Dollywood’s Future: Unveiling the Truth About Its Closure Rumors
Recent rumors circulating on social media suggest that Dollywood, the acclaimed theme park in Tennessee, is set to close permanently. These claims, however, are unfounded and have led to unnecessary confusion among fans and potential visitors.
Dollywood’s Status Amid Closure Rumors
Dollywood is nestled in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, near the entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The park continues to welcome guests and operates as usual, contrary to the closure rumors.
The Source of Confusion
The misinformation arose from an official announcement by Herschend Family Entertainment Corporation. The company will permanently close two of its amusement properties located in Georgia:
- Malibu Norcross in Gwinnett County
- Mountasia in Marietta
These closures, described as unfortunate but necessary, are unrelated to Dollywood. Malibu Norcross was known for its arcade and go-kart attractions, while Mountasia offered mini-golf, go-karts, and family entertainment options.
Herschend Family Entertainment’s Expansion
This year has seen Herschend significantly expand its portfolio through the acquisition of Palace Entertainment, which included Mountasia, Malibu Norcross, and 22 additional parks. This growth elevates Herschend’s reach to over 70 family entertainment properties, including Dollywood.
The relationship between Herschend and Dollywood began in 1976 when Herschend acquired a local park known as Goldrush Junction. Dolly Parton joined as a co-owner in 1986, leading to the rebranding of the park as Dollywood. The partnership has since grown to include Dollywood’s Splash Country and Dolly Parton’s Stampede.
Message from Herschend CEO
Despite the rumors, Dollywood remains unaffected by the recent developments. Herschend’s CEO, Andrew Wexler, conveyed the company’s commitment to community and meaningful growth during the acquisition announcement earlier this year. He expressed that the focus extends beyond mere expansion; it’s about enriching the lives of hosts and guests alike.
Wexler stated, “This is a landmark moment—not just for Herschend, but for every host, guest, and community we serve. Growth is about people.”
As Dollywood continues to operate successfully, it will continue to attract visitors from across the nation, dispelling any false narratives regarding its closure.
