Plan Your Perfect Visit to Pigeon Forge’s Premier Theme Park
One of our most loved attractions in the Smoky Mountains, Dollywood brings exhilarating rides, Southern style entertainment and the best festivals from around the world. Timing is everything as with any top destination. If you want to avoid all of the big crowds or go to see a special event, this Dollywood Crowd Calendar can help you decide the best possible time to visit.
Monthly Crowd Guide for Dollywood
January – February: Quiet and Cozy
Crowd Level: Low
Most of January and February find Dollywood coasting along on winter maintenance, with the exception of certain dates or events. But Pigeon Forge, the home of Wilderness Week, is a tranquil time to beat the tourist rush and there are always good deals on cheap cabins in the Smokies.
March – April: Spring Awakens
Crowd Level: Low to Moderate
Monday through Friday at Dollywood are still quiet times, as Dollywood reopens following Thanksgiving in mid March. Late March to early April are Spring Break weeks and they’re definitely busier, but not so much so that they’re unbearable. Also just around this time the Festival of Nations begins, featuring music, food and performances from around the world.
May: Beautiful Weather, Manageable Crowds
Crowd Level: Moderate
Earlier in May is pretty ideal weather and time before the Memorial Day weekend. The park offers something perfect for families with young kids or couples wanting to take it easy when visiting the park. It’s one of the best times to visit as the weekdays in early May are early May.
June – August: Peak Summer Season
Crowd Level: High
The biggest crowds come during summer, but especially on the Fourth of July and weekends. Arrive early, use TimeSaver passes and stay cool at Dollywood’s Splash Country. Book accommodations via Wilderness at the Smokies or Compass by Margaritaville nearby in advance.
September: Back-to-School Bliss
Crowd Level: Low to Moderate
Dollywood gets a lot quieter after Labor Day. Shorter wait times and now it’s in the sweet spot for lake weather. But September is also the start of the Harvest Festival, with all the fall décor, crafts and seasonal treats that come with fall.
October: Fall Foliage and Festival Crowds
Crowd Level: High on Weekends, Moderate on Weekdays
The autumn colors and Dollywood’s Great Pumpkin LumiNights draw visitors all October weekends. If you wish for a less hectic experience, weekdays help considerably to lower the crowds.
November – December: Holiday Magic
Crowd Level: Moderate to High
In addition to the park’s stunning scenery, over 6 million lights turn Dollywood into a festive Smoky Mountain Christmas. Weekends and holidays are sure to be crowded. If you’d rather enjoy the holidays without the crowds, however, visit on a weekday before it gets close to mid-December.
Pro Tips for Beating the Crowds
- Gates usually open 30–60 minutes before official time.
- Get Live wait times and mobile food ordering and ride closures using the Dollywood app.
- Skip the lines on most popular rides and shows with TimeSaver Pass.
- Beat traffic and get into the park early by staying nearby; book Wyndham Wilderness at the Smokies or cabins near the park.
Where to Stay Near Dollywood
- Ideal for families and groups, Great Cabins in the Smokies offers comfortable Smoky Mountain lodge rentals at nearby Pigeon Forge.
- Budget friendly cabins in the Smokies: They’re useful for people that need to save money.
- Get your pet friendly cabins in the Smokies with you!
- Family friendly resorts with indoor water features in addition to their convenient location to Dollywood.
Final Thoughts: Plan Smart, Play More
While Lightning Rod may be the thrill of your visit, you may add thrills to your visit to Dollywood enjoying live bluegrass or marveling at seasonal festivals. As long as you time it right—and with this crowd calendar—you can have the best times ever and the shortest lines ever.
Would you like to ride into the heart of the Smokies? A great plan makes your Dollywood adventure start.