Dolly Parton has added another exciting chapter to her remarkable career. The country music legend has officially opened Dolly's Tennessean Travel Stop, a new roadside destination designed for families, travelers, and professional truck drivers. The flagship location welcomed its first visitors on June 24, 2026, during a grand opening celebration in Cornersville, Tennessee.
The opening attracted plenty of attention, especially after Parton made a surprise appearance. The 80-year-old star singer greeted fans with her trademark charm and humor. The launch also puts her new venture in direct competition with one of America's most recognizable travel stop chains, Buc-ee's.
Dolly Parton has entered the trucker stop business. Here's a special look at Dolly's Tennessean Travel Stop in Cornersville, Tenn., that is officially open for business. pic.twitter.com/4i0mtjg7Qu
— NewsChannel 5 (@NC5) June 24, 2026
Located at 3686 Pulaski Highway, just off Exit 22 on Interstate 65, the travel stop sits about an hour south of Nashville. The location was carefully chosen to serve drivers traveling on one of Tennessee's busiest highways. Open 24 hours a day throughout the year, the facility welcomes everyone from vacationing families to long-haul truckers looking for a comfortable place to stop.
This new business is the result of a partnership between Dolly Parton, her longtime manager Danny Nozell, and Tennessean Travel Stop owner Gregory H. Sachs.
What the Truck Business Has to Offer?
Dolly / IG / At Dolly's Tennessean Travel Stop, visitors can enjoy a full-service restaurant called "Refuel & Relax," which serves meals for travelers looking to take a proper break before getting back on the road.
The dining area creates a welcoming atmosphere that encourages guests to slow down instead of rushing through their journey.
Travelers looking for something quick can stop by "DLY BBQ," a grab-and-go barbecue restaurant that operates around the clock. The menu gives visitors another reason to pull off the highway while enjoying classic Southern flavors at any hour of the day or night.
Coffee lovers also have a special place waiting for them. "Dolly's Cup of Ambition" takes its name from Parton's iconic hit song "9 to 5." The coffee shop serves fresh drinks throughout the day, offering a fun tribute to one of her most beloved songs while giving travelers the energy they need for the next stretch of their trip.
Shopping plays a major role in the overall experience. The general store features a wide collection of Dolly-themed merchandise, including clothing, souvenirs, home items, accessories, and gifts. Fans can browse everything from bedazzled tumblers to playful purses inspired by Parton's famous style.
The Travel Stop Welcomes Truck Drivers
One of the biggest differences between Dolly's Tennessean Travel Stop and Buc-ee's is its focus on professional truck drivers. Commercial drivers often struggle to find clean, comfortable places that meet their specific needs during long trips.
This new location was designed with those travelers in mind. Dedicated overnight truck parking gives drivers a safe place to rest before continuing their journey. Comfortable facilities allow them to recharge after spending long hours behind the wheel.
Truck drivers also have access to a private lounge where they can relax away from the busy parking areas. Hot showers and laundry facilities make extended trips more comfortable while helping drivers maintain their routines on the road.
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These services fill an important gap along Interstate 65. Unlike Buc-ee's, which does not allow commercial trucks at its locations, Dolly's Tennessean Travel Stop actively welcomes professional drivers. That difference could make the new business especially attractive within the trucking community.
Dolly's Vision Goes Beyond One Location
Dolly / IG / the "I Will Always Love You" hitmaker's appearance at the grand opening carried extra meaning for many fans. It marked her first public event since canceling her Las Vegas residency because of health challenges.
The icon’s return was warmly received as she thanked supporters and welcomed travelers to the new business.
The “9 to 5” hitmaker also delivered one of the day's funniest moments with a playful comment aimed at Buc-ee's famous beaver mascot. Smiling at the crowd, she joked, "I'm sure some of you want to know why I wanted a truck stop. Well, I couldn't leave it to beavers."
Families traveling with pets will also appreciate the fenced dog park called "Doggy Parton." The playful name reflects Dolly's lighthearted personality while giving dogs a safe place to stretch their legs during long road trips.
