One Last Summer Trip Before School Starts

Before the backpacks came out and bedtime routines returned, we decided to sneak in one last summer adventure. This mother/daughter escape to the Smokies was packed with Dolly Parton sparkle, thrill rides, breathtaking views, and unforgettable treats. Here’s how we spent three magical days in Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and Sevierville.

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Day 1: Sevierville Charm & a Dolly-Inspired Welcome

Hit the Road

We left bright and early with coffee in hand and a playlist full of Dolly Parton’s greatest hits. We kicked off the trip with full-volume car karaoke — singing Jolene, 9 to 5, Two Doors Down, and more as we cruised down the highway.

Breakfast at the Pink Cadillac Diner (Natural Bridge, VA)

A retro blast from the past, the Pink Cadillac Diner was the perfect roadside stop. Think pink booths, vintage jukeboxes, and classic breakfast comfort food. The food was delicious and the girls had fun playing the jukebox.

Lunch in Sevierville, Dolly’s Hometown

Our first real destination: Sevierville, where Dolly’s roots run deep. We had lunch at Red’s Soda Fountain & Ice Cream (inspired by the nostalgic Red’s Café that Dolly frequented growing up) and walked a few steps to the Dolly Parton Statue, guitar in hand outside the courthouse. It’s the perfect photo op and a sweet way to honor the Queen of Country herself.

We explored downtown, stopping to admire murals like the Wings of Wander and the vintage Red’s Café mural tucked down Bruce Street. This charming town is full of Dolly spirit, and it set the tone for the rest of the trip.

Dinner at Ember & Elm

Inside Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge, we had one of our favorite meals of the trip. The atmosphere was warm, rustic, and beautifully decorated with Dolly memorabilia — from family photos and handwritten lyrics to costumes and instruments. The food was elevated Southern comfort with dishes like shrimp & grits and fried green tomatoes.

Evening — Titanic Museum + Late Night Ice Cream

After dinner, we explored the immersive Titanic Museum — touching artifacts, emotional stories, and elegant recreations of the ship’s interior. To wrap up our perfect first day, we grabbed late-night ice cream nearby and strolled under the stars.

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Day 2: Dollywood Magic & Anakeesta Views

Breakfast at Song & Hearth (DreamMore Resort)

We started day two with a Southern breakfast buffet at DreamMore Resort, where the Dolly-themed décor and peaceful Smoky Mountain ambiance made breakfast feel like a warm hug.

Mid-Morning — The Island at Pigeon Forge

We wandered through The Island, enjoying the dancing fountain show, conquering the mirror maze, and exploring boutique shops. The highlight? Getting matching permanent bracelets — a simple but sweet keepsake from our trip.

Afternoon — Dollywood Adventures Begin!

Armed with our Summer Celebration Tasting Pass, we made our way into Dollywood. The atmosphere was electric — music, laughter, and the smell of cinnamon and BBQ in the air. We sampled delicious bites across the park and made a beeline for:

• Pull-Apart Cinnamon Bread from the Grist Mill (yes, it’s that good)

• The Dolly Parton Experience — full of rhinestones, original costumes, and her journey from Smoky Mountain girl to global icon

• Lightning Rod — one of the fastest wooden coasters in the world, and an absolute blast

Dollywood was equal parts thrill and nostalgia — a true celebration of Dolly’s heart and heritage.

Evening — Anakeesta at Golden Hour

As the sun began to dip, we took the chondola up to Anakeesta, where the mountaintop came alive. We explored treetop canopy walks, browsed adorable shops, and enjoyed several photo ops.

Dinner at Anakeesta’s Clifftop was a highlight — the perfect mix of comfort and elegance, served with a side of sunset. We enjoyed panoramic Mountain View’s while savoring delicious food. As the lights twinkled across the mountaintop and soft music played, it felt like we were in a dream.

Riding the chondola down the mountain at night with all of Gatlinburg lit up below provided for breathtaking views. We all agreed that we would not only go back to Anakeesta, but would allow more time to take advantage of all it has to offer- especially the gorgeous views.

After Dark — Moonshine & Chocolate

We stopped at Sugarlands Distilling Co. and picked up a few jars of our favorite moonshine (Blackberry, Lemonade, and Apple Pie were top picks). Then it was off to Chocolate Monkey for late-night fudge and sweet treats — because vacations are for dessert twice a day.

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Day 3: Buc-ee’s & Heading Home

Check Out & Hit the Road

We said goodbye to the Smokies with sleepy smiles and a camera roll full of memories. One final stop at Buc-ee’s (because it’s not a road trip without it), and we were officially on our way home.

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The Final Word

This trip was exactly what we needed — From theme park visits to cinnamon bread, sunset views to Smoky Mountains, it was the perfect way to close out the summer.

if Dolly taught us anything on this trip, it’s this: “Find out who you are and do it on purpose.” We found joy, connection, and just a little sparkle in the Smokies — and we’ll be back for more.