This 125-acre theme park, nestled in the rolling foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, is the namesake of Pigeon Forge’s own hometown hero, Dolly Parton. The site originally opened as an amusement park in the 1960s and operated under several different names (including Silver Dollar City) until Ms. Parton and company took over in 1986. Since then, Dollywood has grown into the state’s largest theme park and one of the top amusement destinations in the Southeast. It also happens to be the largest single seasonal employer in Sevier County.

The park is divided into a dozen different themed sections, each filled with an assortment of rides, attractions, shows, restaurants and shops. And there’s something for every taste, from exciting roller coasters and water rides to nature- and kid-themed attractions. The stage shows also span the spectrum of entertainment, from country, bluegrass and gospel to rock and roll, children’s shows and even magic. In between is a wide range of unique shops and studios, where visitors can watch mountain artisans as they shape pottery, blow glass and make soap, to name just a few crafts. Meanwhile, the restaurants at Dollywood serve up a satisfying lineup of Southern treats, including barbecue, fried chicken, a country buffet, burgers and pizza, and more. You can even get a deep-fried Snickers bar for dessert (if you dare).

Dollywood is open March through December, and throughout the year, the park hosts several different seasonal festivals, starting off with the Festival of Nations in spring. That’s when Dollywood welcomes performers from all over the world to Pigeon Forge. There are plenty of interesting things for children to see and experience in summer during KidsFest, and in fall, the National Gospel & Harvest Celebration combines gospel music with festive autumn decorations. The year wraps up with a magical touch during Smoky Mountain Christmas.

Dollywood offers a number of discounts and deals throughout the year, most of which you can learn about on the park’s Web site.

Other Sevier County Attractions