Dollywood is one of Pigeon Forge’s most beloved attractions, offering rides, shows, festivals, and Southern hospitality that keep families coming back year after year. If you’re planning a Smoky Mountain vacation, you may be deciding whether to stay at Dollywood or choose an off-site hotel. While Pigeon Forge has plenty of lodging options, Dollywood’s two resorts, Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa™ and Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort™, offer unmatched convenience, comfort, and family fun.
Here’s everything you need to know about staying at Dollywood’s resorts.
Why Stay at a Dollywood Resort?
When planning a trip to Dollywood and Pigeon Forge, one of the biggest decisions is where to stay. The Parkway offers a wide variety of hotels, cabins, and rental options, but staying at a Dollywood resort provides a convenient and immersive way to experience the park and the Smoky Mountains. Designed with Dolly Parton’s signature hospitality in mind, both resorts blend comfort, convenience, and Southern charm in a way that keeps you close to the action while giving you space to relax.
Booking a Dollywood resort comes with exclusive perks that make your trip even more memorable:
- Minutes from Dollywood & Splash Country: Take a mid-day break, grab a nap, or cool off in the pool without long drives.
- Complimentary TimeSaver Passes: Skip the line for one ride per day and get priority show seating.
- Free Trolley Service: Forget about parking hassles with shuttle service to Dollywood and Splash Country.
- Early Saturday Park Entry: Be the first to enjoy a select ride or attraction before the crowds arrive.
On top of the benefits, you’ll be fully immersed in Dolly’s Smoky Mountain vision, from cozy lodge décor to down-home dining. Here’s a closer look at each resort.
Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa™
For families who love activities, Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa™ delivers 20 acres of Southern charm, kid-friendly fun, and relaxing amenities.
Highlights include:
- Pools for Every Season: The outdoor Swimming Hole features a splash pad, hot tub, and mountain views, while the Garden House indoor pool lets you swim with scenic backdrops year-round.
- Camp DW Kids’ Activities: Crafts, pool parties, storytelling, and themed programming spark imagination for all ages.
- The Spa at DreamMore: Treat yourself to ultimate relaxation with massages, facials, manicures, and more.
- Dining Options: From hearty breakfasts at Song & Hearth to pizza, ice cream, and drinks at DM Pantry and The Lounge.
- Family Entertainment: Game rooms, live music, bonfires with s’mores, and take-away crafts keep everyone busy.
With spacious rooms, suites, and family-friendly layouts (including bunk beds and poolside patios), DreamMore is perfect for groups of all sizes.
Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort™
For a peaceful, nature-inspired retreat, Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort™ offers rustic elegance with modern comfort.
Highlights include:
- Nature-Themed Pools: Swim at The Cove, an outdoor pool designed to feel like a mountain pond with cascading waterfalls, or enjoy the indoor heated pool, splash pad, and hot tub.
- Stunning Lodge Atmosphere: The 4,000 sq. ft. lobby features a soaring four-story fireplace and sweeping mountain views.
- Delicious Dining: Enjoy upscale Southern dishes at Ember & Elm, casual eats at High Note, or grab Dolly’s famous cinnamon bread at Songbird Market.
- Flexible Accommodations: From cozy rooms for couples to spacious suites for families of six, all featuring modern amenities like balconies, desks, mini fridges, and flat-screen TVs.
- Family Spaces: Outdoor playgrounds, Camp DW children’s activities, and inviting lounge areas give families plenty of ways to play, create, and unwind together.
HeartSong is ideal for couples and families who want a luxurious lodge feel with easy Dollywood access.
DreamMore vs. HeartSong: Which Is Right for You?
With two distinct resorts to choose from, Dollywood offers something for every type of traveler. Both DreamMore and HeartSong deliver comfort, convenience, and exclusive guest perks, but the atmosphere at each resort is a little different. Your choice really depends on the kind of vacation you’re looking for.
Choose DreamMore Resort & Spa if your family enjoys a lively, activity-filled atmosphere. It is designed with kids and families in mind, offering daily programming through Camp DW, outdoor and indoor pools, bonfires with s’mores, game rooms, and plenty of opportunities for entertainment. Parents can also enjoy the spa and dining options, making DreamMore a true all-in-one destination for family fun.
Choose HeartSong Lodge & Resort if you prefer a tranquil, nature-inspired retreat. With its lodge-style architecture, peaceful atmosphere, and thoughtful design that brings the outdoors in, it is ideal for couples, adults, or families who want a quieter pace. HeartSong also features Camp DW children’s activities, an outdoor play space, and more, giving younger guests plenty to enjoy while parents relax. In addition, the resort offers rustic luxury, upscale dining, cozy lounge areas, and nature-themed amenities like The Cove outdoor pool and a sprawling stone fireplace in the lobby.
Both resorts provide premium amenities, delicious Southern dining, and exclusive Dollywood perks. You just need to decide which vacation style fits your trip best.
Make Dollywood Part of Your Stay
No Pigeon Forge trip is complete without visiting Dollywood. The 160-acre park is home to thrilling rides like the Lightning Rod, the world’s fastest wooden coaster, as well as award-winning entertainment featuring live music, stage productions, and family-friendly performances.
Seasonal festivals such as the Harvest Festival in fall add even more to the experience, while family-friendly attractions ensure fun for all ages. And of course, no visit is complete without classic Southern comfort food, from fried chicken and BBQ to Dollywood’s famous cinnamon bread.
When you pair Dollywood’s world-class theme park with a stay at DreamMore or HeartSong, you’re guaranteed a Smoky Mountain getaway filled with unforgettable moments.
