NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) — Fans of Dolly Parton now have a new destination in downtown Nashville as the highly anticipated SongTeller Hotel officially soft-opened Monday and began accepting guest reservations.
The new hotel features 245 guest rooms and suites, as well as multiple entertainment and gathering spaces designed to celebrate the life, music and legacy of the East Tennessee icon.
Visitors arriving on opening day were greeted by a lobby showcasing a chandelier adorned with Parton’s signature butterflies and displays featuring memorabilia inspired by the country music legend.
Among the first guests was Tennessee native Melody Foster, who chose the hotel’s opening week to celebrate her 70th birthday.
“I love Dolly so much. I loved her talent. I loved her spirit. I loved her soul. I loved the way she loved other people,” Foster said.
The hotel features two live entertainment venues that will showcase Nashville’s music community.
Parton’s Live, located on the second floor, will host songwriter rounds, writers’ sessions and performances by emerging artists.
At the top of the hotel, Jolene’s will offer nightly performances by Nashville singers and songwriters, creating a rooftop entertainment experience inspired by one of Parton’s most famous songs.
Special performances are already planned for the opening weeks. Parton’s cousin, Richie Owens, is scheduled to perform Wednesday, while her niece, Jada Star, will begin a recurring residency with performances on Thursdays and Saturdays.
Dolly’s Life of Many Colors Museum Opening Sept. 29
While the hotel is now welcoming guests, another major attraction is still preparing for its debut.
The new Dolly’s Life of Many Colors Museum is scheduled to open Sept. 29 alongside expanded hotel operations.
The 20,000-square-foot museum will occupy the third floor of the hotel and feature interactive exhibits highlighting Parton’s journey from her East Tennessee roots to global superstardom.
Organizers say the museum will showcase personal artifacts, career memorabilia and immersive displays celebrating her accomplishments in music, film, business and philanthropy.
One of the unique features of the museum will be special content filmed by Parton before her death. Those recordings will guide visitors through exhibits and provide personal stories about key moments in her life and career.
The museum will also feature a dedicated entrance and event space that can be used for private functions.
The opening of the hotel and upcoming museum add another major attraction to Nashville’s tourism and entertainment landscape while creating a permanent tribute to one of Tennessee’s most beloved cultural icons.
