Newsweek names Dollywood as one of top workplaces in 2026

A Newsweek study evaluated companies across the country using factors such as leadership, integrity, compensation, work-life balance, culture and benefits.
A Newsweek study evaluated companies across the country using factors such as leadership,...
A Newsweek study evaluated companies across the country using factors such as leadership, integrity, compensation, work-life balance, culture and benefits.(WDBJ7)
Published: Jun. 26, 2026 at 3:37 PM EDT

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. (WVLT) - Dollywood is adding another honor to its recent list of awards, this time as an employer.

Newsweek has named the theme park to its “America’s Greatest Workplaces 2026” list and “Tennessee’s Greatest Workplaces 2026” list.

According to Dollywood, the awards stem from an independent research study conducted by Newsweek between April 2025 and October 2025. The study evaluated companies using factors such as leadership, integrity, compensation, work-life balance, culture and benefits.

“A world-class guest experience starts with our hosts,” said Susan Loveday, Dollywood’s vice president of human resources. “By ensuring they feel supported and valued, we empower them to do what they do best—care for our guests.”

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Newsweek conducted nearly 180,000 employee interviews and analyzed over 2.7 million company reviews to determine the list.

“The companies on this list likely reap the rewards of stronger client loyalty and improved employee retention,” Newsweek Editor-in-Chief Jennifer Cunningham said.

Dollywood said its employees receive a variety of benefits, which include:

  • 100% free tuition through the Harschend’s GROW U program
  • Access to the Dollywood Family Healthcare Center
  • Complimentary Dollywood and Dollywood’s Splash County admission for family and friends
  • Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental and vision for full-time employees

Those who may be interested in applying, can do so by clicking here.