Dollywood announced NightFlight Expedition Wednesday, the newest ride being mentioned as the “single most ambitious adventure” to arrive at Dolly Parton’s theme park. The attraction, which has a price worth of $50 million, is set to open in the spring of 2026.

Revolutionary Ride Experience

Released via cinematic trailer at the park, the latest indoor attraction will last five and a half minutes and will have four dramatic types, soaring over East Tennessee, going through powerful whitewater rapids, ascending the Smoky Mountain ridges, and dropping from cliffs and ledges. Dollywood President Eugene Naughton described that the ride accompanies factors such as roller coaster excitements and a rafting series with more than 500,000 gallons of water.

NightFlight Expedition is completely enclosed within a 44,000-square-foot facility, making sure that it can operate year-round without the matter of weather conditions. Herschend Enterprises CEO Andrew Wexler described the ride as the world’s initial indoor family hybrid that combines roller coaster dynamics with a river raft venture.

Technology and Storytelling

The ride is a partnership between Dollywood, Herschend Creative Studios, and German manufacturer Mack Rides, the same company that recently achieved the 2025 Amusement Today Golden Ticket for Best New Innovation. Guests will board tailor-made amphibious ride vehicles that are advanced with cutting edge multimedia projections, audio design, and illumination effects. The narrative follows twin scientists, Cora and Jasper Oakley, as they guide explorers via the Smokies in search of bioluminescence and the legendary “Secret Lake.”

Dolly Parton’s Perspective

Dolly Parton joined the revelation virtually, sharing her thrill despite not being able to attend directly.

“I’m just so proud that Dollywood has grown so much in its first 40 years that we’re able to add a ride like NightFlight Expedition,” Dolly stated about the attraction. “I have no doubt it’s going to be a huge part of Dollywood’s next 40 years. We’re always trying to take the natural beauty of the Smokies and make it part of everything we’re doing in the park, and they’ve definitely been able to do it with this ride.

“A lot of people ask me about my favorite season in the Smokies, but no one ever asks me what my favorite time of day is. Our new ride sends you out into the mountains at night, which is the time that I think they really come to life! Obviously, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is known for the synchronous lightning bugs, but I also love to just sit and listen to the owls calling or the frogs croaking, and I love to see the stars sparkling like rhinestones up in the big old sky. It’s pure mountain magic.”

Leadership Reactions

Park leaders think the ride will be a game-changer.

“NightFlight Expedition is truly exceptional, combining cutting-edge technology and immersive storytelling that stays true to the heart of Dollywood and the Smoky Mountains to deliver an experience unlike anything else,” cited Naughton. “As the largest addition in our history, it not only represents a major milestone for our company, but it also sets a new standard for guest offerings.”

Entry and Early Access

The latest attraction arrives with a 39-inch height requirement, enabling it to be accessible to several families. Current 2025 season passholders can modify and secure exclusive early access to NightFlight Expedition before its public debut. Non-passholders can pre-register via October 5 for 2026 passes, with sales opening to the public beginning November 1.

Celebrating 40 Years of Dollywood

The ride announcement coincides with Dollywood’s 40th anniversary festivities, which will include the Harvest Festival presented by Humana (running through October 27) and the world-famous Smoky Mountain Christmas event (Nov. 1–Jan. 4, 2026). Visitors can also delight in live performances from acts like Triumphant Quartet, Keith Anderson, The Grascals, Emily Ann Roberts, and Dailey & Vincent.

FAQs:

Q1. What is Dollywood?
Dollywood is an amusement park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, co-owned by Dolly Parton. It is popular for family-friendly attractions, live entertainment, and Smoky Mountain heritage.

Q2. Who is Dolly Parton?
Dolly Parton is a world-renowned singer, songwriter, actress, and philanthropist. She co-founded Dollywood to share her Appalachian upbringing and create a family retreat.