Dolly Parton’s Former Tour Bus Is Now a Dollywood Suite Fans Can Book
Millions of people visit Dollywood each year, and many book accommodations at one of its two resorts: DreamMore Resort & Spa or HeartSong Lodge & Resort.
For an overnight experience with an unmistakable Dolly Parton connection, guests can reserve an unusual hotel “room” at DreamMore. The space is actually Dolly’s former tour bus, which she traveled in from 2008 through 2022.
According to a fact sheet published on Dollywood’s website, the bus logged almost 360,000 miles. Most journeys began in Nashville and headed either to Los Angeles or Dollywood in Pigeon Forge.
Now known as Suite 1986, the converted bus is billed as “the ultimate behind-the-scenes Dolly Parton experience.” Dolly and her sisters designed nearly the entire interior, offering visitors “a unique glimpse into Dolly’s life on the road.”
Because she expected to spend so much time traveling aboard it, Dolly made the bus practical as well as comfortable. It served as both a workplace and a home on the road, and she once described it as her “favorite.”
Inside, guests will see colorful fabrics, hand-painted murals and keepsakes from Dolly’s touring years. Her custom additions also included electric doors, a full-size refrigerator and a bathtub.
Booking Suite 1986
DreamMore obtained the retired tour bus in March 2022 and subsequently converted it into Suite 1986.
The suite itself accommodates as many as two people, Dollywood’s website says. Each reservation also comes with a room in the main resort that overlooks the bus and can sleep four more guests.
A VIP dining experience for two is included as another perk. Among the menu offerings are fried chicken, smoked meats, biscuits, mashed potatoes and dessert.
Rates begin at $10,000, with reservations requiring a stay of at least two nights. Proceeds support a charitable mission, as profits from the suite are given to The Dollywood Foundation.
Anyone hoping to reserve Suite 1986 can submit the inquiry form available on Dollywood’s website. A DreamMore representative will then make contact within 48 hours to assist with planning the stay.
The videos below offer a closer view of Dolly’s former tour bus and show what guests can expect from an overnight visit.
