Top photo: Joshua Woods on Unsplash
Dollywood is the biggest draw in Pigeon Forge, and for good reason: roller coasters for thrill-seekers, gentler rides for little kids, live music, mountain crafts and some of the best theme park food anywhere. With a big group, the trick is planning for different ages without anyone spending the day waiting. Here's how.
Buy tickets online
Buy tickets online before your trip and check the park calendar. Dollywood is open most of the year with seasonal festivals, but it closes for part of the winter. Look at multi-day options if your group wants to split the park over two shorter days.
The big advantage: you're 5 minutes away
The Remington is about 5 minutes from Dollywood. That changes how you can do the park:
- Go at opening, when lines are shortest.
- Head back to the cabin midday for lunch, naps and a swim in the private indoor pool.
- Return in the evening, when it's cooler and the park is lit up.
Two shorter visits beat one long, exhausting day, especially with young kids.
Splitting up by age
Dollywood works well for big groups because it's easy to split up and meet again.
- Thrill-seekers head for the big coasters first thing.
- Families with little kids can spend time in the park's kid areas, with smaller rides and play spaces.
- Grandparents often enjoy the shows, the craftspeople and the food.
Pick a meeting spot and a time, and make sure every group has a charged phone. Check height requirements for rides before you go, so kids know what to expect.
Dollywood's Splash Country
Dollywood's water park, Splash Country, is next door and open in summer. On hot days, it's a better choice than the theme park for many families. It requires a separate ticket.
Festivals through the year
Dollywood hosts seasonal festivals, including spring flowers, summer events, a fall harvest festival and a Christmas season with lights. They change the feel of the park, so check what's on during your dates. Holiday and fall weekends are among the busiest times.
Tips for a smoother day
- Wear comfortable shoes. The park is hilly.
- Bring a stroller for little kids, or rent one at the park.
- Plan meals. Food is a big part of Dollywood, but with a big group, eating at off-peak times saves a lot of waiting.
- Check the weather. Some rides close during storms.
Our granddaughter loved the pool! Enjoyed the fire pit area also!
Carolyn M., stayed at The Remington
A sample Dollywood day
- Opening: coasters for the thrill-seekers, kid rides for the little ones.
- Late morning: a show for everyone.
- Lunch: back at The Remington, then naps and the indoor pool.
- Evening: back to the park when it's cooler, or grill on the patio and light the fire pit.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Dollywood from The Remington?
About 5 minutes by car.
Is Dollywood open year-round?
Dollywood is open most of the year with seasonal festivals, but it closes for part of the winter. Check the park calendar for your dates.
Is Dollywood good for little kids?
Yes. The park has areas with smaller rides and play spaces for young kids, plus shows and food everyone can enjoy.
Do you need separate tickets for Splash Country?
Yes. Dollywood's Splash Country is a separate water park with its own tickets, open in summer.
Plan your trip
See our guides to Great Smoky Mountains National Park with kids and Pigeon Forge vs. Gatlinburg, or the full Smoky Mountains area guide. Book The Remington directly with us to skip the booking-site service fees.
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