Dollywood is everything we love about its namesake Dolly Parton, about the Smoky Mountains, and about fun itself – all wrapped up into one amazingly family-friendly destination. What’s not to like about somewhere that includes rides, gardens, food, and a waterpark in the same place, after all? As with anywhere else, though, you’ll want to make sure you go at the best time for maximum enjoyment.
Here’s a look at when to visit Dollywood throughout the year in 2025:
What Month to Visit: April or September for Dollywood, June or August for Splash Country
In general, spring and fall are both amazing times to visit. These seasons sit between winter’s chill and summer’s blazing humidity. Since much of Dollywood is an outdoor experience, planning for mild weather can make a big difference in fun factor.
If you’ve got an open schedule and can afford to plan your whole trip around the best time to visit Dollywood, opt for April or September, both sunny and beautiful times of year without being too hot. Just make sure to steer clear of Spring Break and the start of Harvest Festival when crowds pick up.
Want to pay a visit to Dollywood Splash Country? Avoid the height of summer and go in early June or late August.
Important 2025 Festival Dates to Consider:
- I Will Always Love You Music Festival: March 14 – April 13
- Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration: June 14 – August 3
- Harvest Festival: September 12 – October 27
These events bring extra crowds and longer wait times, so aim for weekdays during festival windows if those are your only options.
What Days to Visit: Different for Each Type of Experience
All right, so you’ve chosen your months, but there are good and bad days to visit as well. It goes without saying that the park will be busier on weekends, so unless you think crowds are part of the fun, try to go on a weekday. There are also other reasons to visit during the week, such as Senior Discount Day on Tuesdays.
Recent crowd data also shows Tuesdays and Thursdays are among the least crowded, making them ideal for families or first-time visitors who want to see and do it all.
That said, Dollywood puts on events throughout the year, and most of these take place on the weekend. If you’re planning to attend a special event, plan for time in the park both during the week and over the event weekend.
What Time to Visit: Mornings Are Great Year-Round
There are better and worse times of day to hit up Dollywood. If you’re going to visit the waterpark, for instance, you’ll likely want to come in the mornings before the sun is too hot and the play zones get too busy. The main park is also nice in the morning all year round, but you should note that there is usually a rush between 10 and 12. It might be best to get there right when gates open or come back later in the evening when things slow down.
During summer, however, the park is open as late as 10 PM or later – great for experiencing the extended hours and drone and fireworks shows during the Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration. Weekdays and weekends are both good times to stay late in the park, as long as you don’t have tired kiddos to get home!
Note that not all attractions are open until the park closes. For instance, in spring, both the Great Tree Swing and Wildwood Grove close earlier than park hours. Restaurants, theaters, and other locations may also have their own hours. It’s best to check what they are before planning your day.
Dollywood Events: Summer, Fall, and Winter is Full of Events!
Although Dollywood is a year-round theme park, it offers plenty of seasonal fun in the form of shows and festivals.
- The Flower & Food Festival is a popular one in late spring, featuring towering floral sculptures and seasonal treats.
- The Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration (June 14 – August 3) brings nightly fireworks, a drone show, and longer hours.
- The Harvest Festival (September 12 – October 27) features thousands of glowing pumpkins and seasonal crafts.
- Smoky Mountain Christmas caps off the year with more than 6 million lights, holiday shows, themed food, and a warm festive atmosphere.
Plus, 2025 marks Dollywood’s 40th Anniversary, with brand-new daily performances, opening ceremonies, and themed surprises running all year long.
What’s New at Dollywood in 2025
- Dolly Parton Experience – A new interactive museum-style attraction celebrating Dolly’s life with holograms, costumes, and memorabilia
- Big Bear Mountain Coaster – The longest coaster in the park, now a fan favorite
- Lightning Rod Coaster – Upgraded with a chain lift for more reliable operation
- 40th Anniversary Festivities – Special entertainment and celebrations, particularly on summer weekends
When to Avoid Dollywood: Afternoons + Holidays
When shouldn’t you visit the park? We’re tempted to say “Any time is a good time to visit Dollywood!” (Okay, we said it. #sorrynotsorry) However, if you don’t like crowds, you should avoid:
- Weekends during major events or holidays
- Spring break and the weeks leading up to Halloween and Christmas
- Afternoons and early evenings in spring, summer, and fall
Dollywood in a Day? Absolutely!
Some visitors want to know if Dollywood is worth it if they only have a day to spend at the park. The answer is yes, you can technically see all of it in a day, even if that’s not the best way to get the most out of the experience. However, if you’re dealing with a time crunch, the park is still well worth the visit!
In this case, the best approach is to plan your trip ahead of time, especially if you’re visiting on one of the busier days, like the weekend. Check out the park map to see which destinations and eateries are of most interest to you. If you want to go on lots of rides but don’t want to do lots of waiting, it’s probably worth paying extra for the TimeSaver pass.
Note that you’re allowed to leave and reenter Dollywood as long as you remember to get your hand stamped on the way out. If your little ones (or you!) need a nap, feel free to leave for lunch and some shuteye, then return later in the day. Show your parking pass upon reentry to avoid paying double for that as well.
Tips to Speed Your Visit Along
If you want to maximize your time in the park, Dollywood advises that you enter through the gate, then make your way to the back of the park. Because so many people hit up the first attractions they see, the front tends to be busier than the back. If you work your way forward from there, chances are you’ll avoid more crowds.
There you go, your one-and-done guide to Dollywood in 2025. Can’t wait to see you here in the Great Smokies!
