In addition to being one of the most notorious hitmakers in history, Dolly Parton also boasted an incredible legacy outside the vocal booth, too.
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Parton, who died of cancer at age 80 earlier this week, was considered a savvy businesswoman.
Parton's business empire includes a clothing line, a wine label, baking mixes and home goods -- contributing to her net worth of $450 million -- but her biggest investment was her titular theme park, Dollywood.
The Dollywood theme park in her native Tennessee became a huge cash cow for the Grammy winner.
Dolly Parton Founded Dollywood in 1986
The theme park has become a buzzing attraction in Tennessee and has created more than 23,000 local jobs in the region, according to a state government study. In 2022, it had an estimated yearly impact of around $1.8 billion. It drew 4 million visitors in 2025.
Despite the yearly earnings, Parton noted that she founded the theme park to boost her state's economy.
"I always thought that if I made it big or got successful at what I had started out to do, that I wanted to come back to my part of the country and do something great. Something that would bring a lot of jobs into this area. Sure enough, I was lucky. God was good to me, and things happened."
While reflecting on Parton's life and legacy, a social media user praised the "Jolene" singer for maintaining moderate Dollywood admission prices.
A few social media users scoffed at the notion that $100 was considered "reasonable." Hersheypark also chimed in on the debate by touting its admission prices of $49.99.
Hersheypark Draws Backlash For Untimely Marketing
Fans of the late Country Music Hall of Famer took offense to Hersheypark's comment and began blasting the company online.
"Hersheypark is truly disgusting," one user wrote.
"Oh, come on, Hersheypark. It's not the time for aggressive customer service at the expense of an American legend," another replied.
"F**k you, Hersheypark. If this is really you, get your bots reprogrammed to NOT respond to posts about Dollywood," a ticked-off user wrote.
