What New Dollywood Attraction Could Be Planned for 2026?
Dollywood has long been known for its exciting expansions, innovative attractions, and an unwavering commitment to creating unforgettable experiences for its guests. Looking ahead to 2026 — when the Pigeon Forge adventure park enters its 41st year of operation — even more additions are expected! While many of the details have yet to be released, there’s plenty of speculation into what new Dollywood attraction may be on the horizon. Continue reading as we dive into the rumors about a big project expected at Dollywood in 2026:
What We Know
The 2026 project is expected to be a part of the expansion of the Wildwood Grove section of Dollywood. This major project has an expected price tag of $50 million, according to Pete Owens, Dollywood’s Vice President of Marketing & Public Relations. For comparison’s sake, Big Bear Mountain, which opened at Dollywood in 2023, cost $25 million.
“It’s something that no one has ever done before in this particular way,” Owens said on the Hollers and Hills podcast. In addition to this new attraction, Owens shared that Dollywood also plans to refurbish a “legacy attraction” as part of the 2026 additions.
The Mountain Press reported in September 2024 that the plans for the new attraction include a 43,000 square foot building that can hold 1,000 people and will sit on 3.5 acres located behind Wildwood Grove.
So, what could it be? Let’s dive into the speculation!
An Indoor Coaster?
The fact that the new Dollywood attraction includes a building has caused some to believe that it could be a dark ride or an indoor attraction.
Dollywood sent out a survey in 2023, asking for feedback for a possible dark ride or indoor coaster. The survey was meant to judge public interest and has led some to believe the new attraction in 2026 will potentially be an indoor coaster. But, we don’t know for sure!
What’s the Refurbished Legacy Attraction?
There could be some hints at what the refurbished attraction could be by taking a look at recent additions at Silver Dollar City in Branson, MO, which like Dollywood is owned by Herschend Family Entertainment.
Silver Dollar City recently rebuilt “Fire in the Hole” which previously was similar to Dollywood’s Blazing Fury. Blazing Fury is currently Dollywood’s oldest ride, leaving many to believe that it could be the existing attraction that Dollywood plans to refurbish.
What do you think Dollywood’s plans for 2026 could be? Ultimately, we’ll all just have to wait and find out!
40th Anniversary at Dollywood
Before we even get to 2026, there are more improvements that will arrive at Dollywood for the 2025 season, which is the theme park’s 40-year anniversary! Dollywood has planned a lineup of events, performances, and surprises to celebrate.
Part of the additions to the 2025 season include improvements to seasonal festivals like the Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration, which will include fireworks and a drone show. Smoky Mountain Christmas will include the return of the red and white lights of “Peppermint Valley”. During Harvest Festival, “corny” themes and decorations will transform into “Candy Corn Country”.
In addition, a 40th anniversary show is planned for each day in 2025. The Imagination Playhouse will become a permanent experience and a remastered version of “Heartsong: The Movie” comes to Dreamsong Theater as part of the Dolly Parton Experience.
Just like you, we can’t wait to see what Dollywood has in store for 2026! Find the perfect place to stay on your next trip by exploring thousands of the best cabin rentals in the Smoky Mountains!
