If you have ever thought about visiting Dollywood but were concerned that the park is more geared toward teens and adults, you have nothing to worry about! The truth is that it is a family theme park with shows and attractions to appeal to all ages, and there are plenty of things to do in Dollywood just for the little ones in your family! Check out these top 6 fun attractions and activities at Dollywood for kids to enjoy:
1. Firehouse Fun Yard
Children less than 39 inches tall will have a ball exploring the activities at the Firehouse Fun Yard in the Wilderness Pass section of the park! This interactive play area includes fun water features, a block table, a chalkboard coloring wall and a soft play structure where your kids can slide and play. Assistance from someone 16 years or older is recommended for everyone, while it is required that all children under 12 years old be accompanied by someone 16 or older.
2. Whistle Punk Chaser
Dollywood is home to some of the most thrilling roller coaster rides in the country, but the park also has a special junior coaster called the Whistle Punk Chaser! The unusual name comes from the terms “Whistle Punk” and “Chaser,” which are job titles on a logging crew. Now the little loggers in your family can enjoy the exciting twists and turns of this kid-sized coaster in the Timber Canyon section of the park. This ride will not only put a smile on your children’s faces, but will help them prepare for the day when they can join you for a ride on the adult-sized Thunderhead wooden coaster!
3. Village Carousel
Another one of the fun attractions at Dollywood for kids to enjoy is the Village Carousel, the park’s beautiful 1903 antique Dentzel carousel. Listen to the laughter and screams of delight from your children as the carousel spins in a circle and the animals gently glide up and down. Parents also love taking this nostalgic carousel ride as it reminds them of their own childhood! Kids love the opportunity to select one of the 60 painted animals on the Village Carousel, including the lead horse named Dolly!
4. Shooting Star
Blast off into a galaxy of fun on the Shooting Star, a drop tower designed especially for children! After everyone sits down with their legs dangling from the seats, the carriage slowly makes its way to the top of the tower. Once you think you have made it to the very top, the Shooting Star starts a daring but gentle descent back to the ground level. If your kids are a bit nervous about trying this one, keep in mind that parents can ride along to hold their hands! The only restriction is that guests under 42 inches must be accompanied by an someone at least 16 years old. This is definitely one of the best things to do in Dollywood for kids!
5. Dragonflier
The Dragonflier is a fun coaster that mimics the flight of a Smoky Mountain dragonfly. You’ll feel the rush of the wind as the coaster speeds through an unpredictable path including a variety of twists and turns! Everyone 39″ and taller can experience the fun of this ride. The Dragonflier is part of Wildwood Grove, Dollywood’s $37 million expansion. The area is a place where families can make special memories together. This roller coaster was designed specifically for families with kids to enjoy, so you won’t want to miss the chance to ride it!
6. Black Bear Trail
Black Bear Trail is another ride in Wildwood Grove that you have to try when you visit! Kids will climb onto the back of one of the friendly bears in Wildwood Grove and hold on tight as the bears glide through the backwoods. This ride provides the opportunity to take in the scenery and listen to some joyful music! Make sure your kids keep an eye out during the ride — there are a number of surprises along the Black Bear Trail. Kids will love being able to make new discoveries along the ride. The smiles won’t leave their faces the entire ride!
More Things to Do in Dollywood
Like we said before, Dollywood has something that appeals to people of all ages. While these activities appeal specifically to younger kids, there are plenty of things to do in Dollywood for older kids, teenagers, and adults. If you’re looking for a ride that offers more of a thrill, ride the FireChaser Express! This family coaster blasts riders forward and backward for a fun experience. In addition to rides, you can also go shopping and try delicious food in the park. Visit The Dollywood Emporium for the ultimate Dollywood shopping experience and to find the perfect souvenir. Then, head to one of the popular restaurants for a bite to eat, like Aunt Granny’s or Front Porch Cafe. You also don’t want to leave before trying some of the cinnamon bread from The Grist Mill!
Check out all of our cabins in Pigeon Forge TN today to plan your family vacation so that your children can experience the fun attractions at Dollywood for kids! We look forward to seeing you soon at Amazing Views Cabin Rentals!
