Those who have never visited Dollywood may be surprised that Dolly Parton’s namesake attraction is anything but a dusty tourist trap up in the hills. In fact, it’s a world-class amusement park with top-notch thrill rides for all ages. With everything from the Tennessee Tornado roller coaster to the Drop Line tower to the Daredevil Falls log ride, Dollywood rivals the country’s best-known theme parks for variety and adrenaline-spiking coasters. There’s plenty to entertain little tykes as well, including a carousel, playgrounds, and kiddie-size versions of the adult rides. Dollywood’s adjacent Splash Country water park means you can make several days out of a visit, especially if you stay at the on-site resort and cabins. The park also hosts holiday events, including a Smoky Mountain Christmas light display and nightly concerts and shows. Just don’t get so distracted that you forget to explore the Smoky Mountains.
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Man Up In the Smokies: Sevierville Offers More Than Dollywood
When most Americans think of Sevierville, Tenn, the image that comes to mind is of Dolly Parton. Though Parton has done a world of good for the region, there are also attractions for the boys, Lodging options range from Hampton Inn, to Wilderness at the Smokies with its waterparks, to the cabin rentals of Oak Haven Resort & Spa. Take in a Tennessee Smokies baseball game at Smokies Stadium. At Climbworks, new courses and a genial staff welcome zipliners and mountain bikers. The Sevierville Golf Club is home to two championship courses, The Highlands, a par 70, and The River, a par 72. The Tennessee Museum of Aviation features an impressive array of flying warcraft. Floyd Garrett’s Muscle Car Museum is home to 90 period favorites. Smoky Mountain Knifeworks and the National Knife Museum, are a great tool time. The Knifeworks store sells ancient coins, prehistoric fossils, minerals, and gifts. Flapjacks is a prime breakfast spot, and there’s lunch at Tony Gore’s. Here, order baked beans with your ribs. What an active getaway! In Sevierville, you’ll fulfill all those boyhood dreams.
