Dollywood will have its longest season in 2024, but will it ever be open all year long?
Dollywood visitors can have more fun than ever this year as the amusement park kicks off its longest season on March 8.
Dollywood will be open on 281 days during its 39th season. That’s 23 days more than last year, and 44 more days than in 2022.
And the season will keep expanding. A plan to keep the park open all year long is in the works.
“I set a goal: I wanted to be the number one family destination in the United States, and I don't think you can be a part-time park and achieve those results,” Dollywood President Eugene Naughton told Knox News.
Weather and projected attendance during certain days of the week or months are the main factors in determining when amusement parks should open and close, Matt Roseboom, Attractions Magazine editor, explained to Knox News. He expects Dollywood would thrive with a yearlong schedule.
“If they have a good plan for staying open year-round, they should go for it,” Roseboom said.
“Dollywood stands out from other theme parks because of Dolly Parton’s popularity, therefore people around the world are interested in attending. And it’s just a great park with great word of mouth. When you combine Dolly with a great experience, it’s going to be popular,” he said.
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Tennessee’s winter weather could pause some attractions and rides if Dollywood transitions to a year-round park, Roseboom cautioned, but special events like Dollywood’s popular Smoky Mountain Christmas festival could offset any ride interruptions.
The goal to keep the park open year-round is part of a 10-year strategic plan to invest $500 million into Dollywood Parks & Resorts.
The $37 million Wildwood Grove expansion, $25 million Big Bear Mountain rollercoaster, the new HeartSong resort and the upcoming Dolly Parton Experience museum all are part of the company’s growth plan. And more additions are in the works, including another resort.
“When we're open, people come,” Naughton said, noting the advantage of being located near Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which attracts around 13 million people annually and is the country’s most-visited national park.
Although Naughton couldn’t commit to exactly when Dollywood would transition to a yearlong schedule, it’s a priority.
“Behind the scenes, a big part of my job is the development of the long-term plan that's gonna drive our overall experiences,” he said. “I'm very focused on trying to march my way toward (Dollywood being open throughout the year).”
What’s new at Dollywood for 2024
Dollywood was named best park in the world at the Golden Ticket Awards last year and park leaders are hoping for an even bigger 2024.
The newest attraction, the Dolly Parton Experience, is an interactive exhibit spanning three buildings that celebrates Parton’s life and career. It’s expected to open in May.
The Lightning Rod roller coaster has been upgraded to a high-speed chain system to allow more people to enjoy the ride.
The park invested $1 million to upgrade its entertainment spaces and productions. Four new shows will debut this year, including one written by Parton.
Guests will now enter through a QR code system to speed up park entrance time. Traditional ticket options remain available, too.
Award-winning festivals and events will continue throughout the entire year, each with unique décor and activities.
How much are Dollywood tickets?
Dollywood tickets are $92 for adults. Child and senior tickets are $82.
Season passes that offer access to festivals and events throughout the year, discounts and other benefits are $164-$239. Payment plans are available.
Dollywood tickets and season passes can be purchased at Dollywood.com.
Devarrick Turner is a trending news reporter. Email devarrick.turner@knoxnews.com. On X, formerly known as Twitter @dturner1208.
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This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: When does Dollywood open 2024? The theme park may soon be year-round
