With summer travel season underway, the National Amusement Park Historical Association (NAPHA) has released the results of its 39th annual Amusement Park and Attractions Survey, naming Dollywood as the nation’s favorite theme park.
The East Tennessee destination once again topped the list, continuing its reign that began in 2021, when it first earned the honor in a three-way tie. Since 2022, Dollywood has been the sole winner of the title.
NAPHA, comprised of dedicated theme park enthusiasts, brings a high level of credibility to the results. The average member has visited more than 130 different parks worldwide, and in 2024, members averaged visits to 13 parks each. Disneyland in Anaheim, California, was named the second favorite park in this year’s survey. Full results are available at napha.org.
Dollywood’s rise to industry prominence has been marked by a string of accolades. In 2024, the park received five Golden Ticket Awards, including Best Guest Experience and Most Beautiful Park. Those awards recognize standout guest service, facility cleanliness, and value—areas where Dollywood continues to earn praise.
Tripadvisor named Dollywood the No. 1 U.S. theme park in both 2022 and 2024. Other recent honors include recognition from Newsweek for Top Customer Service, as well as workplace accolades from Forbes and USA Today.
Now in its 40th anniversary season, Dollywood is hosting a series of seasonal festivals. The Flower & Food Festival, running through June 8, features massive Mosaiculture flower sculptures and seasonal culinary creations. Beginning June 14, the Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration includes the popular Sweet Summer Nights drone and fireworks show, enhanced this year with additional drones for the anniversary.
Fall brings the Harvest Festival, Sept. 12–Oct. 27, featuring Great Pumpkin LumiNights, while the park’s year concludes with the Smoky Mountain Christmas event, running Nov. 1–Jan. 4. The Christmas celebration includes six million lights and a slate of festive performances.
For more information about Dollywood’s 40th season, visit Dollywood.com or download the Dollywood app.

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