created MAY 2026 by Luke Mager
Dolly Parton isn’t just a country icon; she’s basically the patron saint of Tennessee.
Dolly Parton feels bigger than celebrity at this point. She’s woven into Tennessee in a way that’s hard to explain unless you grew up here: part songwriter, part storyteller, part living reminder that kindness and ambition don’t have to cancel each other out.
"The way I see it, if you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain," and not get "so busy making a living that you forget to make a life". - Dolly
Between the songs, the stories, the theme park, the philanthropy, and the way she somehow makes millions of people feel personally seen, Dolly’s impact stretches far beyond music. So rather than trying to summarize her in a few sentences, we pulled together a guide celebrating the places, moments, and magic that continue to make her one of Tennessee’s greatest treasures.
Whether you’re planning a pilgrimage to Pigeon Forge or just trying to carry yourself through the world with a little more grace and glitter, start here.
ENTER TO WIN THE ULTIMATE DOLLY PACKAGE:
- Two (2) tickets to Dolly Parton’s Threads at The Nashville Symphony
- Two (2) tickets to dinner + show at Country Roads USA on June 27th
- Two (2) tickets to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum to see the Dolly Parton: Journey of a Seeker exhibit
- One (1) Dolly Parton: Journey of a Seeker exhibit Hatch Show Print
The Nashville Symphony is performing her classic songs at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center from June 16th through July 31st, featuring guest vocalists and on-screen narration from Dolly herself.
Located at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, this exhibit traces Dolly Parton's decades-long journey to superstardom, highlighting major events and turning points in her life. This exhibit is open through September 2026.
Photo: Jason Kempin
Rose Colored Glasses, a Birmingham-based country band, Is continuing to honor the different women that helped to make country music by playing their tribute act, Devoted to Dolly, at the Franklin Theater on June 13th. Come enjoy the classic hits from the queen of country herself.
Opening later this year, Dolly's signature Nashville hotel features uniquely designed rooms filled with rich storytelling as well as two music venues, delicious cocktails, and elevated southern-style cuisine.
Located at Dolly's SongTeller Hotel, the largest exhibit to date celebrating Dolly Parton's life, featuring different eras of her career. The museum takes guests on the road, behind the scenes, and through her most iconic moments.
Located in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, Dolly's Theme Park and Water Park features rides fun for both thrill-seekers and families, all themed around southern culture and Dolly herself. Guests often enjoy the DreamMore resort and spa, the cabins, or one of the many restaurants found throughout the park.
Located at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, this historic studio is where Dolly recorded famous hits such as "Jolene" and "I Will Always Love You". Tours are offered so you can experience where country music history was made.
The Walk of Fame park is dedicated to the artists of all genres, famously including Dolly Parton, who helped make Music City. The star represents her legacy, which is found all throughout the city, from the Ryman, where her career started, to the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Dolly has been a proud member of the Opry since 1969 and is definitely one of the reasons it is considered one of the greatest stages in country music. Since moving to the Opry House in 1974, shows with renowned country artists who all look up to the icon are often held.
This famous venue was the home of the Grand Ole Opry before it moved in 1974. Dolly has a lot of history with this venue, including being where her career started at the age of 13, as well as being where The Porter Wagoner Show was filmed, where she was a regular.
Located behind the Ryman, this historic Honky Tonk is where Dolly famously sneaked off between sets at the Opry, and she is one of many artists featured on their "wall of fame". The spirit of country is kept alive at Tootsies, with open mic nights often held and pieces of musical history scattered on the walls.
Located on the back patio of the beloved dive bar, Dinos Bar and Grill, this seasonal pop-up bar is the perfect place if you love summer and country music. The pop-up serves boozy frozen lemonade that you can enjoy with a delicious burger and fries.
August 5th: Dolly Parton Day in Nashville
This day has been chosen to celebrate Dolly, whose legacy is evident throughout Nashville. Celebrate by getting a cocktail at her rooftop bar, White Limozeen, or by visiting the Ryman, where she started her career.
This Dolly Parton themed running event features races for everyone. Including the main 5K, a mile walk, a fun run for kids and a sprint in stilettos for those up to the challenge. Participants are encouraged to where there best Dolly outfit for a chance to win the costume contest. All proceeds go to The United Way of Greater Nashville and the Imagination Library.
Located on the exterior wall, this tribute is attached to Acme feed and seed, a modern take on the classic Honky Tonk with fast casual dining and a wide arrange of beverages. The Mural represents a shared respect for the icon across the city and throughout every Honky Tonk.
Located at Ray Stevens' CabaRay, this tribute features country artists performing the songs of those who laid the foundation for country music. Featuring Tunes from Dolly and many others, this act seeks to represent the the music history that built the city and modern country music.
No tribute to country music would be complete without Dolly. The Country Music Hall of Fame goes a step further, including her own exhibit, Journey of a Seeker, and RCA Studio B, where she recorded some of her classic hits. The Museum has the mission of preserving important music history and is visited by over a million people every year.
Did we miss your favorite Dolly spot?
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