Dolly Parton has conquered country music, movies, theme parks, books, and even coffee. Now, she’s taking on the highway.
The country icon has officially opened Dolly’s Tennessean Travel Stop, a massive new roadside destination in Cornersville, and it’s already drawing comparisons to the wildly popular Buc-ee’s chain. But according to Dolly, she’s not trying to replace anyone—she simply wants travelers to feel at home.
Located off Interstate 65 at Exit 22, the 50,000-square-foot travel center is far more than a typical gas station. Open 24 hours a day, it combines Southern hospitality with Dolly’s signature style, offering everything from fuel and EV charging stations to a full-service restaurant, grab-and-go barbecue, premium coffee, shopping, and live entertainment.
Among its biggest attractions is Cup of Ambition, Dolly’s new coffee brand created in partnership with Community Coffee. Visitors can also enjoy Tennessee-style barbecue at DLY BBQ, browse exclusive Dolly merchandise in the general store, relax in a truckers’ lounge with showers and laundry facilities, or let their pets run free at the cleverly named Doggy Parton Dog Park.
The property even features a performance stage and event space, reflecting Dolly’s lifelong connection to music. More than 50 community events, including live performances, family activities, and special celebrations, are already planned for the venue.
During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Dolly couldn’t resist making a playful joke about Buc-ee’s, whose mascot is a beaver.
“I’m sure some of you are wondering why I wanted a truck stop. Well, I couldn’t leave it to beavers,” she laughed, drawing cheers from the crowd. She quickly clarified that she isn’t trying to compete with anyone, adding that her goal is simply to create a welcoming place where travelers can enjoy great food, clean facilities, and a little bit of Tennessee charm.
The idea for the project came from Dolly’s decades spent touring across America.
Having logged millions of miles on the road throughout her career, she said she understands exactly what travelers, families, and truck drivers need during long trips. Together with longtime business partners Danny Nozell and Gregory H. Sachs, she set out to transform a traditional truck stop into what they describe as a destination rather than just a place to refuel.
Fans were also thrilled to see Dolly make a surprise appearance at the grand opening after recently scaling back public appearances because of health issues. Looking cheerful and energetic, she greeted visitors, posed for photos, and personally welcomed guests to her newest business venture.
With its mix of comfort, entertainment, Southern cooking, and unmistakable Dolly flair, many fans believe Dolly’s Tennessean Travel Stop could become one of Tennessee’s must-visit roadside attractions.
Whether you’re stopping for barbecue, coffee, a concert, or simply the clean restrooms, one thing is clear:
Dolly Parton has found yet another way to make people smile—even at a gas station.
