Smokies Guide
Your online resource for the Smoky Mountains
Dolly Parton’s Stampede: The Most Fun Place to Eat in the Smokies!
If there is one dinner show that has made itself an absolute must-visit tradition for Smoky Mountain vacationers year after year, it’s Dolly Parton’s Stampede (formerly known as Dixie Stampede).
As one of the flagship attractions created by Dolly Parton and Herschend Family Entertainment, this world-class dinner theater opened in 1988 at the southern end of the Pigeon Forge Parkway. Over three decades later, it remains one of the most popular, high-energy, and delicious entertainment experiences in East Tennessee!
🐎 What to Expect: The Stampede Experience
From the moment you arrive, you’re immersed in true Southern hospitality and high-spirited fun:
World-Famous Horse Walk
Arrive early to take a stroll down the outdoor Horse Walk and meet the 32 magnificent horses and skilled riders up close before they take the stage.
Pre-Show Entertainment
Step inside the Saloon for live pre-show entertainment featuring fantastic bluegrass and country music, specialty drinks, and family-friendly activities.
35,000-Square-Foot Main Arena
Once inside the massive main arena, you’ll take your seat for a 90-minute spectacle filled with daring horseback trick riding, pyrotechnics, stunning aerialist performances (Butterfly Dreams), musical productions, comedy, and friendly competition where North and South battle for bragging rights!
Smoky Mountain Christmas Transformation
During the winter holiday season, the arena transforms into a magical Christmas winter wonderland featuring holiday music, nativity scenes, and festive seasonal fun.
🍗 A Four-Course Country Feast
The food at Dolly Parton's Stampede is just as much of a headline act as the performance itself. Prepared fresh and served piping hot right as the action begins, the famous four-course feast is designed to satisfy even the biggest appetite:
Note: Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free four-course meals are also available upon request when booking your tickets!
💡 Practical Visitor Tips & Contact Details
Arrive Early: Doors open early so guests can enjoy the Horse Walk and the live Saloon pre-show before heading to their seats in the main arena.
Come Hungry: The meal portions are generous! If you can't finish everything, server staff can provide doggy bags so you can take leftovers back to your cabin or hotel.
Book in Advance: Shows regularly sell out during peak summer months, fall foliage season, and the Christmas holidays.
Address: 3849 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: (865) 453-4400
Official Website: dpstampede.com