The best Dollywood attraction? The choice is up to y'all! Vote now in our bracket!

Portrait of Ryan Wilusz Ryan Wilusz
Knoxville News Sentinel

Picking a favorite attraction at Dollywood − named the best U.S. theme park in 2024 by TripAdvisor − is as tough as picking your favorite Dolly song ... or hairdo ... or Southernism. But that's exactly what we're asking of you, bless your heart.

We've been hankering for a new head-to-head bracket at Knox News ever since Pizza Palace walked away with the distinction of having the best slice in Knoxville. And I'll tell you what: With all the honors being bestowed down yonder at Dollywood − and with summer upon us − what better time to cast your vote for the best of the best attractions?

Here's how it works: Thirty-two attractions are included in this head-to-head bracket competition, with five rounds of voting between July 11 and Aug. 5. Think of it like March Madness − once an attraction is out, there's no second chance.

How we selected seeding: Let's face it: Breezy kids rides and thrilling coasters are entirely different animals, but that's just part of the game. For the closest thing to fairness, the newest attractions received the highest seeds and will face off against the oldest attractions in the first round.

What's included (and not): Practically all the rides listed on Dollywood's website are in the competition, as well as some yearlong shows (nothing seasonal). We did not include playground areas and decided to group together the more-generic rides found at The Country Fair section of the park. You'll also find Craftsman's Corner in the competition and cinnamon bread because ... well, why not? It's the tastiest thing on site!

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When and where can I vote for the best Dollywood attractions?

Each round of voting opens at 12:01 a.m. and ends at 11:45 p.m. on the following dates:

  • Round of 32: July 11-15
  • Round of 16: July 17-19
  • Round of 8: July 23-25
  • Round of 4: July 29-July 31
  • Finals: Aug. 1-5
  • Winner announced: Aug. 7

First-round voting has closed, but you can use this link to vote in the Round of 16 beginning July 17.

You may vote once per matchup, per round. Check back after this round of voting to see the results, below!

Meet the Knox News reporter behind Dolly Parton, Dollywood stories

Devarrick Turner is the trending news reporter at Knox News, a position responsible for reporting the latest happenings at Dollywood − and with the Queen of Country, herself.

Devarrick Turner is the trending news reporter at Knox News. His coverage includes East Tennessee attractions, outdoor activities, unique dining experiences and celebrity news, including the latest on Dolly Parton.

His recent theme park stories include:

Have a story idea or question about Dollywood? Email Devarrick at devarrick.turner@knoxnews.com.