Needless to say, things look a little different right now. We’re all trying to navigate a new world and we’re relearning how to do things in an ever-changing environment. All of us are having to make decisions we never dreamed we would face.
Like many of you, my wife and I have to consider what my daughter—who was supposed to start preschool this fall—will do for schooling. I have friends that have had to make tough decisions about visiting aging parents and grandparents. Some of my friends no longer have the jobs they did six months ago.
In a world where each and every one of us is faced with these serious situations and decisions, it can be difficult to allow yourself to stop and reflect on the good times or be appreciative of the good you find in each moment. But that is exactly what we all need to remind ourselves to do—and what I’m asking you to do—if even for just a minute.
In that context, let me say, I’m proud of where I work (And yes, the following will sound cliché, but it is so incredibly true).
Our operating teams have dedicated countless hours to introduce plans that have allowed us to open the park while keeping the health and safety of our guests a top priority. Our teams are doing a phenomenal job providing the greatest experience possible for our guests. I can tell you there have been a number of challenges and difficult tests faced along the way, but those have created opportunities and learnings that will help us grow now and in the years to come.
For so many people, Dollywood feels like home. It’s somewhere you can enjoy time with family and friends and try to escape from the world outside. Remember, every person you meet is dealing with the pandemic in their own way. While it does look different right now, Dollywood is a place many people want to visit to experience and make more of those same fond memories they hold so close. I’m glad to say we’ve been able to create an environment to allow those who want to visit the opportunity to do just that.
I’m even more happy to say that many guests who have visited since we reopened in June are validating what we are doing. Here is some of the feedback we’ve received:
Everything about this theme park is top notch! The friendly staff, the delicious food, the park cleanliness, the atmosphere and the rides. This was quite possibly the most relaxing vacation we’ve ever had. Thank God for Dollywood! It’s just a gorgeous park and I can’t recommend visiting enough.
Dollywood is a wonderful family theme park. The park is always clean, big plus!!! In the middle of Covid19, Dollywood stepped up and added extra precautions to make guests feel safe and comfortable. P.S. I love all the trees for shade on those hot summer days.
Dollywood is taking all the appropriate steps to prevent virus transmission while still providing an incredible experience. The indoor theaters are closed, but the rides are open. Staff wipes down each seat after each outdoor performance. Same with the rides. People are working very hard to ensure a safe, yet still memorable, experience.
The staff is so friendly and helpful, everyone is being very cautious and safe, the prices are surprisingly reasonable and rides are awesome! It’s like a bit of Southern hospitality mixed with excitement and fun.
So impressed with the safety measures and staff at Dollywood today! Temperature checks before entering, masks required on all guests and staff, staff was constantly cleaning/sanitizing, given a pump of hand sanitizer at every ride, hand washing stations- it was a great day to enjoy my family and feel as safe as possible. Thank you!
We were hesitant to visit a theme park during a pandemic, but the steps they took to keep everyone safe was noticed. From requiring face masks to temperature checks to limiting the number of people allowed in the park. They did a great handling the situation. The park was clean and the staff very nice and helpful.
While none of us truly knows how the pandemic will continue to affect us, please allow yourself an opportunity to pause and enjoy the positives in your life. If spending time with family and friends is what you need, we want you to know we’re here to help you take a break and enjoy your time with us.
Let’s Be Friends!