Southern Living Declares Dollywood is Better than any other Theme Park

Southern Living Declares Dollywood is Better than any other Theme Park

Dollywood, the renowned theme park nestled in the heart of the South, is basking in a new accolade just in time for the grand opening ceremonies of its 39th season this week. Southern Living, a prominent lifestyle magazine, has bestowed upon Dollywood the honor of being recognized as one of the South’s Best Attractions in its prestigious 2024 The South’s Best awards. The article’s headline boldly declares, “Why Dollywood is Better Than Any Other Theme Park.”

The 2024 edition of Southern Living’s The South’s Best Awards features a diverse array of categories, celebrating excellence in cities, towns, food, drink, local treasures, islands, and more. Southern Living engaged its discerning readership in an online survey, conducted by the third-party agency Proof Insights, where over 20,000 respondents shared their opinions. The survey, held from July 12 to August 23, 2023, culminated in a comprehensive list of winners that reflects the Southern Living community’s favorites.

Related – Dollywood Gearing up for an Exciting 2024 Season

Dollywood finds itself in esteemed company as one of the best attractions in the South, alongside iconic names such as The Fox Theatre in Atlanta, Ground Zero Blues Club in Clarksdale, Mississippi, Renfro Valley Entertainment Center in Mt. Vernon, Kentucky, and the legendary Grand Ole Opry in Nashville.

This recognition not only solidifies Dollywood’s status as a premier destination but also highlights the park’s unique charm and appeal. As the park gears up for its 39th season, visitors can anticipate an even more extraordinary experience, enriched by the acknowledgment of Southern Living’s discerning readership. For those seeking the best of the South’s attractions, Dollywood stands out as a shining gem, offering a blend of entertainment, hospitality, and Southern charm that sets it apart from other theme parks.

“The author of the article repeatedly mentioned how warm and welcoming the park was during her recent visit with her son,” said Dollywood Parks & Resorts President Eugene Naughton. “We are so happy to hear that; it is a common refrain among our guests. We believe the hosts who work here and the friendly atmosphere they provide for those who visit are what make the Dollywood experience unlike any other theme park in the world.

“Just last year, we earned Golden Ticket Awards for Best Park and for Best Guest Experience of any theme park in the world, and we also ranked number one and number two in the country by Tripadvisor the past two years. These awards and recognitions validate the efforts we place on providing the absolute best theme park experience anywhere. I think it is safe to say Dollywood has become the theme park everyone needs to put on their travel bucket list.” 

Earlier this year, National Geographic named Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort as one of the top 22 hotels throughout the world for 2024. In December 2023, Forbes’ newly created Best Customer Service list ranked Dollywood in the top 1% (#27) of more than 3,000 rated US brands commonly recognized for exemplary customer service.

Dollywood Parks & Resorts boasts world-class roller coasters, award-winning entertainment, delectable Southern-inspired culinary options and one of the world’s “most beautiful water parks” all in a place where everyone feels like part of the family. Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort and its sister property Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa truly have made Dollywood a leading vacation destination for families seeking a memory-making experience. 

Dollywood opens this Friday (March 8) for season passholders and to the general public on Saturday (March 9). This season features the much-anticipated opening of The Dolly Parton Experience, which includes multiple experiences in a newly designed area of the park. Opening in the area surrounding and including the former Chasing Rainbows museum, The Dolly Parton Experience will allow guests a behind-the-scenes look at Dolly’s iconic status while they learn more about her incredible story. The area is scheduled to open in late May.

For more information about Dollywood Parks & Resorts, please visit dollywood.com or download the Dollywood app.

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