Theme parks
I've been to a lot of theme parks over the years. My favorite is Dollywood. It's not the largest by any means, but it's only a little over an hour from home. However, that's not the main reason I like it. Dollywood teaches history, geography, and handcrafts. Yesterday, we saw wagons and carriages being built the old-fashioned way. We saw a Russion circus and visited a shop where hand made muscial instruments are made. There is also a blacksmith shop, and a 1950's hamburger shop called Red's Diner.
And what would a theme park be without rides? Dollywood has roller coasters that only the foolhardy can ride. They also have kiddie rides and everything in betweeen. A bunch of rides are new this year. There is an eagle sanctuary with dozens of bald eagles that are considered "unreleaseable" because they have been injured or have been in captivity for too long. You can go for a ride behind an antique railroad steam engine, see a magic show or attend a wide variety of musical shows.
There is all kinds of food available and I have never eaten anything that wasn't great. Considering that I have held a season pass for about 15 years, I think I qualify as an expert on Dollywood food.
Another reason to like Dollywood is the very reason that it is there. Dolly grew up poor in that area. It was a poverty pocket with high unemployment and low wages even for those who found work. So Dolly created a tourist attraction that turned Pigeon Forge into a boom town. I am sure there are people there who miss the way it was 30 or 40 years ago, but life is better for most of the people there. Business is good, not just at Dollywood, but at tourist oriented businesses all over the area. Dollywood is only the centerpiece. Dolly is know throughout the region for her support of education.
It's a beautiful park with shade trees and running water. Music actually comes from the rocks in the flower gardens. Go in June or later to see the flowers.
Howard
And what would a theme park be without rides? Dollywood has roller coasters that only the foolhardy can ride. They also have kiddie rides and everything in betweeen. A bunch of rides are new this year. There is an eagle sanctuary with dozens of bald eagles that are considered "unreleaseable" because they have been injured or have been in captivity for too long. You can go for a ride behind an antique railroad steam engine, see a magic show or attend a wide variety of musical shows.
There is all kinds of food available and I have never eaten anything that wasn't great. Considering that I have held a season pass for about 15 years, I think I qualify as an expert on Dollywood food.
Another reason to like Dollywood is the very reason that it is there. Dolly grew up poor in that area. It was a poverty pocket with high unemployment and low wages even for those who found work. So Dolly created a tourist attraction that turned Pigeon Forge into a boom town. I am sure there are people there who miss the way it was 30 or 40 years ago, but life is better for most of the people there. Business is good, not just at Dollywood, but at tourist oriented businesses all over the area. Dollywood is only the centerpiece. Dolly is know throughout the region for her support of education.
It's a beautiful park with shade trees and running water. Music actually comes from the rocks in the flower gardens. Go in June or later to see the flowers.
Howard
posted by Howard at
1:31 PM
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