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A few weeks ago, I took a road trip to Pigeon Forge, TN to visit Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort & Spa with eleven other Macaroni Kid publishers, no kids. I was sold upon entry as we were two weeks into January and it was still Christmas there. I LOVE THE HOLIDAYS!!! I mean, any place that celebrates the warmth of the holiday season even after it’s over definitely gets my vote. But beyond that, this place is magical!
Check out this quick video posted on my new YouTube channel! Please subscribe while you're there.
When Dolly Parton created DreamMore, her goal was for guests to have a place where they can disconnect from the world’s distractions and reconnect with each other. Many of us publishers were meeting for the first time, but by the time we left, we were hanging out in each others’ rooms late at night like teenagers, hugging and calling each other bestie. We didn’t want it to end, but we all left with the hope of returning with our families one day. It was just a great time, a breeding place for making memories that will last a lifetime…and who doesn’t want to make lasting memories with the ones you love?
There are images of the country music icon and hints of her sensational career everywhere, but the aura at DreamMore Resort & Spa exudes energy much richer than being in a celebrity-themed venue. The connection is deeper than that, and you can feel Dolly’s passion for inspiring people to step out of their comfort zones and live. “Dream More,” “Care More,” “Be More,” are subtle reminders you might find in both visible and inconspicuous places at the hotel. Butterflies, a universal symbol of life, are everywhere. I am not exaggerating when I say that for the few days I was there, the DreamMore Resort & Spa gave me life. From the calming atmosphere, comfy accommodations, and friendly staff, it exudes with Southern charm and the zest for more of what they’re serving up. A journalist by trade, all of the beautiful butterflies inspired me to investigate and get to know Dolly a little better.
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I found out that Dolly has loved butterflies since she was a child. She revealed in an interview, “I used to get lost chasing them and got my butt whipped for wandering too far off.” She considers butterflies to be her symbol and that is why they are so plentiful around her brand. Back in 1974, she released her song, “Love Is Like A Butterfly,” which before her pop chart success, was considered her signature song. As the chorus describes, “love is like a butterfly, a rare and gentle thing,” Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa fit the bill.
You'll feel right at home at Song & Hearth where you'll dine at a family-style table. This sign says it all as the unique, farmhouse style decor features Dolly's handwriting in her recipe for life, “half a cup of love, a teaspoon of caring, and a dash of humility, and topped with compassion.” Song & Hearth serves breakfast and dinner buffet daily, but open all-day from 11:00 am - 10:00 pm. More detailed review coming soon!
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Voted best theme park hotel, it does not disappoint! It’s the complete package for girlfriends to bond, families to explore and find excitement, and lovers to fall in love all over again. Nestled in the beautiful Great Smoky Mountains, DreamMore provides everyone with the opportunity to run away from their daily regimen to relax, have fun and make great memories. It features picturesque views from every room, lots of gathering spaces throughout the resort, and activities for kids from 0 to 99. It’s ideal for soaking up the peace and radiance of the Smoky Mountains while enjoying the comforts and hospitality that Dolly and Dollywood are known for. Some of the hotel's features include a full day spa, indoor and outdoor pools, a playground, sprinklers, game rooms and Camp DW for the little ones. Throughout the day, opportunities for quality time are presented in the Camp and around the resort. While we were there, we enjoyed making S'mores at the campfire, caricatures in the lobby, and live music in the foyer. Here is a link to the event calendar!
While there, consider treating yourself to the Spa which features exquisite products including Farmhouse Fresh Goods. I'm sure you could use a little pampering!
While at the resort, the local area offers a plethora of fantastic restaurants, good shopping and exhilarating attractions to indulge. We took advantage and enjoyed every minute of the hospitality and courtesy of the following. I also found a few gems of my own in the village like The Donut Friar, Sugarland Cellars, and Coffee & Company .
Tanger Outlets - Sevierville, TN
Our hostesses with the "mostest" really know the way to a girl's heart. Our first stop was shopping at Tanger where I splurged on a couple of necessities and some not so necessary items for myself and my family. After trying The Fudgery in Baltimore last summer, I couldn't resist dropping in to see if the bakers would sing for me. To my surprise, he did!!! I love the sweets and the energy this place serves up.
TGI Fridays - Pigeon Forge, TN
My family eats at TGI Fridays all of the time because we love the perks of being members of the TGI Fridays Rewards Program. As a Fridays RewardsTM member, you get free food like chips and salsa with every visit, invites to special events, and all kinds of other great rewards. What I love about Fridays is they have something for every palette, everything from cocktails to desserts, and a tasty kid's menu.
I have always been intrigued by the story of the Titanic, and this was by far the best execution of restoring its history that I have ever witnessed. The staff and curators have poured their hearts and soul into preserving the history and keeping the memories of the passengers, survivors and non-survivors alike alive. We navigated the ship under the direction of Captain Jonathan whose passion for the subject resounded in his knowledge and attachment for the stories he shared with us. Look forward to a separate review!
We enjoyed an excellent breakfast of pancakes at Flapjack's. All I can say is DELICIOUS!!!
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies
My family loves the aquarium, but this one is next level. I would not travel back to Tennessee, let alone the Pigeon Forge /Gatlinburg area without going back. Awesomeness! With the ticket provided, we were able to explore all Ripley's attractions. In the time period allotted, I was able to enjoy Ripley's Mirror Maze and Ripley's Guinness World Records. Stay tuned for a video and upcoming review of these attractions.
Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Feud Show
On our last night in town, we were hosted by the Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Feud Show and it was so fun. From the backstage tour to dinner, and finally the show I was anxious for more. More laughs, more excitement, and more of that delicious Southern Style Creamy Soup. From start to finish, this was definitely a Pigeon Forge highlight for me.
We were served a downhome three-course meal that included:
- Feudin' Fried Chick'n
- Southern Style Creamy Soup
- Smashed Mashed Taters
- Buttery Corn on the Cob
- Ma's Hot Homemade Bread
- No Tellin' What's In It Coleslaw
- Granny's Famous Specialty Dessert
The wait staff who introduced themselves as "cousins" were friendly and accommodating, and the actors were highly trained and entertaining. A must-see show for the whole family!
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Before we took off, the PR Team graciously took us on a behind-the-scenes tour of Dollywood's largest expansion ever, Wildwood Grove, coming in 2019.
Beckoning the explorer in all of us, Wildwood Grove promises a place filled with adventure and wonder. With sparkling creeks, a charming village, and the great Wildwood Tree, your dreams are sure to take flight. I am really excited about this expansion and will keep you updated on its progress. You can bet there's a video in your future! I think you'll be just as excited as I am to see how it develops.
I was hosted as a guest of Dollywood for the weekend and was treated to accommodations, meals, and activities. I received no financial compensation and all opinions are 100% my own. I thank Dollywood and all of the fine attractions and restaurants for going above and beyond to accommodate our group and for showing us an amazing time in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg.
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