Discover Dollywood for Student Groups

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A 165-acre classroom of fun and learning, Dollywood provides unmatched educational opportunities for student groups

When it comes to blending education with entertainment, few places can rival Dollywood. Spanning an impressive 165 acres, this renowned theme park is not just about thrilling rides but also offers a dynamic, interactive learning experience set against the stunning backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains. Dollywood’s unique approach to education makes it an ideal destination for school field trips, offering students a variety of opportunities to learn and have fun in equal measure.

Student Groups Learn Physics Through Thrills at Dollywood

Dollywood’s rides are more than just exhilarating; they are also educational tools that demonstrate key principles of physics. For instance, the bumper cars offer a practical lesson in the law of conservation of momentum, while the Smoky Mountain River Rampage provides a hands-on experience with Archimedes’ principle of buoyant force and displacement. To further enrich the experience, Dollywood has introduced a curriculum called “Science in the Park,” which includes a downloadable workbook. This resource helps students understand how the park’s roller coasters illustrate the principles of gravity, speed, velocity, and more.

Big Bear Mountain at Dollywood

One of the park’s most exciting attractions for school-age children is the brand-new Big Bear Mountain roller coaster. This thrilling ride takes students on an adventurous journey through the Smokies as they search for the elusive Big Bear. Spanning 3,990 feet in length, Big Bear Mountain is Dollywood’s longest roller coaster and features onboard audio, multiple launch points, and a thrilling ride experience that brings the laws of physics to life. With its family-friendly design, Big Bear Mountain is perfect for younger thrill-seekers and provides a fun way to explore concepts like acceleration, force, and energy.

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Ornithology and Wildlife Conservation at Dollywood

Dollywood is also a haven for bird lovers and those interested in wildlife conservation. The Eagle Mountain Sanctuary, located within the park, is home to the largest collection of non-releasable bald eagles in the country. Managed by the American Eagle Foundation (AEF), this 1.5million cubic-foot outdoor aviary replicates the natural habitat of these majestic birds, offering students a rare chance to observe them up close.

Adjacent to the sanctuary, the Wings of America show provides an in-depth look at various raptor species, including hawks, vultures, owls and golden eagles. Educational materials, such as the Wings of America workbook and worksheet, are available for download to enhance the learning experience.

It’s Just Dollywood’s Nature

Dollywood’s commitment to conservation extends beyond its theme park attractions. The Chestnut Project at Dollywood aims to reintroduce the American chestnut tree to East Tennessee, where it once thrived before being nearly eradicated by a blight fungus. This project combines an educational display in the park’s Craftsman’s Valley are a with a dedicated four-acre plot of land owned by Dollywood for planting thousands of chestnut trees. Students can learn about the importance of this tree to the local ecosystem and the ongoing efforts to restore it.

History Comes to Life for Student Groups

For those interested in history and craftsmanship, Dollywood offers daily demonstrations of centuries-old techniques. Students can watch master craftspeople at work, practicing traditional arts such as glass blowing, blacksmithing, leather crafting, candle making, and wood carving. These demonstrations provide a unique opportunity to connect with the cultural heritage of the East Tennessee region.

A Special Treat for Students

As an added bonus, Dolly Parton herself offers a free lunch to all students visiting on a weekday (Monday-Friday) school field trip. This special gesture makes the day even more memorable for young visitors.

Dollywood is a World-Class Destination for Field Trips

Dollywood is more than just a theme park; it’s a world-class destination recognized for its excellence in the amusement industry. The Dollywood Company includes not only the 165-acre theme park but also the 35-acre Dollywood’s Splash Country, Dollywood’s Dream More Resort and Spa, and the newly opened Dollywood’s Heart Song Lodge & Resort. The park has earned numerous accolades, including the 2010 Applause Award, the highest honor in the theme park industry, and the Golden Ticket Award for Best Parkin the world in 2023.

In 2024, Dollywood was named the #1 theme park in the country by Tripadvisor, based on guest reviews, and it has also been recognized multiple times by USA Today as a top U.S. theme park.

Dollywood operates from mid-March through early January, offering a variety of rides, attractions, shows, and authentic crafts that showcase the rich heritage of East Tennessee. Dollywood’s Splash Country, a water park celebrated for its beauty, is open from mid-May to Labor Day. For those looking to extend their stay, Dollywood’s Dream More Resort and Spa and Dollywood’s Heart Song Lodge & Resort offer breathtaking mountain views and family-friendly amenities, all just steps away from the theme park.