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Dolly Parton Makes Unexpected Confession About Dollywood

Dolly Parton with her guitar in front of Dollywood
Credit: Disney Tips

Dolly Parton, fondly known as Dollywood’s Dreamer-in-Chief, recently shared a candid revelation about her food preferences at the beloved theme park. While Dollywood is famed for its iconic Grist Mill cinnamon bread, Parton revealed her heart belongs to another classic treat.

Dollywood, nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, is one of the most celebrated theme parks in the United States. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, thrilling rides, and rich Appalachian culture, the park attracts millions of visitors each year.

Entry sign to Dollywood

Credit: Adrian Gray, Flickr

The park is named after its co-owner, Dolly Parton, a country music legend and native of East Tennessee. Since partnering with the Herschend family to open Dollywood in 1986, Parton has infused the park with her signature warmth and commitment to storytelling.

Her influence is evident in every detail, from the themed entertainment and live performances to initiatives that benefit the surrounding community, such as educational programs and the Dollywood Foundation.

Concept art for the butterfly-adorned Dolly Parton Experience at Dollywood

Credit: Dollywood

More than a figurehead, Parton remains actively involved in the park’s evolution, often lending her creative vision to new projects. Her larger-than-life personality and devotion to her hometown make Dollywood a destination that feels uniquely personal, offering fans a deeper connection to the star and her values.

Among the many attractions inspired by Parton’s life are the Dolly Parton Experience (which replaced the Chasing Rainbows Museum in 2024) and Dolly’s Tennessee Mountain Home. Beyond the rides and shows, Dollywood’s culinary offerings have become a hallmark of the park. The Grist Mill cinnamon bread, made fresh daily and paired with buttercream icing or apple butter, has long been a favorite among visitors.

Close-up of cinnamon bread from Dollywood

Credit: Dollywood

However, in an interview with Southern Living, Parton admitted her go-to treat is the funnel cake. “Even if I’m in my bus or the Dolly suite, I say, ‘Run get me some funnel cakes,’” she said. “I can’t leave here without funnel cakes.” This beloved dessert is fried to golden perfection, dusted with powdered sugar, and often topped with seasonal delights like red velvet or accompaniments such as strawberry filling, whipped cream, or hot fudge.

We adore cinnamon bread, but even we can’t argue with Parton—who’s soon to have her own Broadway show. Dollywood’s funnel cakes are truly outstanding: perfectly fried, oversized, and generously coated with powdered sugar.

Close-up of funnel cake from Dollywood

Credit: Dollywood

The park elevates these treats with seasonal varieties like red velvet and an array of toppings. Guests can indulge with strawberry or apple pie filling, whipped cream, crumbled Oreos, or a drizzle of hot fudge.

What’s your favorite food at Dollywood?

About Chloe James

Chloë is a theme park addict and self-proclaimed novelty hunter. She's obsessed with all things Star Wars, loves roller coasters (but hates Pixar Pal-A-Round), and lives for Disney's next Muppets project.

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