Dollywood reviews?

[kristilew]

We saw the travel channel show on Dollywood and it looked like fun. But tripadvisor reviews make it sound awful, with rides down all the time. What do Disers think about it? We are currently thinking about spending a couple of days there during spring break. Any input would be appreciated.

 

[mjkacmom]

Never been, but my neighbor thought it was a waste of time.

 

[*pixie*dust*]

I would pass if I were you. It would be fine for a day but more than that would be too much.

 

[c4a]

If comparing to WDW...waste of time & money.

If comparing to Knoxberry Farms or a very small family amusement park...it's pretty good. Has shops where you can watch them make candles, soap,etc. A water ride similar to Splash Mtn. (without the cool little character boat ride on the way to the big "splash"), tween and smaller kid friendly rides, a water park. There are a couple show theatres.

We have never had a problem with a lot of rides being down for maintenance...but I know in the winter months they do a lot of ride repairs.

We usually only spend one day, there. I can't imagine spending a week just there...my crew would revolt.

 

[Dis_Yoda]

I've always enjoyed it. Then again, its been about 8 years since I've been.

 

[lemondog]

We went 2 summers ago and loved it! Of course it doesn't compare to Disney, but then again what does? We plan on going back soon. My kids STILL talk about it!

 

[JodyLynC]

Boring!! Waste of time and $$ for us.

 

[Wishing on a star]

We have had visits to Dollywood that have been wonderful!!!

And, we have had visits that have NOT been that great...

Here is my assesment:

The dates that you go can make all the difference.

When we have had good trips, it has been when something good has been going on. For example, we went during the International Festival, and specifically planned to see a few of the international shows... (Irish Lords of the Dance... Children's Dance Troupe from Ukraine... (of special interest for our DS) etc....

On the other end of the scale, we went this Fall during the BBQ-Bluegrass festival.... Our interests were NOT about seeing the bluegrass bands in the theaters... Due to it being off season, a couple of the water rides were shut down, even though I think it was in the upper 80's that day, like 86'. The one other attraction we had looked forward to in the Adventure Theater (Dolly's Wildeness Adventure) had been switched out to the old and very very lame 'Thunder Road' attraction...

So, I can highly recommed Dollywood!!!
And, I can offer a caveat...

You need to take a good look at what will be going on during the dates of your visit... (International Fest?????)

Remember that during Spring Break, you can not count on the water rides... Even if it is a fairly warm spell, and the rides are open, you and your family may decide that you just don't want to get wet and freeze!!!! This area near the mountains will most likely be cooler than Coastal SC.

There are good attractions at Dollywood...
1. Dolly's Wilderness Adventure (if that one is brought back)
2. I recommend HeartSong if one has any interest in Dolly and her heritage!!
3. There are rollercoasters for those who like those... Mystery Mine, Thunderhead, Tennessee Tornado.

Water Rides that are good but might not be appropriate for the weather are...
1. Slidewinger
2. Grizzly River Rampage
3. Daredevil Falls
3. New one where everyone sprays at each other...

Rides to forget....
all the old rides like Flooded Mine
Thunder Road (if it is the one in the Adventure Theater)

Of course, the mountains themselves are a destination.
Dollywood can be great, depending on the date of your visit and your personal tastes and expectations.

Personally, I like to travel when it is warmer so that swimming and water rides are great... I am not the huge rollercoaster fan. We like to enjoy the pool at our resort, picnics etc. in the mountains...

You can PM me and I can try to offer more info!

 

[sunkist]

We have season passes to Dollywood. (it helps in between Disney trips!)
They have several good rides. Mystery Mind is awesome!! As much as I love Disney, they do not have a ride like this one. Be prepared to get wet! I do not think it would be a waste of money, just don't compare agaist Disney, and you will have a wonderful time

 

[sunkist]

We have season passes to Dollywood. (it helps in between Disney trips!)
They have several good rides. Mystery Mind is awesome!! As much as I love Disney, they do not have a ride like this one. Be prepared to get wet! I do not think it would be a waste of money, just don't compare agaist Disney, and you will have a wonderful time

 

[Soarin08]

We saw the travel channel show on Dollywood and it looked like fun. But tripadvisor reviews make it sound awful, with rides down all the time. What do Disers think about it? We are currently thinking about spending a couple of days there during spring break. Any input would be appreciated.

Dollywood is nice but can be easily visited in a day. My family goes every time we visit the Smokies. I do like how a new attraction is added annually (Disney could take a hint!), though the park is open seasonally (closed most of January and ALL of February). I recommend a visit just for the day- here's the park's webpage if you'd like to know more-

http://www.dollywood.com/

But DEFINITELY go!! It is a very nicely themed park- the shops (ESPECIALLY the glassblower!!) and restaurants are what I love (Red's Diner has the BEST cheeseburgers and milkshakes I've ever had!) most.

VISIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!