How early does Dollywood let you in?

If the park opens at 10 a.m., hosts will start scanning passes and tickets around 9:30. This gives us plenty of time to get inside the park gates, make one final restroom trip, have a family picture taken in front of the Dollywood sign, and get our children's height measured.



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As for the rush through the gate, we often see crowds from around 10 a.m. until about noon. The secret is to arrive early so you can be in line before that rush. Or, wait until early afternoon so you can capitalize on playtime while a lot of folks are looking for lunch.

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There's so much to see and do at Dollywood. Since you'll likely be there all day (or two), a backpack is probably one of the best bags to bring if you must bring something. Better than a purse, carrying a bag on your back will keep you hands-free and give you an extra place to store your beverage, keys and keepsakes.

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Visit on a Lighter Day Generally, you'll find Dollywood is most crowded in summer and fall. While going to Dollywood in the low season is ideal, visiting on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday during summer is the best way to dodge crowds and long lines.

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When Do the Parking Lots Open? The parking lot opens two hours before park opening each day. So, if Dollywood opens at 10 a.m., the booth attendants will let cars in beginning at 8 a.m. Personally, I like to be parked and settled about an hour before opening.

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Weapons and alcoholic beverages are not permitted on Dollywood Property.

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DOLLYWOOD PARK FLOW As for the rush through the gate, we often see crowds from around 10 a.m. until about noon. The secret is to arrive early so you can be in line before that rush. Or, wait until early afternoon so you can capitalize on playtime while a lot of folks are looking for lunch.

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Dollywood does not permit visitors to bring food or drinks into the park, although attendees are welcome to leave to eat elsewhere and return that same day. Otherwise, a variety of excellent options for dining and snacks are available onsite.

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Standard Parking However, parking is FREE if you purchase a Dollywood Gold or Diamond Season Pass. Initial parking fee is non-refundable for Gold and Diamond Season Passholders. Free parking applies for visits after Gold or Diamond Season Passes are purchased.

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Yes, it can be done, but to have the most satisfying experience, it takes some strategic planning and prioritizing. Here's my guide and tips on making the best of Dollywood in a day: First, know that Dollywood is more than roller coasters.

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You may leave the park and come back same-day, but Dollywood must stamp your hand. Make sure you have your ticket to show at the gate when you return. You can bring your own or Dollywood offers strollers for rent on a first-come, first-served basis.

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Golden Hours. *Available to Gold and Diamond Season Passholders only. Allows daily TimeSaver line access to select attractions wherever TimeSaver is offered the first hour of each day. Show your Gold or Diamond Season Pass card at any ride location shown below.

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Silver BAFF tickets have blackout dates of Fridays, Saturdays, and 3/24/23 - 4/8/23, 10/2/23 - 10/15/23, 11/24/23 - 1/6/24 at Dollywood and Fridays, Saturdays and 7/3/23 - 7/9/23 at Dollywood's Splash Country(if purchasing a Two-Park Silver Pass).

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Free Water Stations Dollywood always offers guests free ice water at any culinary location to make sure everyone stays hydrated while having fun. We've installed water bottle refill stations around the park so you can fill up your own water bottle without waiting in line at a food location!

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What payment types do you accept? Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, organizational checks & cash.

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TimeSaver Line Management Pass. More Time, Less Wait! TimeSaver allows you expedited access to lines at select rides. While all rides and shows are still FREE with your paid admission, TimeSaver helps you maximize your visit so you can spend less time waiting in line.

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