With majestic mountains and an awe-inspiring natural landscape, the Tennessee Smoky Mountains are an obvious vacation choice for nearby residents and visitors. But looking past the wildlife and quaint mountain towns, one can see the story of a small-town girl who became a star come to life.

When legendary country singer Dolly Parton was born in Sevierville, TN, in 1946, no one knew what an impact she would have on the music industry and eventually the world. As an accomplished Grammy award singer, songwriter, author and philanthropist, she’s done it all and done it well. Parton, who has always cherished her hometown, decided to share that part of her life with her fans by creating Dollywood, a family adventure theme park, built in the heart of the Tennessee Smokies.

Dollywood offers the thrill of roller coasters paired with unbeatable live entertainment and events. Originally opened in 1986 by Parton, the park has grown in size, thrills, attractions and attendance over the last 25 seasons. The Smokies have thrived since Dollywood was formed, drawing tourists from all over, and Parton’s other business ventures, Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede and Dollywood’s Splash Country, also located in the Smokies, have done equally well. The Dollywood properties collectively attract more than four million visitors each year.

Dollywood offers more than 40 rides and attractions, as well as crafts and entertainment. You will find many of the attractions themed with the history and culture of the Smoky Mountains and, of course, many showcase the one and only Parton. The live entertainment includes country, bluegrass, gospel and Appalachian music. Dollywood is also home to four annual festivals—Festival of Nations, KidsFest, National Gospel & Harvest Celebration and Smoky Mountain Christmas.

Dollywood, a dream come true for Parton, celebrates its 25th Anniversary this season and is planning on “Celebrating the Dreamer in You.” With special events, attractions and activities for everyone who’s made it a success and a top destination in Tennessee all these years, Dollywood is looking back at its history and memories of its larger-than-life star.  To commemorate the silver anniversary, the park is revealing its newest attraction, Adventure Mountain. Considered America’s largest challenge course,
Adventure Mountain covers two acres of mountainside terrain and features more than 140 obstacles. The courses range from easy to expert and provide fun for the whole family. Cross one of the swinging rope bridges, tackle one of the rugged trails or just enjoy the view from the attraction’s summit.

Whether it’s your first experience to Dollywood or you know all Parton’s songs by heart, there are special activities for all ages. Celebrate in the streets of Dollywood with the Silver Celebration Street Parties. In honor of the anniversary, the park has planned special music and activities in Dollywood’s Adventures in Imagination area that start at 3:30 p.m. each day.

One of the ways to experience the history of Dollywood is to visit the Hall of Memories in Craftman’s Valley. This exhibit features photos and memorabilia from significant milestones in Dollywood’s history. Parton created Dollywood so that guests could create memories of a lifetime; now relive some of the extraordinary memories of Dollywood over the years.

If you’re thinking you can experience everything in just one trip, think again. Selected guests will receive daily surprise giveaways—each time you visit, there’s a chance it just might be your day! One guest a week will also be selected to win a vacation package as part of the 25th Anniversary Dollywood Vacations Giveaway, which includes lodging and admission to the theme park for you and several guests.

And for those who love a little sparkle, don’t miss Dolly’s Designer Showroom. Some of Parton’s most beautiful and extravagant outfits will be on display, most of them custom-designed.

Over the last 25 seasons, Dollywood has been a place for family, fun, dreams and memories, and plans to continue for many more. Sing along to the songs of the Dreamland Drive-In or be carried down Daredevil Falls. Tackle a new trail at Adventure Mountain or visit during the holidays to see the park decorated with millions of lights. No matter what you see or do at Dollywood, celebrate your inner dreamer and create memories that are sure to last a lifetime.