Chasing Rainbows Museum - Dollywood (Sevierville), TN

A museum dedicated to the career of Dolly Parton may not seem like a terribly intellectual experience, but the Chasing Rainbows Museum is actually very inspirational and even educational. Elizabeth, Nathaniel, and Isabella visited the museum on a trip to Dollywood in Pigeon Forge. Of course, the museum has enough sequins to sink a battleship, and outfits that even Barbie wouldn’t be caught dead wearing, but there is also an incredibly inspiring story of a talented musician who has worked hard to reach astonishing goals, while seeking opportunities to give back to others along the way. Among the glittery gowns and heels are impressive displays of Dolly’s many awards, musical instruments, and handwritten lyrics that demonstrate her journey and may prove inspirational to visitors who have their own “rainbows” to chase. Elements of Dolly’s difficult but loving childhood are also proudly displayed, indicating both the long way she has come, and her unabashed delight in remembering her humble roots. Dolly’s educational and charitable efforts are also recognized (although I don’t think I’ve ever seen a tailor-made PhD. robe before; my regalia hangs from my shoulders like a tent, but not Dolly’s!). The Museum includes displays on Dolly’s work with the military, the park service (I don’t think I’ve ever seen a ranger uniform quite like that, either), and literacy, among others. Although the museum is a little dark (to protect the costumes) and the hours can be confusing, it is a nice stop for the family to take a break from concerts, roller coasters, and splash rides and learn about an impressive woman whose struggles and achievements, for which she gives glory to God, can inspire and delight. Though boys (see Nathaniel’s response) may not be as thrilled with some of the displays as girls are, the museum is appropriate for the whole family. It is interesting that in the display of film costumes and props, the title of one film was not prominently displayed as it would be offensive to many visitors.

The museum opened in 2002 and is located in the Adventures in Imagination section of the park

Bruce D. Robinson Design Group designed the museum.

Hours sometimes differ from regular park hours, and admission is included with park ticket. These prices vary as well. The park’s website has details.

From the historian’s (Michael’s) point of view: Michael did not get to visit this museum.

From the eight-year-old’s (Nathaniel’s) point of view: Nathaniel liked the awards and musical instruments very much. He was also very interested in Dolly’s tour bus, which is parked outside and is open to guests. The costumes and accessories really didn’t interest him, but he did like Dolly’s signature butterfly motif, since he recently kept a monarch butterfly through its transformation.

From the toddler’s (Isabella’s) point of view: The museum is very colorful and intriguing for the young visitor, and many items are on a good level for a person in a stroller. A free-ranging toddler, however, would probably have to be reined in, as the museum staff are very conscientious about protecting the items on display.

Paul W. Bryan Museum – Tuscaloosa, Alabama

We are not big sports fans. Yes, we will watch the World Series, or the Super Bowl, or maybe a NASCAR race from time to time, but our TV is seldom tuned to ESPN. If there was an exception, it would probably be University of Alabama football (Roll Tide!). We try to catch as many of these games as possible. Since we are gone many weekends in the fall, this might amount to two or three games. Recently, Michael had the opportunity to be in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, taking some classes through the University of Alabama. The Paul W. “Bear” Bryant Museum just happened to be next door to the building where Michael was taking his classes. If you know anything about college football, then you know the story of the Crimson Tide. They have won numerous bowl games, SEC title games, and twelve national championships. Football at the University of Alabama dates back to 1892. Exhibits at the museum trace the early days of football at the university, including early uniforms, footballs from winning games, even bumper stickers. There are numerous trophies from different games and numerous photographs. An added benefit is Bear Bryant’s office, re-created inside of the museum. The museum carries the exhibits all the way to the present, with a panel about current coach Nick Saban. There are numerous video panels with game highlights and interactive displays.


The Paul W. Bryant Museum opened in 1988. Admission is just $2.00 per adult. The facilities are handicapped accessible.

From the historian’s (Michael) point of view: the exhibits are well laid out, and follow a chronological approach to the football team’s history. The artifacts, from uniforms, to footballs, to trophies, to Bear Bryant’s office, are well done. If you are in Tuscaloosa, it is well worth the visit.

From the educator’s (Elizabeth) perspective: Elizabeth did not tour this museum.

From the eight-year-old’s (Nathaniel) perspective: Nathaniel did not get to tour this museum.

More information can be found by visiting the museum’s web site: Paul W. Bryant Museum

Getting started

What are Museum Junkies? Museum Junkies are people who enjoy touring museums, historic sites, state and national parks, and national monuments. We do this both to experience the intrinsic value of the site, and to learn of each site’s historical significance. Personally, we visit these sites as a tool to learn about the place we live and as a teaching tool for our children (who are homeschooled). Over the past fifteen years, we have visited scores of historic sites and museums from Massachusetts (Salem National Maritime Park) to Florida (King Tut exhibit at Ft. Lauderdale Art Museum) to Missouri (Harry Truman home).

We look forward to having you along on our journey.

The Museum Junkies