Dolly Parton’s Mega Travel Stop Opens in Tennessee This June – Here’s What to Expect

Move Over, Buc-ee's. Dolly Parton Is Entering the Mega Gas Station Wars

Unless you've been living under a rock over the past decade, there's a good chance you've stopped at a Buc-ee's.

Armed with a toothy beaver mascot, Beaver Nuggets, brisket sandwiches, overbite chocolate bars, and walls of beaver-themed merchandise, Buc-ee's has become more than just a gas station. For many travelers, it's the destination itself. It feels like the gas station of the future.

But now Tennessee's most famous resident is throwing her cowgirl hat into the ring.

Yes, the one and only Dolly Parton is entering the gas station wars.

Dolly is teaming up with Tennessean Travel Stop to revamp its business model and expand the brand. Or, as the company puts it, bring "Dolly's Southern hospitality to the highway" beginning in 2026.

And if you're imagining a mashup between Buc-ee's and Dollywood, that's pretty much what you'll get at Dolly's Tennessean Travel Stops.

Dolly's Tennessean Travel Stop Opens in Tennessee

According to the website from Tennessean Travel Stop, the new concept is designed to be "a true gathering place for both travelers and the local community."

The flagship Dolly-branded location is set to open this June in Cornersville, Tennessee, just off Interstate 65.

What Makes Dolly's Travel Stop Different?

There are several things that could make this a must-stop destination for road trippers.

First, there's no cutesy beaver mascot in sight. Instead, guests will be welcomed by a silhouette of the Queen of Country herself in full 1970s mudflap-girl style.

The property will also feature an original mural commissioned as a "permanent love letter" to Cornersville, Tennessee, along with a tourable bus inspired by the one Dolly has traveled in for years. It sounds like exactly the kind of photo opportunity fans will line up for.

According to site plans, travelers can expect the usual easy in-and-out fuel stations for both passenger vehicles and truckers. There will also be a dedicated truckers' lounge, a dog park for four-legged travelers who need a potty break, and even an event space.

Want to get married at a travel stop? Apparently, your dream can come true.

Food, Coffee, and Southern Hospitality

Food and drink are expected to be a major part of the experience.

Guests can grab barbecue from DLY BBQ, fuel up with a fresh cup of Dolly's Cup of Ambition Coffee (OMG yes), or sit down for a meal at the full-service café and restaurant.

I'd also expect plenty of signature snacks and Dolly-themed treats for fans to get excited about.

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Live Music Could Be the Biggest Draw

If the restaurant, tour bus, and dog park aren't enough, Dolly's is bringing something that no other mega travel stop can really claim.

Live music.

If there's one thing Tennessee, and especially the Nashville area, is known for, it's great music. Dolly's Tennessean Travel Stop plans to feature live performances throughout the property, giving travelers a chance to catch local talent while stretching their legs.

The company is already looking for performers.

"Live music is at the heart of what we're building at Dolly's Tennessean Travel Stop, and we want to fill that stage with Tennessee talent," the company said in its announcement.

Local musicians and bands interested in performing during grand opening week and beyond are encouraged to submit their information through the company's website.

When Does Dolly's Tennessean Travel Stop Open?

Dolly's Tennessean Travel Stop is officially scheduled to welcome guests on June 24.

The grand opening is expected to be a large-scale celebration, and the public is invited to attend and experience the travel stop firsthand.

Additional details about the festivities will be announced in the coming weeks.

If Dolly can bring even a fraction of the charm that made Dollywood a beloved destination, Buc-ee's may finally have some serious competition on the highway.

If you plan on going, it's only about three hours from the tri-state.