How long should I spend at Dolly Parton's Stampede?

Plan 3 hours total - arrive 60 minutes early for parking, Horse Walk, and pre-show, then the main show runs about 1.5-2 hours including dinner service.

Is Dolly Parton's Stampede good for kids?

It's designed for families and kids love the horses, animals, and audience participation. All ages enjoy it, though the arena can get loud and dusty. Kids under 3 get in free.

Is there parking at Dolly Parton's Stampede?

Yes, free on-site parking is included. Arrive early during peak season since the Parkway gets congested, especially for evening shows.

What food is included at Dolly Parton's Stampede?

Your ticket includes a full four-course dinner with soup, whole Cornish hen, sides, and dessert. Come hungry - portions are huge and you'll eat most of it with your hands. Special dietary requests can be made when booking.

Can I see the horses before the show at Dolly Parton's Stampede?

Yes! The Horse Walk lets you visit the stables and get photos with the horses before showtime. It's included in your ticket and one of the highlights, especially for kids.

Dolly Parton's Stampede

Duration

3 hours total (including pre-show activities and main 2-hour dinner show)

Best For

Families with kids who love horses and animals • Groups looking for interactive dinner entertainment • Visitors wanting classic Pigeon Forge experience

Pro Tip

Arrive 60 minutes before showtime to do the Horse Walk and catch the saloon pre-show - it's included in your ticket and the kids love getting up close with the horses in their stables.

About Dolly Parton's Stampede

Dolly Parton's Stampede delivers exceptional value as a massive dinner theater experience featuring 32 horses, skilled trick riders, and live buffalo performing alongside a four-course meal. This popular Pigeon Forge attraction consistently impresses visitors with its high-energy entertainment and unique dining format.

The pre-show experience adds significant value - arriving early allows guests to explore the horse stables and enjoy live bluegrass music in the saloon area. Children particularly enjoy the photo opportunities with the horses, making it an ideal family destination.

The main show provides pure entertainment with impressive stunts, comedy acts, and an engaging North vs South theme that energizes the entire audience. Guests should note that most of the meal requires eating with hands, including a whole Cornish hen, so light-colored clothing isn't recommended.

The seasonal Christmas show offers an especially magical experience featuring live camels and ice skating performances, though advance reservations are essential as these shows sell out quickly. The venue provides complimentary parking, which proves valuable given its prime location on the busy Parkway.

Visitors should plan approximately three hours from arrival to departure. The arena environment can become dusty due to the live animals, so guests with allergies should consider this factor when planning their visit.

Last updated: February 22, 2026 • Based on 20,761 reviews

Amenities & Features

Massive portion sizes with a full Cornish hen, pulled pork, sides, and dessert includedEnergetic performances featuring horses, music, and skilled riders that keep audiences engaged throughoutFamily-friendly entertainment with a fun, participatory atmosphereSpecific servers like Kerri and Pam frequently praised for excellent service

Don't Miss

32 Trained Horses and Trick Riders

The main attraction features incredible horsemanship with 32 horses performing stunts and tricks in the massive arena. The riders do everything from standing on galloping horses to precision formations that'll have you on the edge of your seat.

Live Buffalo and Longhorn Cattle

Real buffalo and longhorn cattle roam the arena during the show, adding to the authentic frontier atmosphere. It's not every day you see these massive animals up close while eating dinner.

Horse Walk and Stables

Before the show, walk through the open-air stables and meet the star horses up close. Kids love getting photos with these gentle giants, and it's all included in your ticket price.

Four-Course Feast

The meal is huge - soup, whole Cornish hen, sides, and dessert served while you watch the show. Fair warning: you'll eat most of it with your hands, but that's part of the fun frontier experience.

Saloon Pre-Show

Live bluegrass and country music in the saloon gets you in the mood before the main event. Grab drinks, browse souvenirs, and enjoy the authentic atmosphere.

Christmas Spectacular

The seasonal Christmas show features live camels, ice skating, and a nativity scene that transforms the whole experience. It's magical but books up fast, so reserve early.

Know Before You Go

Arrive 60 minutes early for free parking and to avoid Parkway traffic
Wear casual clothes and avoid white - you'll eat with your hands and the arena gets dusty
Book tickets online in advance - shows sell out regularly in peak season
Bring allergy medication if sensitive to dust or animals
Bring cash for souvenirs and drinks in the saloon - photos and gift shop items are extra

Best Times to Visit Dolly Parton's Stampede

Visit during weekday mornings for the calmest experience.

🔥Buzzing

Weekend afternoons

☀️Relaxed

Weekday mornings

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the hours for Dolly Parton's Stampede?

The venue is open daily 8 AM to 9 PM, but shows run at scheduled times (usually late afternoon and evening). Check their website for exact showtimes on your date since they vary by season.

How much does Dolly Parton's Stampede cost?

Adult tickets typically run $65-80 per person before taxes, with kids 3-9 paying about 60-70% of adult price. Children under 3 are free if sharing a lap and meal. Prices vary by date and season.

Do I need reservations for Dolly Parton's Stampede?

Yes, absolutely book ahead online. Shows sell out regularly, especially weekends and peak seasons. Walk-ups are rare since it's one of Pigeon Forge's most popular attractions.