f.Dolly Parton to Unveil Dollywood’s Next Major Ride — A $50 Million Aviation-Inspired Attraction Set for 2026.f

Pigeon Forge, TN — Country music legend Dolly Parton is once again preparing to leave her mark on the Smoky Mountains. On September 17 at 11 a.m., Parton will appear at Dollywood, the theme park she co-founded, to personally unveil the park’s newest major attraction: a brand-new ride slated to debut in 2026.

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The announcement has been eagerly anticipated by fans and industry insiders alike, as it represents one of the largest single investments in Dollywood’s history and marks another milestone in the park’s ongoing $500 million expansion plan, first revealed in 2021.

A Vision for Flight

While official details remain under wraps until the event, early clues from Dollywood insiders suggest the attraction will be aviation-themed, offering visitors the sensation of soaring through the skies. The ride is expected to simulate flight over mountain peaks, dives into secret valleys, and journeys into imaginative hidden worlds tied to the park’s beloved Wildwood Grove area.

Unlike traditional outdoor roller coasters, this new ride will be fully enclosed, ensuring year-round operation regardless of weather conditions. That makes it a rare experience in the U.S., where most large-scale coasters and thrill rides depend on seasonal weather.

The project, with an estimated price tag of nearly $50 million, demonstrates Dollywood’s commitment to combining cutting-edge technology with immersive storytelling — a hallmark of the park’s reputation.

Dollywood’s Expansion

The new ride is part of Dollywood’s multi-year plan to transform the park into an even more expansive destination for families and travelers. Since 2021, Dollywood has steadily unveiled new attractions, festivals, and guest amenities, reinforcing its standing as one of the most unique theme parks in the country.

The expansion also reflects a broader trend in the amusement industry: parks investing heavily in immersive experiences rather than traditional rides alone. By blending narrative elements with ride technology, Dollywood continues to position itself not just as a place for thrills, but as a storytelling hub rooted in the culture of the Smoky Mountains.

Dolly’s Connection to the Park

For Dolly Parton, Dollywood is more than a business venture — it is a personal legacy. Since opening in 1986, the park has been her way of giving back to the community where she grew up. Each expansion reflects not only her love of entertainment but also her commitment to celebrating Appalachian heritage and family values.

“Dollywood is about more than rides and shows,” Parton has often said in past interviews. “It’s about memories, about families coming together, and about honoring where I came from.”

The new aviation-themed attraction embodies that philosophy, combining adventure with imagination in a way that appeals to both children and adults.

A Major Investment in Tourism

Dollywood’s growth has also had a measurable impact on the local economy. Located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, the park draws more than 3 million visitors annually, making it one of the most visited attractions in the Southeast. The new ride, with its high cost and innovative design, is expected to further boost tourism in the region, creating jobs and supporting nearby businesses.

Local leaders have praised Dollywood’s expansion strategy as a driver of regional development. “Dollywood isn’t just entertainment — it’s an engine for our economy,” said one Pigeon Forge official. “Every new investment Dolly makes strengthens our community.”

Industry Buzz

Theme park analysts are already calling the upcoming attraction a potential “game-changer.” While aviation-themed rides exist elsewhere, few have been designed as fully immersive indoor experiences at this scale. If early reports prove true, Dollywood’s addition could rival major attractions at larger parks across the U.S.

“This is a bold move,” said Rachel Matthews, editor of Amusement Today. “Dollywood has always punched above its weight by combining heartfelt storytelling with world-class design. This ride could raise the bar even higher.”

Looking Ahead

As Dolly prepares to step onto the Dollywood stage on September 17 to unveil the details, anticipation continues to build. Fans are eager not only to learn about the specifics of the ride but also to see Dolly herself, whose personal presence makes every announcement feel like a celebration.

Whether it’s her music, philanthropy, or business ventures, Parton has always found ways to blend creativity with authenticity. This new attraction is poised to do the same — offering thrills, imagination, and a reminder of why Dollywood remains such a beloved destination.

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Flying Higher Than Ever

With its aviation-inspired concept, massive investment, and promise of year-round fun, Dollywood’s upcoming ride will mark a new chapter in the park’s history. More importantly, it reaffirms Dolly Parton’s vision of Dollywood as a place where families can experience both wonder and togetherness.

As Parton takes the stage to make the official reveal, one thing is already certain: the future of Dollywood is flying higher than ever.