Dolly sent riders on an explosive new ride featuring the world’s first spiral-loop coaster. Tennessee Tornado at Dollywood features back-to-back 360-degree loops. It is the first spiral loop coaster and was named 1999’s top scream machine by the American Coaster Enthusiasts.
Dolly opted out of riding the fastest roller coaster at Dollywood. Instead, she sent a train full of Dolly look-a-likes blasting out of the station on their first Tennessee Tornado ride!
Dollywood also became the headquarters of the Southern Gospel Music Association's Hall of Fame and Museum. The new facility honored the genre’s legends with interactive displays. It featured more than 350 artifacts and a recording studio. Built adjacent to Showstreet Palace Theater, the Southern Gospel Music Association’s Hall of Fame debuted during Dollywood’s Southern Gospel Jubilee. Dolly sang alongside some of her Southern gospel friends as they performed a concert at Dollywood.