This Iconic Southern Amusement Park Has Earned The Title As The Best In The US In 2025

When you think of the top theme parks in the South, your mind probably zeros in on Central Florida's impressive collection of amusement parks. With Disney World, Universal, Busch Gardens, and several other thrill sites in the area, you'd likely guess the best theme park in the U.S. would likely be located somewhere in the outskirts of Orlando. However, an unexpected winner has taken the crown as TripAdvisor's No. 1 Amusement Park in their 2025 Traveler's Choice Awards, with a ranking of 4.3 out of a possible 5: Dollywood. However, the ranking is just one of the many reasons why you should add Dollywood to your bucket list.

Affectionately named after co-owner and mega-country star, Dolly Parton, Dollywood has been entertaining parkgoers for almost 40 years. Located where Dolly's story began, in the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, Dollywood is a must-visit family vacation destination — with the park priding itself on treating guests like members of the family, creating what they call "The Dollywood Difference." 

It's clear visitors can feel this difference from the park, with one TripAdvisor reviewer noting: "It was very hot, however, the park offers shaded areas and free ice water! There were also fans placed around the park. They care about their guests." Covering 160 acres of land across Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, there are endless rides, attractions, and shows to warm the hearts of every member of the family.

One of the best times to visit Dollywood is during its seasonal festivals, which are held periodically throughout the year. Specifically, guests can celebrate the blooming springtime flowers at the Flower and Food Festival, or enjoy the best of the spooky season at the autumn-themed Harvest Festival. With plenty more year-long festival opportunities, you can rest assured that you won't miss out on any of the fun no matter when you choose to visit.

Dollywood also has rides for people of all ages. For the little ones, make your way over to Country Fair and Wildwood Grove to ride the Black Bear Trail, or to cool off at the Country Fair Splash and Play. Meanwhile, for thrill seekers, try some of Dollywood's signature coasters — like Lightning Rod, Mystery Mine, or Wild Eagle, "America's first wing coaster," where you can channel the predatory bird by riding not above, not below, but alongside the track. Speaking of predatory birds, the park's Wings of America Birds of Prey show offers an up-close look at these majestic local hunters.

With Dolly being a renowned country star, it's only natural that music would be a huge part of her theme park. From the Smoky Mountain String Band to Heidi Parton's Kin and Friends, there are performances scattered all throughout the park where atmospheric entertainers will immerse you in the sounds of the Great Smoky Mountains. Lastly, the Dolly Parton Experience offers an immersive exploration of Dolly Parton's legacy. During the interactive tour, park visitors can peruse the various exhibits cataloging Dolly's most iconic outfits, climb aboard her old tour bus, and listen to the stories behind her songs.