Are weekends in September really crowded at Dollywood?

Question

I'm thinking about taking my niece and nephew next weekend but I don't know what to expect. Also, I was wondering about the size restrictions on the Thunderhead. I've been told they will turn people away if they don't fit. I'll admit, I'm a big girl.. about 200lb, 5'8" and I would be embarrassed if I was told I couldn't ride!

Answer 1

After Labor Day, weekends are not bad.

You can probably ride, but just ask an attendant.

Answer 2

Labor Day weekend was not too crowded actually. I was there Saturday AND Sunday and there were very few lines at all. The first weekend of September starts the BBQ and Bluegrass festival and it may be a little more crowded that first weekend, In all honesty though, most people have kids that are back in school and most vacations are over, so it should be smooth sailing from here until mid December!

Also, you may want to take them back beginning Nov. 8. They will have their x-mas lights but more exciting for my kids is the Polar Express motion ride that will be in 5D. This means there will be a 3D movies but you will move with the movie AND smell smells and feel the cold and such. Super cool.

You shouldn't have a problem riding thunderhead at all. My husband is the same height as you and rides 4 or 5 times when we go. The other answerer is right, the roller coaters and some of the other rides have seats out before the line so you can try it out before standing in line. You need to ride the other roller coasters as well, although I love Thunderhead!