News: Dollywood announces 10 new rides

Posted at 1:22 PM EDT (1722 GMT)

Oct. 4th, 2004 -- DOLLYWOOD ANNOUNCES MAJOR EXPANSION PROJECT; COUNTRY FAIR AREA OFFERS 10 NEW RIDES IN 2005

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 2, 2004--Dollywood announced plans today for an expansion project in the park's Country Fair area that will add 10 new rides and a new look for the park's 2005 season with a special emphasis on rides that families can ride together.

"This exciting new project will allow more guests to enjoy Country Fair, one of our most popular areas," said Dollywood General Manager and Vice President Barbara Joines. "I think families will especially appreciate the many rides we've selected with them in mind."

The new rides will increase the Country Fair area's capacity by more than 2,000 passengers an hour. They include a mix of traditional favorites and unique experiences that are brand new to the industry including a 70-foot high airplane-style ride in which passengers are involved in creating their own flight experience. Other themed family-ride experiences will offer twists, turns, spins and dips. Most will allow parents and children to experience the ride together. There are also several rides just for small children.

In addition to the new rides, the Country Fair project includes plans for new restrooms and Baby Care Center developed specifically with Moms in mind. Construction is slated to begin in November and will be completed prior to the park's 2005 opening on March 26th.

Situated between the park's Village and Rivertown Junction areas, Dollywood's Country Fair opened in 1993. It is home to the 60-foot Wonder Wheel Ferris wheel and a variety of popular amusement games. Several of the existing rides will be retired to make way for the new ride additions.

The Country Fair area remains popular for our group outing program and will continue to offer legendary service, food and fun that allows "Dollywood to do all the work and you to take all the credit." 2005 booking dates for company and group outings are available at the Blue Ribbon Pavilion and Celebration Hall now by calling toll free 1-888-428-6789.

Dollywood is a 125-acre family adventure park in Pigeon Forge, Tenn. Open nine months a year, Dollywood offers more than 30 rides and attractions; entertainment featuring country, bluegrass, gospel and mountain music; and a dozen crafters authentic to the East Tennessee region. For more information, call 1-800-DOLLYWOOD or visit www.dollywood.com.