Dolly Parton’s popular theme park has once again won national recognition, particularly for its workplace culture and benefits.
Dollywood was named one of the “Best Workplaces for Women in America” by Newsweek in 2026. The honor is based on factors such as leadership, integrity, compensation, work-life balance and benefits. This is the second year in a row that Dollywood Parks and Resorts has received this specific award from Newsweek.
Newsweek determined its 2026 Best Places to Work list through an independent national study conducted from April to October 2025. The survey includes nearly 180,000 employee interviews and more than 2.7 million company reviews, and includes data from previous research between 2022 and 2024.
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Some of the benefits and perks of working in Dollywood include:
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100% free tuition through Herschend’s GROW U. program
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Use Dollywood Family Health Centers
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Free admission to Dollywood and Dollywood Water Park for family and friends
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Hosts will receive a free lunch every work shift and participate in Dollywood’s park benefits program, which provides free or reduced admission to many area attractions, theaters and experiences.
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Qualified full-time employees will be eligible for a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision.
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Hosts who have children cared for by Upwards-affiliated providers cover a portion of the cost of child care
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Opportunities to develop leadership skills, including apprenticeship program with Walters State Community College
Dollywood is regularly recognized as a top place to work for its hospitality. The company was recently ranked No. 50 on Forbes’ 2026 Best Customer Service list and No. 2 in the Hospitality/Entertainment category. Doraishan is also the only theme park in the world to win Entertainment Today’s Golden Ticket Award for Best Guest Experience.
Devarrick Turner is a popular news reporter. Email devarrick.turner@knoxnews.com.
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This article originally appeared in the Knoxville News Sentinel: Newsweek names Dollywood one of the best workplaces for women in America