On Friday 3 November, Dolly Parton visited Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, for the grand opening of the new HeartSong Lodge & Resort. This is the second world-class resort to open at the popular destination as it continues to expand, and its creation is part of a $500m investment plan, announced in 2021.
HeartSong Lodge & Resort encourages families to explore nature, make memories, and find their own heartsong, inspired by Dolly Parton’s love of the Great Smoky Mountains.
“Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort takes me back to when I was a little girl exploring my beautiful Smoky Mountains,” says Parton. “I have so many fond memories of the days when us kids spent hours playing in the creek and chasing fireflies after supper. I hope families who come to my HeartSong Lodge discover what makes these mountains so special to me while creating their own precious memories.”
Something for everyone
One of the highlights of the new resort is The Cove, home to an outdoor pool and cascading waterfall. It also features zero-depth entry, a splash pad, and a hot tub, as well as seasonal poolside dining. In addition, The Cove has a fire feature and gas fire pits for cosy gatherings.
Families can also enjoy a range of activities, such as Camp DW which encourages children and parents to play and create together. In the mornings, there is an Imagination Library Story Hour and at night, guests can gather around the wood-burning fire pit for marshmallow roasting and a campfire sing-along.
In terms of dining, there is a full-service restaurant, Ember & Elm: Tastes Rooted in the Smokies, as well as High Note: Casual Dining & Drink and the Songbird Market. Meanwhile, the acoustic Lobby is a private dining room inspired by Dolly Parton.
There are different types of guest rooms and suites to suit all families and groups, and the new resort also caters for corporate and group events.
The opening of the HeartSong Lodge & Resort comes after the launch of the $25 million Big Bear Mountain roller coaster in May 2023. Last month, Dollywood also announced that it would open the new Dolly Parton Experience in May 2024.
