East Tennessee icon and country music star Dolly Parton has added another accolade to her list of honors, as she was named as one of the inductees to the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Hall of Fame Monday night.
Dollywood shared the announcement on Tuesday, explaining that Parton and four other inductees were honored during the award ceremony at the annual IAAPA Expo in Orlando. Although Parton was not able to attend the event, she shared her excitement with those there through a video.
Parton started off thanking Jack and Peter Herschend for being her partners and friends for more than 40 years, for listening to her big ideas, and for finding a way to make those dreams come true. Parton also acknowledged that the theme park industry is full of the most creative and kind-hearted people, adding that she is grateful to be considered for induction into the Hall of Fame.
“I’m just so grateful that you consider me worthy of this recognition. Being inducted into the IAAPA Hall of Fame is a big, incredible way to help celebrate Dollywood’s 40th anniversary season. So, from the bottom of my heart, thank you for this honor from me and from everyone who makes Dollywood what it is. And to all my friends and partners—and to all of you out there helping families make magic every day in your own parks—remember, I will always love you. Thank you again,” Parton said.
In the hall of fame announcement, the IAAPA explained that Parton has become the “luminary” behind one of the U.S.’s most beloved theme parks.
“Her passion, investment and commitment to her Smoky Mountain roots have helped Dollywood more than double in size, now welcoming millions of guests each year,” the IAAPA said. “Today, Dollywood stands as a world-class resort destination that blends music, crafts and culture with award-winning attractions, inspiring joy for families and theme park operators around the globe.”
In 1986, Parton partnered with Herschend Family Enterprises to open Dollywood at what was previously a Silver Dollar City theme park in Pigeon Forge. Since then, Dollywood has grown to 160 acres in size and offers more than 50 world-class rides along with entertainment, dining, and a friendly theme park atmosphere. Earlier this year, Parton shared her initial vision for the park and why she believes Dollywood has grown beyond even her biggest dreams.
I’ve always believed the Smoky Mountains are one of the most beautiful places God ever made, and I feel blessed to call them home. When I first dreamed of creating Dollywood, I had two simple hopes. I wanted to build a place that would bring people from all over to see the magic of the Smokies and, hopefully, fall in love with them just like I did. And I knew that when they came, they’d meet the folks who live here and feel the kindness and hospitality that make this place so special. I think that’s why Dollywood keeps being named one of the best theme parks in the world—it’s not just the beauty of the mountains, it’s the heart of the people who welcome you here.
Dolly Parton
Alongside Parton, the other industry leaders nominated for the IAAPA Hall of Fame were Keith James, Gerardo Arteaga Oehninger, Gary S. Wachs and Su Zhigang.
During the IAAPA Expo, Dollywood also unveiled the new ride vehicles for the Night Flight Expedition ride that is coming to the park in Spring 2026. The park has previously shared that the new ride is the largest single attraction investment in park history.
