You can't think of the The #GreatSmokyMountains without thinking about #DollyParton. Her contributions to the region are just one of many gifts she leaves us with, from the iconic #Dollywood in #PigeonForge to her numerous hotels. "I've always been really proud of the fact that I was born and raised up here," Parton told Traveler in 2025. "Growing up in the Smokies, I used to dream of going out in the woods with a bear family or riding high on the wings of a dragonfly. Well, now our guests can do that and more at Dollywood." The way she built Dollywood very much emulates the way she lived: "I want you to leave with the memories of being here, and how much fun it was. Love every moment kinda thing."