My '9 to 5' sent me to sleep in Dolly Parton’s $10,000 tour bus suite — here’s what it was like

Dolly Parton, an enduring icon of country music and beyond, has reimagined a part of her touring history into a distinctive hospitality offering. Her retired tour bus, which accompanied her on nearly 360,000 miles of travel over 15 years, has been transformed into a luxurious suite now available for exclusive stays at Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.

This unique accommodation, officially named the Suite 1986 Tour Bus Experience, provides guests with an intimate glimpse into the private world of one of music’s most prolific storytellers. Between 2008 and 2022, the bus served as Parton’s mobile home and creative space where she penned works including the "Backwoods Barbie" album and the musical adaptation of "9 to 5." Now, two guests have the rare opportunity to spend two nights on this iconic vehicle for a price tag of $10,000.

The bus itself is a 45-foot Prevost motorcoach thoughtfully customized to reflect Parton’s personality and lifestyle. Rather than resembling a typical hotel suite, the interior evokes a lived-in, warm environment where personal history and artistry converge. Highlights include a lounge area with a television cycling through country music videos and photo slideshows, a dining nook where Parton and her entourage likely shared meals, and a kitchen equipped with a full-size refrigerator—unusually large for a tour bus and reportedly requiring special installation.

Artistic touches adorn the walls, painted by a close friend of Parton’s, featuring scenes that celebrate her roots and camaraderie. Memorabilia housed in glass cases showcase key elements from Parton’s career, such as a rhinestone-studded guitar and accessories from her Netflix series "Dolly Parton's Heartstrings."

Guests can also explore the bunks used by her traveling companions, fitted with privacy curtains and personal televisions. The bus’s layout includes a spacious closet area once filled with Parton’s extensive array of sequined dresses and wigs, now curated to display select pieces of her wardrobe and jewelry collection, highlighting her signature flair and showmanship.

At the rear of the bus lies Parton’s private sanctuary: a compact but elaborately decorated bedroom and bathroom. The bathroom features a rare combination of a shower and a small bathtub, along with ornate décor that reflects Parton’s vibrant aesthetic. The intimate space is designed to offer comfort and privacy during long tours.

Beyond the accommodations, the Suite 1986 experience includes exclusive amenities such as a private dinner prepared by Dollywood’s executive chef, complete with wine pairings, as well as daily breakfast at the resort. Guests also receive curated gift items connected to Parton’s career and personal brand, including her perfume and a copy of her lyric-focused autobiography.

Importantly, a portion of the suite’s premium booking fee supports the Dollywood Foundation’s charitable initiatives, notably the Imagination Library. This program has distributed millions of free books to young children across several countries, reflecting Parton’s commitment to literacy and education.

The suite's location offers proximity to the Dollywood theme park and is about an hour’s drive from McGhee Tyson Airport, making it accessible for fans traveling to the area. The experience encapsulates not only the luxury of a high-end stay but also a profound connection to Parton’s creative journey and philanthropic efforts.

For ardent fans and those intrigued by the intersection of music history and immersive hospitality, the Suite 1986 Tour Bus Experience stands as a singular tribute to Dolly Parton’s enduring legacy. It is a rare chance to inhabit a space that has been both a creative retreat and a home on the road for one of America’s most beloved entertainers.