While Brentwood, Tennessee, serves as Dolly Parton’s primary residence, her heart and soul remain deeply rooted in the Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee, the place of her birth and upbringing. This profound connection to her origins is beautifully expressed in her iconic song, “My Tennessee Mountain Home,” a nostalgic ode to the simple, rural life of her childhood.
Dolly maintains a cherished property in Sevierville, Tennessee, nestled near the majestic Smoky Mountains, the very landscape of her formative years. This location holds immense sentimental value for Parton, marking the starting point of her extraordinary journey to stardom. This house, affectionately known as her ‘Tennessee Mountain Home,’ is not just a peaceful sanctuary but also a powerful symbol of her humble beginnings and an enduring source of inspiration for her music and extensive philanthropic endeavors. Although the original cabin where Dolly spent her early years is no longer standing, she has lovingly recreated it within Dollywood, her celebrated theme park located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
A glimpse of the serene landscape surrounding Dolly Parton’s Tennessee Mountain Home in Sevierville.
Dollywood, while not her personal dwelling, plays a pivotal role in Dolly’s life and lasting legacy. This bustling theme park, drawing millions of visitors each year, stands as a vibrant testament to Parton’s deep affection for her home state and her unwavering commitment to giving back to her community. Amidst the thrilling rides and captivating attractions of Dollywood, the meticulously crafted cabin replica offers a deeply personal insight into Dolly’s past, serving as a poignant reminder of a more uncomplicated era. Dolly has famously reflected on her childhood, saying, ‘We were rich in things that money don’t buy.’ This recreated home is not accessible to the public, preserving it as a special place for Dolly to privately reconnect with her cherished memories.
Through the Dollywood Foundation and numerous other charitable initiatives, Dolly Parton has made substantial contributions to her beloved home state. Her Imagination Library, a program that gifts free books to children, began its journey in Sevier County, Tennessee, and has since expanded its reach across the globe. This initiative reflects her strong belief in the transformative power of education and her enduring love for her Tennessee roots.
The welcoming entrance sign to Dollywood, Dolly Parton’s renowned theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
Beyond her treasured hometown, Dolly Parton also reportedly owned a modest house nestled in the mountains of Southern California. According to publicly available property records, Dolly parted with her snowy retreat on Pine Crest Avenue in Idyllwild in July 2024 for $585,000. Prior to that, in 2014, she sold her adobe-style West Hollywood house on Harland Avenue for $1.2 million. Described as ‘cozy’ by celebrity standards, the West Hollywood residence featured two bedrooms and two bathrooms, adorned with the frilly, feminine interiors that have become synonymous with Dolly’s signature country-girl style.
In conclusion, while Dolly Parton’s career and life have taken her to various locations, including her Brentwood residence and past homes in California, her true home remains in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. This is where her heart resides, deeply intertwined with her personal history, her music, and her ongoing commitment to her community.
