Dolly Parton Experience Dollywood Attraction Show History

Explore The Dolly Parton Experience at Dollywood

The Dolly Parton Experience at Dollywood exterior that features a large ombre purple butterfly with sparkling reflectors with three similar butterflies.

The Dolly Parton Experience area of Dollywood, located just off of Showstreet, invites guests to step into interactive exhibits highlighting Dolly’s journey, inspiration, and signature style from Locust Ridge to stages around the world. 

“I think we can all agree there is no one else in the world like Dolly Parton,” said Dollywood Parks & Resorts President Eugene Naughton. “She is able to shine a light of positivity and inspiration that has influenced millions of people around the world. Our team has created a remarkable experience that shares Dolly’s inspiring story in an authentic, larger-than-life way. I think The Dolly Parton Experience is going to truly move our guests when they see it. We hope they take some of Dolly’s light and share it with the world just like she does every single day.”

Songteller at the Dolly Parton Experience

At the heart of The Dolly Parton Experience is Songteller, which brings Dolly Parton’s life story to life, from her childhood in Sevier County to her leap of faith to Nashville the day after high school graduation. This immersive exhibit features personal mementos from Dolly’s career in music, film, and television, along with a gallery dedicated to her record-setting albums.

Throughout the interactive experience, there are also several photo spots where you can step into Dolly’s world.

The signature moment of Songteller is a 360-degree, projection-mapped experience that visually tells the story of how Dolly became one of the most beloved entertainers in the world. The exhibit also highlights her lifelong commitment to philanthropy, including Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, with a live counter tracking books gifted to children worldwide. 

Behind the Seams at the Dolly Parton Experience

Behind the Seams gives guests an inside look at the process of creating Dolly Parton’s iconic style. 

This curated collection of costumes, fabric, and trim that designers have used in the development of Dolly’s unmistakable look is mesmerizing.

For little ones, Behind the Seams has an interactive play area where young designers can try their hand at creating a look for Dolly.

Museum-grade conservation techniques, including methods trusted by the Smithsonian, preserve each piece, ensuring these wardrobe treasures remain protected for future generations.

Dreamsong Theater: Heidi Parton’s Kin & Friends

Next to Songteller is the Dreamsong Theater that presents Heidi Parton’s Kin & Friends, a live production featured within the Dolly Parton Experience. Starring Dolly’s niece, Heidi Parton, the show blends live music and storytelling rooted in family history.

The production is co-written by Heidi Parton and Dolly Parton, and the show includes songs and stories known only to family members.

Dolly even made a surprise appearance to attend the premiere performance.

Precious Memories Exhibit

Just inside the entrance to the Dreamsong Theater, guests will find the Precious Memories Exhibit honoring the friends and family who have supported Dolly Parton throughout our her career.

The exhibit highlights how their encouragement helped shape both her personal journey and her legendary career.

Dolly’s Home-On-Wheels

Dolly’s Home-On-Wheels gives guests the opportunity to step inside one of Dolly Parton’s former tour buses as part of the Dolly Parton Experience. 

The 1994 Prevost motor coach offers a peek into her life on the road and touring career.

The coach has welcomed hundreds of thousands of visitors over the years at Dollywood, and comes with a warning that visitors may want to wear more rhinestones after their visit.

Dolly’s Fan Shop

No visit to The Dolly Parton Experience is complete without a visit to Dolly’s Fan Shop, where guests can shop exclusive merchandise available only at the Dolly Parton Experience. 

The collection includes apparel, accessories, cosmetics, perfumes, merchandise collaborations, and collectible keepsakes inspired by Dolly Parton’s legacy.

Fans of Dolly Parton will leave The Dolly Parton Experience at Dollywood inspired to follow in her bedazzled footsteps!