Back in June, we told you that, as hard as it is to believe, neither Disney World nor Disneyland was America’s number-one theme park.
In fact, the title for America’s Number 1 Theme Park went to none other than Dollywood, located in Pigeon Forge, TN. This theme park is owned by and is all about the one and only Dolly Parton. Think over-the-top country theming, just like Dolly’s iconic hair. You’ll find several thrill rides along with family-friendly rides and entertainment at this theme park. But while Dollywood has earned the title of being the top theme park in America in 2024, AllEars readers have good reasons for why they would NEVER skip Disney World for Dollywood.
We asked our readers on Facebook if they would consider skipping Disney World to go to Dollywood instead, and while there were lots of positive things said about Dollywood, the overall consensus was that it’s not worth SKIPPING Disney World to go to.
Several people said they enjoy Dollywood for lots of reasons, but there are more reasons to keep going to Disney World instead. For example, Tim shared that he thinks Dollywood is a “single-day attraction” and is a “standard amusement park,” whereas Disney World is “90% unique and custom.” Laura echoed the sentiments by stating, “It’s just an amusement park. It’s something you do for a day or two if you are in the area anyway.”
Donald made a great point by saying, “Dollywood is a nice park, maybe one of the best in the country… but it’s not nearly as immersive as Disney World.” He went on to discuss just how many parks and water parks Disney World has, as well as its own shopping and dining district (Disney Springs) and so much more. So it seems like Dollywood is a great one-day, quick trip, whereas Disney World is a whole vacation.
Some readers even brought up the point that, yes, Disney World is expensive, but Dollywood is even more overpriced. Karissa stated, “Dollywood’s prices have gone up (like a lot of things, and Disney included), but some stuff just isn’t worth the price increase for me. At least Disney makes it worth it, for sure.”
Along with the prices, several readers also mentioned that customer service is better at Disney World than at Dollywood and that “there is no substitute for the Cast Member magic,” according to Jim.
Heather, a local to the Dollywood area, mentioned that there are thrill rides and there are kiddy rides but not much in between. And Richard agreed, saying, “In most cases, Disney is better for all aged families.” At Dollywood, you’ll find some very large roller coasters and some very small kid rides, but if you’re looking for options that everyone in the family will enjoy together, Disney World might be your better bet.
Dollywood got a lot of praise from readers, especially those who live nearby. However, most people who have been to both Dollywood and Disney World agreed that it’s not even a comparison. These two locations are vastly different from each other, and it can really come down to what you’re hoping to do. However, it sounds like Dollywood at Christmastime is wonderful, and its shows are great!
If you’re looking for a family friendly vacation for several days, Disney World is probably the best bet for you over Dollywood. If you want to go to a fun amusement park with awesome thrill rides and good shows for one or two days, then perhaps it’s time for a trip to Dollywood!
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Are you a fan of Dollywood? Let us know in the comments!
They are totally different. We love dollywood enough to do season passes every few years. As far as pricing goes it’s alot cheaper as a package. The dollywood resorts are high end and super nice. I would dare to compare to grand Floridian but 1/3 the price.
It is not a week long park for sure. 3 days is about it. But you can do 4 trips a year and get new scenery and it’s beautiful. If you catch a season pass for less than $300 it worth it. We drive 9hr to it. We also used it as a stop on our way to disney. There is a great little hotel 1 mile away that’s always less than $70.
I prefer disney but I put it up there close.
Dollywood is more family friendly in such a way that grandparents can enjoy it, too. There are so many country music shows to choose from on any given day that one could enjoy their day there without riding one ride (if country music is your sort of thing). The weather is definitely nicer in the summer in the Smokey Mountains than it is in Orlando!
But, for me, I’ve been to Dollywood once, and have been to Disney World multiple times, so I definitely prefer Disney World!