Dolly Parton‘s popular Dollywood theme park is getting a new attraction. However, the star missed the big announcement about the new ride due to the fact that she’s recovering from an issue with her health.
“Hello Dollywood! It’s me,” Parton began in a video that was shared during a special event on Wednesday, September 17. “I know, and I’m here, and you’re there. And you’re wondering why that is? Well, I had a little problem.
“I had a kidney stone that was causing me a lot of problems,” she explained. “Turned out it’d given me an infection, and the doctor said, ‘You don’t need to be traveling right this minute, so you need a few days to get better.'”
“So, he suggested I not go to Dollywood today, but I’m there with you in spirit,” she continued. “I was looking so forward to it.”
Night Flight Expedition Is Dollywood’s New Attraction
Dollywood’s new attraction, the Night Flight Expedition ride, will be opening sometime in 2026 at the park which is located in Pigeon Forge, Tenn. Thanks to the annoucement, fans won’t have to wait to find out what it’s all about and what they’ll get to experience when the ride opens.
“What happens in the Smoky Mountains after the sun goes down?” Dollywood’s Instagram account asked followers while posting a video about the new attraction. “Soar, plunge, climb and navigate the first ride of its kind in the world.”
The video shows a rollercoaster that swoops, turns and dives while riders make their way above the trees, in white rapids and across dark landscapes. It also promises adventure and an experience like none other.
Fans Are Excited About the New Dollywood Attraction
GettyParton’s fans were thrilled to get news of the new Dollywood ride while also appreciating the message from the “Jolene” singer herself.
“Ok we just rode by the massive ride building on the Dollywood Express and now knowing what’s coming, we are beyond excited for this!!!” one excited Instagram user wrote. “What an amazing sounding new ride, groundbreaking and something TRULY new and unique in the theme park word!! 👏 and Dolly is a class act as always in the message she shared during the announcment!”
Another person left a comment saying, “We are soooo not ready for this adventure! 2026 can’t get here soon enough!”
“We can’t wait to be one of the first in line!” an eager fan wrote. Someone else added, “Four rides in one! That’s FOUR more reasons to go back to Tennessee next year!”
