky Mountain attraction in 1986, has since grown into a massive 160-acre destination that brings in millions of visitors annually. But Dolly isn’t just the face of the park—she’s played a direct role in shaping its expansion and long-term success.

Over the years, she’s ensured that Dollywood isn’t just a theme park—it’s an extension of her story. From The Dolly Parton Experience, which gives fans a deep dive into her life, to attractions inspired by her childhood, everything about Dollywood is designed to celebrate the values she holds dear: faith, family, and Appalachian culture.

And while Dolly won’t be able to oversee Dollywood forever, she’s ensured it’s in good hands. The park is co-owned by Herschend Family Entertainment, a company with a track record of running successful attractions across the country, including Silver Dollar City in Missouri and Kentucky Kingdom. This partnership ensures that even without Dolly’s day-to-day involvement, Dollywood will thrive.

Leadership and Innovation Will Keep Dollywood Thriving

Dolly has always surrounded herself with the right people to bring her vision to life, including the team at Dollywood. President Eugene Naughton has led the charge in recent years, spearheading ambitious projects like the $500 million, ten-year expansion plan launched in 2021. This ongoing development ensures that Dollywood remains fresh and exciting for future generations.

Even as Dolly gets older, the park is looking ahead. The Dollywood Company has clarified that they plan to continue expanding, with new attractions, resorts, and entertainment experiences in the works. In fact, one of Dollywood’s biggest projects yet—a top-secret new ride—is set to debut in 2026.

Beyond the rides and shows, Dollywood’s mission has always been about something bigger: celebrating the hardworking people of Appalachia. Dolly’s Imagination Library provides free books to children worldwide, and the park’s commitment to local employment and education programs proves that Dollywood isn’t just a theme park—it’s a force for good. That commitment won’t change, even when Dolly is no longer leading the charge.

Dollywood Will Always Be a Tribute to Dolly

While Dollywood will continue to evolve, one thing is sure: Dolly Parton’s presence will always be felt there. Her spirit is woven into every corner of the park, from her music playing through the speakers to exhibits showcasing her journey from a one-room cabin to global superstardom.

Fans may one day visit Dollywood without the chance of seeing Dolly pop up in her rhinestone-covered golf cart, but her essence will never fade. She built Dollywood for herself, the people of East Tennessee, and the millions of visitors who feel a little closer to home when they step through those gates.

So, what happens to Dollywood when Dolly Parton is gone? It keeps going—just like she always intended. Because Dolly Parton isn’t just a country music icon; she’s a legend. And legends never truly leave us.

Latest Stories

Jessica Simpson returns to the stage after 15 years at Willie Nelson’s Luck Reunion, sparking mixed reactions from fans and critics.

Jessica Simpson Returns To The Stage After 15 Years But Not Everyone Is Impressed

Jessica Simpson is no stranger to the spotlight, but over the weekend, she stepped onto a stage she hadn’t touched in 15 years—and the response was anything but unanimous. Performing ...

Bryson Quick stuns American Idol judges with a country twist on Pink Floyd’s Time, earning a golden ticket and a Grand Ole Opry invitation.

Bryson Quick Turns Pink Floyd Country on American Idol, Earns Grand Ole Opry Invitation

American Idol delivers jaw-dropping moments every season, but 17-year-old Bryson Quick just raised the bar. The Tennessee native walked into his audition, guitar in hand, and put a country spin ...

Speculation about Carrie Underwood’s lips resurfaces, but fans argue her talent, not her appearance, should be the real focus.

Why Carrie Underwood’s Lips Look Different Now Than They Did Years Ago

Carrie Underwood is no stranger to public scrutiny. The country superstar has spent nearly two decades in the spotlight, winning awards, dominating charts, and setting the gold standard for powerhouse ...

Morgan Wallen turns heads at the SEC Championship in Nashville, rocking a Tennessee hoodie and cheering courtside for the Vols.

Morgan Wallen Turns Heads at SEC Championship Game in Nashville [PICS]

Morgan Wallen may be one of country music’s biggest stars. Still, this weekend, he was just another passionate Tennessee Volunteers fan. The “Last Night” singer made a courtside appearance at ...

Kelly Clarkson missed The Kelly Clarkson Show due to a sudden family emergency, leaving fans concerned as they await her return.

Kelly Clarkson Was Missing From Her Own Show Due To A Sudden Family Emergency

Kelly Clarkson has never been one to leave her fans in the dark. So when she suddenly vanished from The Kelly Clarkson Show in early March, viewers immediately knew something ...

Ronnie Dunn and Parker McCollum share a viral onstage moment at Boots In The Park, leaving fans debating if it was a check or just playful ribbing.

Did Ronnie Dunn Check Parker McCollum Over His Gold Chain on Stage?

Country music thrives on tradition, but a new generation shakes things up every now and then. That’s why a viral onstage exchange between Brooks & Dunn’s Ronnie Dunn and rising ...

Dolly Parton reveals her favorite way to enjoy Dollywood’s famous cinnamon bread—loaded with both icing and apple butter, of course!

Dolly Parton’s Favorite Way to Eat Cinnamon Bread Is As Sweet as She Is

When it comes to comfort food, few things can top warm, buttery cinnamon bread fresh from the oven. And if there’s anyone who knows how to enjoy life’s simple pleasures, ...

How the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band’s Will the Circle Be Unbroken: Volume Two Became a Country Music Landmark

Some songs don’t just get recorded—they get passed down like family heirlooms, carrying the weight of history. “Will the Circle Be Unbroken” is one of those rare songs, a gospel ...

Kris Kristofferson’s Why Me Lord remains a timeless country gospel anthem, born from a spiritual awakening and filled with grace and redemption.

Kris Kristofferson’s “Why Me Lord” Remains a Timeless Country Gospel Anthem

Some songs feel like a conversation with the heavens. Kris Kristofferson’s “Why Me Lord” is one of those rare tracks that turns a deeply personal moment into something universal. Released ...

Brad Paisley and Dolly Parton’s When I Get Where I’m Going remains a timeless comfort, offering faith, hope, and healing after nearly two decades.

Brad Paisley and Dolly Parton’s “When I Get Where I’m Going” Still Brings Comfort After All These Years

Some songs go beyond country radio—they become personal anthems for those who need them most. Brad Paisley’s “When I Get Where I’m Going” featuring Dolly Parton, is one of those ...