If you’re a fan of Dolly Parton, you’ll be excited to know that the famous country music star and entertainer grew up right here in Sevierville TN! In fact, Dolly’s first paying gig was performing at the Pines Theater in downtown Sevierville when she was just 10 years old! While the Pines Theater closed in 1957, you can still visit the building and other landmarks in town related to Dolly! Here are 6 fun Dolly Parton landmarks to explore in downtown Sevierville:
1. Dolly Parton Statue at the Sevier County Courthouse
The Dolly Parton statue on the Sevier County Courthouse lawn stands as a tribute to the superstar by her hometown community and has become the most iconic spot in town, visited by thousands of people each year! The bronze sculpture, which was crafted by nationally known local artist Jim Gray, was unveiled over 30 years ago and shows Dolly holding her guitar. Dolly herself ranks this statue as one of her most prized recognitions!
2. Jolene’s
While Jolene’s is not a historical landmark, you’ll definitely want to put this whimsical shop on your itinerary when exploring downtown Sevierville! The store caters to lovers of Dolly Parton and is the best place to find items inspired by Dolly’s rhinestone-studded style! The owner of Jolene’s has been a Dolly Parton fan since she was 2 years old and curates a collection of Dolly-centric items including clothing, handbags, earrings, candles, magnets, stickers and other treasures! The shop is located on Bruce Street just across from the courthouse.
3. Red’s Cafe Mural
Another one of the fun Dolly Parton landmarks to explore in downtown Sevierville is the Red’s Cafe Mural, which is also located on Bruce Street. This is a nostalgic mural of a former Sevierville restaurant that was a favorite of a young Dolly Parton. The mural was completed by Seth Bishop and Ben Harrison of Smoky Mountain Mural Company, and the artwork features a young blonde child enjoying a burger at the counter.
4. Old Kilpatrick’s Drug Store
Old Kilpatrick’s Drug Store was a pharmacy with a food counter that was often visited by Dolly during her high school years, and she was especially a big fan of the hot dog! While the drug store itself is no longer there, the building still stands and is located next to the Sevier County Heritage Museum on Bruce Street.
5. Wings of Wonder Mural
The “Wings of Wonder” mural by Sevierville graphic artist Pinkie Mistry features a monarch butterfly and nods to Dolly Parton’s hit song “Love is Like a Butterfly.” This mural serves as a colorful addition to downtown Sevierville and is located just a short walk from the courthouse on Bruce Street, near the white gazebo.
6. Emery’s 5 & 10
Emery’s 5 & 10, which was established in 1927, was another destination in downtown Sevierville that was a favorite of Dolly’s, and she has mentioned the store many times over the years. When she had any money available, she would head to Emery’s 5 & 10 to purchase makeup. While the store has since moved to The Island in Pigeon Forge, the original building on Court Avenue is still standing!
After exploring all of these fun Dolly Parton landmarks in downtown Sevierville, join us for a delicious meal at our restaurant in Sevierville TN! We look forward to seeing you soon!
