Dolly Parton came back to her roots to make a big announcement! Dollywood will be undergoing a HUGE expansion introducing Wildwood Grove, a play on Dolly Parton’s childhood imagination of the Smoky Mountains set to open in 2019!
“I’ve told you before about how I’d let my imagination roam free when I’d be out exploring in the hills around our home in the Smoky Mountains,” Dolly states. “I’d pretend that the frogs and butterflies were my friends. I’d imagine about what it’d be like to fly with a dragonfly or to follow a bear family through the woods. Now all these things are coming true for our guests to experience in Wildwood Grove- it may be my new favorite part of Dollywood!”
The unveiling shows this new world featuring a giant 55 foot Wildwood Tree and enchanted landscaping as a staple landmark where shows and entertainment will take place. More than 400 trees and 1,000 shrubs will transform the area into Wildwood Grove. Wildwood Grove will also feature 11 experiences for the whole family to enjoy and 6 new rides! You’ll feel transported to a magical world when you step under the canopy of trees full of butterflies, lanterns, and adventure! The sun will gleam through the trees providing a glow as you enjoy each new attraction in Wildwood Grove. As the sun sets the featured Wildwood Tree lights up in a fascinating showcase of color and wonder!
As one of the 11 attractions inside Wildwood Grove, families can explore the 4,000 sq. ft climate controlled play area full of slides, interactive games, and climbing structures. Kids will also enjoy Wildwood Creek which is a great splash pad area to stay cool!
- The newest roller coaster, The Dragonflier, is suspended which takes guests through the trees by soaring and dodging trees.
- The Mad Mockingbird– a high flying swing where riders can control their speed by moving the sails, or the wings.
- Sycamore Swing boards riders onto a “leaf boat” which swings back and forth through the trees.
- Black Bear Trail is a kid friendly attraction where you can ride on the back of the native black bears as they take you on a ride through their habitat of the smokies!
- Treetop Tower takes you up a giant oak tree inside giant acorns as they lift 40 feet high and give you 360 degree views of the Great Smoky Mountains.
- Climb on board the exciting Frogs and Fireflies ride where the two will chase each other around the lily pad and through the grasses. This kid friendly attraction will
Wildwood Grove is also set to have a new restaurant as well! Till & Harvest will be Wildwood Grove’s featured restaurant and great addition to the dining line up in the theme park. This southern inspired dining takes on a southwest twist! Be sure to try a burrito with pulled pork and coleslaw for a tasty meal before heading back to all the new attractions, and even pick up a churro and ice cream for a tasty treat too!
For more information on the newest Dollywood expansion, visit the Dollywood website here!
