Dollywood, a popular theme park in Tennessee, has just announced a new $50 million water ride set to debut in Spring 2026. The NightFlight Expedition will be a unique attraction, blending an indoor family hybrid coaster with a whitewater river raft ride. This innovative experience will be the first of its kind globally and promises to take guests on an exciting adventure through the Smoky Mountains.
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The announcement of the NightFlight Expedition comes on the heels of Dollywood being named the number one amusement park in the U.S. by Tripadvisor earlier this year, surpassing even Disney and Universal parks. Dolly Parton, the park’s founder, expressed her excitement about the new ride, highlighting how it builds on Dollywood’s success over the past 40 years. Despite facing health challenges that prevented her from attending the announcement, Parton remains confident that the NightFlight Expedition will be a significant addition to the park.
The concept of the NightFlight Expedition revolves around capturing the magic of nighttime in the Smoky Mountains, with guests embarking on a quest to discover bioluminescence in the national park. The ride will be housed in a 44,000 sq. ft. temperature-controlled building in the Wildwood Grove area of Dollywood, offering a thrilling and immersive experience for visitors of all ages. Collaborating with Herschend Creative Studios and manufacturer Mack Rides, Dollywood aims to deliver an unparalleled attraction that combines cutting-edge technology with the natural beauty of the region.
The new ride has already garnered attention for its innovative design, with the ride system receiving a Golden Ticket Award for best new innovation in the theme park industry. This cutting-edge technology will further enhance the guest experience, providing a seamless and thrilling journey through the various elements of the NightFlight Expedition. The park’s vice president of marketing and public relations, Wes Ramey, emphasized the significance of the ride system and its potential to revolutionize theme park attractions.
As anticipation builds for the opening of the NightFlight Expedition in 2026, Dollywood continues to solidify its position as a top destination for thrill-seekers and families alike. The park’s commitment to blending entertainment with the natural landscape of the Smoky Mountains sets it apart from other theme parks, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for all who visit. With its latest multimillion-dollar investment, Dollywood is poised to attract even more guests and cement its reputation as a must-visit destination in the heart of Tennessee.
In conclusion, the announcement of the NightFlight Expedition marks an exciting chapter in Dollywood’s history, showcasing the park’s dedication to innovation and immersive storytelling. With its remarkable blend of technology, thrill, and natural beauty, the new attraction promises to captivate visitors and elevate the park’s status as a premier entertainment destination. As guests eagerly await the unveiling of this groundbreaking ride, Dollywood continues to push boundaries and redefine the theme park experience for generations to come.