Hey there, fellow parents! If you’re planning a trip to Dollywood and wondering which rides and play areas will keep your little ones both entertained and safe, you’ve come to the right place. As a mom of three energetic kiddos, I have plenty of experience when it comes to navigating theme parks (Dollywood being one of our favorites).I’m here to share the insider scoop. From toddler-friendly zones to attractions that’ll make your school-age adventurers squeal with excitement, I’ve navigated it all – and I’m ready to help you plan the most memorable family day out at one of Tennessee’s most beloved destinations.
Looking for kid-friendly activities beyond the theme parks? Check out my post: Family Friendly Activities in Pigeon Forge.
Best Kid-Friendly Rides
The Village Carousel
Location: Craftsman’s Valley A beautifully restored classic carousel featuring hand-carved horses and chariots. This gentle ride is perfect for all ages and provides a nostalgic experience for the whole family.
Height Requirement: All ages are welcome on this ride, under 42″ must be accompanied by a guest who is 16 or older.
Dollywood Express
Location: Craftsman’s Valley- This authentic 110-ton coal-fired steam engine takes passengers on a scenic 20-minute journey through the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. The train ride offers beautiful views and is a perfect break for little ones who need to sit down.
Make sure to arrive 20 minutes prior to departure in order to board the train.
Lucky Duck
Location: Country Fair Children sit in oversized rubber ducks that rotate gently around a circular track. The ride moves up and down slightly, providing just enough excitement for younger riders.
Height Requirements: As long as your little one is able to sit unassisted they can ride!
Piggy Parade
Location: Country Fair This charming ride features colorful pig vehicles that move in a circle. Kids can control the up and down motion with a joystick, making it interactive and fun.
Height Requirement: There is no minimum height requirement and adults are more than welcome to ride along.
Amazing Flying Elephants
Location: Country Fair Similar to the classic Dumbo ride at Disney World, children board flying elephant vehicles that move in a circle while riders control how high they soar.
Height Requirement: If your child is 48″ or taller they can ride alone, anyone smaller than that must be accompanied by someone 16 years or older.
Lemon Twist
Location: Country Fair-This ride is just like the teacups at Disney World, but instead of tea you spin around a pitcher of lemonade in bright yellow cups. Of course you can choose how fast or slow you spin using the center wheel of your cup.
Height Requirement: Again no height requirement for this ride, however; if your kiddo wants to ride solo they must be 48″ tall.
Frogs & Fireflies
Location: Wildwood Grove A family-friendly ride where guests hop aboard giant frogs that bounce and spin around a lily pad, illuminated by hundreds of magical fireflies. This was definitely a favorite of my kids!
Height Requirement: Under 36″ must be accompanied by someone 14 year or older.
Dragonflier
Location: Wildwood Grove This suspended roller coaster is perfect for families ready to experience their first thrill ride together. With a height requirement of just 39 inches, it’s accessible for many younger children while still providing excitement for those a little bit older as well.
Busy Bees
Location: Country Fair- Children can enjoy the pleasure of bouncing up and down in a rotating bee vehicle. This ride has no minimum height requirement making it perfect for children of all ages.
Black Bear Trail
Location: Wildwood Grove: Hop on the back of a motorized black bear and glide slowly along a winding trail through the woods. Children as small as 36 inches to enjoy this ride as long as they are accompanied by someone 14 years of age or older.
Rockin’ Roadway
Location: Jukebox Junction- Guests can enjoy driving one of these miniature classic cars ( Corvette, Thunderbird or Cadillac) along a scenic country road track set in the 1950’s.
Height Requirement: Children under 42 inches must be accompanied by a rider 14 years or older.
Great Tree Swing
Location: Wildwood Grove- This giant ship decorated with vines and bright colored leaves swings back and forth reaching heights of 40ft high. If your child is not fond of height pick a seat closer to the middle of the boat for a more mild ride. On the other hand, if your child is like mine and likes a good thrill sit them closer to the back.
Height Requirement: A minimum height of 36 inches is required to ride, while anyone under 48″ must be accompanied by someone 14 or older.
Demolition Derby
Location: Country Fair- Classic bumper cars, kids will love hoping into these little cars as the drive around bumping into everyone on the track.
Height Requirement: Children as small as 42 inches can ride but, in order to drive they must be at least 48 inches tall.
Play Areas
Hidden Hollow
Location: Wildwood Grove This climate-controlled indoor play area features climbing structures, interactive musical instruments, and various sensory experiences. Perfect for a break from the sun or during inclement weather, Hidden Hollow offers a space where kids can burn energy while parents take a breather.
Granny’s Garden
Location: Craftsman’s Valley This whimsical garden area features oversized vegetables and fruits that children can climb on and explore. Interactive elements like water features and musical components make this a delightful spot for younger visitors to discover while learning about gardening.
Firehouse Fun Yard
Location: Adventures in Imagination This firefighter-themed play area includes a climbable fire truck, water spray features, and various interactive elements that teach children about fire safety while they play. The shade structures make it a good spot for hot days.
Lil’ Pilots Playground
Location: Wilderness Pass Beyond the stationary planes, this aviation-themed playground includes climbing structures, slides, and interactive panels that teach children about flight and exploration.
Wildwood Creek
Location: Wildwood Grove This refreshing water play area features pop jets, splashing pools, and musical instruments made from natural materials. Perfect for hot days, Wildwood Creek allows children to cool off while playing in a beautifully themed environment meant to capture the magic of the Smoky Mountain creeks.
*Looking for a complete list of Dollywood’s ride >>click here<<. *
At the end of the day, Dollywood isn’t just about the rides – it’s about creating those magical family memories that’ll have your kids talking about their adventure for years to come. Trust me, I’ve seen the sparkle in my own children’s eyes as they’ve explored this incredible park. Whether you’re planning your first visit or looking to make your next trip even more awesome, these kid-friendly rides and play areas are your ticket to a stress-free, joy-filled family day out. So pack those snacks, charge your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable Dollywood adventure! And hey, don’t forget to grab those matching family theme park t-shirts – because those vacation photos are going to be priceless.
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