Ever consider enjoying a kidless day at a theme park? If you hadn’t thought of it, let me tell you, you deserve it, and it’s honestly still so much fun!
I am fresh off of a baecation to the Smoky Mountains with my husband, Marcus! This past weekend, we had an absolute blast visiting Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. #Hosted
First of all, let me say that I am thrilled that Dollywood makes it easy to partner with content creators and influencers, even micro-influencers like myself. They have a link and application if you’re interested in getting complimentary tickets to experience the southern hospitality and thrills that Dollywood offers.
We arrived on a Sunday around 2 p.m. based on our other parties’ travel plans, I was nervous that wouldn’t be enough time to enjoy all the park had to offer, but boy was I wrong. So if you’re considering going for a half-day, arriving after lunch might be perfect for you and your crew.
The one thing I was looking forward to that we missed was the non-denominational church service that takes place every Sunday at 11:30. I’ll be sure it put it on my list for next time.
The first ride we took on was a water ride, the Geyser Gulch. I highly recommend getting on water rides at the start of your day, so you spend the rest of your time drying off if you get soaked. Thankfully, we didn’t get too wet on the rapids ride.
Much to our delight and surprise, there were little to no wait times for any rides we experienced. We didn’t spring for the time-saver pass, but that is an option if you know you are going during potentially busy times at the park.
After the rapids, my sister and brother in love were ready for lunch, so we made a beeline toward the food. We enjoyed fried fish and fries, and I got a funnel cake with Reese’s pieces topping. Everything was fried to perfection and super delicious. My hubby also had a super yummy turkey leg!
Next, we decided to hop on the Dollywood Express to let our food digest. The train ride was a highlight of our time at Dollywood. It was beautiful, relaxing, entertaining and informative. Our guide told us about the history of Dollywood and the train we were currently riding on.
The Dollywood express took us around the foothills of the Smoky Mountains and gave us a great overview of the park and its rides. I recommend this be one of the first attractions you experience after entering the park.
Other rides we encountered were: Daredevil falls, another water ride and tons of fun. The Tennessee Tornado, Wild Eagle and Blazing Fury, especially, was quite thrilling.
My favorite was the fire express. The ride itself, pyrotechnics and the thrill of traveling backward on the coaster did not disappoint.
To know me is to know I love music. You can catch live singing in open-air venues and concerts and shows in theatres strategically placed and easily accessible throughout the park. Our favorite was “Brighter Day.”
Toward the end of the day, we made our way to The Grist Mill to try the infamous cinnamon bread. The line was a little long but moved pretty quickly, and once you got close enough to breathe in the cinnamony goodness, you forgot all about the handful of people waiting anxiously to get their loaf or loaves.
A few more rides and a repeat ride on the FireChaser Express closed out the day.
I had a great afternoon without the kiddo at Dollywood but had to pick him up a souvenir and will certainly plan another trip real soon so he can experience the fun, thrilling and simplistic, southern beauty that is Dollywood.
Visit the Dollywood Website for more information on the parks’ attractions, shows, and history.
Sounds like an amazing time! -Liv