Located at 125 Court Avenue on the East Lawn of the historic Sevier County Courthouse, the Dolly Parton Statue stands as a heartfelt tribute to the Queen of Country Music in her hometown of Sevierville, Tennessee. Unveiled on May 3, 1987—exactly one year after the opening of Dollywood—the statue captures Dolly as a young woman perched on a rock, strumming her guitar with a beaming smile. Sculpted by renowned artist Jim Gray, the life-size bronze sculpture took over 2,000 hours to complete and has become one of the most photographed landmarks in the Smoky Mountains region.
The statue is open to the public year-round and is free to visit. It’s situated in the heart of downtown Sevierville, making it easy to access by foot or car. Street parking is available around the courthouse square. While you’re there, consider taking a self-guided walking tour to explore more of Dolly’s hometown landmarks.
Dolly Parton has expressed deep gratitude for the statue, considering it one of her most cherished honors. She fondly recalls her late father, Lee Parton, who would visit the statue late at night to clean off bird droppings, reflecting the family’s pride and affection for the tribute.
The statue not only celebrates Dolly’s musical achievements but also her philanthropic efforts, including the Imagination Library, which promotes childhood literacy, and her support for disaster relief initiatives.
Whether you’re a lifelong Dolly fan or a first-time visitor, the Dolly Parton Statue offers a memorable photo opportunity. Its central location in Sevierville makes it a convenient stop on your Smoky Mountains adventure. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture a moment with this iconic tribute to one of country music’s most beloved stars.
Dollywood – Just a short drive away in Pigeon Forge, Dollywood offers a blend of thrilling rides, live entertainment, and Southern hospitality.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Explore the natural beauty of the Smokies with hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives.
Sevierville Historic District – Stroll through downtown Sevierville to discover charming shops, local eateries, and more Dolly-themed landmarks.
Visiting the Dolly Parton Statue in Sevierville is more than just a photo op—it’s an opportunity to connect with the roots of a music legend and experience the warmth of her hometown. Whether you’re planning a dedicated trip or a quick stop, this statue is a must-see for fans and travelers alike.
Such a cool statue, we’re big Dolly fans. Matter of fact, “Islands in the Stream” was one of our wedding songs (cake cutting). Obviously getting married in Gatlinburg, a photo op after getting our marriage license was a must.
On our way out of town, we made sure to stop by and take some photos with the statue.
