Dolly Parton has been an icon in the music industry for decades, but she is also an astute businesswoman. In 1986, she purchased the land that would become the world-renowned theme park, Dollywood, located near Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. But how much did Dolly Parton pay for Dollywood?
The History of Dollywood
Dollywood was first opened in 1961 as Rebel Railroad, a small amusement park owned by the Cox family. The park was renamed Silver Dollar City in 1970 and was operated by the Herschend family. In 1986, Dolly Parton acquired the park and renamed it Dollywood.
Parton has since invested heavily in the park, expanding it to include more than 50 attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, and shows. The park has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Tennessee and has been awarded the Golden Ticket Award for best overall theme park in the world four times.
How Much Did Dolly Parton Pay For Dollywood?
The exact amount that Dolly Parton paid for Dollywood is not public knowledge. However, estimates suggest that Parton paid the Herschend family approximately $20 million for the land and park in 1986. Since that time, Parton has invested an additional $50 million to expand and improve the park.
Dollywood's Impact on the Local Economy
Dollywood is one of the largest employers in the area and has had a major impact on the local economy. The park employs more than 4,000 people and has an annual economic impact of more than $1 billion to the area. Additionally, Dollywood has been the recipient of numerous awards, including the Golden Ticket Award for Best Overall Theme Park four times, and the Best Food Award five times.
The Future of Dollywood
Dolly Parton has expressed her commitment to expanding and improving Dollywood in the years to come. In 2018, the park opened several new attractions, including Wildwood Grove, a multi-acre expansion that includes 11 unique experiences, as well as a new hotel, DreamMore Resort. Parton has also expressed her desire to continue investing in the park and has plans to expand the park to include even more attractions in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How old is Dollywood?
A1: Dollywood was first opened in 1961 as Rebel Railroad. The park was then renamed Silver Dollar City in 1970 and was purchased by Dolly Parton in 1986 and renamed Dollywood.
Q2: How many people does Dollywood employ?
A2: Dollywood employs more than 4,000 people.
Q3: How much money has Dolly Parton invested in Dollywood?
A3: Dolly Parton has invested a total of $70 million in the park since purchasing it in 1986.
Q4: How much economic impact does Dollywood have on the local economy?
A4: Dollywood has an annual economic impact of more than $1 billion to the area.
Q5: What awards has Dollywood won?
A5: Dollywood has been awarded the Golden Ticket Award for best overall theme park in the world four times, as well as the Best Food Award five times.
Q6: What new attractions have been added to Dollywood recently?
A6: In 2018, Dollywood opened Wildwood Grove, a multi-acre expansion that includes 11 unique experiences. The park also opened a new hotel, DreamMore Resort.
Q7: Does Dolly Parton plan to continue investing in Dollywood?
A7: Yes, Dolly Parton has expressed her commitment to continuing to invest in the park and has plans to expand the park to include even more attractions in the future.
Q8: How much did Dolly Parton pay for Dollywood?
A8: The exact amount that Dolly Parton paid for Dollywood is not public knowledge. However, estimates suggest that Parton paid the Herschend family approximately $20 million for the land and park in 1986.
Q9: How many roller coasters are there at Dollywood?
A9: There are currently 8 roller coasters at Dollywood.
Q10: What other attractions are there at Dollywood?
A10: In addition to roller coasters, Dollywood also features water rides, shows, specialty shops, restaurants, and a variety of other attractions.