Don’t get me wrong, I love the beach. It is my happy place. But sometimes a change of scenery is nice. We decided to mix things up this Spring Break. We brought the beach to the mountains. Pigeon Forge, TN to be exact.
Our family was introduced to dinner shows right here in Myrtle Beach, and we haven’t looked back since. We just recently visited Pirate’s Voyage (you can read all about it here) and we all loved it. Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain Adventures was definitely on our list of things to do while in Pigeon Forge and it certainly did not disappoint! What makes this dinner show even more special is that it tells guests a little bit about the area where Dolly grew up and how it still influences her life to this day.
My husband had planned on coming with us but since he was busy with work he had to pass on this trip. My mom took his place and she was so excited to see the show and learn about Dolly Parton’s life. She gave the girls a quick lesson on Dolly since they weren’t too familiar with her. This is definitely good for all ages and a way for families to connect and reminisce about the past. My girls’ were just as excited as their grandmother to see the show, that in itself speaks volumes!
Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain Adventures doesn’t have a pre-show like Pirates Voyage, but I would still recommend getting there at least 30 min before showtime so you can fully experience Bass Mercantile. Fashioned after one of the many general stores in the area around 1939 (which is when the show takes place) you will be able to stop by the Canteen for drinks/snacks and shop around the Dry Goods Gift Shop.
The Show
The theme of the dinner show is based on southern pride and family honor, and the many contests and competitions the Parton’s and Owen’s participated in back in the day. On Sundays, after church, her family and friends would gather for a big home cooked meal and some friendly contests, such as marbles, horseshoes, and foot races. The atmosphere was high energy and so much fun! My daughter’s never stopped watching, they were in love with the show, Brynna (my eight year old) said “this is definitely my favorite show we have seen”.
In Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain Adventures, the competitions are kicked up a notch to include some very impressive stunts. With Cirque du Soleil-style aerial acrobatics, juggling, tumbling, climbing, and back flips, the show’s talented performers will keep you on the edge of your seat.
There will be plenty of music, sound effects, banjo picking, singing, dancing, and loads of laughter accompanying the show with its authentic hootenanny atmosphere.
The Food
Of course, no dinner show is complete without dinner! The meal is served one item at a time starting with the Creamy Vegetable Soup and biscuit. The soup is also served at Pirate’s Voyage and is absolutely delicious! And FRIED CHICKEN! Can we say it again? Fried Chicken!! It was delicious! My mom is kind of a Fried Chicken snob, so to say and she said this was one of the best she has ever had! That my friends says ALOT! The food at Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain Adventures was fabulous!
Focus on Family
Shows run every night of the week, so no matter when you’re visiting the Smokies, you can get in on this awesome dinner show. We love that the show was family friendly, but taking a glance around the theater, we spotted all ages enjoying themselves. This show had a special focus on family which we enjoyed, especially being able to experience it with my mom and daughters.
Both dinner shows, Pirate’s Voyage and Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain Adventures while unique in their own ways, kept the attention of my girls, which is no small feat, believe me! Create unforgettable memories with your family at Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain Adventures.
*This is a sponsored post which means I was provided compensation and/or product for this post. All thoughts and opinions are 100% my own. I only partner with products and services that I genuinely love and want to recommend.
