Dollywood kicked off its 2011 season last weekend (March 26 and 27, 2011) with a visit from its namesake icon, Dolly Parton.

The year the park opened in 1986, and I was there.  I remember it vividly it was my last semester of my college career, and I was studying for statistics final.   To say the least with the park opening and Dolly singing that weekend it was hard for me to focus on studying college statistics.  Thank goodness I did pass and graduate.

The diminutive Dolly helped debut the park’s latest ride, Barnstormer. The themed swing ride that uses compressed air to send passengers soaring up to 81 feet and at speeds up to 45 mph on two pendulum arms. Watch the video of Dolly talking about the new ride and see it in action. Dolly did not ride Barnstormer–nor has she ever boarded any of the coasters at her park.  She always says she is scared she might lose something like a fingernail, shoe or some hair!   You have to love my quick-witted musical super star-  Dolly Parton.

Each time I visit Dollywood I have a great time.  There is a something new and excited and just good music, food and fun.   You know Dolly needs the business.  One of her favorite lines is “Y’all buy my music and come to Dollywood-  It takes a lot of money to look this cheap!”

Tell me about your experience visiting Dollywood?

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