Dollywood has officially confirmed the opening date for its most ambitious attraction to date, NightFlight Expedition. The revolutionary indoor adventure will officially open its doors to all guests on Wednesday, 19 August 2026.
For eager passholders looking to take flight before the general public, exclusive early access is on the horizon. Silver, Gold, and Diamond Passholders who purchased their 2026 Season Pass during the initial sales window between 17 September – 12 October 2025 are eligible to participate in special preview rides. These preview days will run from 15 August through 18 August, leading up to the grand opening.
A $50 Million Landmark Investment
Representing a staggering $50 million investment, NightFlight Expedition stands as the largest single attraction expenditure in Dollywood’s 40-year history. Situated inside the park’s popular Wildwood Grove section, the groundbreaking addition has been designed to thrill both families and seasoned theme park enthusiasts alike.
Country music legend and park owner Dolly Parton previously expressed her pride in the milestone development, noting how the attraction celebrates the beauty of the region.
“I’m just so proud that Dollywood has grown so much in its first 40 years that we’re able to add a ride like NightFlight Expedition,” Dolly shared. “Our new ride sends you out into the mountains at night, which is when I think they really come to life. It’s pure mountain magic.”
An Impressive Hybrid Ride System
NightFlight Expedition promises a groundbreaking 5½-minute journey that seamlessly blends four distinct thrilling experiences into one seamless, family-friendly story. Developed through a collaboration between Dollywood, Herschend Creative Studios, and world-renowned manufacturer Mack Rides, the attraction utilises a cutting-edge amphibious ride system that originally made its debut at Futuroscope.
During the experience, riders board state-of-the-art amphibious vehicles that dynamically interact with high-definition multimedia projections, surround audio, and immersive physical special effects. The multi-part adventure includes:
- A Soaring Flight high over the peaks of the Smoky Mountains.
- Whitewater Rafting through more than 500,000 gallons of surging, churning water.
- A Roller Coaster Dash swooping across rugged mountain ridges.
- A Tranquil Boat Voyage gliding across a shimmering, bioluminescent lake.
The Secret of Wildwood Grove
Housed entirely within a massive 44,000-square-foot, climate-controlled complex, the ride immerses guests in a rich Smoky Mountain narrative.
Visitors join twin scientists Cora and Jasper Oakley on a daring quest to discover the mythical Secret Lake, the hidden source believed to nourish the glowing Wildwood Tree at the heart of Wildwood Grove. Boarding a custom-built amphibious aircraft equipped with the scientists' innovative “Bioluminator” invention, riders help illuminate the dense forest and unlock the lake’s magical energy.
Dollywood President Eugene Naughton highlighted the unique blend of technology and storytelling that sets the new ride apart.
“NightFlight Expedition is truly exceptional, combining cutting-edge technology and immersive storytelling that stays true to the heart of Dollywood and the Smoky Mountains to deliver an experience unlike anything else.”
With a accessible minimum height requirement of just 39 inches, NightFlight Expedition is engineered to welcome young adventurers alongside thrill-seekers when it takes flight this August.
