Country singer Dolly Parton’s eponymous theme park ‘Dollywood’ has been named the best theme park in the US, according to a new study.
The National Amusement Park Historical Association, an international organization dedicated to the park industry, conducts an annual survey that includes categories such as “most beautiful theme park,” “favorite traditional theme park” and “favorite wooden roller coaster.”
This year’s research Results features Parton’s namesake winning the title for ‘Favorite Theme Park’ and his newest attraction, Big Bear Mountain, winning ‘Best New Attraction’.
After the results were made public, Dollywood President Eugene Naughton said, “Look at The Dolly Parton Experience, which we opened less than two weeks ago.
“It’s an industry-leading offering that closely follows last year’s two spectacular additions: the industry’s largest new attraction, Big Bear Mountain, and one of the best resort accommodations in any theme park, HeartSong Lodge & Resort.”
Country singer Dolly Parton’s eponymous theme park ‘Dollywood’ has been named the best theme park in the US in the National Amusement Park Historical Association’s annual survey
He also attributed the Tennessee park’s success to its commitment to prioritizing the guest experience and investing in new attractions.
In second place comes Disneyworld in Florida, which is closely linked to Disneyland in California.
Tickets to Dollywood cost less than $100, with a day ticket for a regular adult costing $92 and discounts for both children and seniors.
The Tennessee The park’s prices are in stark contrast to ticket prices at the Disney parks.
Earlier this year, Walt Disney again raised prices on some of its 2025 tickets as the company plans to invest nearly $2 billion in revamping its Anaheim theme park in California.
The price increase follows several increases the company has announced in recent years and its ambitious plan to invest $60 billion in renewing its parks over the next ten years.
Disneyland in California is tied with Disneyworld, Florida in second place. Ticket prices have been increased by Disney this year to help renew this theme park
The cheapest ticket prices for one day and for one park have increased from $109 to $119, which is the first change since 2019.
While the peak price remains the same as in 2024 at $189, the cost to visit Florida’s Magic Kingdom Park on busy days like the 4th of July has increased from $184 to $189.
Additionally, prices for the Park Hopper options, which allow guests to visit multiple theme parks in the same day, have also increased, ranging from $5 to $10.
Tickets to Animal Kingdom Park in September, when demand is low, are the most affordable option: $119.
The price increase follows several increases the company has announced in recent years and its ambitious plan to invest $60 billion in renewing its parks over the next ten years.
Dollywood first opened its gates in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee in 1986, 15 years after Disney World.
Revolutionizing modern theme parks, Disneyland opened in 1955 and has been a fan favorite ever since.
