PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. () — Dollywood is turning 40! What started as a small roadside attraction in 1961 — a simple train ride through the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains — has now become an innovative force within the theme park industry, thanks to Dolly’s creative and innovative spirit. 

“I’ve always believed the Smoky Mountains are one of the most beautiful places God ever made, and I feel blessed to call them home,” said Dolly. “When I first dreamed of creating Dollywood, I had two simple hopes. I wanted to build a place that would bring people from all over to see the magic of the Smokies and, hopefully, fall in love with them just like I did.”

Over the last 40 years, Dollywood has become a vacation destination with something for everyone. Jenn Webb, the senior publicist for Dollywood, says that’s truer now more than ever. “We are definitely multigenerational. You can bring the littlest kids and we have something for them with our smaller rides. We’ve got thrill rides for the thrill seekers. And then we’ve got plenty of shows to entertain everyone in your group.”

Dollywood is known for great food too. Webb says many of their restaurants serve up award-winning food like their cinnamon bread. “That is one thing our guests really love!”

But more than anything, Webb says Dollywood is a place to just enjoy yourself. “You can really just come in here, relax, enjoy time with your family and just have a really special day.”

Just like Dolly envisioned it 40 years ago.