Country music legend Dolly Parton has been a co-owner of Dollywood, the beloved theme park located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, since its inception in 1986. Despite her long-standing association with the park, the Grammy Award-winning singer has never been one to embrace its thrill rides. Parton, who recently turned 80, has made it clear that attractions like roller coasters are not her cup of tea.
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In a recent interview with Peachtree TV, Parton opened up about her reasons for avoiding the park’s rides, revealing a struggle with motion sickness. “I don’t like to ride the rides, everybody knows that about me,” she stated candidly. “I have a tendency to have motion sickness. And then I’m a little bit claustrophobic. I don’t like to be closed in. And I just think, ‘Well, I just have too much to lose.’”
Adding a touch of humour, Parton joked, “My boobs could fly out, my hair could fall off. Any number of things could happen to me on those rides.” This self-deprecating wit reveals her relationship with her fans, who appreciate her genuine personality as much as her musical talent.
Parton’s aversion to rides is not a newfound concern; she recalls a childhood incident of becoming unwell on a merry-go-round, which has informed her view on amusement attractions ever since. However, in light of Dollywood’s latest venture, the dazzling NightFlight Expedition, Parton admitted she is reconsidering her stance on park rides. This new indoor attraction, blending roller coaster thrills with water ride features, is poised to be a game changer for the park.
The NightFlight Expedition promises to offer an exceptional experience, immersing guests in an adventurous portrayal of the Smoky Mountains. In a promotional video released last autumn, Parton enthused about the ride, stating, “I usually don’t ride the rides, but this one sounds so magical, I might just check that one out.” The ride combines elements of a nighttime flight, a whitewater rafting experience, and a quest across a mysterious lake, all contained within a climate-controlled building spanning 44,000 square feet.
Originally anticipated to debut in spring 2023, Dollywood officials are currently finalising details for the attraction and expect to announce an opening date soon. The innovative ride has been developed in collaboration with Herschend Creative Studios and manufacturing company Mack Rides, marking a significant addition to the park’s offerings.
Throughout this period, Parton has been open about her health struggles, particularly following the death of her husband Carl Dean in March 2025. In a candid video released in May, she shared her ongoing battle with kidney stones, stating, “They dig more stones out of me a year than the rock quarry in Rockwood, Tenn.” Although her health has posed challenges, Parton is determined to maintain her work commitments, continuing to produce content and focus on her projects.
In addition to her involvement with Dollywood, Parton is preparing for the launch of a new museum and hotel in Nashville, set to open later this year. She is also actively engaged in reworking her Broadway musical, “Dolly: A True Original,” which is scheduled to premiere in either the fall or early winter.
Parton’s dedication to her work is evident, even as she navigates personal challenges. She remains an inspirational figure, and her contributions to the entertainment industry have garnered numerous accolades. Just recently, Dollywood was ranked as the second-best amusement park in the United States by TripAdvisor. Moreover, it has been recognised as the top theme park in the country for the past four years by the National Amusement Park Historical Association.
As Dolly Parton continues to embrace new projects and overcome personal hurdles, her connection to Dollywood remains strong. Her enduring spirit and dedication to her ventures reflect not only her artistry but also her commitment to making magical experiences for the millions who visit the park each year. Whether or not she decides to test her limits on the NightFlight Expedition, her love for Dollywood is undeniably a hallmark of her storied career.