Dollywood announced a series of new experiences and installations Wednesday honoring Dolly Parton, including a waterfall and stained-glass windows at the Robert F. Thomas Chapel, a new character planned for Wildwood Grove, and a new entrance to The Dolly Parton Experience.
The projects will arrive over the coming months. The Dream Maker and her Dream Wagon are planned for 2027, while the chapel additions and new portal were described as upcoming work without a public completion date.
New Details Planned for the Robert F. Thomas Chapel
Dollywood plans a cascading mountainside waterfall just outside the chapel’s front steps, giving guests a place to pause near the chapel. New stained-glass windows will reflect Ecclesiastes 3:1 and the changing seasons of the Smoky Mountains.
Dream Maker Will Join Wildwood Grove in 2027
The Dream Maker will arrive in Wildwood Grove with her Dream Wagon. The character will anchor stories and interactive experiences about dreaming, courage, kindness and sharing. Kiosks throughout Wildwood Grove will give guests a place to leave thoughts and notes about how Parton inspired them.
The Dolly Parton Experience Gets a New Entrance
A new portal will lead guests into The Dolly Parton Experience, which houses moments, stories and memorabilia tied to Parton’s life and work.
A Sevierville Walking Tour Is Also Planned
Outside the park, the Sevierville Chamber of Commerce is developing “In Dolly’s Footsteps.” Walking-tour markers will be placed at locations Parton and her family frequented during her youth. One marker was shown to media during the announcement.
The official announcement links the Wildwood Grove plans to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. The program has gifted more than 330 million books to children around the world. A memorial remains in Dollywood’s welcome plaza for guests who want to remember Parton.
Source: Dollywood’s official announcement of plans to honor Dolly Parton.
Image: Dollywood Parks & Resorts.