Dollywood in Tennesse is adding a new roller coaster that will be the fastest wooden roller coaster in the world. The new ride is expected to open in 2016, but there is plenty to do at the theme park until then.

Courtesy of fastcompany.com

The amusement park is owned by Dolly Parton and Herschend Family Entertainment and has been a popular place for families to visit since 1961. The theme park located in the Knoxville-Smoky Mountains metroplex in Pigeon Forge sees over 3 million guests every year. Guests can enjoy rides and catch a handful of concerts, including appearances by Parton herself. It is also the home of the Southern Gospel Museum and Hall of Fame. While thrill seekers are waiting for the new roller coaster to open, they can go on Dollywood’s other roller coasters or enjoy other attractions like a full-size train that takes guests around the park, fun shows and of course delicious food and drinks.

The new roller coaster, The Lighting Rod, will launch riders 20 stories and will go from 0 to 45 miles per hour. Riders will also be in the air for 20 seconds and experience a 165-foot drop at top speeds of 73 miles per hour. The Lightning Rod was inspired by a 1950s-era hot rod. The park will dish out $ 22 million dollars for the new ride. This will make it the largest investment in Dollywood’s history.

Courtesy of entertainmentdesigner.com

Dollywood is a unique theme park that is now going to have one of the world’s greatest attractions. Parton has done a great job of making the park a place that is perfect for the whole family. The new roller coaster is going to add more fun to the famous park!