One of America’s most beloved theme parks helmed by one of America’s most beloved singers, Dolly Parton’s Dollywood is an amazing way to spend the day … or a week. While its relaxed atmosphere and wide range of activities make for a leisurely experience, it’s important to know the rules in order to get the most out of your visit.
Here’s a quick rundown of the main Dollywood policies and FAQs. These also apply to Dollywood’s Splash Country, the water park associated with the main theme park. You may treat them interchangeably (except in the case of some tickets, as noted below).
Dollywood Policies
Pay attention to designated and restricted areas
Dollywood’s visitor areas versus off-limits areas are clearly marked. If you don’t want to find trouble, make sure you stay out of restricted places, which include but are not limited to employee zones, ride perimeters, entrances designated for personnel only, and so on.
Make sure you also use visitor entrances, and do not try to enter the park outside of its operating hours.
Follow basic safety protocols
The safety protocols for Dollywood are much the same as anywhere else. Do not run in the park, which can pose a risk to children, the elderly, and everyone else. Watch your belongings.
Read ride requirements carefully to make sure they are medically safe and age-appropriate. Pay particular attention to the instructions for loose articles, which can pose a danger to those around you.
Adhere to the Code of Conduct
The Code of Conduct defines what is and is not appropriate behavior in the park. Dollywood does not allow visitors to verbally abuse employees or other park-goers, to fight or make unwelcome remarks, or to be disruptive.
Dollywood also bans weapons, which includes knives more than 3 ½ inches. If you are instructed by an employee to do something, you must do it or risk violating the Code of Conduct.
If you step out of bounds, you risk losing your ticket without a refund. The entire party that is with a guest who disobeys the code may also be evicted. Depending on what happened, you may receive a lifetime ban. Note that this doesn’t just include Dollywood, but all related properties owned by Herschend Family Entertainment Activities.
Dollywood FAQs
Can I reenter the park on the same day?
Yes, Dollywood allows you to leave and come back on the same day. You must get a hand stamp to show the ticketer when you come back in. If you parked in the lot, keep your receipt so that you do not have to pay for reentry at the toll booths.
Are there group rates or discounts?
Dollywood does not offer discounts for AAA, but they do offer military discounts. This goes for those in the armed forces and their families.
The park does offer group rates, so if you were planning a family reunion or a work outing it is worth looking into this. The group must contain 15 or more people and will receive one complimentary ticket. You must make your reservation at least two weeks ahead of time in order to receive the complimentary ticket offered.
To make a reservation, call 865-428-9890.
What’s included in a ticket?
In a word, everything. Dollywood’s tickets include every ride, every show minus some special events, every craft and museum, and every attraction minus paid games.
Some specialty tickets also apply to Dollywood’s Splash Country, but not all of them. These include the Two-Park Gold Season Pass, the Bring-A-Friend Free tickets, and the Super Pass.
How does the season pass work?
If you think you will be visiting Dollywood a lot, it’s probably worth it to get a season pass. It pays for itself in just two visits, so if you’ll be hitting the park twice or more in a year, definitely go for it.
To get a season pass, apply for it at the end of the day before you exit the park. Don’t worry: The admission prices you paid that day will be factored into the total cost of the pass so you don’t have to pay twice.
The rules for renewing your pass are a bit convoluted. If you’re renewing within three years, you’re eligible but may not get the best pricing. If you renew sooner, you’re likely to get a better deal. If it has been more than four years, you’ll have to get a new pass as described above.
How do I purchase the season pass?
If you wish to purchase the season pass online, then you need login information to access the “My Dollywood Account” portal. Up there, you can also find discounts exclusive to members as well as Bring-A-Friend tickets.
What should I do in case of medical emergency?
If there is a true medical emergency, call 911 and send someone to alert park personnel. For bumps and bruises, visit one of the Safety/First Aid Offices, which are always open during park hours. They’re located in the following areas:
- Jukebox Junction (look for the Pines Theater)
- Wilderness Pass (look for the Plaza)
- Wildwood Grove (look for Hidden Hollow)
- The Village (look for the train crossing)
If you’re unable to find a first aid station, ask a host for help.
Can I stay at Dollywood?
Yes, there are a few places to stay that are associated with Dollywood. These include Dollywood Cabins, which are a mere 2 miles away from the entrance to the park. The luxury lodging offers a number of amenities as well as fantastic views of the surrounding mountains.
The DreamMore resort is next to Splash Country. In addition to a restaurant, spa, and game room, there is also a free trolley to both the main park and the water park. There are nine different room choices, so whether you’re there as a couple, a family, or just on a solo adventure, you’ll find what you’re looking for.
Note that you may get big savings if you book your rooms and buy your tickets simultaneously.
