By Admin Discover the places, memories, and hometown stories that shaped a country music legend.
Fans of Dolly Parton will soon have a new way to explore the hometown of one of country music’s most beloved stars. In Dolly’s Footsteps, a free, self-guided walking tour, launches Friday, October 16, 2026, in downtown Sevierville, Tennessee.
The new experience invites visitors to discover Dolly’s early years through nine historic downtown locations, offering a closer look at the people, places, and memories that helped shape her remarkable journey.
Discover Dolly’s Hometown Story
From her first paid performance to the places she visited as a young girl, the tour brings Dolly’s Sevierville roots to life through stories, photographs, and videos.
Visitors can explore the former theater where Dolly played her first paying gig, watch a video of her recalling her first visit to Red’s Café, and learn why the iconic Dolly Parton statue holds such a special place in the hearts of the local community.
Each stop features a granite-and-bronze marker sharing another chapter of her story. Although some locations have changed over the years, the tour aims to preserve the spirit of the downtown community Dolly knew growing up.
“We are honored to share Dolly’s hometown story with the world,” said Amanda Marr, director of marketing and communications for the Sevierville Chamber of Commerce.
Nine Stops Through Downtown Sevierville
The walking tour connects nine locations associated with Dolly’s early life and the history of her hometown:
- Red’s Café (circa 1964) – 119 Court Ave.
- Dolly Statue – 125 Court Ave.
- Carr Dry Goods Co. – 140 Court Ave.
- Temple Milling Company – 106 W. Bruce St.
- Raymond’s Shoe Store – 110 Bruce St.
- Easy Way Five and Dime – 137 Bruce St.
- Kilpatrick’s Drug Store – 139 Bruce St.
- Old Post Office – 167 Bruce St.
- The Pines Theater – 230 Court Ave.
Together, these stops offer a glimpse into the downtown streets, businesses, and community connections that form an important part of Dolly’s story.
A Free and Flexible Walking Experience
Getting started is easy. Visitors can begin near the Dolly Parton statue, where complimentary tour brochures will help guide them along the route.
For an even more interactive experience, guests can scan QR codes at the stops using their mobile devices to access additional photographs, videos, and stories.
Because the tour is self-guided, visitors can explore at their own pace, spending more time at the locations that interest them most.
Plan Your Dolly Parton-Inspired Visit
Whether you have followed Dolly Parton’s career for decades or simply want to learn more about the history of the Smoky Mountains, In Dolly’s Footsteps offers a meaningful way to experience Sevierville through the story of its most famous hometown star.
The tour officially launches on Friday, October 16, 2026, and admission is free.
For more information, visit InDollysFootsteps.com. To discover additional Dolly-inspired attractions and activities in the area, visit VisitSevierville.com.
Take a stroll through downtown Sevierville and discover the places where Dolly Parton’s extraordinary story began.