Sneak Peek: New Dollywood Rides & Changes at the Park This Year

We already knew there were going to be new Dollywood rides and shows for the 2017 season, but there’s actually a lot more work being done and more changes being made!

Dollywood decided to give one of our local news stations (WBIR) a sneak peek at what’s happening at the park.

Of course, the 3 new attractions (2 rides at Dollywood and 1 at Splash Country) are already underway. These builds are only 3 of over 250 projects being completed throughout the winter season.

Watch the behind-the-scenes video:

Whistle Punk Chaser

At Dollywood, the new Whistle Punk Chaser ride, the junior roller coaster, is going in right next to Thunderhead. The new ride is intended for kids who want to gear up for when they’re tall enough to ride Thunderhead, but it is a family-friendly ride.

Drop Line Ride

Then, next to that is the new Drop Line ride which will lift you up over 200 feet and drop you about 20 stories! You can expect a great view of the park and the mountains on this ride, too.

Backstage Restaurant Renovation

The Backstage Restaurant is undergoing some changes, too! It will reopen as Front Porch Cafe and it will serve up fresh, hometown ingredients from Tennessee products. The Dollywood restaurant renovation will total around $150,000. We’re excited to see the full menu for Front Porch Cafe!

Rainbow Glass Factory Renovation

The Rainbow Glass Factory will be reopened as Mountain Blown Glass which is a $300,000 project! They’re reconfiguring their equipment so they can have 2 craftsmen working at the same time. Plus, they are renovating the gift shop and the make-your-own-ornament station. With their new equipment, you’ll be able to take home your ornament the same day instead of the next day pickup or shipping options that were available before.

Other Projects

• Replacing storm drains throughout Craftsman’s Valley and Rivertown.
• Renovations to the front entrance restrooms
• Updating the human resources building
• Over 20,000 gallons of fresh paint throughout the park

When will Dollywood renovations be completed?

All 200+ projects at Dollywood will be completed before the season opening day in March. A lot of the renovations and projects are behind the scenes things, like replacing air conditioning units in theaters.

Ready to start planning your visit to Dollywood?

Start by looking at our Dollywood Schedule and Hours for 2017 Season. Then, click here to buy your Dollywood tickets!