Dollywood, the popular theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, has been closed due to the anticipated impacts of Hurricane Helene. The park announced the closure on Thursday to ensure the safety of its guests and staff.
The decision to close the park was made in light of the heavy rains and potential flooding associated with the hurricane. Dollywood takes the safety of its visitors seriously and opted to close until further notice to avoid any risks.
Impact on Visitors and Local Area
The closure of Dollywood has affected many visitors who had planned to spend their day at the theme park. Several areas of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are also closed due to flooding, which is a common occurrence in the region but has been exacerbated by the recent weather conditions.
Despite the park's closure, the DreamMore Resort and Spa and the HeartSong Lodge & Resort will remain open to accommodate current guests. This ensures that those already staying at these facilities can continue their stay without disruption.
Ticket Refunds and Rescheduling
Guests who had tickets dated for Thursday can use them on the next operating day. For those unable to use their tickets on another operating day, Dollywood is offering refunds, which can be requested by calling 1-800-DOLLYWOOD.
A decision on the park's operations for Friday was expected to be made later on Thursday, depending on the weather conditions and the impact of Hurricane Helene.
Alternative Activities in Pigeon Forge
While Dollywood is closed, visitors to Pigeon Forge can still enjoy various other activities. The town offers indoor go-karts, mini golf, and cinemas, providing alternative entertainment options for those looking to make the most of their visit despite the weather.
Dinner shows, which are held indoors, are also expected to remain open, offering a chance for visitors to enjoy some local entertainment and cuisine.
