Wondering when does Dollywood close so you can plan your trip accordingly? You’ve come to the right place! This Dollywood vacation guide will provide all the information you need to plan your visit.
As much as we all want to visit Dollywood year-round, the amusement park does shut down for a few months. Read on to find out when Dollywood closes for the season.


Planning a trip to Dollywood can be an exciting adventure for families of all sizes. Depending on the time of year you plan to visit, there are several things to consider when putting together your itinerary.
But one important thing to answer first is when does Dollywood close? Let’s find out in this article.

How Long Is The Dollywood Season?
Dollywood’s season is an exciting time of year, with many visitors coming to experience the Tennessee theme park’s unique attractions and rides.
The season typically starts late March, with extended hours during the summer months. Dollywood usually closes for the winter in early January.
When Does Dollywood Close?
Dollywood closes for the season on January 2, 2023.
Each year, Dollywood takes a two-month winter vacation starting in January and reopens its gates to the public near the end of March.
During this period, they take advantage of the break by diligently preparing for their upcoming season.
During this time, the park is closed to visitors, but the staff and crew are still hard at work! Every department is responsible for performing various tasks that need to get done before the park reopens.
The maintenance teams also perform much-needed repairs, replace worn out parts and make sure that the rides are in good working order.

In addition to this, Dollywood also takes advantage of the off-season to introduce new attractions and shows for visitors to enjoy.
By the time March rolls around, Dollywood is ready for another exciting season full of thrills and surprises!
Also, do note that while Dollywood Themepark is closed, Dollywood DreamMore Resort and Spa remains open.
What Else Is There To Do Besides Dollywood?
Visiting the Smoky Mountains and Pigeon Forge during the off season is an absolute treat. With Dollywood closed for the season, it allows you to experience a unique opportunity that grants more time and access to many of the hidden gems of this area.
Rather than getting bogged down in large crowds and long lines at the park, you can cap off your stay with an intimate experience of the mountain area.
Enjoy a Smoky Mountains winter vacation by visiting Ober Gatlinburg where you can go skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing.
The area also has many great hikes with stunning views of the mountain valley, including Charlies Bunion, Alum Cave Trail and Laurel Falls Trail.
Smoky Mountains Christmas lights are still up until the end of February, so you still have enough time to enjoy the stunning holiday display during your stay.

Renting a cabin is also a great way to experience the area in a more relaxed atmosphere. This provides an excellent opportunity for families and friends to connect and enjoy each other’s company while surrounded by nature.
Book a stay with GSM Family Vacations located at the heart of the Smokies.
What Date Does Dollywood Open in 2023?
Dollywood is set to open its doors to the public on Friday, March 10, 2023. But that’s not all! As part of their expansion plan, they recently announced an additional 15 days to Dollywood’s operating calendar.
Guests can now enjoy more varied experiences throughout the year and take advantage of everything that a 2023 season at Dollywood has to offer!

Smoky Mountains 7-Day Itinerary
I understand how difficult it can be to plan a trip, especially if it’s your first time going. That’s why I created this 7-day itinerary for the Smoky Mountains. It outlines all of the best places to go in the area and comes with insider tips that will save you a lot of stress–trust me, they saved me when I was planning my own trip!
- Our 7-day itinerary takes you to the best places in the Smoky Mountains.
- You’ll get to see all the best sights and attractions with driving directions
- The itinerary is designed to show you the most scenic routes.
- Packing Checklist for every season.
- You’ll have everything you need to make the most of your trip.
- Insider Tips!
Here’s a quick overview of our Smoky Mountains 7-Day Itinerary.
- Day 1: Cades Cove Loop
- Day 2: Rich Mountain Road
- Day 3: Cataloochee Valley
- Day 4: Newfound Gap Road
- Day 5: Roaring Fork Motor Trail
- Day 6: Little River Road
- Day6: Foothills Parkway
Get Our FREE Winter Packing Checklist For The Smokies!
Recommended Pigeon Forge Resources
- Smoky Mountains Vacation Guide
- Gatlinburg Vacation Guide
- Pigeon Forge Discount Tickets
- Great Smoky Mountains Family Vacations Facebook Group
More Related Resources
Sad that Dollywood is closing for the season? Don’t be. There are so many attractions nearby! Checkout our list of the best Things To Do In the Smoky Mountains In Winter.
To make your trip even more fun, try this national park photo scavenger hunt idea when your visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.