Dollywood Reverses Decision, Postpones Opening Until End of March

One day after stating the theme park would open on schedule despite the coronavirus, Dollywood reversed its decision and announced it would postpone opening until the end of March. It now joins other theme parks across the country, including Walt Disney World, Six Flags and Universal Studios parks, which have closed due to the coronavirus.

“The coronavirus pandemic is an escalating and ever-changing issue,” the park said in a statement. “As a result, The Dollywood Company is delaying the opening of its Dollywood theme park to guests for the next two weeks beginning tomorrow (March 14). Dolly Parton’s Stampede and Pirates Voyage also will be closed beginning March 16. Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa, and Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Cabins will remain open at this time.

“We have been following the coronavirus crisis very closely and based on developments within the last 24 hours and in consultation with the State of Tennessee, we are going to delay our season opening until March 28,” Craig Ross, Dollywood President said. “Despite the delay in opening, we are committed to taking care of our hosts while the park remains closed.”

“We need to focus on good health and praying for those who are affected. We know brighter days are ahead,” Dolly Parton added.

Dollywood said it continues to watch the conditions within the East Tennessee area, to consult with its medical experts and to follow CDC guidelines. The park will communicate any additional changes should they occur.