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Travel + Leisure

This Is the No. 1 Theme Park in the U.S., According to Tripadvisor—and No, It's Not in Florida or California

One of the world's top theme parks may be closer than you think. Dollywood , located in the Smoky Mountain region of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, was recognized as the best theme park in the United States and the highest ranked U.S.-based park in the world, according to a new list from Tripadvisor. Popular among families and thrill seekers, the destination includes a theme park with roller coasters, other rides, and shows, as well as a 35-acre waterpark called Dollywood's Splash Country. Dollywood ranked No. 1 in Tripadvisor's Best of the Best Awards in the theme park category, followed by Disney's Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World in Orlando; Knoebels Amusement Resort in Elysburg, Pennsylvania; Disney's Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World in Orlando; and Universal's Islands of Adventure in Orlando rounded out the top five. 'The best theme park my family has been to,' one person shared in a review. 'I love the fact that they have so many coasters for smaller kids that are just as thrilling for adults.' Other travelers shared reviews about the 'stunning grounds' and 'affordable' prices. The list also provides an international ranking of amusement parks with Ferrari World Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates ranking first worldwide, followed by Beto Carrero World in Brazil, and then Waterbom in Kuta, Indonesia in third. Dollywood ranked No. 11 globally, and was the only United States-based theme park in the international rankings. For travelers looking to visit the newly awarded park, Dollywood is offering special promotions, such as two days for the price of one, on all adult ticket purchases. The park also provides a "Weather Guarantee," where on rainy days that close or restrict rides and attractions, visitors can receive a complimentary return ticket for another visit. The history of Dollywood dates back to 1961, when a park named Rebel Railroad opened at the site where Dollywood currently operates. In 1986, famed performer and philanthropist Dolly Parton partnered with the Herschend family in an expansion of the park on the site, where it was aptly renamed as Dollywood. The broader Pigeon Forge region, which is home to Dollywood, also offers families and visitors other attractions such as shopping, live shows, and a replica of the Titanic. Pigeon Forge is also located near the entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which offers hiking, camping, and other activities for outdoor enthusiasts.