Amber Davis

17 EXCEEDS In a Row! What Does That Mean?

Dollywood's Splash Country lifeguards are among the best in the industry. And I can prove it. Earlier this week, we received our 17th consecutive EXCEEDS score. Let me explain why that is impressive: Our water park and lifeguards are certified through Jeff Ellis & Associates (E&A), a company that specializes in international aquatic safety and risk management consultation. That's a…

Behind The Scenes: Washing 1 Million lbs. of Resort Laundry

As a company, we learned a lot after opening Dollywood's DreamMore Resort and Spa-including a lot about laundry! Originally, we took care of all laundry without bells and whistles. Then, we got smart and moved the linens operation to a warehouse. That gave us a lot more elbow room to sort, wash, dry and fold. Just think of all the…

Behind the Scenes: The Inspiration for Wildwood Creek

As we get closer to opening Wildwood Grove in May, we hope to share more and more peeks behind the curtain of this new land. When we invited the media to join us for a construction tour, Wildwood Grove's Creative Director, Patrick Brennan, shared stories of how the details are coming together. And, when I say details I'm literally talking…

Is There Enough for Little Ones to Do at Dollywood?

It's a valid question. I get it. Is there enough for my children to do during our visit at Dollywood, or should we wait until they're older? As a mother of two young boys, I weigh this question against what it requires to wrangle my very active guys when considering things to do this fall. If they're going to be…

Behind the Scenes in Dollywood's Wardrobe Department

From the off-season files: What's going on in Dollywood's Wardrobe Department? January and February used to be a slow time of year, but there's no time for a slowdown anymore. This period is the window to prepare for the year ahead. The Wardrobe Team is tasked with costuming all Dollywood Company hosts-that is, people who work at Dollywood, Dollywood's Splash…

Behind the Scenes of Dollywood's Drone Show

Behind Wildwood Grove's perimeter fence sits an air field. It's not always been there. It was added for the nighttime experience we have for Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration. To be honest, I couldn't picture what a 3D multi-sensory drone light show would be like. Yes, I've seen videos. I had even seen an animation of what Dollywood's Sweet Summer Nights…

2022 Dollywood Off-Season Work

Dollywood is closed, and for that reason, it felt very fitting that there was snow on the ground when I walked the park to see the off-season projects already underway. Our operating calendar takes us through the first of the new year, but we close shortly thereafter because it can get pretty chilly in the Smoky Mountains during January and…

A Peek Inside: Splash Country Off-Season Updates

Yes, we may be in the doldrums of January (28 degrees with a chance of precipitation as I sit to write this blog), but I'm excited about the coming season for Dollywood's Splash Country. Typically, January isn't the prettiest time to walk through a water park that's located in the Smoky Mountains. But there's so much work happening, I can…

A National Day I Fully Support: National Plan for Vacation Day

There's no reason to draw this out: Do you know what today (January 25) is? Today is the day to start planning your next vacation. Really. The U.S. Travel Association-through their National Plan for Vacation Day (NPVD) program-encourages Americans to start planning their getaways for the year on January 25. If there's a national day I can get behind, it's…

2022 Early Ride Time Schedule for Season Passholders (and Lodging Guests)

With Dollywood's new Season Passholder options, guests can choose which of their favorite perks they want included with their pass. One of the great benefits of being a Dollywood Season Passholder is Early Ride Time on Saturdays. Quick lesson: Season Passholders with Gold or Diamond Passes (as well as Dollywood's lodging guests) are able to enter the park an hour…

What Are Golden Events and Golden Hours?

For a few months now, you've been hearing about Golden Events and Golden Hours for Dollywood's 2022 Gold and Diamond Passholders. Today, I'm able to give you a better idea of what to expect. I'll focus mostly on the Golden Events we have already nailed down (more are coming!), but I'll quickly explain Golden Hours. Beginning this March, Gold and…

Dollywood's Craftsmen in the Off-Season

During Dollywood's off-season, I love to give you a peek behind the curtain at all the work in progress. And though there are several construction projects happening right now, some teams are business as usual. Our craftsmen, for example, continue to produce hand-made wares even when there's no audience. Craft demonstrations may draw you in as you're walking through Craftsman's…

How Dollywood is Tackling the Labor Challenge in 2022

We all know labor shortages plagued consumers everywhere in 2021. While we can't control global pandemics and the ripple effects, we can commit to proactive steps toward retention, recruitment and care of our Dollywood family. Word is getting out because we're proud to be named to a couple of great lists: Forbes Best Workplaces in America 2022 and Top Workplaces…

What to Expect When Dollywood Opens for 2022 Season

When the world entered a global pandemic, Dollywood made more than 700 operational changes to safely open and continue serving guests. With that much change, our phone lines have been very busy as our team has answered thousands of questions. We're hopeful that 2022 brings more clarity. Let's start with this blog. I want to answer your questions when it…

Dollywood's New Parking Lot Explained

In 2022, you'll be getting into Dollywood more quickly and more efficiently than ever before. After working for months with traffic engineers on a plan to expedite guests moving through our parking lot and to our front gate, we're anxious to watch your arrival unfold this season.

Answers to Your Most-Commonly Asked Questions

Editor's Note: This post was updated March 14, 2023. I polled our Contact Center hosts who take guest calls to put together a helpful Q&A for you. Here's a list of the most-commonly asked questions we're getting lately-with answers! I divided it into three main categories.

Disability Concerns Heard

Dollywood Parks & Resorts always seeks to improve the guest experience, taking into consideration your feedback so that the time you spend with us provides your family with enjoyable memories and time spent together. We routinely seek out your thoughts and consider that information as we undertake projects across our properties. Today, I'd like to answer questions specific to guests…

Most-Commonly Asked Questions About Dollywood's DreamMore Resort and Spa

Last week, I compiled a list of some of the most common questions that people ask our Contact Center hosts-and answered them in one place. We also receive a lot of questions about Dollywood's DreamMore Resort and Spa. So, today, I'll share those questions and answers. I divided it into five categories. I hope this information is helpful as you…

Installing Dollywood's Umbrella Sky

It's up! One of Dollywood's most-photographed spots from last season is causing spontaneous selfies along Showstreet once again. Dollywood's Umbrella Sky debuted during the inaugural season of the Flower & Food Festival, and it quickly became a fan favorite. Though the festival is still more than a week away (April 23 - June 7), the cheerful umbrellas are ready for…

Behind the Scenes: Story of the Gift Shop Tree

Whether or not you're a "detail person," I think you're going to appreciate the thought that went into Wildwood Grove. Our creative team looked for every opportunity to showcase East Tennessee and the Smoky Mountains. When you visit the new land, spend some time checking out the tree in Mountain Grove Merchants.

How to Get to Dollywood

Dollywood and the Great Smoky Mountains are the kinds of places that show up on a lot of lists. You know, the "Best Family Vacation" and "Best Affordable Destination" type of lists. With summer vacations quickly approaching, we'll play host to thousands of new families over the next several months. Where will you be traveling from? We want to help…

Dollywood Rental Services FAQ

Dollywood offers rental services that make your park visit more enjoyable. In one location, you can rent a locker, stroller, wheelchair and electric convenience vehicle (ECV). You may have questions about these popular amenities before you arrive, so I'll try to answer the most common inquiries in this blog.

How to Celebrate Birthdays at Dollywood

For my little boy's 4th birthday this year, I had a stroke of genius-though, I can't truly take credit. He has not [yet] asked for a "real" birthday party, so in the previous three years, I've just hosted family and friends at our house for a celebration. This year, we were talking about what he wanted to do for his…

When You Can't Be Here, Take 360-Degree Virtual Ride!

I'm not going to argue that there's a substitute for experiencing Dollywood in-person because there isn't. BUT, when being at the park is not an option, I do have a suggestion for you. We have several on-ride coaster videos that allow you to take a 360-degree adventure right where you are. It's best-experienced on a device other than a desktop-a…

How It's Made: Dollywood's Blacksmith & Foundry

Dollywood is located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. The name of the town comes from a local blacksmith shop that was established in the early 1800s. It was an influential business named after the Little Pigeon River. The name of the forge became synonymous with the town itself. It's only fitting, then, that Dollywood has its own functional blacksmith shop inside…

Visiting Dollywood with a Baby in Tow

I think many parents will agree with me-you gotta do what you gotta do to keep your sanity when you have a baby in the house. In my case that means getting out of the house frequently, and my 3-year-old is grateful that we still enjoy outings! From experience, I can tell you that visiting Dollywood IS possible with a…

Dollywood's Splash Country is All In on Water Safety

This blog has a different tone than most others I write. As a mother of young boys, I'm keenly aware of the statistics: drowning is the leading cause of unintentional injury-related death in children 1 - 4 years old. It's the second leading cause of death (only behind car wrecks) in children 1 -14 years old. At Dollywood's Splash Country,…

2022 Dollywood's Splash Country Early Ride Time

Early Ride Time (ERT) is a fantastic perk we offer Season Passholders. At Dollywood's Splash Country, ERT is available every Saturday morning from 9 - 10 a.m. for Gold Two-Park and Diamond Season Passholders and Dollywood lodging guests. What does that mean? These guests get a head start on their day with some of the most popular attractions in the…

Dollywood Trivia Time! Take Our Quiz!

Ready to flex your Dollywood knowledge muscle? Take this trivia quiz to test what you know about Tennessee's number one ticketed attraction. Will you rank a Dollywood Student, a Dollywood Scholar or a Dollywood Professor?

How to Select Your Retreat or Canopy at Splash Country

Let's call this Retreat/Canopy 201. By now you already know why you want to reserve a shaded space for your next visit to Dollywood's Splash Country, but you need a little help with strategy for choosing your spot. Great. You've come to the right place.

What is Dollywood's Ride Accessibility Center?

At Dollywood, we want everyone in your family to enjoy our park. We intentionally design experiences for people of differing abilities. In fact, one of Dollywood's complimentary services is our Ride Accessibility Center. Are you familiar with it? It's a beautiful concept that was created to help guests get more out of their Dollywood visit. We partner with Covenant Health…

Dining News: Front Porch Cafe Shifts Back to A La Carte

This is another "we heard you" moment. Dollywood is changing its Front Porch Cafe© menu mid-season to give you what you asked for this year. Starting July 2, guests who dine at Front Porch Cafe© will be able to order off an a la carte menu rather than select family-style options. I love that Dollywood is a place that recognizes…

NOW HIRING Dollywood Insiders: What Are We Looking For?

It's that time of year again! Dollywood is currently accepting applications for our next panel of Dollywood Insiders. I thought I'd take a few minutes to explain the program and what we're looking for in our next panel. What is a Dollywood Insider? Each year, Dollywood puts out an open call for park guests to apply to join its panel…

Why Choose Dollywood's Splash Country

Dollywood's Splash Country celebrated its 22nd season in 2022. That kind of staying power comes with some great perks. Why choose to spend your time at an established park or even consider it when thinking of things to do this summer? I'll give you my top five reasons, though there are certainly more! When you visit Dollywood's Splash Country, you…

What Children 36 inches Tall Can Do at Splash Country

When talking with mom friends, I often hear that visiting water parks is "too hard" with small children. I have two young boys, so I get it. At this point in motherhood, I feel like I'm finally getting out of the weeds a bit and am able to truly discover what my children enjoy among the many things to do…

NEW Aquatic Transfer Wheelchairs

When Dollywood's Splash Country introduced Accessibility Tubes in 2017, it enabled guests with limited mobility the opportunity to enjoy water attractions they had never been able to experience before. What a joy it was watching kids and adults float down the lazy river for the first time! For the 2018 season, our Aquatics team introduced another option for people with…

What You Need to Know about Dollywood's Lost and Found

If you are able to travel light-you have a gift. I remember the days of leaving the house with my sunglasses, wallet and cell phone. Those days are over. Now, it's diaper bags, backpacks, sippy cups, snacks, entertainment, changes of clothing-just about everything but the kitchen sink, as they say. I get it now: people come with STUFF. And, a…

Where Can I Find ________ at Dollywood? Check Out This Handy List!

I want to make your Dollywood experience better, so I thought it would be helpful if I gave you a handy reference list for where can you find miscellaneous items you may have forgotten at home. Think: batteries, eye drops or (gasp!) deodorant. Similarly, I thought it may be of use to give you a list of certain kinds of…

Tips for Guests with Food Allergies/Special Diets

Food allergies are common—and becoming more common each year. At Dollywood, we want to offer all of our guests a full park experience. And of course, a full experience includes a meal that will keep you fueled for a day packed with fun. Because it can be trickier navigating a theme park when you have food allergies, I wanted to…

Let's Talk Water Quality: Dollywood's Splash Country

To visit a water park or not? Sometimes your concerns have nothing to do with swimming ability, but rather water quality. As a mom of small children, I understand how important this topic is and I want to give you confidence when you bring your family to Dollywood's Splash Country. Tennessee and local health codes require water facilities in the…

How the Wave Pool Works

Mountain Waves is a 500,000-gallon attraction smack dab in the middle of Dollywood's Splash Country. It's a popular spot for guests of all ages: just grab a tube and float in the rolling waves! But, have you ever wondered what creates those waves? The alarm goes off and, suddenly, you're rocking. It's an air compression system. I went behind the…

Dollywood's Splash Country FAQ

Now is the time to squeeze every bit of summer fun you can before it's gone! We rounded up a list of Dollywood's Splash Country FAQs to aid you in your last-minute trip planning. Dollywood's Splash Country closes for the season after Labor Day (this year, that's Monday, Sept. 5), so use these frequently-asked questions as you head out to…

Behind The Scenes: Hidden Hollow Stencil

Do you love the details of Wildwood Grove? I sure do. And I love sharing what I learn along the way. Today I want to explain how it took several teams (with different talents) to create the stencil of mountains on Hidden Hollow.

Waiting Out a Storm with Lifeguards: Duck, Duck, Goose, Anyone?

We've told you before how much fun Dollywood can be in the rain, but I'd hate to miss the opportunity to tell you why you should stick around our water park after a storm rolls in. The same logic applies-if it's just rain and not lightning, the attractions will still be open. The lines will be shorter because most people…

The Stories Behind Robert F. Thomas Chapel

Dollywood's chapel is an iconic fixture of the park. Think you know the Robert F. Thomas Chapel? Yep, there's a weekly church service. And, yes, the building is named in honor of the doctor who delivered Dolly Parton. But there's a lot more I bet you don't know. I sat down with Dollywood's Chaplain Joey Buck to find out the…

Myth Buster: Are Holidays Busier for Dollywood?

There's a common misconception that holidays at Dollywood are extra busy. Aren't you glad you have me to set the record straight? With Labor Day weekend fast approaching, I wanted to give you confidence before you finalize your plans on things to do this fall. In the theme park world, big crowds usually follow good weather—not a specific date on…

Best Tips for Avoiding Lines

Theme parks are seasonal businesses. At Dollywood, we are blessed with a beautiful location in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. One of the joys of being in the mountains is experiencing four seasons. Thankfully, our weather is mild enough that we're able to open to guests nine months of the year-mid-March through about the first of January. But,…

Look for the Mouse Hole in Craftsman's Valley

When you're visiting Dollywood, keep your eyes open: beyond the beauty, there's a lot of fun at every turn. Whether you notice tongue-in-cheek signage, colorful characters, or an intentional mouse hole tucked away in Craftsman's Valley, you will be delighted throughout your day. Keep your eyes open for what looks like a mouse hole in the Valley Woodcarvers shop. It…

Dollywood Fall Shopping Tips

Ready for a new season? ME, TOO! (In more ways than one. I bet you can relate!) I've written about fall merchandise before-we have some really great shopping options! From de©cor to apparel and gifts, if you love this seasonDollywood is a delight. I get excited when I start to see our window displays switching out. Let this be your…

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail Guide

When you visit the Smoky Mountains, I absolutely recommend you drive the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. You're reading a Dollywood blog, so obviously, I believe Dollywood should be first on your list, but a strong second priority should be to enjoy Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP). If your visit occurs during spring, summer or fall (note this road…

Flipping Dollywood from Fall to Christmas

It's crunch week at Dollywood! That's what we call it internally, anyway. We have teams of people working around the clock to flip everything-décor, signage, stage sets, merchandise, menus, you name it-from fall to Christmas. Our special events team is well-equipped to make this transition because we do it every year. Traditionally, they have six days to get it all…

Dollywood's 2022 Christmas Color Zones Explained

When you have 6 *million* twinkling lights to take in, we all have the tendency to stop noticing details and just see color. If you're thinking, well, there's just too much good stuff to miss at Dollywood (and we can't have you miss it!), our Product and Planning team decided to change up what you're seeing throughout the park during…

How Dollywood Makes Accessibility Decisions

Editor's Note: Information updated 11/06/22. Dollywood does a lot of listening. Sometimes we get questions about why we do things a certain way, or why we can't bend a rule. I can tell you that no decision is made without careful thought and consideration. Today, I want to utilize our blog to share with you about a panel of folks…

Military Discount on Dollywood Tickets, Passes and Stays

Dollywood is proud to support our country's armed forces. We offer a military discount on day tickets, Season Passes and on stays. Because we're celebrating veterans this week, I thought it would be helpful to pull together information about military discounts in this blog. Thank you for your service! Our military discount applies to U.S. active or retired military, veterans,…

Flying to Dollywood: Logistics

As the Dollywood brand has grown, so has the diversity of markets from whence our visitors hail. What was once a sleepy, regional theme park is now a popular family destination featuring a 160-acre theme park, 35-acre water park, resort and cabin properties. With the caliber of attractions we have to offer, families and enthusiasts are traveling from across the…

Dollywood's Splash Country Honored with International Safety Award

I'm always proud to brag on our team at Dollywood's Splash Country-and this one is big. Jeff Ellis & Associates, Inc. (E&A) just honored them with the prestigious Platinum International Aquatic Safety Award for their diligence in keeping our guests safe. I've previously written about how E&A secretly audits and scores our teams during unannounced visits. This international aquatic safety…

What’s Happening Behind the Gates: Dollywood’s 2023 Off-Season

Dollywood is closed for the off-season. With the way the calendar falls this year, that means our teams have 67 days to reset and ready the park for another great year of operation. Dollywood re-opens March 11 (March 10 for Season Passholders).

Here’s Your Chance to Work for the #1 Theme Park Company in the Country!

Here at Dollywood Parks & Resorts we're gearing up for an exciting 2023 season, one which includes the opening of a new roller coaster—Big Bear Mountain—as well as a new resort, HeartSong Lodge & Resort. To get ready for the season, our Human Resources team is hard at work recruiting great folks who want to be the smiling faces you…

Winter Work at Dollywood’s Splash Country

What happens at a water park in January and February? More than you might think. Dollywood’s Splash Country has been closed since the day after Labor Day, and it won’t be long before you get to enjoy the many upgrade projects the team has been working on for the past several months. Here are my favorite highlights...

Big Bear Mountain Update

The park is buzzing with excitement as crews work diligently to finish their projects to get Dollywood open for its 38th season. And, there’s a lot to be excited about. This spring, we are opening Big Bear Mountain which is Dollywood’s longest roller coaster in the history of the park. By now, you’ve likely heard the accolades. But, what you’re…

Dollywood Park Opening Update

I wrote a blog about what’s been happening behind the gates at Dollywood in the off-season in early January. A LOT more has happened since then, so I thought I’d prepare you for all the exciting updates our teams have been busy completing. When you get off the tram, you’ll see that there’s now a permanent structure for our Rentals…

2023 Dollywood ERT Schedule

Bookmark this blog if you are a Dollywood Gold or Diamond Season Passholder or if you plan to stay with us at Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort this year on a Friday night. (Or, I guess keep this handy if you want to build your case as to why you should become a Gold Season Passholder or book a room at DreamMore…

Dollywood’s 2023 Season Opening in Pictures

We’re open! The rope dropped for Dollywood Season Passholders to get a sneak peek yesterday, and this morning, the general public was invited to visit the park for its 38th season. It’s always exciting when it’s time to start a new year, but this year’s anticipation tops the norm. Between exciting new elements for the I Will Always Love You…

New Dolly Parton Experience Coming in 2024

When Dolly visited Dollywood on Friday, she let a theater full of Dollywood Season Passholders in on a secret: we’re planning to open a whole new Dolly Parton experience next season. In 2024, we will introduce The Dolly Parton Experience: an interactive, newly-reimagined approach to telling Dolly’s story. This experiential attraction will open in the location of the former Chasing…

The I Will Always Love You Celebration in Pictures

There’s only one year you can celebrate the 50th anniversary of a momentous occasion. And, for “I Will Always Love You,” it’s this year. Fifty years ago, Dolly wrote and recorded this signature song to signal a transition in her career. Its iconic status lends itself to a festive celebration to kick off Dollywood’s 2023 season. From atmosphere elements to…

Do These 3 Things Before the End of the I Will Always Love You Celebration

If you’ve been able to visit Dollywood during the I Will Always Love You Celebration, you’ve joined us for a piece of Dollywood history. This one-time event was created as a way to invite park guests into our special commemoration of the 50th anniversary of Dolly’s iconic song. She is our Dreamer-in-Chief after all! We punched up some sparkle and…

All About the Flowers of Flower & Food Festival 2023

You want to know when it’s a beautiful time to be in the Smoky Mountains? In the spring when everything is in bloom! (Okay that was a loaded question—it’s ALWAYS a beautiful time to be in the Smokies, but this is especially true in the spring.) Dollywood is nestled into the foothills of Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP), and…

Stay & Play

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Enhance Your Experience

Enhance Your Experience

Explore The Park

Explore The Park

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Explore The Park

Explore The Park

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Enhance Your Experience

Enhance Your Experience

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Tour Bus Experience

Tour Bus Experience

Dolly Parton's Stampede

Dolly Parton's Stampede

Pirates Voyage

Pirates Voyage

Other Shows

Other Shows

Stay & Play

Stay & Play

Insider Information

Insider Information

Information

Information

Bring A Group

Bring A Group

Enhance Your Experience

Enhance Your Experience

Explore The Park

Explore The Park

Guest Information

Guest Information

Explore The Park

Explore The Park

Guest Information

Guest Information

Enhance Your Experience

Enhance Your Experience

Guest Information

Guest Information

Tour Bus Experience

Tour Bus Experience

Dolly Parton's Stampede

Dolly Parton's Stampede

Pirates Voyage

Pirates Voyage

Other Shows

Other Shows

Dollywood Blogger

Latest Posts by Amber

17 EXCEEDS In a Row! What Does That Mean?

Behind The Scenes: Washing 1 Million lbs. of Resort Laundry

Behind the Scenes: The Inspiration for Wildwood Creek

Is There Enough for Little Ones to Do at Dollywood?

Behind the Scenes in Dollywood's Wardrobe Department

Behind the Scenes of Dollywood's Drone Show

2022 Dollywood Off-Season Work

A Peek Inside: Splash Country Off-Season Updates

A National Day I Fully Support: National Plan for Vacation Day

2022 Early Ride Time Schedule for Season Passholders (and Lodging Guests)

What Are Golden Events and Golden Hours?

Dollywood's Craftsmen in the Off-Season

How Dollywood is Tackling the Labor Challenge in 2022

What to Expect When Dollywood Opens for 2022 Season

Dollywood's New Parking Lot Explained

Answers to Your Most-Commonly Asked Questions

Disability Concerns Heard