Fresh from her induction to the IAAPA Hall of Fame, Dolly Parton is ready to roll up her sleeves outside a theme park and hop off-stage by lending her likeness to roadside service centers in her home state of Tennessee.

"I have spent the bulk of my life on the road, and more specifically on a bus," Dolly says in a press release distributed by Tennessean Travel Stops. "All the years spent visiting greasy spoon cafes, truck stops and roadside pit stops have given me an understanding of what travelers desire on the road."

The rebrand reflects a move by Sachs Capital Group to create a destination for travelers. The first Dolly's Tennessean Travel Stop will feature amenities similar to those found at attractions: curated dining, vast retail and clean restrooms ... and something different: gasoline.

Pioneers. Trailblazers. Mavericks. These are the men and women inducted into the IAAPA Hall of Fame. Established in 1990, the IAAPA Hall of Fame Award recognizes the visionaries whose extraordinary contributions have shaped the growth and success of the global attractions industry. Learn more about all five 2025 inductees here. Preview and download photos from the star-studded IAAPA LEGENDS: A Hall of Fame Celebratory Affair gala here.

The IAAPA News team -- producers of IAAPA News Daily and Funworld magazine -- wishes to extend a warm holiday greeting to all who celebrate during this season of joy and light.

Production of the IAAPA News Daily newsletter begins the day prior, often continues with copyediting taking place at the kitchen table the night before, and concludes in the office the next morning with the assistance of our talented partners at SmartBrief. While our dedication remains unwavering, we'll pause this week to spend time with loved ones, visit a few holiday attractions and develop something new for you in 2026.

IAAPA News Daily returns on Monday, January 5, with a fresh look. Until then, Funworld's favorite five stories of 2025 appear below. Best wishes for a safe and profitable new year!

From the debut of AlpenFury's "sled" on the IAAPA Expo 2024 trade show floor to a sizzling summer 2025 premiere, Funworld experienced firsthand how Premier Rides' new roller coaster at Canada's Wonderland leaves riders feeling exhilarated (and recreates hairstyles).
Full Story: Funworld on YouTube (11/25)

The rapid development and construction of lagoon-style pools and surf parks is only expected to continue in 2026. Funworld shares insights on the "lagoon boom" across the globe and how this new genre of attraction continues to make a splash.
Full Story: Funworld (8/11)

In every corner of the global attractions industry, women bring bold ideas, diverse perspectives and unwavering determination. From safety and data analytics to creative storytelling and generational leadership, Funworld's profiles highlight the remarkable ways women are driving innovation and inspiring change in a dynamic industry.
Full story: Funworld (9/3)

3... 2... 1... DROP! Cedar Point's new Siren's Curse roller coaster is an accomplishment in the collaboration found across the global attractions industry. Funworld learns what it took to install Vekoma's newest tilt coaster in just nine months.
Full Story: Funworld on YouTube (7/25)

Luciana Periales is a dynamo on the move. At a young age, Periales became intrigued with the attractions industry. "Over time, I've come to understand that leadership is not about me; it's about us. That simple idea has become my personal motto," she tells Funworld. Read more about the FEC owner's leadership style in Funworld's in-depth profile.

The insight found in all six editions of Funworld magazine in 2025 is still available. Visit the IAAPA News Hub to profit from the advice and wisdom found in IAAPA's official magazine. From the flipbook editions to an exclusive members-only digital download, Funworld makes the perfect gift for working professionals in the global attractions industry.